Who Are You Seeking?

N.T.#336 "Who Are You Seeking?"

June 28, 2024 

Mark 1-Part 7many times in the first chapter

LET IT GLOW 

Have you noticed that Mark used the conjunction and in this chapter 1 many times? I counted it appearing35 times. the demands on Jesus' ministry must have been great. Once word got out that Jesus delivered the demon-possessed man in the synagogue, there was a great demand for His healing abilities.

Verse 28 tells us Jesus' fame spread through the region around the Sea of Galilee. When the 5 men left the synagogue, they went into Simon Peter and Andrew's home, The ruins of the base of both places still remain there. It seems to have been a large house. Probably, it belonged to Peter's mother in law. 

What was the problem there? Peter's mother in law was lying sick with a fever. Luke described her as burning up with a fever. Apparently, it was a life-threatening illness. Family members made her condition known to Jesus in hopes He would do something to help her. That He did; Jesus rebuked the fever and it left her, taking her by the hand and lifting her up. Did you notice the woman healed immediately arose and waited on her visitors? She probably fixed the Master a nice meal, don't you think ladies?

Mark draws particular attention to the physical touch between Jesus and His patients. Do you need a touch from the Savior today? Ask Him, for His power is beyond all powers and His compassion never ends.

LET IT GROW 

Again, the news spread of Jesus' healing and delivering powers. By the time the sun set, the Son of God went to work healing many people sick with various diseases and casting out many devils. (verse 34) The whole town showed up with their loved one who were sick. Jesus sent those away whole. Also, He silenced the demons, because they knew who Jesus was. (verse 34)

The next morning, Jesus arose (probably 4-6 am) and went to a solitary place and prayed. Needful time is spent in prayer. We need to seek God and His agenda for each day in our closet, quiet place.

The disciples sought Jesus and found Him. They informed Him that others were seek Him. Jesus offered no apologies, for what He was doing was well worth time and effort. The five left and went into other towns where Jesus preached in the synagogues throughout all Galilee and cast out devils. (verses 38-39)

When we seek Jesus, we will find Him. Do we seek Him early in the morning, interceding for others, too?

LET IT GO

Matthew 7:7 tells us to Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 

Jesus we seek Your will, Your purpose, and Your leading. 

Please heal hearts in our nation.

What a Wonderful Savior You are!

*Thank you for your patience this week. We have been in Vacation Bible School at our church, and I am the director, so I have been very busy and tired. Please pray that we reach families tonight at Family Night.

 

Deliverance

N.T.#335 "Deliverance"

June 27, 2024 

Mark 1-Part 6

And they were astonished at His doctrine: for He taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes. (verse 22)

LET IT GLOW

The people were astonished, which means to strike with great wonder or surprise; amazement, according to Dictionary.

Swindoll describes Jesus' teaching as: reliable content, irrefutable reasoning, impeccable theology, flawless presentation, penetrating insights, and compelling authority. 

Multitudes traveled great distances to hear from Him, and some left jobs to follow Him. Jesus had such a rapid and profound impact on the region of Galilee. 

Jesus spoke with authority, unlike the scribes that were like a kind of attorney in their day. They were always quoting important rabbis, what the rabbis said to one another, comparing the two and explaining the tedious intricacies of what each rabbi meant. 

Jesus appealed to nothing but the Scriptures, not what rabbis of centuries past had said. What a contrast!

No wonder the people were astonished and amazed by Jesus. do we hold the teachings of Jesus to be important or amazing?

LET IT GROW

Jesus put His authoritative words into actions. A man with an unclean spirit (demon) cried out in verse 24:

• Let us alone.
• What have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth?
• Are you come to destroy us?
• I know who you are-the Holy One of God!

The demon saw Jesus as a threat to his ongoing destructive work in the man's life. the kingdom of God had come near in the person of the King, which meant bad news for Satan's forces. This demon acknowledged Jesus' ability to destroy him.  (Evans)

Hold thy peace, and come out of him. That was what Jesus said as He rebuked the demon. (verse 25)

Tthe unclean spirit caused the man to have convulsions before it left. The people were amazed and questioned the authority and pwer Jesus' Words had. Even the evil spirits obey Him and flee at His command. So the news about Jesus spread through every village in the entire region.  

Are you in need of deliverance today? Turn to Jesus.

LET IT GO

Your name is Power, Healer, Life, Jesus.

You have the power to deliver and heal all kinds of problems.

Please deliver our nation from its sinful ways.

What a loving Savior!

 

Do You Need a Word Today?

N.T. #334 "Do You Need a Word Today?"

June 26, 2024

Mark 1-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Simon Peter and Andrew, James and John chose to follow Jesus and became His disciples. They gave up their jobs, family, and friends as they obeyed the Savior. These guys did this immediately when Jesus called them to follow Him. Life changed for them when they made this one decision.

Many things happened before Jesus began His ministry as the four Gospels gave their own perspective. We read of the miraculous birth of Jesus, His early life as a boy and His first trip to Jerusalem for the Passover, the Jesus grew mentally, spiritually, socially, and physically. John the Baptist served God by calling people to repent of their sins.

