The Beginning and Not the Beginning

 N.T.#683 "The Beginning and Not the Beginning"

Nov. 28, 2025 

John 1

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (verse 1)

LET IT GLOW

The main theme John uses in this book is-Jesus as the Son of God. John wrote his gospel so that we would know that the Son of Man is God in human flesh-completely human, yet no less God than when "in the beginning," He spoke the universe into existence. 

As we read through this book, we come to realize that John does not give us the genealogy nor childhood details of Jesus, no temptations of Jesus nor His transfiguration, no calling of His disciples after His resurrection and ascension from earth, and no parables. 

[Resource: Swindoll's New Testament Insights on John]

There are three key words John uses to substantiate his thesis:

• He uses 8 various signs/miracles to prove Jesus is deity.
• His desire is for us to believe/trust in Jesus as the Son of God. It is used some 98 times by John.
• As a result in believing in the person and work of Christ, John uses life so we may have everlasting and eternal life. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

John's purpose in writing this Gospel is that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His name. (20:31)

Friend, do you believe this? Have you asked Jesus to be your Savior and Lord? (I ask this often because we have people reading these posts which are not believers.

LET IT GROW

Let's take a close look at the key verse above. What can we conclude from this verse?

• When time began, the Word already existed. 
• This unique name for Christ  (Word in the Greek language is logos.) (See 1:14 and Rev. 19:13)
• Only John the apostle uses it in this way 4 times.
• Christ as the Eternal Word is a revelation of God to man. (verse 1a)
• The Word (Christ) was face to face with God. (verse 1b)
• The Word was completely God. (verse 1c) It literally reads, "and God was the Word.

[Liberty Bible Commentary]

Summarizing this, we see that Jesus Christ is the Word, who was with God and who was God in the beginning of everything. The Father and son exist as one Supreme Being. The Word and God were together and they were the same being. 

It may take a while for all of this to sink into our minds because we live in time, space, and matter. Jesus and God do not. They have always been and always will be. We believe this by faith because humans have limitations.

LET IT GO

LORD, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.

Before the mountains were born

Or You gave birth to the earth and the world,

Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. 

Psalm 90:1-2)

Thanksgiving Day 2025

Thanksgiving Day 2025

 Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

I am so blessed to have you studying God's Word with me. I'm so thankful for so many things today-salvation is Jesus, our families, plus church family, a nation of freedom,  etc.

Bless the LORD, O my soul; 

And all that is within me, bless His holy name. (Ps. 103:1-2)

Tomorrow we will start chapter 1. Enjoy family and friends.

In His Name,

Linda

Who is Christ?

 N.T.#682 "Who is Christ?"

Nov. 26, 2025

Introduction to John-Part 2

Who is Christ to you?

I like the outline which Liberty Bible Commentary gives an outline for John's book. Not only did John describe who Christ is, but Christ Himself also did:

• The Word, (1:1-14)
• Christ as Savior, (3;1-36)
• Master-soul winner, (4:1-54)
• The Son of God, (5:1-47)
• Bread of Life, (6:1-71)
• Master Teacher, (7:1-53)
• Light of the World, (8:1-9, 41)
• The Good Shepherd, (10:1-42)
• The Resurrection and The Life, (11:1-57)
• The Messiah,(12:1-50)
• The Servant, (13:1-38)
• The Comforter, (14:1-31)
• The True Vine. (15:1-16:33)

Isn't it wonder how Jesus Christ is all those things to us? Whenever we need comfort, He is The Comforter. When we need His leading in our life, Christ is The Good Shepherd.

In addition to hose listed above, Jesus Christ claimed Himself as The Door. (10:7)

How do you get to know Jesus as any of those things?

But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name. (1:12)

John recorded how John the Baptist described Jesus Christ: Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. (1:29)

Who is Jesus to you, friend?

John

N.T.#681 "John"

Nov. 25, 2025

Introduction to John

The Gospel According to John was the first of the manuscripts to be found. John does not identify himself as its author, but the other Gospels identify John by name about 20 times. However, John does identify himself as the disciple "whom Jesus loved." 

What do we know about John?

• John and James, his older brother, were known as "the sons of Zebedee." Jesus gave them the name "Sons of Thunder." They were fishermen in their father's business. 
• John became one of the three inner circle, men closest to Jesus, along with Peter and James. John was an eyewitness to and participated in Jesus' earthly ministry. 
• He became a pillar in the Jerusalem church. John ministered with Peter until he went to Ephesus. 
• John wrote his Gospel about 50 years after he witnessed Jesus' earthly ministry. 
• He also wrote 1, 2, 3 John and Revelation.

