Dear Friends,
Christmas 2009 has finally arrived and I am very excited. I thoroughly enjoyed spending the past twenty-four days studying the Word of God with you. I pray that you have a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year! Remember to make Christ the Lord and Master of your life.
Your Brother In Christ,
William Valmyr
Friday, December 25, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
One Day before Christmas!
"6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’”
Jesus Appears to His Disciples
36 Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” 37 But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. 38 And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.”
The Scriptures Opened
44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.
46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And you are witnesses of these things. 49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” (Luke 24:6-7; 36-39, 44-49)
He was Born to Die
Born in a manger, lived a sinless life, He is the God-Man who came to die for the sins of the world. He is the “only begotten Son of the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). He was and is a unique Man and set apart from all others. He alone possessed and displayed the credentials of the promised Messiah because He died, was buried, rose again, ascended into glory and is coming back again.
May your heart be filled with the joy of the Lord, knowing that you are being transformed into the image of Christ. Have a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!
Jesus Appears to His Disciples
36 Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” 37 But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. 38 And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.”
The Scriptures Opened
44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.
46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And you are witnesses of these things. 49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” (Luke 24:6-7; 36-39, 44-49)
He was Born to Die
Born in a manger, lived a sinless life, He is the God-Man who came to die for the sins of the world. He is the “only begotten Son of the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). He was and is a unique Man and set apart from all others. He alone possessed and displayed the credentials of the promised Messiah because He died, was buried, rose again, ascended into glory and is coming back again.
May your heart be filled with the joy of the Lord, knowing that you are being transformed into the image of Christ. Have a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Two Days before Christmas!
He took my place and Yours
26 Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
27 And a great multitude of the people followed Him, and women who also mourned and lamented Him. 28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!”’ 31 For if they do these things in the green wood, what will be done in the dry?”
32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”
And they divided His garments and cast lots. 35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.”
36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.”
38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew:
THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”
40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”
43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:26-43)
Jesus Christ died in our place when He was crucified on the cross. I Peter 2:24 says, “Who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.” We deserved to be the ones placed on that cross to die because we are the ones who live sinful lives. But Christ took the punishment on Himself in our place—He substituted Himself for us and took what we rightly deserved. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (II Corinthians 5:21). We are the Barabases that Jesus replaced on that fateful day (Luke 23:13-25). Our sins nailed Him on that cross but He is our substitutionary atonement because He died in our place.
This Christmas don’t just remember the baby in the manger but remember the One who died for our sins and was a ransom for us all! May Christ fill your heart with the joy of knowing that our sins are forgiven, for He said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34). God bless you!
26 Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
27 And a great multitude of the people followed Him, and women who also mourned and lamented Him. 28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin ‘to say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” and to the hills, “Cover us!”’ 31 For if they do these things in the green wood, what will be done in the dry?”
32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. 33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”
And they divided His garments and cast lots. 35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.”
36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.”
38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew:
THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”
40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”
43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:26-43)
Jesus Christ died in our place when He was crucified on the cross. I Peter 2:24 says, “Who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.” We deserved to be the ones placed on that cross to die because we are the ones who live sinful lives. But Christ took the punishment on Himself in our place—He substituted Himself for us and took what we rightly deserved. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (II Corinthians 5:21). We are the Barabases that Jesus replaced on that fateful day (Luke 23:13-25). Our sins nailed Him on that cross but He is our substitutionary atonement because He died in our place.
This Christmas don’t just remember the baby in the manger but remember the One who died for our sins and was a ransom for us all! May Christ fill your heart with the joy of knowing that our sins are forgiven, for He said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34). God bless you!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Three Days before Christmas!
As Jesus was entering into the last days of His life on earth, He began to reveal the purpose of His coming which was to die for our sins. Can you imagine what it was like for Jesus to endure the last hours of His life? How about the disciples hearing Jesus speak of His death?
In today’s passage we read about the plot to kill Jesus (Luke 22:1-13); Jesus identifying the betrayer during the institution of the Lord’s Supper (Luke 22:14-23), His discourse during the disciples’ argument concerning greatness in the Kingdom of God (Luke 22:24-30) and His prediction of Peter’s denial (Luke 22:31-34).
In His farewell discourses Jesus not only prophesied of the stumbling of the disciples (mainly that of Peter), He spoke directly to Peter regarding his denial of Christ, warning him of the coming temptation. Perhaps the greatest lesson to be learned today is that Jesus was in total control even at the last hours of His life. His concerned was for the welfare of the disciples for He said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation” (Luke 22:40).
Jesus before the Sanhedrin
67 “If You are the Christ, tell us.”
But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. 68 And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go.69 Hereafter the Son of Man will sit on the right hand of the power of God.”
70 Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?”
So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.”
71 And they said, “What further testimony do we need? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth.”
Amid the intense drama of His trial, in the midst of the interrogation by the Jewish authorities, Jesus speaks of His future and His victorious ascent into glory (Luke 22:69). He not only answered their question about His nature but He categorically affirmed that He is the “Christ”. This Christmas will you be the one who betrays Him, deny Him or will you confess Him as the “Christ, the Savior of the world?”
In today’s passage we read about the plot to kill Jesus (Luke 22:1-13); Jesus identifying the betrayer during the institution of the Lord’s Supper (Luke 22:14-23), His discourse during the disciples’ argument concerning greatness in the Kingdom of God (Luke 22:24-30) and His prediction of Peter’s denial (Luke 22:31-34).
In His farewell discourses Jesus not only prophesied of the stumbling of the disciples (mainly that of Peter), He spoke directly to Peter regarding his denial of Christ, warning him of the coming temptation. Perhaps the greatest lesson to be learned today is that Jesus was in total control even at the last hours of His life. His concerned was for the welfare of the disciples for He said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation” (Luke 22:40).
Jesus before the Sanhedrin
67 “If You are the Christ, tell us.”
But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. 68 And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go.69 Hereafter the Son of Man will sit on the right hand of the power of God.”
70 Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?”
So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.”
71 And they said, “What further testimony do we need? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth.”
Amid the intense drama of His trial, in the midst of the interrogation by the Jewish authorities, Jesus speaks of His future and His victorious ascent into glory (Luke 22:69). He not only answered their question about His nature but He categorically affirmed that He is the “Christ”. This Christmas will you be the one who betrays Him, deny Him or will you confess Him as the “Christ, the Savior of the world?”
Monday, December 21, 2009
Four Days before Christmas!
Zoom into the Second Advent
“36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36)
Dear Christian friends,
We have spent 20 days focusing on the first coming of Christ. While this has been a very edifying time for me and I hope it has been for you. I am writing you this letter today with the second coming in mind. My goal in this short communication is to zoom in on a subject that is of outmost important for all of us.
Today, a portion of the Scripture passage reads:
“8 And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them. 9 But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately.” 10 Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.” (Luke 21:8-9)
Many of us are looking forward to Christmas with great expectations. For some of us it is the party that we will attend with friends and family; the gifts that we will open on Christmas morning or maybe it is the family traditions that we look forward to enjoying once again. May I remind you of a few words of encouragements and exhortations in regard to the signs of the time and the end of the age.
Brothers and sisters did not make it a secret; He made it very clear that just as many were awaiting His first advent, He desires that those who believe in Him would watch for His second coming with great anticipation. In fact, He warns us by saying:
“But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”(Luke 21:34-36)
This is not a letter of doom; it is simply a reminder to have the proper perspective this Christmas. The same Jesus Who came in a manger 2,000 years ago, is the Lord of hosts and “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints” (Jude 14).
I want encourage you to live in obedience to God’s word. This Christmas do not just focus on the things that perish but focus on eternity, “….look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near” (Luke 21:28).
Yours In Christ,
William Valmyr
“36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36)
Dear Christian friends,
We have spent 20 days focusing on the first coming of Christ. While this has been a very edifying time for me and I hope it has been for you. I am writing you this letter today with the second coming in mind. My goal in this short communication is to zoom in on a subject that is of outmost important for all of us.