Before Jesus and His four disciples went to Capernaum, some things took place:

• John identified Jesus as the Son of God (John 1:19-28)
• Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine (John 2:1-11)
• The first cleansing of the Temple at the Passover (John 2:13-22)
• Nicodemus' interview with Jesus (John 3:1-21)
• John superseded by Jesus (John 3:22-36)
• Jesus departure from Judae (Mark 14a)
• Discussion with a Samaritan woman (John 4:5-26)
• Challenge of a spiritual harvest (John 4)
• Evangelization of Sychar (John 4)
• A child is healed by Jesus while at Cana (John 4:46-54)
• Ministry and rejection at Nazareth (John 4:46-54)

Jesus was quite busy when we read other Gospels as to what happened before He taught in the synagogue on the Sabbath. When we look back at our life, can we say time flies? Have we used our life to serve the Lord Jesus? Now is not too late.

LET IT GROW

Capernaum was located on the northern side of the Sea of Galilee. It was a sizable village which Jesus used as home base while in the area. The Jewish synagogues had three primary purposes-instruction on the Sabbath, a center for Jewish culture and literature and instruction about the Law and 5 Hebrew books of the Bible. It was a civil meeting place used like a courthouse today. Trials, marriages, and legal matters took place in the coutryard, an open space.

Jesus taught as one that had authority, and not like the scribes the doctrine.In other words, the Lord blew them away, shocked them. Although, it should not have, for Jesus inspired Moses to write Genesis -Deuteronomy.

Is Jesus Word our authority for our life or is it just another book? Many people do not consider it important, yet believers hold it very dear and hunger and thirst for it. Which is it for you?

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for providing us with Your Words of instructions, miracles, provisions, healings, and comfort. What would we do without it. Help us to share it with children and teens this summer. They desperately need it in their lives.

Help us to apply Your Word in our life, too. Make it real and alive through us.

Immediate Obedience

 N.T.#333 "Immediate Obedience"

June 25, 2024 

Mark 1-Part 4

And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after Me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. (verse 17)

LET IT GLOW 

Mark touched on the baptism and temptations of Christ. Jesus was tempted to sin while in the wilderness, alone. He had to be tempted so He would identify fully with human beings. The difference is, Jesus endured and never sinned. He used Scriptures on the devil. Jesus is our example when we face temptation and it is possible that we not sin, with His help. Since Jesus went through the same experience we go through, He is our helper who knows just what we need. (Hebrews 4:15)

John the Baptist was put into prison.

What is next?

•  Jesus began His ministry in Galilean area preaching the Gospel of the kingdom of God. (verse 14)
• He said, The time is fulfilled. 
• The Kingdom of God is at hand.
• Repent and believe the gospel. (verse 15)

This was Jesus' mission, to declare and manifest the kingdom of God. God's Good News is centered in Christ Jesus, our Savior.

Do you know Him today, friend?

LET IT GROW 

In verses 16-20, we read of the four disciples- Simon Peter, his brother Andrew, who were fishermen as well as James and his brother John, who were sons of Zebedee. fishermen as well. (verses 16 and 19) Our key verse above explains Jesus' purpose for those 4 men. Keep in mind that fishing with nets was their means of business or livelihood, it was not a sport.

How did all tour men react to this calling upon their lives by Jesus?

Straightway (which means directly; at once) Simon and Andrew forsook their nets and followed Him. James and John left their father in the ship with the hired servants and went after Him. (verses 18, 20) Apparently, the four new Jesus previously. Their actions involved more than sacrificing a few possessions. They gave up their trad and trusted Jesus to provide for them. Obviously He did just that. Once the disciples picked corn to eat on the Sabbath and were reprimanded for it by the Pharisees. John became Jesus' beloved disciple and later penned 5 New Testament books, in addition, he outlived the other disciples.

The words straightway or immediately is used over 40 times throughout this book. 

How do we react when Jesus asks us to do something? Is it later, soon, forget about it, refusal, or immediately we obey. Remember, obedience is better than sacrifice. 

LET IT GO

What a joy it is, Lord Jesus, to be called to a special purpose in Kingdom work.

Help us be obedient.

What a wonderful Savior is Jesus, my Jesus!

*Appreciate everyone's prayers and comments as we buried my father in law yesterday at age 93. He was only saved 6 years ago, but we rejoice his battle with pain is over. What a reunion he had with Jesus and his wife in heaven.

Immediately

N.T.#332 "Immediately"

June 24, 2024

Mark 1-Part 3

And immediately the Spirit driveth Him into the wilderness. (verse 12)

LET IT GLOW 

When my children were growing up, I often responded to their "Mom, help" call with a "Wait a minute." That wasn't what they wanted to hear and they would keep calling me until I went to them. I am so glad that Jesus doesn't wait, but answers my plea for help immediately.

In this chapter 1, Mark uses the word immediately or its form ten times, but the same Greek word. Immediately means at once, straightway. In English, it is used as anon , straightly, forthwith. 

Over 40 times Mark uses the word immediately in his book. 

Here are the verses which use those words: 

1. when the Spirit like a dove came upon Jesus (v.10)
2. when the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness (v. 12)
3. how soon Simon Peter and Andrew followed Jesus (v. 18)
4. when Jesus called James and John as disciples (v. 20)
5. when Jesus taught in the synagogue at Capernaum (v. 21)
6. how the news spread about Jesus (v. 28)
7. when they went to Simon and Andrew's house (v. 29)
8. when they told Jesus of Peter's mother in law's sickness (v. 30)
9. how soon the leper was healed (v. 42)
10. when Jesus sent the healed leper away (v. 43)

Jesus didn't waste time. He had the Father's power and He changed things immediately. When He spoke to or touched someone, His command happened right then. Isn't it wonderful that we have a Savior who is compassionate and can immediately respond to our cry of help.