What is the background and setting for this book?

• John supplied a large among of unique material not recorded in the other Gospels.
• He begins with Jesus' ministry in Galilee, skipping His birth.
• John does touch on the testimony of John the Baptist, though.
• John is the most theological of the Gospels. He taught on the Holy Spirit, who guided his writings as he remembered his eyewitnessing events.

What was John's purpose in writing this book?

John declared, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God" and have life in His name. (20:30-31)

What does John's writing focus on in this book?

• Three predominant words include "signs, believe, life." Believe is used about 100 times.
• Jesus is the Word, Messiah, and Son of God.
• Jesus brings the gift of salvation to mankind.
• People can accept or reject the offer.
• There are 7 "I AM" statements identifying Jesus as God and Messiah.
• There are at least eight miracles which John focuses on for us.

[Resource: The MacArthur Bible Commentary, Liberty Bible Commentary]

I pray God will bless you as we study His Word together. 

 

He is Alive!

N.T.#680 "He is Alive!"

Nov. 24, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 12

In chapter 22, we read about the final night Christ:

• Judas set up the betrayal of Jesus with the priests and scribes.
• He spent it with His disciples. 
• He instituted the Lord's Supper.
• He washed the disciples' feet.
• He explained that the servant is the greatest.
• He prayed for Peter and told of his three-time denial of Christ.
• He wrestled with God's will for Jesus to die, then submitted.
• Jesus was mocked, slapped, and beaten in an effort to get Him to deny He is the Son of God.

The religious leaders did not declare Jesus to be the Son of God. How sad that they knew the prophecies of the Messiah coming, but when He was there, they would not admit it.

Who do you say Jesus is?

After His arrest, Jesus had 6 trials in chapter 23:

1. Annas, the former his priest
2. Caiaphas, the high priest and the Sanhedrin
3. Sanhedrin, ruling Jewish group
4. Pilate, governor of Judea
5. Herod Antipas, governor of Galilee
6. Pilate again, who declared Jesus not guilty, yet condemned Him to death.

Jesus was buried in a borrowed tomb. On the third day, Jesus arose from the dead to live forever more. He appeared to many people, spoke to them, ate with them. One day Jesus will return to earth to get His believers and take us to heaven. What a great day that will be!

When Jesus ascended into heaven, what happened to those watching?

And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. (24:52)

Let us have great joy today, for we worship the Risen Savior and our King of kings, and believers' Lord of lords!

Thank you everyone for studying Luke with me. I hope you will continue to follow along as we jump into the Gospel of John.

Are You in an Impossible Situation?

 N.T.#679 "Are You in an Impossible Situation?"

Nov. 21, 2025 

Summary of Luke-Part 11

Again, what are some life lessons Jesus taught?

• Seek God's mercy. (18:13)
• Humble yourself. (verse 14)
• Bring children to Jesus. (verse 16)
• The things which are impossible with God. (verse 27)
• Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. (19:10)
• My house is the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves. (verse 46)
• God is the God of the living. (verse38)
• Expect to be hated by people because we are a child of God. (21:17)
• Heaven and earth shall pass away but My Words shall not pass away. (verse 33)

Are you in an impossible situation? Pray and seek God's will. He can do the impossible.

*Thank you for your prayers for Colby. They set the two broken bones in his arm. He had an MRI of his leg. Haven't heart the outcome. He has a lot road to recovery, but God can do the impossible.

Life Lessons

N.T.#678 "Life Lessons"

Nov. 20, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 10

I counted 15 parables Jesus used to teach life lessons, found in chapters 14-18:

• There is a cost to following Jesus. (14:26-27) Jesus must be Lord over all, including family and self.
• There is joy in heaven over 1 sinner repenting. (15:7)
• We need to search for those who are lost to bring them to Christ, like a lost coin. (15:8-10)
• God the Father loves and waits of His children who stray and rebel, as the father loved the prodigal son. (15:12-32)
•  Christ wants us to be good stewards with money so we can aid others. (16:1-12)
• If you are faithful in least, you will be faithful in much. (16:10)
• You cannot serve both God and mammon (money). (16:13)
• the moral principles of the Law remain in force, as well as those in the New Testament. (16:17)
• Hell with its torments is real. (16:19-31)
• There is a great gulf fixed dividing heaven and hell; at one's death their destiny is sealed. (16:16)
• Don't offend one of God's children, lest you pay for it. (17:2)
• Faith prays in the will of God. (17:6)
• Give thanks as the one leper returned to thank Jesus for the healing. (17:15-19)
• Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it. (17:33)

Which ones do you need to work on applying in your life today? 