Today, a portion of the Scripture passage reads:
“8 And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them. 9 But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately.” 10 Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.” (Luke 21:8-9)
Many of us are looking forward to Christmas with great expectations. For some of us it is the party that we will attend with friends and family; the gifts that we will open on Christmas morning or maybe it is the family traditions that we look forward to enjoying once again. May I remind you of a few words of encouragements and exhortations in regard to the signs of the time and the end of the age.
Brothers and sisters did not make it a secret; He made it very clear that just as many were awaiting His first advent, He desires that those who believe in Him would watch for His second coming with great anticipation. In fact, He warns us by saying:
“But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”(Luke 21:34-36)
This is not a letter of doom; it is simply a reminder to have the proper perspective this Christmas. The same Jesus Who came in a manger 2,000 years ago, is the Lord of hosts and “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints” (Jude 14).
I want encourage you to live in obedience to God’s word. This Christmas do not just focus on the things that perish but focus on eternity, “….look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near” (Luke 21:28).
Yours In Christ,
William Valmyr
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Five Days before Christmas!
Who is this Jesus?
As Christmas is drawing closer, there is so much being said about the first advent of Christ. From Zachariahs’ prophecy, the barrenness of Elizabeth, the angelic announcement, the immaculate conception, Joseph’s faith, the Roman census, to the shepherds’ faithfulness in “keeping watch over their flock by night.” By the time of Jesus' birth and ministry, the Romans had established a two-tiered system of government consisting of Roman overseers and Jewish leaders who exercised control in the name of Rome. This was the system of power in which the Jewish religious leaders found their authority and Herod the Great grew to prominence.
In Luke 20, the Jewish world was undergoing various political and religious conflicts. One of the areas of conflicts was the question of Jesus’ authority as He sought to fulfill God’s will and purpose. On several occasions Jesus went against the political expectations of the people (Luke 19:10) and was opposed to the religious elite, often admonishing them for their hypocrisy by weeping over Jerusalem and by cleansing the temple from the money changers (Luke 19:45-48). Hence, the religious leaders questioned Jesus’ authority. By asking Jesus the authority for His actions, the religious authorities hoped to trap Him in a statement of blasphemy. Jesus knowing their intent, He asked “The baptism of John—was it from heaven or from men?” (Luke 20:4). The answer would obviously provide the source of Christ’s authority—He is indeed divine.
Have you questioned Jesus’ authority to be the Savior and Lord of your life? I want to encourage you to examine the evidence, as they were shown to those who doubted Christ’s authority. My prayer for you is that you would allow Him to take control of your life this Christmas.
As Christmas is drawing closer, there is so much being said about the first advent of Christ. From Zachariahs’ prophecy, the barrenness of Elizabeth, the angelic announcement, the immaculate conception, Joseph’s faith, the Roman census, to the shepherds’ faithfulness in “keeping watch over their flock by night.” By the time of Jesus' birth and ministry, the Romans had established a two-tiered system of government consisting of Roman overseers and Jewish leaders who exercised control in the name of Rome. This was the system of power in which the Jewish religious leaders found their authority and Herod the Great grew to prominence.
In Luke 20, the Jewish world was undergoing various political and religious conflicts. One of the areas of conflicts was the question of Jesus’ authority as He sought to fulfill God’s will and purpose. On several occasions Jesus went against the political expectations of the people (Luke 19:10) and was opposed to the religious elite, often admonishing them for their hypocrisy by weeping over Jerusalem and by cleansing the temple from the money changers (Luke 19:45-48). Hence, the religious leaders questioned Jesus’ authority. By asking Jesus the authority for His actions, the religious authorities hoped to trap Him in a statement of blasphemy. Jesus knowing their intent, He asked “The baptism of John—was it from heaven or from men?” (Luke 20:4). The answer would obviously provide the source of Christ’s authority—He is indeed divine.
Have you questioned Jesus’ authority to be the Savior and Lord of your life? I want to encourage you to examine the evidence, as they were shown to those who doubted Christ’s authority. My prayer for you is that you would allow Him to take control of your life this Christmas.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Six Days before Christmas!
Honoring Christ in Christmas
“And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost”” (Luke 19:9-10)
Dear friend, there is no greater message than the message of salvation. Author Michael Hilton, in his book entitled Christless Christianity (2008), he writes:
“It is easy to become distracted from Christ as the only hope for sinners. Where everything is measured by our happiness rather than by God’s holiness, the sense of our being sinners becomes secondary, if not offensive. If we are good people who have lost our way but with the proper instructions and motivation can become a better person, we need only a life coach, not a redeemer.
We can still give our assent to a high view of Christ and the centrality of his person and work, but in actual practice we are being distracted from “looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Heb. 12:2).” (15-16)
According to Dr Horton, a systematic theology professor at Westminster Seminary California, “Christians have always had their differences, but never in church history have there been so many statistics indicating that many Christians today are practicing what can only be described as “Christless Christianity.”” With Christmas fast approaching it becomes even more apparent that many would like Christ to be absent from the holiday. From the marginalization of Christian faith in the public square, to the absence of Merry Christmas in major department stores, Christ is being removed from the Christmas holiday in America. Christian friend, I want to encourage you to keep Christ in Christmas and the best way to that is to not only proclaim Him in the market place but to daily let His light shine through your life. And if you have not committed your life to Christ, this Christmas accept His free gift of salvation and welcome Him into your heart.
May Christ find room in your heart for Him this Christmas! With six days left, remember that December 25 and any other day it is all about Christ the Lord.
“And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost”” (Luke 19:9-10)
Dear friend, there is no greater message than the message of salvation. Author Michael Hilton, in his book entitled Christless Christianity (2008), he writes:
“It is easy to become distracted from Christ as the only hope for sinners. Where everything is measured by our happiness rather than by God’s holiness, the sense of our being sinners becomes secondary, if not offensive. If we are good people who have lost our way but with the proper instructions and motivation can become a better person, we need only a life coach, not a redeemer.
We can still give our assent to a high view of Christ and the centrality of his person and work, but in actual practice we are being distracted from “looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Heb. 12:2).” (15-16)
According to Dr Horton, a systematic theology professor at Westminster Seminary California, “Christians have always had their differences, but never in church history have there been so many statistics indicating that many Christians today are practicing what can only be described as “Christless Christianity.”” With Christmas fast approaching it becomes even more apparent that many would like Christ to be absent from the holiday. From the marginalization of Christian faith in the public square, to the absence of Merry Christmas in major department stores, Christ is being removed from the Christmas holiday in America. Christian friend, I want to encourage you to keep Christ in Christmas and the best way to that is to not only proclaim Him in the market place but to daily let His light shine through your life. And if you have not committed your life to Christ, this Christmas accept His free gift of salvation and welcome Him into your heart.
May Christ find room in your heart for Him this Christmas! With six days left, remember that December 25 and any other day it is all about Christ the Lord.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Seven Days before Christmas!
As the year comes to an end, it's time to reflect on the events of your life in 2009. It was a year packed with political turmoils, scandals, cultural phenomena and surprises around the world, but at the personal level many found themselves suffering from life threatening illness, a car repossession, a divorce or separation, perhaps a foreclosed home or a bankruptcy. While many may have endured hardship this year, most of us can count our blessings as God’s grace has sustained us in spite of the difficulties that we endured. Many are blinded by their circumstances and cannot see the hand of the Lord at work in their lives. Regardless of your situation God is faithful and He is calling us to remain faithful to Him.
Persistence is the Key
Many of you are familiar with the three imperatives in Luke 9:9; ask, seek, and knock. However, not too many of us are familiar with the Lord’s teaching on persistence in prayer. The parable of the persistent widow is one of the greatest teaching illustrations ever used by Jesus to encourage us to be steadfast in prayer(Luke 18:1-8). In many respect, this widow represents us. There are times when we too are burdened down with cares, worries, fears and troubles. During those times, it may seem that every circumstance of life is stacked against us. There may be the temptation to say, “Why should I continue to trust God?”, especially after we have prayed and prayed and prayed about some matter. Yet, if we can learn anything from this poor woman, let us learn the lesson that persistence in prayer pays off in God’s time! So, keep praying, despite all the obstacles you face and despite all the signs that say you should just give up! Remember that “men always ought to pray and not lose heart”(Luke 18:1).