Last week I had a doctor's appoint in another town where I had only been once before. Since my husband's father had only passed away an hour earlier, I had to take myself to the appointment. I thought that I had the correct address, but it was not so. I wasted 30 minutes driving around, following the Google Map. I was in tears. Finally, I got ahold of myself, prayed, and Jesus took over. Immediately, I called the main clinic and got the correct address and drove right to the clinic. By the time I got there (only 15 minutes late), I had a melt-down, sobbing. I had never done that before. I think it was because of the situation. It turned out okay, for they were late seeing the patients. And to beat all, I had to stop and get gas because I only had 1/8 of a tank. All turned out well. Thank You Jesus for coming to my rescue in my time of need! How encouraging He is!

Has Jesus immediately answered your prayers?

LET IT GROW 

Our key verse above doesn't tell us much detail as to what occurred when Jesus was with Satan in the wilderness and being tempted to sin. Verse 13 tells us it took place for 40 days and nights. However, Jesus resisted the devil with Scriptures and the wild beasts were there and the angels were there ministering to Him. If you want to read more about the situation, look at Matthew 4 and Luke 4.

LET IT GO 

Help us obey You immediately, Lord Jesus, when you give us a task for Kingdom work.

Where Are You Going After Death?

 N.T.#331 "Where Are You Going after Death?"

June 21, 2024 

Mark 1-Part 2

LET IT GLOW 

When I was 16, I realized that death could come at any age. A classmate of mine was killed in a car wreck at age 16. Had I died then, I would have gone to hell. I didn't know the proper words to say to a holy God. I only knew I believed in Jesus and needed Him as my Savior. He saw my heart and cleansed it. Later, I was baptized in a local church. I know I am a sinner saved by grace.Now my future is in heaven. Have you repented of your sins and obeyed God through baptism?

John the Baptist was born to prepare the way of the Lord Jesus Christ. He preached repentance of sin, agreeing with God and admitting sins. He baptized those who did so in the Jordan River. More details of John's life is found in Luke 1 and John 3. Keep in mind there had been no prophet in Israel for 400 years after Malachi.

What was unique about John the Baptist?

• He was a cousin of Jesus' through Mary's line.
• He was born to an older couple, Elizabeth and Zachariah, who was a Jewish priest in the Temple.
• The Prophet Isaiah predicted his coming and that of the Messiah. (Isaiah 40:3) A voice of one crying out: Prepare the way of the LORD in the wilderness; make a straight highway for Our God in the desert. 
• When a king of the land was coming to a city, construction crews would arrive long before the planned arrival of a king to level hills, fill ditches, clear debris, and remove obstructions in order to prepare a wide, clear, and straight road into town. John was preparing the way for King Jesus, preaching repentance of sin, in order to prepare people's hearts to hear the messages of the Messiah.
• John clothed himself simply with a rough garment made of camel's hair, which would have been scratchy material, not soft like sheep's wool, and with a leather belt.(verse 6) John distinguished himself from the religious leaders, whose flowing robes reflected their great pride in their position. (12:38)
• John baptized believers and repentants by submersing them in water, but Jesus shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. (verse 8)

John preached that One was coming after he that is mightier than he was. The humility of John is seen here. He admitted that he was not worthy to even stoop down and unlatch Jesus' shoes. (The least of the household slaves removed shoes and washed feet. It was the lowest form of service then known.) Service to Christ is a privilege. (Swindoll) 

How are we serving Jesus today? Do we serve others instead of ourself?

LET IT GROW

Jesus grew up in Nazareth, a city located halfway between the Sea of Galilee and the Mediterranean Sea. It was a despised city and avoided by many Jews. (John 1:46) Nazareth was a crossroads for trade routes and had contact with many cultures.

The Jordan River has beautifully lined trees on its banks. It isn't a swift flowing river, but peacefully flowing. Jesus came from Nazareth where He grew up. He began His ministry by being baptized by John there. Why would the Messiah be baptized by a man? He never sinned. 

• Jesus began His mission to bring the message of salvation to all people
• to show support for John's ministry
• to identify with our humanness and sin
• to give us an example to follow.

John's baptism was an outward symbol of inward devotion to God, submission to His will, and identity with the people of Israel and us. Jesus' baptism was a symbol of His submitting to do God's will, also. As a sign of His Father's approval of Jesus as His divine Son, the Spirit descended like a dove on Jesus. (verse 10) Here is the Trinity revealed.

In addition, God said, Thou art My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (verse 11)

Beloved means dearly, well loved.

Pleased means to think well; approve; take pleasure.

Jesus is the unique Son of God, even though God has many believing children in His family. He was obedient and that obedience found approval in God. 

Friend, have you obeyed God by being baptized? 

LET IT GO

Father, we want to please in all we say and do.

Thank You Jesus for forgiveness of our sins.

*Thank you for your prayers. My father in law passed away into heaven yesterday afternoon.

Preparing the Way

N.T.#330 "Preparing the Way"

June 20, 2024 

Mark 1

LET IT GLOW

As an outline for the book of Mark we read in Liberty Bible Commentary:

I. The Introduction to Christ's Ministry (1:1-13)

II. The Ministry in Galilee (1:14-7:23)

III. The Ministry Beyond Galilee (7:24-9:50)

IV. The Concluding Ministry (10:1-13:37)

V. Christ's Death and Resurrection (14:1-16:20) (Liberty Bible Commentary)

In researching the Gospels, I found Mark to be the only one who wrote about the parable of growth (4:26-29), a deaf-mute healed (7:32-37), and the healing of a blind man (8:22-26).