Reassurances

 N.T.#677 "Reassurances"

Nov. 19, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 9

In chapter 11, verses 2-4, we read the Lord's Prayer. What do we learn from it?

• We recognize God for who He is and glorify His name.
• We pray for His program and
• His will to be accomplished.
• The we ask for daily food,
• forgiveness of sins, and
• deliverance from sin and evil. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Who is your father?

Then in verses 9-10, we hear Jesus tell us:

Ask, and it shall be given you,

Seek, and ye shall find,

Knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 

Our Heavenly Father desires to give us freely all things. One of the most precious gifts is naturally the Holy Spirit who abides with all believers today.

Blessed are they that hear the Word of God, and keep it. (verse 28)

But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. (12: 7)

Whosoever shall confess Me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God. (verse  8)

Seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. (verse 31)

What things? Food like the ravens, clothing like the lilies and grass, mercy, grace, faith, and love.

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (verse 34)

There are more teachings of Jesus:

• Of whom much is given, much is required. (verse 48)
• Repent or parish (13:3,5)
• The last will be first and the first will be last. (13:30)
• Humble yourself and you will be exalted. (14:11)
• Seek the lost. (14: 23)
• Bear your cross and follow Jesus. (14:27)
• Forsake all. (verse 330

Only a Touch

 N.T.#676 "Only a Touch"

Nov. 18, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 8

Jesus sure did a lot of healings and miracles in His short 3 1/2 years of ministry. MacArthur gives a list of God's healing through Jesus:

• Leper (5:12-13)
• Slave (7:2-10)
• Women (4:38-39; 8:2, 43-48; 13:10-13))
• Multitudes (4:40, 4;5:15;6:17-19; 7:118-22; 9:10-11)
• Demoniac (4:31; 8:26-39; 11:14)
• Paralyzed man (5:17-26)
• Little girl (840-56)
• A man (6:6-11; 14:1-4)
• A demonic boy (9:37-43)
• Blind men (18:35-43)
• A widow's son (7:11-17)
• Ten lepers (17:11-21)
• A man's ear (22:50-51)

The other 3 Gospels listed more healings than Luke did. What all of the victims could conclude was, "Jesus did it." Often the shared how great things God did unto them. (8:39) As with the woman with the issue of blood for 12 years, it only takes a touch of Jesus to heal. How strong is your faith?

On one occasion Jesus asked His disciples whom people say He was. (9:18) Then He asked Peter whom he said Jesus was. How did he answer? The Christ of God. (9:20)

Who do you say Jesus is? The Son of the Living God?

Then Jesus told the guys and us how to live: 

If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. (9:23)

Jesus' challenge to His disciples was faithfulness, denial of self, and daily sacrifice. If one cares not about this life in order to serve Christ, only then will he secure life eternal. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

This is our challenge for today and the rest of our life, Christian friend. 

When the Waves of Life Are About to Take Us Under

 N.T.#675 "When the Waves of Life Are About to Take Us Under"

Nov. 17, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 7

My favorite Bible story happened whenever the storm rocked the disciple's boat and Jesus was asleep. they woke up Jesus because they were afraid of sinking. The Sea of Galilee is a notoriously unpredictable for storms suddenly coming up and making the waters rough for boats. Waves could get as high as 20 feet. Several of the disciples had been expert fishermen and knew how to handle a boat in such a situation. This time must have really frightened them.

What was the conversation between the desperate ones and the Sovereign One? (8:22-25)

• Master, Master, we perish. Then Jesus arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was calm. (verse 24)
• Where is your faith? Jesus asked His men., but they did not answer, confess it was lacking, or anything.
• What manner of man is this! For He comandeth even the winds and the water, and they obey Him. (verse 25)

No need to be scarred, guys, for the Creator of the wind and waves was with you, right there in the boat. He wasn't going to drown. Although, they didn't know Jesus' divine authority as yet. 