Possibilities, Possibilities and Possibilities
“But He said to them, “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God””(Luke 18:27)
The Scripture in Luke 18:27 is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and power to save us from anything that threatens our relationship with Him. In this passage, Jesus addresses the issue of money once again and describes that we need be cautious about the place that money is allowed to have in our hearts. As I have mentioned earlier money and possessions are often hard topics for me and for most of us. In an earlier encounter with the rich young ruler, Jesus addressed the place of money in the throne of our hearts. He clearly teaches that He can give us the assurance that He will fulfill His promises concerning us both in this life and the life to come!
May God open our spiritual eyes to see His marvelous work in our midst! This Christmas expect Christ to bring you deliverance, joy and peace in the midst of a troubled world. In the words of Jesus to the blind beggar, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.”
Persistence is the Key
Many of you are familiar with the three imperatives in Luke 9:9; ask, seek, and knock. However, not too many of us are familiar with the Lord’s teaching on persistence in prayer. The parable of the persistent widow is one of the greatest teaching illustrations ever used by Jesus to encourage us to be steadfast in prayer(Luke 18:1-8). In many respect, this widow represents us. There are times when we too are burdened down with cares, worries, fears and troubles. During those times, it may seem that every circumstance of life is stacked against us. There may be the temptation to say, “Why should I continue to trust God?”, especially after we have prayed and prayed and prayed about some matter. Yet, if we can learn anything from this poor woman, let us learn the lesson that persistence in prayer pays off in God’s time! So, keep praying, despite all the obstacles you face and despite all the signs that say you should just give up! Remember that “men always ought to pray and not lose heart”(Luke 18:1).
Possibilities, Possibilities and Possibilities
“But He said to them, “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God””(Luke 18:27)
The Scripture in Luke 18:27 is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and power to save us from anything that threatens our relationship with Him. In this passage, Jesus addresses the issue of money once again and describes that we need be cautious about the place that money is allowed to have in our hearts. As I have mentioned earlier money and possessions are often hard topics for me and for most of us. In an earlier encounter with the rich young ruler, Jesus addressed the place of money in the throne of our hearts. He clearly teaches that He can give us the assurance that He will fulfill His promises concerning us both in this life and the life to come!
May God open our spiritual eyes to see His marvelous work in our midst! This Christmas expect Christ to bring you deliverance, joy and peace in the midst of a troubled world. In the words of Jesus to the blind beggar, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.”
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Eight Days before Christmas!
It is incredible how fast the year is winding down. Can you believe we only have eight days left until Christmas and fifteen days until the New Year! As we begin to reflect upon this past and plan for the New Year, it is my hope that you will spend some time meditating upon the goodness of the Lord.
Stumbling Blocks and Stepping Stones
“Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come!”” (Luke 17:1)
One of the interesting things about this text is that it refers to offenses as something that would be a natural part of the Christian life but it also warns about God’s sentiment concerning those who are guilty of offending others. A close examination of the term “offenses” shows that it can be translated as the trigger of a trap or a snare. This Christian friends, is the reason why Jesus issues a strong warning against those who cause the fall of you believers (little ones---babes in Christ). For this reason I believe that such arbitrary and unwarranted offenses can serve as stumbling blocks or stepping stones to the new believers’ faith.
How can you increase your faith?
Faith in the kingdom of God is like currency in the kingdoms of this world, without it none can be function and serve their purposes in life. A believer’s faith in God plays a major role in his ability to serve God and to fulfill His divine assignment here on earth. The text in Luke 17, we read the disciples’ concern about the need to increase their faith. Clearly the narrative shows that it is not the amount of faith but the quality or the mere existence of faith that is important in God’s economy. “So the Lord said, “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you” (Luke 17:6). God graciously promised that He would reward such faith when it is present in the believer’s life. It is a work of grace that warrants our gratitude and is not based on work (Luke 17:7-10). This work of grace was manifested in the lives of the ten lepers that were healed from their malady (vv. 11-19).
What and Where is the Kingdom of God?
“Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:20-21).
The central message of Jesus’ first advent is the dominant theme of the “kingdom that now is and that is to come!” It is the proclamation of God’s grace and His offer of salvation to all men. It begins with the internal reality of receiving Christ as Lord and Savior of your life, for He is the embodiment of the kingdom of God. This Christmas let us make the teaching of Christ’s coming as the embodiment of the kingdom of God part of our witness. May we become intentional in pointing to Jesus not just as a baby in a manger but as the Christ who came to save us from a sinner’s hell. May God infuse with the passion to make Him known as the King of kings and the Lord of lords.
Stumbling Blocks and Stepping Stones
“Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come!”” (Luke 17:1)
One of the interesting things about this text is that it refers to offenses as something that would be a natural part of the Christian life but it also warns about God’s sentiment concerning those who are guilty of offending others. A close examination of the term “offenses” shows that it can be translated as the trigger of a trap or a snare. This Christian friends, is the reason why Jesus issues a strong warning against those who cause the fall of you believers (little ones---babes in Christ). For this reason I believe that such arbitrary and unwarranted offenses can serve as stumbling blocks or stepping stones to the new believers’ faith.
How can you increase your faith?
Faith in the kingdom of God is like currency in the kingdoms of this world, without it none can be function and serve their purposes in life. A believer’s faith in God plays a major role in his ability to serve God and to fulfill His divine assignment here on earth. The text in Luke 17, we read the disciples’ concern about the need to increase their faith. Clearly the narrative shows that it is not the amount of faith but the quality or the mere existence of faith that is important in God’s economy. “So the Lord said, “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you” (Luke 17:6). God graciously promised that He would reward such faith when it is present in the believer’s life. It is a work of grace that warrants our gratitude and is not based on work (Luke 17:7-10). This work of grace was manifested in the lives of the ten lepers that were healed from their malady (vv. 11-19).
What and Where is the Kingdom of God?
“Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:20-21).
The central message of Jesus’ first advent is the dominant theme of the “kingdom that now is and that is to come!” It is the proclamation of God’s grace and His offer of salvation to all men. It begins with the internal reality of receiving Christ as Lord and Savior of your life, for He is the embodiment of the kingdom of God. This Christmas let us make the teaching of Christ’s coming as the embodiment of the kingdom of God part of our witness. May we become intentional in pointing to Jesus not just as a baby in a manger but as the Christ who came to save us from a sinner’s hell. May God infuse with the passion to make Him known as the King of kings and the Lord of lords.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Nine Days before Christmas!
Faithfulness, the Hallmark of God’s Kingdom
“He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much” (Luke 16:10)
People clearly differ from one another in their degree of education, intelligence and concern for intellectual problems and puzzles. Some are content to have a “simple Christian life,” whereas others find faith and belief in Christ anything but simple. Moreover, some people may experience seasons of their lives that are relatively free of trials or doubts about God or Christianity and yet go through times when their faith is very real to them. In some cases, these challenges may come primarily through external influences. In other cases, these challenging situations come from the issues of the heart. As a Christian, I have learned that every single follower of Christ deal with the same challenges to our faith. We have been called by God to be “… stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful” (I Corinthians 4:1b-2).
Have you ever asked yourself what role faithfulness plays in your spiritual journey?
The text in Luke 16 is perhaps the greatest passage on faithfulness. Faithfulness in the Bible is often is term that relates to Christian stewardship. While faithfulness has to do with the truth of God’s Word (scriptural truths or revelation), the principle is also true in the area of our financial stewardship. For instance in Luke 16:1-13, we find “the parable of the unjust steward,” where Jesus provides wisdom on an area of life that most of us don’t like to discuss. He teaches on our dealings with money (vv-5-12), and indicates that one’s stewardship is a valid test of one’s relationship to God. Jesus’ main argument is that one’s attitude toward money is indicative of one’s submission to or rebellion against God’s Lordship. The narrative in the text says, “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Luke 16:13).