Mark omits the details of Jesus' birth, like Luke wrote, His genealogy, like Matthew wrote, and details of John the Baptizer, as John wrote.  

In verse 1, Mark jumps to The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. (verse 1)

The beginning of Jesus Christ was before His birth on earth. He existed in heaven before time, space, the universe, or anything existed on earth, including evil itself. (Rev. 13:8)

In the Greek language, gospel means good message; declare glad tidings; announce good news. 

We call the Gospel the Good News of Jesus Christ (the Anointed One) because He provided a way for us to go to heaven, to talk with God, and there is no end of this Gospel for Christ arose from the dead.

Good news of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ existed in the mind of the Trinity before anything was created and called good. God knew Adam and Eve and you and me would sin and need a Redeemer. We can't meet God's standard of perfectionism by ourself. It is the blood of Jesus Christ that makes us clean.

Has your soul been washed by the precious blood of Jesus? 

LET IT GROW

God let it be known ahead of time that He was sending a forerunner who would prepare the way for the Messiah/Savior. (Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3) 

• This was John the Baptizer, the messenger of God.  
• He cried in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight. (verse 3)
• He baptized in the wilderness.
• He preached the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.

Baptize means to dip into or to immerse. 

Repentance is a reversal of (another's) decision.

Remissions is a departure.

A person is baptized after they have admitted to God they are a sinner, reversing their thoughts of being good to being bad, and turning away from those sins, departing. It is an outward expression of what has taken place in the heart and soul of a person, a visible sign. (It is not sprinkling as a child, for there is no repentance of sin involved.)

Keep in mind that Mark is speaking to Gentiles. They had not heard of a loving and holy God, His caring for them, He was not one of Jesus' disciples, but a follower of Jesus who knew Him personally. He was preparing the Gentiles to meet the Forgiving Savior.

What can we do to prepare the way for a person to come to Christ through faith and repentance? Are we showing them the love of Christ? Are we planting seeds of the Gospel in their life?

LET IT GO 

Thank You Jesus for Your mercy and forgiveness of my sins.

What a Wonderful Savior!

Introduction to Mark

 N.T.#329 

June 19, 2029 

Introduction to Mark

Since it took four months to cover Matthew, it shouldn't take as long. Mark has only 16 chapters in contrast to Matthew having 28 chapters. Let's take a look at the background of this book and its author first of all.

Authorship

The author's full name was John Mark. (Acts 12:12) It was at his mother's house in Jerusalem that Peter went when released from prison. You will recall the situation where Peter knocked on the gate, and the servant girl was doubted when she told the prayer group that Peter wwas at the gate then. So Mark's family was probably well off. Mark and Peter were good friends, obviously.

We can see al little more about Mark in Acts. Mark was influenced by his cousin, Barnabas, who took him with Paul on the first missionary journey. (Acts 13:5) However, Mark returned home. When Barnabas wanted Paul to take Mark with him on his second missionary journey, Paul refused. That friction led to their separation. Barnabas and Mark went to Cyprus. As the young Mark matured, Paul wrote in Colossians that Mark was welcomed, which was later. Paul told Timothy to get Mark and bring him with Timothy, for he is useful to me for ministry. (2 Timothy 4:11)

Later, Mark moved to Rome with Peter and stayed there until both Peter and Paul died. He moved to Alexandria and founded a church, which later became quite influential. 

Date and Place

This Gospel was written in Rome to benefit the Roman Christians, particularly Gentiles.  It was probably A.D. 50-65 when Mark wrote this Gospel. 

Background

Simon of Cyrene, who carried the cross for Jesus, was the father of Rufus, a prominent member of the church at Rome. Simon's sons, Alexander and Rufus later became well-known Christians. (Mark 15:21)

Mark omitted the birth of Jesus and His mentions few teachings of Jesus. He emphasizes the humanity of Christ, his human emotions and limitations. Keep in mind that the Gospel writers were inspired by God, wrote independently of one another, and were moved by the same Holy Spirit. 

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

*My father in law is still with us. He was moved to a hospice care facility where everyone is well pleased with his care. Since it has been 9 days since he got sick, it is predicted that he will pass soon. Please pray for my husband's sibblings, for they are getting tired as they stay with him. 

King, Messiah, and Lord

N.T.#328 "King, Messiah, and Lord"

June 18, 2024 

Summary of Matthew-Part 3

Matthew emphasized Jesus is King of kings. He is the long-awaited Messiah. Although His kingship is not what the Jews expected. God's purpose was for Jesus to die for all people to free them from sins's oppression.  

Jesus used illustrations and parables to teach people about the kingdom of God and how to live. He taught us to love our neighbors, have compassion on the sick, stand for the Word of Truth, and to have forgiveness.

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. (19:26)

Salvation of a rich sinner is just as miraculous as the salvation of a poor sinner. Both are only possible with God. (Falwell)

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. (22:37,39)

Jesus taught us to be a servant.

But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. (23:11)

Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. (25:40)

In chapter 23, Jesus gave us 6 signs of things that must happen, signs of the Great Tribulation. Only God knows when He sends Christ to return to earth for His believers to be raptured out before that time. 

Jesus knew what lie ahead for Him-the cross, yet He was willin today. Jesus never leaves usg to go through the pain of it, bearing our sins and our punishment for our sins, although He knew no sin. The charge of blasphemy against Jesus, claiming to be God's Son. It is true, so He did no crime to deserve death. Jesus foretold of His rising from the dead. The vail of the temple was torn from top to bottom (chapter 27) and the earth quaked, and the rocks split. This provided us access to God our Father through Jesus. Now Jesus sits on the right hand of the Father on His throne, interceding for us.