Are you caught in a storm of life today? It is easy to think God has lost control and that we are at the mercy of the winds of fate. In reality, God is sovereign. He controls the history of the world as well as our personal destinies. Just as Jesus calmed the waves, He can calm whatever storms we may face. (Life Application Study Bibe)

Sometimes it seems like the winds of doubt and troubles keep blowing, waves of troubles are about to take us under. The good news is the Savior is there right with us in the boat of life. Call out to Him for help. Rebuke them in Jesus' name so the waves cease.

*Friends, please pray for Colby, a teenage boy from our church who was hit by a car while riding his motorcycle. He is in serious condition, with 2 broken bones in his arm, a concussion, an eye socket bone broken. Doctors are keeping him out so the brain doesn't swell. This is the same family who lost a daughter as a semi hit her mother's car, a few years ago. 

Are You a Giver?

 N.T.#674 "Are You a Giver?"

Nov. 14, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 6

Jesus had a lot to say about money. It is important in our everyday lives. In 6:38, He tells us to give and we will get it in return. An example of this occurred in our life the other day. We were heading to a doctor appointment when we had to stop at a red light. There we saw this man in ragged clothes begging on the street corner. My husband felt impressed to give some money to the needy man. For the first time, my husband handed me a bill to give him and I did. It shocked me, actually, for this was the first time he ever did this. Then the next week we had money given to us 300 times more than what he gave the beggar. It really impressed him how the Lord blessed his giving. Our cup was running over. (Maybe we should have given more.) When we experience one of God's promises, why should it surprise us? Are we giving joyfully?

Here are some summaries of teachings Jesus gave to us:

• Watch out for the logs in our own eyes before we try to get the splinter in someone else's eye. 
• We speak and act from the overflow of our heart. A good heart does good things; an evil heart does evil things. (6:45)
• A sick centurion's servant revealed the man's great faith when he told Jesus, "Just say the Word and it will be. (he will be healed)." (7:9)
• Both Solomon and Jesus gave us warnings about wine, women, and wealth. 
• When a widow's only son died, Jesus brought the guy back to life. (7:14) It had been 800 years since Israel had seen someone raised from the dead. Elisha did it in 2 Kings 4:14-37.
• When John the Baptist's faith wavered, he sent disciples to Jesus for reassurance. His answer to John was to consider what he had seen and heard, and how the sick was healed by Jesus. Jesus is the Messiah and faith in Him is our key to heaven. (7:22) 
• Then a woman with an alabaster box of oil washed Jesus' feet and dried them with her hair. (7:38)

Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much : but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 

Thy faith hath save thee; go in peace. (7:47-50)

It is God's grace which saves us, not acts of love or generosity. This woman's act showed her true faith, and Jesus honored her. (Life Application Study Bible)

How Are We to Live?

 N.T.#673 "How Are We to Live?"

Nov. 13, 2025 

Summary of Luke-Part 5

Here are a few of the Scriptures I highlighted in this book:

And the devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. (4:41a)

Nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. (5:3) 

Peter was fishing all night and caught nothing. However, when he obeyed Jesus and let down the nets, he caught so many fish that his boat could not hold them. Another boat came to help hold them all. As Peter recognized Christ's deity, he saw his sinfulness. 

I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (6:32)

How are we to treat others? 

The King James version says it this way:

1. Love your enemies.
2. Do good to them which hate you.
3. Bless them that curse you.
4. Pray for them which despitefully use you.
5. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloak forbid not to take thy coat also.
6. Give to every man that asketh of thee.
7. Of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.
8. And as ye would that men should do to you do ye also to them likewise. (6:27-31)

New Living Translation  tells it like this in 6:35-36):

1. Love your enemies!
2. Do good to them.
3. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid.
4. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for He is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked.
5. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.

From these passages comes the Golden rule: Treat others like you want to be treated.

1Corinthians 13 gives us more instructions as how to live the Christian life. 

Overcoming Temptations

 N.T.#672  "Overcoming Temptations"

Nov. 12, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Sometimes life can get to us, knock us down, but as believers, we have a Savior who went through it all, yet was without sin. He is ready and able to help us in our hour of temptation. 

After Jesus' baptism, He was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness for 40 days for praying and fasting. It was a spiritual preparation for His ministry ahead. Chapter 4 goes into detail as to how the devil tried to get Jesus' allegiance to him and not God, to sin so He would not be the perfect sacrifice, to separate His relationship with God. You will recall that the devil wanted to be as God, so he was thrown out of heaven. 