Money and the Human Heart
As I have mentioned earlier money and possessions are often hard topics for me and for most of us. The theme of responsibility continues as Jesus raises the question about being faithful with something that belongs to another so that later one can receive reward for oneself. If someone is unfaithful as a steward, why should that person be entrusted with ownership? Handling wealth is a preparatory lesson for other responsibilities before God.
All three parables in this chapter of Luke illustrate God’s ability to discern our hearts when it comes to money. In a discussion with the religious leaders (Pharisees), Jesus spoke of the danger of judging our success by human standards; “He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God” (Luke 16:15). The Pharisees regarded wealth as the reward for righteousness.
Wealth does not automatically condemn one to hell, nor does poverty in this life guarantee eternal joy. Our eternal destiny is determined by our relationship with God, which is often reflected on our attitude toward material possessions. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus is a perfect example of this truth (See Luke 16:19-31).
This Christmas let us pray that the Lord teach us how to honor Him in every area of our lives, including in our stewardship with money. So spend your money wisely this Christmas and may the Lord find you faithful in all things!
“He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much” (Luke 16:10)
People clearly differ from one another in their degree of education, intelligence and concern for intellectual problems and puzzles. Some are content to have a “simple Christian life,” whereas others find faith and belief in Christ anything but simple. Moreover, some people may experience seasons of their lives that are relatively free of trials or doubts about God or Christianity and yet go through times when their faith is very real to them. In some cases, these challenges may come primarily through external influences. In other cases, these challenging situations come from the issues of the heart. As a Christian, I have learned that every single follower of Christ deal with the same challenges to our faith. We have been called by God to be “… stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful” (I Corinthians 4:1b-2).
Have you ever asked yourself what role faithfulness plays in your spiritual journey?
The text in Luke 16 is perhaps the greatest passage on faithfulness. Faithfulness in the Bible is often is term that relates to Christian stewardship. While faithfulness has to do with the truth of God’s Word (scriptural truths or revelation), the principle is also true in the area of our financial stewardship. For instance in Luke 16:1-13, we find “the parable of the unjust steward,” where Jesus provides wisdom on an area of life that most of us don’t like to discuss. He teaches on our dealings with money (vv-5-12), and indicates that one’s stewardship is a valid test of one’s relationship to God. Jesus’ main argument is that one’s attitude toward money is indicative of one’s submission to or rebellion against God’s Lordship. The narrative in the text says, “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Luke 16:13).
Money and the Human Heart
As I have mentioned earlier money and possessions are often hard topics for me and for most of us. The theme of responsibility continues as Jesus raises the question about being faithful with something that belongs to another so that later one can receive reward for oneself. If someone is unfaithful as a steward, why should that person be entrusted with ownership? Handling wealth is a preparatory lesson for other responsibilities before God.
All three parables in this chapter of Luke illustrate God’s ability to discern our hearts when it comes to money. In a discussion with the religious leaders (Pharisees), Jesus spoke of the danger of judging our success by human standards; “He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God” (Luke 16:15). The Pharisees regarded wealth as the reward for righteousness.
Wealth does not automatically condemn one to hell, nor does poverty in this life guarantee eternal joy. Our eternal destiny is determined by our relationship with God, which is often reflected on our attitude toward material possessions. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus is a perfect example of this truth (See Luke 16:19-31).
This Christmas let us pray that the Lord teach us how to honor Him in every area of our lives, including in our stewardship with money. So spend your money wisely this Christmas and may the Lord find you faithful in all things!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Ten Days before Christmas!
It’s the Greatest Time of the Year
“There’s a special kind of feeling in the air
It only happens at this time of year
When everyone is filled with love and cheer
That’s what matters”
Have you ever asked yourself why Christmas is the greatest time of the year? The lyrics of the famous Christmas song by the title “It’s the greatest time of the year” by Ali and A.J. are a picture of the ambiguities of the Christmas season in our consumer driven culture. Not that there is anything wrong with buying and selling but when it becomes the most important thing and we fail to celebrate the coming of the savior in holy reverence and gratitude, it is a sin (James 4:17). While many are lost in the joy of giving and receiving, others are lost in self gratifying acts and debt accumulation.
The truth of the matter is that Christmas is the greatest season of the year because it is the celebration of the advent of Christ. Why is this story so great? It is great because Jesus came to save those who are lost in their sins and those who are in need of the saving grace of God. The book of Luke records three parables that outline the depravity of man. Much could be said about these three parables; the parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1-7, the Parable of the Lost Coin (Luke 15:8-10), and the parable of the Lost Son (Luke 15:11-32). All three parables illustrate God’s love and concern for the sinner (lost ones) and the need for repentance. Repentance that comes through a broken spirit and contrite heart (Psalms 51:17) is the only remedy for our sin problem.
Jesus is still the reason for the season! This Christmas let us reach out to the lost and remember that “…there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.” (Luke 15:7)
“There’s a special kind of feeling in the air
It only happens at this time of year
When everyone is filled with love and cheer
That’s what matters”
Have you ever asked yourself why Christmas is the greatest time of the year? The lyrics of the famous Christmas song by the title “It’s the greatest time of the year” by Ali and A.J. are a picture of the ambiguities of the Christmas season in our consumer driven culture. Not that there is anything wrong with buying and selling but when it becomes the most important thing and we fail to celebrate the coming of the savior in holy reverence and gratitude, it is a sin (James 4:17). While many are lost in the joy of giving and receiving, others are lost in self gratifying acts and debt accumulation.
The truth of the matter is that Christmas is the greatest season of the year because it is the celebration of the advent of Christ. Why is this story so great? It is great because Jesus came to save those who are lost in their sins and those who are in need of the saving grace of God. The book of Luke records three parables that outline the depravity of man. Much could be said about these three parables; the parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1-7, the Parable of the Lost Coin (Luke 15:8-10), and the parable of the Lost Son (Luke 15:11-32). All three parables illustrate God’s love and concern for the sinner (lost ones) and the need for repentance. Repentance that comes through a broken spirit and contrite heart (Psalms 51:17) is the only remedy for our sin problem.
Jesus is still the reason for the season! This Christmas let us reach out to the lost and remember that “…there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.” (Luke 15:7)
Monday, December 14, 2009
Eleven Days before Christmas!
As we have already seen in our study of the Book of Luke, in order for Christ to be truly Lord of our lives He needs to transcend all earthly relationships. While in the house of one of the rulers of the Pharisees, Jesus not only rebukes social pride but addresses the need for us to build character. As we continue our countdown to Christmas, I thought that it would be appropriate if we could talk about one of the hallmarks of Jesus’ teaching on discipleship, namely self-denial.
I Must Die to Self
“ 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. 27 And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:26-27)
The Bible describes the act of dying to self as an act of self-denial which runs completely counter to what the world teaches and this can at times bring us into conflict with those in power. Let us reflect on what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. It is a total renunciation of all self-interest for the sake of Christ. (Luke 14:33). We are told in Ephesians 5:15 to see that we “walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Self-denial and submission are important spiritual disciplines as they bring much freedom to those who practice them. We as Christians could potentially benefit from the practice of self-denial as we discover the joy of laying down the terrible burden of always having to get our own way. Richard Foster, author of Celebration of Discipline makes this point clear when he penned that “Many divisions in the church arise because people don’t have the freedom to give in to each other.” (p. 111).
It is my conviction that a true disciple of Christ will be tested in the area of self-denial. May we seek to be disciples indeed, and be careful not to grow slack in our profession, or afraid of the cross; that we may be the good salt of the earth, to season those around us with the Savior, Christ our Lord (Luke 14:34). He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to those who believe in the resurrected Christ.
I Must Die to Self
“ 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. 27 And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:26-27)
The Bible describes the act of dying to self as an act of self-denial which runs completely counter to what the world teaches and this can at times bring us into conflict with those in power. Let us reflect on what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. It is a total renunciation of all self-interest for the sake of Christ. (Luke 14:33). We are told in Ephesians 5:15 to see that we “walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Self-denial and submission are important spiritual disciplines as they bring much freedom to those who practice them. We as Christians could potentially benefit from the practice of self-denial as we discover the joy of laying down the terrible burden of always having to get our own way. Richard Foster, author of Celebration of Discipline makes this point clear when he penned that “Many divisions in the church arise because people don’t have the freedom to give in to each other.” (p. 111).