Oh, what a Savior! Do you know Him personally? Ask Him to forgive your sins and be your Savior, if not. Let Him be your Lord. Jesus never leaves us.

Compassion

N.T.#327 "Compassion"

June 17, 2024 

Summary of Matthew-Part 2

As we continue the summation of the book of Matthew, we read of many instances of His miracles and healings in chapters 8 and 9:  

• the leper 
• the Centurion's servant
• Peter's mother in law
• the mute demoniac
• the paralytic
• the woman with the issue of blood
• calming of the storm
• Jarius' daughter
• the two blind men.

All of those were signs of Jesus' divine authority, being the son of God. The power of Jesus Christ is limitless and His mercy is immeasurable. When we have a desperate need, we can turn to the loving Savior to receive a gentle touch or a distant word, comfort and love, kindness. We can count on Him to take care of us, in His way, at His time, as He pleases. Jesus is with His children, full of compassion and understanding. He is intimately interested in the details of our lives.

[Resource: Swindoll's Living Insights on Matthew 1-15]

Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. (10:32)

Have you confess Jesus as your Savior before people?

It is hard to summarize all the good things Jesus did while on earth. He taught us to forgive, stand strong in our faith, trust Him with everything, used parables. He provided for His disciples, showed them how to be a servant, confronted the Pharisees with the Word of Truth, presented Himself as King, encouraged marriage and not divorce, prepared us for things to come and heaven in the here after.

*Update on my father in law, age 93: they moved him to hospice care facility where he is resting now. The kids are getting tired physically by remaining by his bedside. Since he is a believer in Jesus, it helps us have comfort as we await his homegoing. Thanks for your prayers.

How Are We to Live?

N.T.#326 "How Are We to Live?"

June 14, 2024

Summary of Matthew-Part 2

We are continuing to review our study of Matthew. In chapter 4, we read of the temptations with which Satan confronted Jesus. They involved physical needs, possessions and power, and pride. Jesus used Scriptures to combat the Tempter. 

Matthew designates 4 geographical areas in relation to the ministry of Christ Jesus:

1. Galilee (verse 12)
2. Peraea (19:1)
3. Judaea (20:17)
4. Jerusalem (21:1)

In the Galilean area, Jesus called His disciples to follow Him. He went about teaching in the Jewish synagogues, preaching the Gospel of the kingdom, healing sicknesses and diseases, delivered the possessed from demons, and healed palsy among the people. (verse 23) Keep in mind that no significant prophet had arisen in ministry to Israel for over 400 years. 

In chapter 5, Jesus taught the Beatitudes, which are to be characteristics of the saved. Jesus challenges us to let our light shine before people so they see our good works and glorify our Heavenly Father. (verse 16) 

Also, Jesus proclaimed: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. (verse 17)

Jesus gave us 6 illustrations of Christian character:

1. No anger
2. No lust, adultery, and marriage contrasting divorce
3. Commitment
4. Speak the Truth instead of oath-taking
5. Forgiveness in place of retaliation
6. Love your enemy in place of loving thy neighbor. (verses 21-48)

Chapter 6 and 7 give us examples of true spiritual worship by giving, praying, fasting, and serving. Included is the Lord's Prayer, don't worry or be anxious, the Golden Rule, ask, seek, and knock, seek first the kingdom of God, beware of false prophets in sheep's clothing, faith is the root of salvation and works are its fruit.

[Resource: Libery Bible Commentary]

Looks like we have a lot of challenges to apply today as a follower of Jesus.

*Please pray for my father in law. He was put on a resperator, and today they will try to wean him off it. He is 93 and has pneumonia. 

 

A Significant Beginning

N.T.#325 "A Significant Beginning"

June 13, 2024

Summary of Matthew-Part 1

Matthew was one of the twelve apostles/disciples of Jesus Christ. He was known as Levi, when others spoke of his sinful past. A tax collector by trade.

Matthew wrote this Gospel as early as A.D. 50-70. He quotes around the Old Testament around 93 times, showing how Christ fulfilled all those promises. Matthew's emphasis is on the King of the Jews, Jesus Christ, who was Israel's long-awaited Messiah. He mentions Jesus as the Son of David many times. Matthew freely places things out of order, dealing with themes and broad concepts, not laying out a time line.

The four Gospel writers were moved by the Holy Spirit, inspired by God, and wrote independently of each other. However, only Matthew records Joseph's dream, the wise men's visit, flight to Egypt by the trio, Herod kills children, Judas repents, Pilate's wife's dream, other resurrections, bribery of the soldiers, and the Great Commission. 

[Resource: The MacArthur Bible Commentary]

Matthew begins his Gospel with the genealogy of Jesus Christ in 14 generations. He takes Jesus' royal lineage back to Abraham. Lineage was important to the Jews. 

Included are 5 unusual women in Jesus' background:

1. Tamar, a Canaanite who posed as a prostitute to seduce Judah, 
2. Rahab a Gentile and prostitute, 
3. Ruth a Moabite who worshipped idols previously, 
4. Bathsheba who committed adultery with David, and 
5. Mary who conceived Jesus out of wedlock. Through their lives we can learn about divine grace.

Mary was already espoused to Joseph when she became pregnant by the Holy Ghost with Jesus. This means she was already bound or betrothed to Joseph, they just had not slept together. Joseph was going to divorce Mary had it not been for the angel appearing to him in a dream, explaining Mary's situation. Throughout the Old Testament Jesus' special birth was predicted.

Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. (1:23) (Isaiah 7:14)

This is essential doctrine to underlying Jesus' deity. Following a special star, the wise men from Egypt brought Mary, Joseph, and Jesus gifts at Bethlehem and worshiped the Savior. King Herod wanted to kill Jesus, his competition for the throne. That is why the three went to Egypt, for their safety. After Herod's death, they returned to settle in Nazareth.

Next on the scene was John the Baptist, who had a significant birth. He and Jesus were cousins on Mary's side of the family. John spent his adult life in the wilderness of Judea, south of Jerusalem. John's message was: Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. He was a forerunner of Jesus.

John baptized Jesus in the Jordan, not for the remission of sins, for He was sinless, but to be obedient to God His Father. 

God the Heavenly Father spoke: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (3:17)

This was the beginning of Jesus' public ministry as the Messiah. That concludes the first three chapters written by Matthew, which are significant in our spiritual life.

Do you believe Jesus Christ was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, and walked on the earth to teach us how to live?

 

 

  

Believe and God Tell

 N.T.#324 "Believe and Go Tell"

June 12, 2024 

Matthew 28-Part 7

LET IT GLOW 

We had a wonderful time at our granddaughter's graduation. Thank you for your patience, for we flew home yesterday.

 Wasn't it a natural reaction for the disciples to worship the Risen Savior? In John 20, Thomas was the doubtful one, who had to see and touch for himself the nail prints. He was not going to believe it was actually Jesus until then. So John did see and touch Jesus' nail scars and thrushed side. Jesus told Thomas to be not faithless, but believe. He did just that. 

And Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God. (John 20:28)

Can you believe Jesus rose from the dead without seeing or touching His nail scares?

Blessed are they that have not seen , and yet have believed. (John 20:29)

Did you catch there was no condemnation for Thomas' lack of faith? 

Jesus did other signs in the presence of His disciples that are not written in the Bible. (verse 30)

What a wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord!

LET IT GROW 

Take a look at the last three verses Matthew wrote. All power or authority is given to Christ Jesus, in heaven and in earth. What was the Great Commission Jesus gave His followers?

• We are to go and teach all nations the Good News that Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead victorious. He paid the price for our sins, so it is by faith believing that He did this, through grace alone, in Christ alone. Gentiles and Jews have a way to heaven-Jesus Christ.
• Baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Baptism shows we have trusted in Jesus, buried with Him is our sins, and rising in newness of life with Him. What a way to witness to others. (Baptize means to immerse, not sprinkle.)
• Teach them to observe what Jesus has commanded in His Word. It pleases God when we obey His Word.
• Jesus promised He is with us always, even unto the end of the world. 

One day Jesus is returning to earth to reign as the King and Israel's long-awaited Messiah. Acts 1:9-11 tells us this.

Today, we have the Holy Spirit to help us, equip us, and encourage us as we share the Good News.

LET IT GO

Start a new day and let go of the sins and troubles that weigh us down.

Surrender all to Jesus, all to Him we freely give.

May we always love and trust Him. 

In His presence always live.  

Recuperating

 Dear Friends,

By the time you read this, we will be on our way home from visiting our daughter and family. Not sure there will be a post on the 12th, but if not, they you know I am recuperating from the trip.

Have a blessed week.

Linda 

Need Evidence?

N.T.#323 "Need Evidence?"

June 10, 2024 

Matthew 28-Part 6

LET IT GLOW 

Do you need evidence in order to believe in Jesus as the Risen Savior? 

The Good News is that there is a Savior who provides a way for us to reach heaven after we die-Jesus Christ. It is through faith in Jesus that we sinners can be forgiven and be delivered from the penalty of our sins. We believe Jesus is God's Son, who lived a sinless life, who became the Perfect Lamb of God that takes away our sins. He shed His bood because Jesus loves us so much. He arose from the dead to prove all of this. 

The resurrection ministry of Lord Jesus was accompanied by unmistakable signs and He appeared to many people after His resurrection:

• Mary Magdalene and other women at the tomb. (verses 9-10)
• Followers on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:14-32)
• Peter (Luke 24:34)
• Ten of 11 disciples (John 20:19-25)
• Eleven disciples, including Thomas (John 20:26-29)
• Seven disciples by Sea of Galilee shore (John 21:1-23)
• Eleven disciples on mountain in Galilee (Matt. 28:16-20)
• Five hundred at one time (1 Cor. 15:6)
• James, half brother of Jesus (1 Cor. 15:6)
• Apostles when He ascended into heaven (Acts 1:3-11)
• Paul after His ascension in Acts 9.

What evidence!

LET IT GROW 

Those mentioned above were eye witnesses of the Risen Lord within a week of His resurrection. (1 Cor. 15:3-7)

Probably, Jesus had in mind a wider circle of disciples than just the eleven. He gave them a special message in the rest of this chapter.

Let's not overlook verse 17: And when they saw Him, they worshipped Him: but some doubted.

Doubted may mean hesitated. 

Matthew understood the hesitation of the Jewish community to recognize Jesus as the Risen Messiah. He, too, was a Jew who hesitated to become a Christian.

Are you hesitating? Are others around you hesitating in coming to Jesus? Will we help persuade them?

LET IT GO 

I serve a Risen Savior, He's in the world today.

I know that He is with me, no matter what men may say.

I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer.

And just the time I need Him, He is always near.

He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. Salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives, He lives within my heart.

Jesus lives!