Three ways the devil tempted Jesus:

1. It was a personal temptation of food for the physical body. The devil challenged Jesus to turn the stones into bread (satisfy His hunger). Lust of the flesh, it is known as.
2. A power temptation was given as the devil tried to get Jesus to worship him and all the kingdoms of the world would belong to Jesus under the devil's reign. Lust of sight, this is called.
3. A pride temptation enticed Jesus to throw Himself off a pinnacle of the Temple, if He be the Son of God. Angels would rescue Him. Boastful pride of life is how this is referred to.

How did Jesus refute the devil in each case? He used Scriptures:

1. That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word of God. (verse 4)
2. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve. (verse 8)
3. Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. (verse 12)

Believers must be careful to not yield to the temptations around us to sin. There are so many things in this world to bait the hook for our fall and failure. We have to be careful what our eyes see, our heart considers priority, and pride doesn't take us down, separation us from God.

Jesus passed those tests, but Satan would not give up his trying. And so we must not give up trying to live the Christian life to please our Father God.

LET IT GROW

In verses 18-19, Jesus quotes Isaiah 61:1-2 describing His earthly ministry which was predicted:

• The Spirit anointed Jesus to preach the Gospel to the poor/afflicted.
• He sent Jesus to bind up the brokenhearted, healing souls.
• To set free the captives/ prisoners of oppression.
• To give sight to the blind.
• To set at liberty the that are bruised.
• To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord. 

The Messiah had to, the along waited Savior. Some would believe Jesus was this One, while others rejected Him.

What will you do with a man called Jesus?

LET IT GO

Turn your eyes upon Jesus.

He is the only way to heaven.

Are We About Your Father's Business?

 N.T.#671 "Are We About Your Father's Business?"

Nov. 11, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Do you know what business your Heavenly Father has for you to do? Jesus found out.

You will recall the event which occurred whenever Jesus was 12 years old. He was strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and grace of God was upon Him. (2:40) Mary and Joseph with Him had attended the Passover in Jerusalem and Jesus stayed behind. (2:43) After 3 days, Jesus was found in the Temple. 

Didn't you know that I must be in my Father's house? (2:49, NLT) 

King James says, about my Father's business. 

Jesus' Father is none other than God. His divine identity and divine purpose on earth His parents did not understand. He was in the Temple with the experts of the Jewish law. Those guys were amazed at Jesus' words. Of course, Jesus would know about the Law of Moses. He made it. Of course, He knew about the Jewish laws. He knows everything. It was another 11 years before Jesus' ministry began. 

Are we teaching our children the Word of God?

LET IT GROW

As a man, Jesus went to the Jordan River to be baptized by John the Baptist. the people were being baptized after their repentance of their sins. Jesus had no sin, but His baptism was to fulfill all righteousness. (Matt. 3:15)

That was when God proclaimed, Thou art My beloved Son: in thee I am well pleased. (3:22)

This marked the beginning of Jesus' ministry. It also pictured for Christ a pledge of His future death, burial, and resurrection for the sin of the world. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Jesus was 30 years old whenever He began His public ministry, as were the Levitical priests when they began their service. He preached, performed miracles, and prophesied about the future. He showed love and compassion while standing against the religious leaders stuck on the law. He overcame the temptations of Satan. This Messiah fulfilled the Old Testament predictions of One to come.

How is your faith, dear one? How are you walking? 

God has a purpose and plan for each of us. (Adriane Rogers)

Are we busy about our Father's business?

LET IT GO

Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look fully in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim. In the light of His glory and grace.

Thank You, Father, for Your glorious grace!

To You be the glory forever.

It Was the Right Time

N.T.#670 "It Was the Right Time"

Nov. 10, 2025

Summary of Luke-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Was Dr. Luke an apostle/among the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ? I wondered that. Apparently not, for Luke is not mentioned among them in chapter 6. He could have been among the 70 followers of Jesus. Luke was one of Paul's missionary companion. He was in the early church at Antioch. He was a Greek, not a Jew.

I like to review the highlight events and Scriptures after we finish studying a book. Keep in mind that 400 years passed without a word from heaven. Then, at the right time, God sent His messengers to earth. Boy, were they busy.

First, we read about the events surrounding the special birth of John the Baptist, who prepared the way of the Lord. John's older parents were both descendants of Aaron, the first high priest. Zacharias was serving in the Temple (1 week every 6 months) when Gabriel appeared to him with the good news of a son to be born to the barren couple. Because he doubted, Zac was speechless the entire time of Elisabeth's pregnancy. He couldn't share the most exciting news of their lives. 