It is my conviction that a true disciple of Christ will be tested in the area of self-denial. May we seek to be disciples indeed, and be careful not to grow slack in our profession, or afraid of the cross; that we may be the good salt of the earth, to season those around us with the Savior, Christ our Lord (Luke 14:34). He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to those who believe in the resurrected Christ.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Twelve Days before Christmas!
Yes! Only twelve days till Christmas and we find the text for our study today in Luke 13:22-30 and it reads:
“22 And He went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. 23 Then one said to Him, “Lord, are there few who are saved?”
And He said to them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able. 25 When once the Master of the house has risen up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open for us,’ and He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know you, where you are from,’ 26 then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets.’ 27 But He will say, ‘I tell you I do not know you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity.’ 28 There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out. 29 They will come from the east and the west, from the north and the south, and sit down in the kingdom of God. 30 And indeed there are last who will be first, and there are first who will be last.”
The Disciple’s Journey
Jesus summarizes the call to discipleship in Mark 8:34, “If anyone wants to be My follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me” (Holman CSB); and He describes the disciple’s journey as a gate that is narrow because Christ is the only door (John 10:7-9) and repentance and faith are the only means of admission.
Accomplishing such a challenging and conspicuous journey requires growing in your understanding of what it means to be a Christian, expanding your personal knowledge of biblical truth, and applying daily what you learn. Through the presence of His indwelling Spirit, God enables you to know, obey, and serve Him.
God expects His children to grow spiritually and His Word encourages personal examination as an element of growth.
• “Let us search out and examine our ways…” Lamentations 3:40
• “Now, the Lord of Hosts says this: ‘Think carefully about your ways.’” Haggai 1:5
• “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.” Psalm 139:23-24
• “But each person should examine his own work, and then he will have a reason for boasting in himself alone, and not in respect to someone else.” Galatians 6:4
• “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk—not as unwise people, but as wise.”
Ephesians 5:15
Today let us reflect on what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. We are told in Ephesians 5:15 to see that we “walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
“22 And He went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. 23 Then one said to Him, “Lord, are there few who are saved?”
And He said to them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able. 25 When once the Master of the house has risen up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open for us,’ and He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know you, where you are from,’ 26 then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets.’ 27 But He will say, ‘I tell you I do not know you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity.’ 28 There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out. 29 They will come from the east and the west, from the north and the south, and sit down in the kingdom of God. 30 And indeed there are last who will be first, and there are first who will be last.”
The Disciple’s Journey
Jesus summarizes the call to discipleship in Mark 8:34, “If anyone wants to be My follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me” (Holman CSB); and He describes the disciple’s journey as a gate that is narrow because Christ is the only door (John 10:7-9) and repentance and faith are the only means of admission.
Accomplishing such a challenging and conspicuous journey requires growing in your understanding of what it means to be a Christian, expanding your personal knowledge of biblical truth, and applying daily what you learn. Through the presence of His indwelling Spirit, God enables you to know, obey, and serve Him.
God expects His children to grow spiritually and His Word encourages personal examination as an element of growth.
• “Let us search out and examine our ways…” Lamentations 3:40
• “Now, the Lord of Hosts says this: ‘Think carefully about your ways.’” Haggai 1:5
• “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.” Psalm 139:23-24
• “But each person should examine his own work, and then he will have a reason for boasting in himself alone, and not in respect to someone else.” Galatians 6:4
• “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk—not as unwise people, but as wise.”
Ephesians 5:15
Today let us reflect on what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. We are told in Ephesians 5:15 to see that we “walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Thirteen Days before Christmas!
Much could be said about the time that we are living in but the greatest indicator of the perils of our time can be seen in people’s perspective on life, particularly in the area of social status and the accumulation of wealth. The Bible provides some stern warnings concerning our human tendencies and the need to embrace God’s perspective. We find Jesus’ teaching on the subject in the twelfth chapter of Luke. And reads:
4 “Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. 5 But I’ll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, he’s the one to fear.
6 “What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. 7 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” (Luke 12:4-7, NLT)
The Danger of Self-Righteous Living
The text in Luke 12 begins with Jesus addressing the disciples about the sincerity of one’s heart in service to God. Jesus was being unapologetic about God’s position on hypocrisy. Speaking to His disciples, He says:
“Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees—their hypocrisy. 2 The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. 3 Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!” (Luke 11:1-3, NLT).
This kind of hypocrisy according is one that warrants the judgment of a holy and righteous God. It is a continuation of Jesus’ teaching on the untruthfulness of the religious leaders, who placed intolerable legalistic requirements on the people, but contrive ways of avoiding the regulations for themselves.
Money, a Heart Issue
The scripture teaches that because wealth demands a wholehearted commitment from those who have it, it poses a grave danger to His disciples. And since Jesus came “to preach the gospel to the poor” (Luke 4:18), he wanted His disciples to know that they can be both free from the claim of wealth and be used of God to accomplish His saving purposes by using money to alleviate the suffering if the poor and oppressed. I believe that God is asking us to “discern the time” (Luke 12:54-56) while we remain faithful till He returns “…for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Luke 12:40). May God help us all!
This season remember that Christ is our provider so “…do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will eat. 23 Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. 30 For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and Your Father knows that you need these things. 31 But seek the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added to you. 34 “For where your treasure is, there your heart is also.” Luke 12:22a, 23, 30-31, 34, NKJV). This is just a reminder about Who your Father is, and Whose child you are. You are a child of the King my friend, so rejoice in His mercy and love!
4 “Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. 5 But I’ll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, he’s the one to fear.
6 “What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. 7 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” (Luke 12:4-7, NLT)
The Danger of Self-Righteous Living
The text in Luke 12 begins with Jesus addressing the disciples about the sincerity of one’s heart in service to God. Jesus was being unapologetic about God’s position on hypocrisy. Speaking to His disciples, He says:
“Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees—their hypocrisy. 2 The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. 3 Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!” (Luke 11:1-3, NLT).
This kind of hypocrisy according is one that warrants the judgment of a holy and righteous God. It is a continuation of Jesus’ teaching on the untruthfulness of the religious leaders, who placed intolerable legalistic requirements on the people, but contrive ways of avoiding the regulations for themselves.
Money, a Heart Issue
The scripture teaches that because wealth demands a wholehearted commitment from those who have it, it poses a grave danger to His disciples. And since Jesus came “to preach the gospel to the poor” (Luke 4:18), he wanted His disciples to know that they can be both free from the claim of wealth and be used of God to accomplish His saving purposes by using money to alleviate the suffering if the poor and oppressed. I believe that God is asking us to “discern the time” (Luke 12:54-56) while we remain faithful till He returns “…for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Luke 12:40). May God help us all!
This season remember that Christ is our provider so “…do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will eat. 23 Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. 30 For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and Your Father knows that you need these things. 31 But seek the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added to you. 34 “For where your treasure is, there your heart is also.” Luke 12:22a, 23, 30-31, 34, NKJV). This is just a reminder about Who your Father is, and Whose child you are. You are a child of the King my friend, so rejoice in His mercy and love!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Fourteen Days before Christmas!
Looking at Jesus' life and the history of the Church we find several practices, or spiritual disciplines, which mature us into our faith and spiritual walk. There are many resources available to Christians and assist us towards spiritual growth, and the Bible states that prayer is one of the indispensible spiritual disciplines for the growing Christian. Jesus provides us a model prayer in the Gospel of Luke.
“1 Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
4 And forgive us our sins,
For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.” (Luke 11:1-4)
Persistence in Prayer
Perhaps the greatest teaching of Jesus on the gaze of the soul toward the living God, He placed an emphasis upon praying with consistency and confidence. Jesus lets us know that our God is One who answers prayers (Luke 11:9).