Good News vs. Fake News

 N.T.#322 "Good News vs. Fake News"

June 7, 2024 

Matthew 28-Part 5

LET IT GLOW 

We have to have a discerning spirit to determine what is truth and fake news. It is by faith we believe the Bible is true, so all the events that are recorded in it must be true, too. However, not all people believe this. Even in Jesus' day, there were scoundrels. 

The Good News is that Jesus Christ has risen from the dead. That is proof that He is God and man. He bled like a man and His body died like a man. Yet Jesus is God in the form of a man. He was born of woman, lived, walked, talked, and ate like a man. On the other hand, Jesus was divine. He saw into the hearts of people. He knew what they were thinking. He knew how to answer to Pharisees and Sanhedrin. Jesus had thousands of angels at His disposal. Most importantly, Jesus Christ never sinned through all the temptations of Satan, controversy of the religious Jews. beatings, and pain of the nails while on the cross.

I like how Charles Swindoll entitled this section of Scriptures as "Good News vs. Fake News." The Good News is Jesus of Nazareth rose from the grave on the third day, just as He promised and just as the Scriptures themselves foretold. (Isa. 53:10-12) All hope, confidence, devotion and dedication were up and running again. Not only was Jesus their King, but Israel's long-awaited Messiah. Now His glorious resurrection made them certain of it! But as Jesus was presenting Himself alive "by many convincing proofs" and continuing to speak to them "concerning the kingdom of God, the disciples were still asking questions.

It is by faith that we come to Jesus. Do you believe He is God's Son, the Suffering Savior, the Risen Lord, our King?

Fpr by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

LET IT GROW 

The fake news involved the Roman soldiers, who fainted when the angel appeared and rolled back the stone of the opening of the tomb. (verse4) Some of the soldiers went to the chief priests and reported what had happened. The soldiers were given large amounts of silver to spread the fake news. (verses 11-12)

The story by the soldiers, fake news, included: Jesus disciples came by night and stole Him away while they slept. What a conspiracy! If their news reached the governor, the priests would persuade him and have their backs. (The soldiers could have been killed for not carrying out the governor's instructions.)

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for preserving Your Word for us to read and study.

What a wonder plan to provide salvation and eternal life for those who believe in You as their Savior.

Thank You it is not by works or heritage that we can get to heaven, but by faith.

Oh, what a Savior! Isn't He wonderful! Christ is risen!

We serve a risen and alive Savior today!

One day we will all stand before Him, giving an account of our life.

Evidence, Grace, and Mercy

 N.T.#321 "Evidence, Grace, and Mercy"

June 6, 2024 

Matthew 28-Part 4

LET IT GLOW 

There must be evidence to convict someone of a crime beyond a shadow of a doubt. There was evidence, first-hand accounts, that Christ arose from the dead. It takes faith, though, to believe it and to be saved from our sins' penalty-dead eternally. Have you experienced this grace and mercy that Jesus provides?

Christ is risen! The other Gospels give mor specific accounts of Peter and John running to the tomb; Mary meeting Jesus; His appearance in the upper room; His appearance to more than 500 believers at once, and the undeniably literal incident on the seashore, (John 21)

On their way to tell the disciples, (with exceedingly great joy) the four women who came to the tomb early, and sent by the angel, were met by Jesus, who greeted them. Immediately the women recognized Jesus, held Him by the feet, and worshipped Him. 

It was no prank, no hoax, no religious metaphor. Jesus was alive, out of the tomb, and on the move! What an experience! It was an unexpected meeting with the Risen Messiah! Jesus calmed their fears. And the excitement, can you imagine the excitement those women had?

And the angels sing, Holy; all creation sings, Holy.

Holy is the Lamb that was slane, worthy of praise and glory!

Have you sang praises to Christ Jesus today? How worthy He is! The One who took our place for punishment of our sins, such love shown! Do we get excited when we encounter our Savior?

LET IT GROW

They were on a mission-going to tell the disciples they would soon see Jesus.

In the meantime, those Roman soldiers who were guarding the tomb and fainted went to tell the chief priests what took place. (verse 11)

• The elders assembled and took counsel with the priests.
• They gave the soldiers large amounts of money to say His disciples came by night and stole Jesus' body away while they slept. 
• If the governor heard about the incident, the religious ones would stand up for them so they would not get into trouble. (verse 14)
• The guards accepted the bribe and said what they were told. 
• Their story is spread widely among the Jews,and is still told today.
• IT was a lie, plain and simple. The Jews refused to believe Jesus to be their Messiah, The Son of God, and The Risen Savior. 

How could the soldiers have known what happened if they were asleep? Even if they had been awake, no small band of civilians could overpower armed and trained Roman soldiers. What flaws were in their story.

A supernatural event is replaced with a natural explanation. The resurrection is the greatest event of human history and is proof that Christianity is true. Without it, we have nothing. Wit it, we have hope in history for eternity. (1 Cor. 15:12-19)

Are you a believer? Are we sharing this love story?

How do we know Jesus is living? He is living in my heart today.

LET IT GO

What an awesome plan, for Jesus, You are awesome!

You are the One and Only Savior.

Oh, how we love You!

Have You Encountered Jesus?

N.T.#320 "Have You Encountered Jesus?"

June 5, 2024 

Matthew 28-Part 3

LET IT GLOW 

Since we live in the vicinity of an entertainment city, we have encountered, spoken with, shook hands with celebrities. But there is one who stands out in my mind. One who knows my name personally and talks with me daily-Jesus Christ. He never leaves me nor hurt me. He loves me no matter how I treat Him. He is forgiving and merciful. What a Wonderful Savior!