Next, a teenager named Mary, engaged to Joseph the carpenter got a visit from Gabriel. (She was of the Aaronic descend by her mother and Davidic descend by her father.) He announced Mary was going to have a son, Jesus, because she was favored by God. The Jews were expecting a Messiah to come. How could this be since Mary was a virgin? The Holy Spirit was empowered of the Highest in order for this to happen. (1:35) Isaiah 7:14 foretold of the Messiah, Emmanuel to come.

For with God nothing shall be impossible. (1:37)

Mary surrendered to the Lord's will for her life. (1:38) Matthew 1 describes the reaction of Joseph and Gabriel's visit to him in a dream. then the married couple had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem to register for census and pay taxes. That was where the intended birth of Jesus was to take place. And in a lowly manger surrounded by animals, not a place one would think appropriate for a King to be born. Mary's on was called Jesus, according to 2:21. He is called Deliverer, the Anointed One, Messiah, Son of the Living God. Visited by shepherds and kings, this child had quite a future ahead. To me, these events never get old hearing and reading about them, even seeing it in church programs.

LET IT GROW

And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. (2:52)

Jesus matured in 4 ways:

1. mentally (in wisdom)
2. physically (in stature)
3. spiritually (in favor with God)
4. socially (in favor with man).

By Jesus' example we can see the importance of us and children to mature in those areas.

now

What is our take-away today? Is your faith like Zacharias or Mary?

Are we growing spiritually in favor with God? Or is our faith growing stagnant?

LET IT GO

What a Wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord!

Friend, if you haven't surrendered to Jesus yet, do so now. 

 

Who Was Luke?

 N.T.#669 "Who Was Luke?"

Nov, 2025

Summary of Luke

LET IT GLOW

I recall memorizing the passages in Luke about the birth of Jesus in elementary. My classmates and I recited them at a Christmas program we had. I can still do it, mostly. If you haven't done so, give it a try. 

Well folks, we finally made it through the Gospel according to Luke. Many thanks for staying with me while we studied this book. I always like to look back at the book we have studies together and pull out some gold nuggets from it .

What do we know about the writer?

• Luke was a Gentile and the only Gentile to pen any books of Scripture. His name is Greek.
• Not only did Luke write this Gospel, but also the Book of Acts, which tells about the early church.
• Since Luke was a doctor, He gave more details of the birth of John the Baptist and Jesus. He gave us a deeper perspective of Jesus' healings. 
• Probably this book was written between A.D. 58-60, before the invasion of the Romans on Jerusalem in A.D. 64, for he does not mention this historical event.
• A running theme in Luke's Gospel is Jesus' compassion for Gentiles, Samaritans, women, children, tax collectors, sinners, and other outcasts in Israel.
• Other themes include human fear in the presence of God, forgiveness, joy, wonder at the mysteries of the role of the Holy Spirit, the temple in Jerusalem, and Jesus' prayers.
• Another theme emphasized is the relentless progression of Jesus toward the Cross, of which He did not deter, for His whole mission was to save sinners.
• Luke was one of Paul's closest companions and fellow laborers. (Col. 4:14)
• He was a tremendous historian, missionary, church planter, traveler, and writer, as well as being a physician.
• Luke was martyred at the age of 84 in the Greek city of Thebes. 

[References: The MacArthur Bible Commentary, Liberty Bible Commentary]

LET IT GROW

Luke reveals to us that God is not respecter of persons; He opened His heart to the needy through the kingdom ministry of His Son. The Son of Man who heals the sick, raises the dead, and calls the prodigal back is also the transcendent God who calls all people to Himself in salvation.

Luke shows through the genealogy and birth of Jesus that He has the right to claim the title of Son of David, the Messiah and King. Jesus used the Word of God to open people's minds and hearts to who He is. [The Tony Evans Bible Commentary]

What a beautiful account of the life of Jesus Luke gives us.  Luke does not end his writing with sadness over the death of Jesus. We can read of His appearances to people and His promise of sending the Holy Spirit. [Life Application Study Bible]

Let me leave you with this verse today: For with God nothing shall be impossible. (verse 1:37)

Whatever is going on in your life today (and mine), keep praying and reading God's Word. It never fails. Our Living Savior can do the impossible. He arose from the dead, didn't He?

I will pull out some Scriptures that are significant to me which we studies and some life lessons, too. So stay with me for the next couple of days as we review.

LET IT GO

Help us let go of the burdens and problems in our life and world, and lay them at the feet of Jesus.