A. W. Tozer author of The Pursuit of God: The Human Thirst for the Divine described the act of praying in the following manner:
“We pursue God because, and only because, He has first put an urge within us that spurs us to the pursuit. “No man can come to me,” said our Lord, “except the Father which hath sent me draw him,” and it is by this very prevenient drawing that God takes from us every vestige of credit for the act of coming. The impulse to pursue God originates with God, but the outworking of that impulse is our following hard after Him; and all the time we are pursuing Him we are already in His hand: “Thy right hand upholdeth me.” (Psalms 63:8) (Tozer, p. 11-12).”
Exemplary Ministries
The Bible summons us to emulate the most viable models of ministry namely the ministries of Christ and that of the early Apostles. It is my opinion that their ministries were authentic, genuine and Spirit-led because they based their ministries on prayer. This is important to me as I witness a lot of man-made ministries around the globe; I see a great many of our church ministry models as self-proclaimed piety, self-esteem/feel good program oriented, seeker friendly, unbalanced prosperity and culturally relevant type of churches. Many in the Christian community, are so focused on meeting the felt needs of the people that they ignore the centrality of the gospel, prayer and a message of repentance and the kingdom of God. This is not meant to be an indictment of the models mentioned in the question, it is only a warning that is based on my observation. I believe that God will ask the church and her leaders (us) to give an account for what we did with the message of the Gospel. May God help us all!
This season remember to pray to the God who not only hears our prayers but is also able to answer single one of prayer needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
“1 Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
4 And forgive us our sins,
For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.” (Luke 11:1-4)
Persistence in Prayer
Perhaps the greatest teaching of Jesus on the gaze of the soul toward the living God, He placed an emphasis upon praying with consistency and confidence. Jesus lets us know that our God is One who answers prayers (Luke 11:9).
A. W. Tozer author of The Pursuit of God: The Human Thirst for the Divine described the act of praying in the following manner:
“We pursue God because, and only because, He has first put an urge within us that spurs us to the pursuit. “No man can come to me,” said our Lord, “except the Father which hath sent me draw him,” and it is by this very prevenient drawing that God takes from us every vestige of credit for the act of coming. The impulse to pursue God originates with God, but the outworking of that impulse is our following hard after Him; and all the time we are pursuing Him we are already in His hand: “Thy right hand upholdeth me.” (Psalms 63:8) (Tozer, p. 11-12).”
Exemplary Ministries
The Bible summons us to emulate the most viable models of ministry namely the ministries of Christ and that of the early Apostles. It is my opinion that their ministries were authentic, genuine and Spirit-led because they based their ministries on prayer. This is important to me as I witness a lot of man-made ministries around the globe; I see a great many of our church ministry models as self-proclaimed piety, self-esteem/feel good program oriented, seeker friendly, unbalanced prosperity and culturally relevant type of churches. Many in the Christian community, are so focused on meeting the felt needs of the people that they ignore the centrality of the gospel, prayer and a message of repentance and the kingdom of God. This is not meant to be an indictment of the models mentioned in the question, it is only a warning that is based on my observation. I believe that God will ask the church and her leaders (us) to give an account for what we did with the message of the Gospel. May God help us all!
This season remember to pray to the God who not only hears our prayers but is also able to answer single one of prayer needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Fifteen Days before Christmas!
Essential to the message of Luke’s gospel is the power of delegated authority. In the gospel, we are often told that Jesus unselfishly extended God’s love to those around Him and that He ministered to the lost, the sick and those in bondage. When the early church preached the gospel of Jesus Christ, their preaching was validated and illustrated by signs, usually in the form of healings. This combination of preaching and manifest power was marked by the demonstration of healings and miracles. In Luke’s story of the seventy others sent out by Jesus he writes, “2Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. 3 “Go your way; behold I send you out as lambs among wolves…8 Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. 9 “And heal the sick there, and say to them the kingdom of God has come to you” (Luke 10:1, 3, 8-9).
The Power of Delegated Authority
Miracles are intended not only for a perpetual demonstration of Christ’s power as now living and glorified, but also as a visible fore-token of His coming kingdom. The Bible tells us that the seventy disciples sent out by Jesus, returned with joy as they experienced the power of delegated authority. It is God’s desire for you to experience victory over the forces of darkness (Satan, demons, or evil spirits) for God has given you “the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Moreover, a greater reason to rejoice according to Jesus is the fact that “... your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:20); that my friend is our salvation. In order for this extraordinary salvation to be experienced here and now, God sent His Holy Spirit, without whom it would be never have been accomplished.
The Priority of True Worship
Richard Foster author of Celebration of Discipline wrote “If the Lord is to be lord, worship must have priority in our lives” (Foster, p. 160). Perhaps the greatest example in scripture to capture the truth of Foster’s statement is the story of the sisters Mary and Martha:
38 Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.”
41 And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42)
The Bible provides us countless scriptural examples of God calling people to worship and people to God’s call. This Christmas I want you to “focus on Jesus” who is the reason for the season. For “2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (Hebrews 12:2, NLT). As Jesus reminded Martha, may I remind you that everything else in life is secondary to Jesus; so remember to spend some time at the feet of Jesus and hear His word!
The Power of Delegated Authority
Miracles are intended not only for a perpetual demonstration of Christ’s power as now living and glorified, but also as a visible fore-token of His coming kingdom. The Bible tells us that the seventy disciples sent out by Jesus, returned with joy as they experienced the power of delegated authority. It is God’s desire for you to experience victory over the forces of darkness (Satan, demons, or evil spirits) for God has given you “the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Moreover, a greater reason to rejoice according to Jesus is the fact that “... your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:20); that my friend is our salvation. In order for this extraordinary salvation to be experienced here and now, God sent His Holy Spirit, without whom it would be never have been accomplished.
The Priority of True Worship
Richard Foster author of Celebration of Discipline wrote “If the Lord is to be lord, worship must have priority in our lives” (Foster, p. 160). Perhaps the greatest example in scripture to capture the truth of Foster’s statement is the story of the sisters Mary and Martha:
38 Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.”
41 And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42)
The Bible provides us countless scriptural examples of God calling people to worship and people to God’s call. This Christmas I want you to “focus on Jesus” who is the reason for the season. For “2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (Hebrews 12:2, NLT). As Jesus reminded Martha, may I remind you that everything else in life is secondary to Jesus; so remember to spend some time at the feet of Jesus and hear His word!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Sixteen Days before Christmas!
I have been a Christian for a little over 20 years, and have had the privilege of teaching God’s infallible Word for the past 12 years of my life. I have sought to read and understand the fundamental truths of the Christian faith and have discovered that the best way to describe a Christian is through a simple but profound word, discipleship. Discipleship is the priority of the Christian life, for there is no genuine Christian living without discipleship. It is the very tool that God uses to mold, and shape us into the likeness of Christ.
The Disciple and the Making of Disciples
Over the past two decades, no passage of Scripture has made a greater impact upon life than the words recorded in Luke 9: 23-26. The text reads as follow:
“23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. 25 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? 26 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels.”
The Bible describes the goal of our lives as Christians in various ways: to be transformed into Christ’s image and likeness (II Corinthians 3:18) or to become complete in Christ (Colossians 1:28). Consequently, scripture enjoins us to surrender our lives to Christ and to love Him with all our hearts, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:28-30, NIV). God’s desire is for us to grow in the likeness of His Son through a discipleship experience that includes a yearning for spiritual growth and spiritual things (things from above).
We are constantly reminded in scripture of the necessity to die to self and to live our lives in the power of Christ. Hence, to “take up our crosses and follow Him”; this is the essence of the spiritual journey for the Christian. And since the spiritual life consists of the joint activity of the Holy Spirit and the saved person, it has both an individual and corporate benefit. Our experience and expression of spiritual life has the capacity for growth; therefore, we have the duty of cultivating Christian virtues (I Peter 2:1-2).
Jesus said, “Come to Me” (Matt. 11:28) and “Follow Me” (4:19). Mark records that, “He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him, and that He might send them out to preach, and to have authority to cast out demons” (Mark 3:14, 15). Notice that Jesus’ relationship with His disciples preceded His assignment to them (Luke 9:1-9). Discipleship is being before doing, maturity before ministry, and character before career.