Early on that Sunday morning, when the women went to Jesus' tomb to anoint His body with burial spices, they encountered an angel of the Lord after the earthquake. (verse 3) The angel told the ladies to not fear, Jesus was not there, to see for their self, to go to Galilee to see Him. (verses 5-7) Can you imagine those ladies wide eyed with astonishment, hands on their mouths, nodding in agreement? It was no prank, no hoax, no religious metaphor. Jesus is risen indeed!

John 20 tells us that Mary Magdalene ran to tell Peter and John what she saw. Then the two disciples, who were a part of Christ's inner circle went to investigate for their selves. Apparently, Mary returned to the tomb and was weeping She conversed with Jesus, thinking He was the gardener. He told her not to touch Him, but to tell His brethren that He ascends unto His Father and God and their Father and God.(verse 17)

That same evening, Jesus appeared unto the disciples, showing His hands and side. The nail prints proved it was Jesus and not someone else. Then Jesus said He was sending them, probably into the world as a witness for the Risen Savior. Also, He breathed on them to receive the Holy Ghost. (verse 22) The Holy Spirit would guide them and work through them as they fulfilled the Great Commission. Also, they could share that forgiveness of sins is possible. (verse 23)

Friend, are you serving the Risen Lord and Savior today? Is the Holy Spirit guiding and using you to share the Good News with others? Have you encountered Him personally lately?

LET IT GROW

Verse 8 says, And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring His disciples word. 

When Jesus called Mary's name, she knew who it was standing before her-Jesus. She had an encounter with The Savior. Has Jesus called you to salvation by your name? How did you respond?

Mary Magdalene was the first missionary sent out with the Good News-Jesus has risen! 

With Vacation Bible School time coming this summer, will you be one to share with children and great joy that Jesus is risen from the dead, The Risen Savior?

LET IT GO 

I serve a Risen Savior, He's in the world today. I know that He is living, no matter what men may say. I see His hand of mercy, I heard His voice of cheer, and just the time I need Him, He is always near.

He lives! Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along the narrow way. He lives! Salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives... He lives within my heart!

Rejoice, oh, Christian!

*Please pray for our safety, for we are flying to our daughter's for her daughter's graduation.

Jesus is Risen!

N.T.#319 "Jesus is Risen!"

June 4, 2024 

Matthew 28-Part 2

LET IT GLOW 

It is speculated that on Saturday night after the Sabbath, Mary, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Clopas, acting as a male guardian, departed Jerusalem at sundown and traveled to Bethany to meet with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Presumably, the other 9 disciples would be there after Jesus' arrest. 

It is likely that John, Salome, and possibly Zebedee, along with Mary, Jesus' mother, were at John's home. Peter joined them around this time if he had not already spent the Sabbath there. Joanna and Susanna would have been at or near the Hasmonean Palace. (Swindoll)

It is likely that the groups did not know about the guards posted at the garden. It seems that the 4 women made plans to finish the preparation of Jesus' dead body. 

What happened?

• Very early on Sunday morning as it was dark, Mary Magdalene, Mary the wife of Clopas went towards the tomb of Jesus.
• Jesus had already risen from the dead before this.
• They met Salome in Jerusalem and walked north through the city, out a gate, and to the garden of Joseph of Arimathea. (Mark 16:3) 
• It is likely they planned to meet Joanna and Susanna with the spices there. Probably they were awaiting the male disciples to arrive. 
• There was a great earthquake.
• In the meantime, an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and rolled back the stone from the doorway, then sat upon it.

These were a group of women on a mission. They knew what needed to be done and they went to do it. Those ladies did not wait around for someone else to get the job done. Their love for the Master superseded all else duties. 

Countless folks in our area have risen early to help meet the needs of tornado victims in our area. They cook meals and serve them, provide a place to sleep, and are used by the Lord to share His love during this time of mending.

How are you serving the Lord where you are?

LET IT GROW

That all took place in the first two verses. Let's look closely at the scene. The angel of the Lord, who was sitting on the huge stone that he had rolled away from the door, had a face shining like lightning and clothing as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and fell into a dead faint. (verses 2-4)

Don't you think the women froze still, gasping for air as they saw the sight-the angel, the open tomb, fainted guards? Scared to death, in other words, I think.

So the angel saw their fright and spoke to the women:

• Fear not ye. (verse 5) He could tell the ladies were afraid of him, so immediately the angel comforted and reassured them.
• For I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
• He is not here: for He is risen, as He said.
• Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
• Go quickly, and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead.
• He goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see Him.
• Lo, I have told you.  (verses 5-7)

When the shock of the angel finally subsided, the women entered the tomb, and they did not find the body. (Luke 24:3) The afraid women encountered two more angels inside the tomb, bowed down with faces to the ground. 

Why seek ye the living among the dead? (verse 5) That is what the angels said. The directions for them was repeated. 

The women returned to the 11 disciples and shared what they had seen and experienced.

So much happened that early morning. Had those women not gone ahead to the tomb, they would have missed out on the excitement-Jesus is risen from the dead!!

Dear one, it takes faith for us to believe this all happened. do you have the faith that God could raise Jesus from the dead? Whether we believe it or not, it did happen. The Bible is Truth, for Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes unto the Father God except through Him. (John 14:6)

LET IT GO

And the angels sing "Holy"; all creation sings "Worthy is the Lamb of praise and glory."

Thank You Jesus for suffering for me, a sinner, and providing a way for me to enter heaven.

Jesus, we praise You!