Grow our faith stronger and firm. 

May You be honored, glorified, and praised, Lord Jesus, Savior, Messiah, Son of God.

Please bless those who study the Scriptures with me.

What Kind of Witness Are We?

 N.T.#668 "What Kind of Witness Are We?"

 Nov. 6, 2025 

Luke 24-Part 7 

LET IT GLOW

When we moved away from our families, came to visit, then left for home, it was a time of sadness for being separated from them, but also joyous as we looked forward to the Lord using us in kingdom work. I understand now that our daughter and her children live so far away. Mixed emotions seem to prevail. I wonder if it was the same for the disciples of Jesus. 

Jesus commanded His disciples to stay in Jerusalem and wait for what His Father had promised-the Holy spirit, so that they would be empowered from on high. (verse 49)

Waiting is very difficult for me. How about you? Things seem to go through my mind-good scenarios, bad ones. My imagination seems to run wild at times. What ifs pop up. So I have to cling to the faithfulness of God. He is in control. Wait for His timing not mine. so many Psalms speak about waiting on the Lord. David surely had to learn how to do that. It was about a 15 year wait before David became king of Israel.

LET IT GROW

Previously, Jesus assured His followers they had a message the world needs to hear. (verse 47) Repentance and then remission of sins found in faith in Jesus as Savior was their message to share with the world. And so it is for us..

And ye are witnesses of these things. (verse 48)

Witnesses , in Greek, means martyr.

The Holy Spirit is sent with power by God Himself. It was to be the beginning of gospel outreach in Jerusalem. (verse 47)

Jesus led His followers toward Bethany, high upon a hill east of Jerusalem, just a couple of miles. There, Jesus' beloved city could be seen. His next visit to earth will be standing on the Mount of Olives. (Zech. 14:4)

There, Jesus lifted up His hands and blessed them. (verse 50) It was a benediction, a blessing, and they got to see the ascension of Jesus, carried into heaven. I wonder if angels did it, lifting the Son of God to the right hand of the Father onto His deserved throne on the right.

Wow! What a sight and experience they never forgot!

The followers returned to Jerusalem as commanded. How did they do it? With great joy! This hopeless people now had hope; broken people had purpose; the abandoned people had experienced the presence of God. 

And were continually in the Temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.  (verse 53)

Worship, joy, praise-that's where our faith in the Risen Lord Jesus Christ should lead us. (Tony Evans)

LET IT GO

Are our days filled with great joy? If not, then meet with Jesus. 

Praise and bless the Most High God!

Thank You Jesus You are always with us.

Use us to be Your witnesses.

What kind of witness are you and I for the Lord?

Behind Locked Doors

N.T.#667 "Behind Locked Doors"

Nov. 5, 2025

Luke 24-Part 6 

LET IT GLOW

While the rest of the city continued to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread and carrying on life as usual, a group of Jesus' closest followers were gathered behind closed doors, in the upper room. As they gathered, they found encouragement and safety, hope instead of fear as they heard of Jesus' appearances. Folks were sharing their experiences (two on the road to Emmaus). 

Days had elapsed between verses 43 and 44. Jesus and His followers traveled to Galilee and back before He returned to heaven. (Matt. 28:16) In Acts, Luke makes it clear that Jesus spent 40 days with His disciples between His resurrection and ascension. (Life Application Study Bible)

What happened next?

• Suddenly and miraculously, Jesus appeared in their midst, greeting them with Peace be unto you. (verse 36) 
• Obviously, Peter had been the only apostle to have previously encountered Jesus. 
• What were the others reaction? Terror as they viewed the resurrected Lord Jesus. (verse 37) Had they seen a ghost?  (I think we all would have been scared out of our wits had we not seen Jesus enter through the door but suddenly was there.)
• Jesus encouraged the believers to touch Hin and see that He had flesh and bones. (verses 38-39)
• He showed them His hands and feet with nail scars. (verse 40)
• The shocked people believed not for joy and wonder. (verse 41)
• Jesus ate a piece of broiled fish and some honeycomb to prove He had a resurrected body. (verses 41-43)

The doors were closed and locked. (John 20:19) Were the people standing there with wide eyes and mouths open? 

LET IT GROW

Jesus expounded how the Old Testament pointed to the Messiah, His sufferings, and His resurrection all predicted. (verses 44-46)

Jesus opened the people's minds so they understood the Scriptures. 