Words of Wisdom
Every Christian, including you, is both a disciple and a discipler in the context of his or her Christian relationship. As a discipler, you are always a disciple who is learning and growing in Christ. This Christmas I urge you to take the words of the Apostle Peter to heart for he wrote:
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen” II Peter 3:18
May you experience the joy of growing in Christ as you celebrate the coming of God’s Son to save humanity! So rejoice for your light has come and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you! God bless you all!
The Disciple and the Making of Disciples
Over the past two decades, no passage of Scripture has made a greater impact upon life than the words recorded in Luke 9: 23-26. The text reads as follow:
“23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. 25 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? 26 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels.”
The Bible describes the goal of our lives as Christians in various ways: to be transformed into Christ’s image and likeness (II Corinthians 3:18) or to become complete in Christ (Colossians 1:28). Consequently, scripture enjoins us to surrender our lives to Christ and to love Him with all our hearts, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:28-30, NIV). God’s desire is for us to grow in the likeness of His Son through a discipleship experience that includes a yearning for spiritual growth and spiritual things (things from above).
We are constantly reminded in scripture of the necessity to die to self and to live our lives in the power of Christ. Hence, to “take up our crosses and follow Him”; this is the essence of the spiritual journey for the Christian. And since the spiritual life consists of the joint activity of the Holy Spirit and the saved person, it has both an individual and corporate benefit. Our experience and expression of spiritual life has the capacity for growth; therefore, we have the duty of cultivating Christian virtues (I Peter 2:1-2).
Jesus said, “Come to Me” (Matt. 11:28) and “Follow Me” (4:19). Mark records that, “He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him, and that He might send them out to preach, and to have authority to cast out demons” (Mark 3:14, 15). Notice that Jesus’ relationship with His disciples preceded His assignment to them (Luke 9:1-9). Discipleship is being before doing, maturity before ministry, and character before career.
Words of Wisdom
Every Christian, including you, is both a disciple and a discipler in the context of his or her Christian relationship. As a discipler, you are always a disciple who is learning and growing in Christ. This Christmas I urge you to take the words of the Apostle Peter to heart for he wrote:
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen” II Peter 3:18
May you experience the joy of growing in Christ as you celebrate the coming of God’s Son to save humanity! So rejoice for your light has come and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you! God bless you all!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Seventeen Days before Christmas!
Jesus and the role of women in His ministry
A study of the life of Christ reveals that Jesus revolutionized the way that women were treated in His day. Jesus accorded women a dignity and respect that was virtually unfamiliar to the religious leaders of Israel. In our reading of Luke chapter 8, we find that many devout women ministered to the Lord and were particularly supportive of Jesus’ ministry through their giving. Women were indeed trailblazers in the area of giving (Luke 8:-3). This was made possible by Christ’s compassion for all of humanity both man and women!
The sower and his seeds
The Parable of the Sower is perhaps one of the most quoted texts when it comes to the power of the Word of God. Luke 8:4-15 is a text that highlights the importance of responding to the Word of God since fruitfulness in our lives is predicated upon receptivity (good ground) and teachability (open heart). Luke follows with Jesus’ teaching about the lamp and the need to listen (8:16-18) and Jesus redefinition of His family in terms of doing the Word of God (8:19-21). Much could be said about this text as it is filled with applicable lessons that could be learned for our contemporary culture.
Practical Advice
Regardless of your situation today, I trust that you will give place to the solid teaching of God’s Word so that you can bear fruit for the glory of God. I encourage you to read the Word and open your heart to listen intently to these words:
“11 “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 14 Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. 15 But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience.” (Luke 8:11, 14-15)
May the incorruptible seed of God’s Word cause you not only to grow in the knowledge of Christ but also propel you to bear much fruit in His kingdom. Until next time, keep on reading!
A study of the life of Christ reveals that Jesus revolutionized the way that women were treated in His day. Jesus accorded women a dignity and respect that was virtually unfamiliar to the religious leaders of Israel. In our reading of Luke chapter 8, we find that many devout women ministered to the Lord and were particularly supportive of Jesus’ ministry through their giving. Women were indeed trailblazers in the area of giving (Luke 8:-3). This was made possible by Christ’s compassion for all of humanity both man and women!
The sower and his seeds
The Parable of the Sower is perhaps one of the most quoted texts when it comes to the power of the Word of God. Luke 8:4-15 is a text that highlights the importance of responding to the Word of God since fruitfulness in our lives is predicated upon receptivity (good ground) and teachability (open heart). Luke follows with Jesus’ teaching about the lamp and the need to listen (8:16-18) and Jesus redefinition of His family in terms of doing the Word of God (8:19-21). Much could be said about this text as it is filled with applicable lessons that could be learned for our contemporary culture.
Practical Advice
Regardless of your situation today, I trust that you will give place to the solid teaching of God’s Word so that you can bear fruit for the glory of God. I encourage you to read the Word and open your heart to listen intently to these words:
“11 “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 14 Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. 15 But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience.” (Luke 8:11, 14-15)
May the incorruptible seed of God’s Word cause you not only to grow in the knowledge of Christ but also propel you to bear much fruit in His kingdom. Until next time, keep on reading!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Eighteen Days before Christmas!
Have you ever considered the role of your faith in your miracle?
With nineteen days left in our countdown till Christmas, our reading from the Word of God comes from Luke chapter 7. It is amazing to me how rich the Gospel of Luke is on the subject of faith. In his rendering of the stories in this chapter, Luke placed a great emphasis upon the inter-connection between the compassion of God, man’s love for God, the power of God and man’s response to the word of faith. Many things could be said of the characters involved in each of Jesus’ many interventions on behalf of those who trusted in Him, but the thing that is of interest to me is His willingness to meet our needs when faith is present.
The Role of Faith
The essence of biblical faith is often seen through an act of simple obedience to God’s Word. The Bible tells us that obeying the Father was supremely important to Jesus, and He is our example. Obedience is the response of faith to any instruction from God. What can we learn from Luke’s account of the encounters of Jesus as they relate to our faith? First, there is the centurion who loved his servant (Luke 7:1-10); then, Jesus showed His love for the bereaved by raising the son of the widow of Nain (Luke 7:11-17); next, Jesus offered His love of the afflicted and the poor as proof of His Messiahship to John the Baptist, laying stress on the publicans and harlots who accepted John's message (Luke 7:24-25); and then, He gave the explanation of how publicans and harlots were saved and the Pharisees were not, this explanation growing out of a dinner in the house of a Pharisee (Luke 7:36-50). In everyone of the aforementioned stories, Jesus’ response was based on His love for man and man’s willingness to believe in His ability to perform the miraculous.
Practical Advice
I want to encourage you to see whether or not you are a man or woman of faith. Jesus taught that true faith will always be manifested in obedience to God’s revealed will. Listen to these words:
"8 For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
9 When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!” (Luke 7:8-9)
Can the words that Christ spoke to the Centurion be said of you today?
May the Lord help us to embrace His redeeming love and trust in His sovereign power to intervene in our circumstances. Until next time, you think about that, Amen!
With nineteen days left in our countdown till Christmas, our reading from the Word of God comes from Luke chapter 7. It is amazing to me how rich the Gospel of Luke is on the subject of faith. In his rendering of the stories in this chapter, Luke placed a great emphasis upon the inter-connection between the compassion of God, man’s love for God, the power of God and man’s response to the word of faith. Many things could be said of the characters involved in each of Jesus’ many interventions on behalf of those who trusted in Him, but the thing that is of interest to me is His willingness to meet our needs when faith is present.