The apostles were to preach of repentance and forgiveness of sins to the Jews and to all nations. 

These were witnesses of such things. In order to carry out the task, they would be endued with power from on high-the Holy Spirit. (verse 49)

LET IT GO

Help us carry on the Great Commission, Lord Jesus.

We are Your witnesses of Your salvation in our lives.

To You be glory, honor, and praise forever!

The Resurrected Jesus

 N.T.#665 "The Resurrected Jesus"

Nov. 4, 2025 

Luke 24-Part 5

And their eyes were opened, and they knew Him; and He vanished out of their sight. (verse 31)

 LET IT GLOW

Do you have some doubts concerning the resurrection of Jesus Christ? Read on to find out to whom He appeared as proof.

Until we see Jesus for whom He really is-crucified Savior, Risen Lord, Messiah, Son of God-we will not come to Him. Until we see ourselves as who we are, sinners in need of a Savior, we won't repent. Our soul is in need for forgiveness of our sins. Only Jesus can do that. We simply admit we are sinners, believe Jesus died in our place taking our punishment for our sins, and is risen, sitting at the right hand of God the Heavenly Father. Have you done so, friend? Are we sharing the Good News with others?

Do you know what those two people who walked with Jesus on the road to Emmaus did after eating with Jesus and seeing His nail scarred hands? They rose up from the table, returned to Jerusalem (7-8 miles), and found the 11 disciples and others gathered together. (verse 33) They related to the folks what had happened to them.

Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon. (verse 34)

Peter and John had seen the empty tomb. The Lord may have presented Himself to Peter, but there is no recording of such and he did not mention it.

LET IT GROW

MacArthur gives us 10 instances where Jesus appeared between the Resurrection and Ascension:

1. Mary Magdalene at the tomb (Mark 16:9)
2. to the women on the road (Matt. 28:9-10)
3. the two on the road to Emmaus (verses 13-32)
4. to Peter (verse 34)
5. to 10 of the 11 disciples (verses 36-43)
6. to the 11 with Thomas present 8 days later (John 20:26-31)
7. to 7 of the disciples by the shore of the Sea of Galilee (John 21:1-25)
8. to more than 500 disciples probably o the mountain in Galilee (1 Cor. 15:6)
9. to James (1 Cor. 15:7)
10. to the apostles when He ascended into heaven. (Acts 1:3-11)

After His ascension, Jesus appeared to Paul. (1 Cor. 15:8) The next time He appears it will be in glory as He comes in the clouds to get His children.

Is the Truth in Front of Us?

N.T.#664 "Is the Truth in Front of Us?"

Nov. 3, 2025 

Luke 24-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

As the two people walked on the road to Emmaus, Jesus walked with them, listening to them recount the events which took place in Jerusalem. We previously ended at verse 23, when the angel told the women Jesus was alive. The women ran to tell the disciples what they had experienced, but they were not believed. Peter and John ran to the tomb to find it empty. 

Jesus was unknown to the two walkers at this point. They were blind to the facts of the Resurrection as they were to the face of Jesus. They called Jesus a prophet who did powerful miracles and a might teach. 

So, Jesus began to speak to them:

• He called them fools, slow of heart to believe all that the prophets had spoken. (verse 25) The Messiah would come and suffer prior to His exaltation as King. (Ps. 22 and Isaiah 53)
• Jesus told the two travelers about the writings of Moses and prophets concerning Himself. (verse 27)
• He stayed with the two since night was falling. Jesus took the bread and blessed it. (verse 30)
• Did they see His ail prints in His hands resulting in who He was?
• He opened their eyes and they recognized Jesus. Then He disappeared. (verse 31)

Their hearts had been burning when Jesus explained the Scriptures to them and the truth of God's Word had transformed their discouraged hearts. The One they couldn't find was walking beside them. (Tony Evans)

What a trip! What a meal!

Do you believe Jesus is who He said He is? 

LET IT GROW

Jesus is the Son of God, sitting now at the right hand of the Father, crowned with honor and glory. He had to endure great suffering to get there. 

We like to read about the promises and blessings of the Bible, but we avoid those passages that talk about trials and pain. We can't have one without the other. We must be willing to accept the total package. (Tony Evans)

The purpose of the written Word is always to lead us to an experience with the Living Word. 

Sometimes the Truth is right by us, in front of us, there with us. We need Jesus to open our eyes so we can find it.

LET IT GO

Open our spiritual eyes so we can see the Truth, Lord Jesus.