The Role of Faith
The essence of biblical faith is often seen through an act of simple obedience to God’s Word. The Bible tells us that obeying the Father was supremely important to Jesus, and He is our example. Obedience is the response of faith to any instruction from God. What can we learn from Luke’s account of the encounters of Jesus as they relate to our faith? First, there is the centurion who loved his servant (Luke 7:1-10); then, Jesus showed His love for the bereaved by raising the son of the widow of Nain (Luke 7:11-17); next, Jesus offered His love of the afflicted and the poor as proof of His Messiahship to John the Baptist, laying stress on the publicans and harlots who accepted John's message (Luke 7:24-25); and then, He gave the explanation of how publicans and harlots were saved and the Pharisees were not, this explanation growing out of a dinner in the house of a Pharisee (Luke 7:36-50). In everyone of the aforementioned stories, Jesus’ response was based on His love for man and man’s willingness to believe in His ability to perform the miraculous.
Practical Advice
I want to encourage you to see whether or not you are a man or woman of faith. Jesus taught that true faith will always be manifested in obedience to God’s revealed will. Listen to these words:
"8 For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
9 When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!” (Luke 7:8-9)
Can the words that Christ spoke to the Centurion be said of you today?
May the Lord help us to embrace His redeeming love and trust in His sovereign power to intervene in our circumstances. Until next time, you think about that, Amen!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Nineteen Days before Christmas!
Have you ever thought about what it was like to hear the greatest sermon ever preached? What is the title of that sermon you may ask? I have been in church all my life, a Christian for twenty one years and have never known or heard a more countercultural sermon than the Sermon on the Mount, namely the Beatitude. The Beatitude is found in the sixth chapter of the Gospel of Luke.
Preamble to the Sermon
Luke begins his writing of this text with an emphasis upon Jesus as the ideal Man; He recorded Jesus’ encounter with the religious leaders of His day, where Jesus also identified Himself as “…Lord of the Sabbath” (Luke 6:5). Jesus’ willingness to go against the old legalistic system established by the Pharisees and religious leaders was the beginning of a new way of life for those who would follow Christ. Luke reveals the controversies that arose earlier over Jesus’ association with sinners (5:27-32), the failure of Jesus’ disciples to follow Pharisaic guidelines for fasting (33-39), and now the Sabbath (6:1-5).
His lordship is made evident by His healing of the man with the withered hand in the synagogue on the Sabbath day (Luke 6:6-11). Interestingly, the narrative continues with Jesus appointing the twelve disciples (Luke 6:12-16). As a fitting follow-up to the call of the twelve, Luke presents Jesus’ hallmark teaching about discipleship, it is known today as the Beatitude (Luke 6:17-49).
The Greatest Sermon Ever Preached
In the early days of Jesus’ Galilean ministry, He preached a message that was contrary to popular opinion, it was a message that dealt with and confronted every human tendency to become self sufficient and self-aggrandized. As noted earlier this was a sermon on discipleship. Oh, how we need to hear more messages on discipleship today. This message was so powerful that it is worthy to mention its content:
20 Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said:
“Blessed are you poor,
For yours is the kingdom of God.
21 Blessed are you who hunger now,
For you shall be filled.
Blessed are you who weep now,
For you shall laugh.
22 Blessed are you when men hate you,
And when they exclude you,
And revile you, and cast out your name as evil,
For the Son of Man’s sake.
23 Rejoice in that day and leap for joy!
For indeed your reward is great in heaven,
For in like manner their fathers did to the prophets.
This Christmas season is a great time to remember the coming of our Lord in the manger, but let us not forget the reason for His incarnation. He came not “to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:32). He came to preach the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, so that those who believe in Him would become His disciples. A disciple is one who follows His master with discipline. Are you a disciple of Jesus Christ? If not you can become a follower of the master today, and know that “A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). This Christmas choose whom you will serve.
Preamble to the Sermon
Luke begins his writing of this text with an emphasis upon Jesus as the ideal Man; He recorded Jesus’ encounter with the religious leaders of His day, where Jesus also identified Himself as “…Lord of the Sabbath” (Luke 6:5). Jesus’ willingness to go against the old legalistic system established by the Pharisees and religious leaders was the beginning of a new way of life for those who would follow Christ. Luke reveals the controversies that arose earlier over Jesus’ association with sinners (5:27-32), the failure of Jesus’ disciples to follow Pharisaic guidelines for fasting (33-39), and now the Sabbath (6:1-5).
His lordship is made evident by His healing of the man with the withered hand in the synagogue on the Sabbath day (Luke 6:6-11). Interestingly, the narrative continues with Jesus appointing the twelve disciples (Luke 6:12-16). As a fitting follow-up to the call of the twelve, Luke presents Jesus’ hallmark teaching about discipleship, it is known today as the Beatitude (Luke 6:17-49).
The Greatest Sermon Ever Preached
In the early days of Jesus’ Galilean ministry, He preached a message that was contrary to popular opinion, it was a message that dealt with and confronted every human tendency to become self sufficient and self-aggrandized. As noted earlier this was a sermon on discipleship. Oh, how we need to hear more messages on discipleship today. This message was so powerful that it is worthy to mention its content:
20 Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said:
“Blessed are you poor,
For yours is the kingdom of God.
21 Blessed are you who hunger now,
For you shall be filled.
Blessed are you who weep now,
For you shall laugh.
22 Blessed are you when men hate you,
And when they exclude you,
And revile you, and cast out your name as evil,
For the Son of Man’s sake.
23 Rejoice in that day and leap for joy!
For indeed your reward is great in heaven,
For in like manner their fathers did to the prophets.
This Christmas season is a great time to remember the coming of our Lord in the manger, but let us not forget the reason for His incarnation. He came not “to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:32). He came to preach the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, so that those who believe in Him would become His disciples. A disciple is one who follows His master with discipline. Are you a disciple of Jesus Christ? If not you can become a follower of the master today, and know that “A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). This Christmas choose whom you will serve.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Twenty Days before Christmas!
In the fifth chapter of Luke we find recorded one of Christ’s compassionate appeal to Gospel ministry. This passage means so much to me as I believe that the Lord is calling all Christian to a higher calling. Christ is calling you and I to “Launch out into the deep and let down your [our] net for catch” (Luke 5:4).
The calling of the first disciples to Christian service is one that demanded immediate obedience and a deep commitment to follow Christ through submission. The response to Christ’s call to become catchers of men required three essential elements which are: Authority, Yielding, and Surrender. Christ has the authority to be Lord of our lives, we must yield our lives to His lordship and surrender our hearts completely by becoming all that He has called us to be. Our response to the upward call of God comes with a great cost. In the case of the first it required an abandonment of personal ambitions (fishing business) to become catchers of men (Luke 5:10a). The lesson to be learned in this text is that we are all called to become Disciples of Christ and to capture people for the kingdom of God.
When we take the focus off of us and place it on other people, we’re free to be able to make the difference in the life of someone else. The Lord provides us a perfect example, for He spent His entire time on earth in submission to the will and purpose of Father God. He gave up His right/will to seek and save the lost. The scripture informs us that when we submit to God, we find out that His desire/will for us is one of eternal significance.
At the end of chapter 5, Luke records Jesus’ appeal to Matthew the Tax Collector. It was a powerful but yet simple call when Jesus said to him “Follow Me” (v. 27). Today Jesus is offering the same call to you, the Bible says that many are called but few are chosen. Will you accept the call and become one of God’s choiced servants? As we approach Christmas 2009, I would like to encourage you to submit yourself to Christ’s authority, yield to His leadership and commit yourself to a life of service to Him. May your decision today transform your life and others forever.
The calling of the first disciples to Christian service is one that demanded immediate obedience and a deep commitment to follow Christ through submission. The response to Christ’s call to become catchers of men required three essential elements which are: Authority, Yielding, and Surrender. Christ has the authority to be Lord of our lives, we must yield our lives to His lordship and surrender our hearts completely by becoming all that He has called us to be. Our response to the upward call of God comes with a great cost. In the case of the first it required an abandonment of personal ambitions (fishing business) to become catchers of men (Luke 5:10a). The lesson to be learned in this text is that we are all called to become Disciples of Christ and to capture people for the kingdom of God.
When we take the focus off of us and place it on other people, we’re free to be able to make the difference in the life of someone else. The Lord provides us a perfect example, for He spent His entire time on earth in submission to the will and purpose of Father God. He gave up His right/will to seek and save the lost. The scripture informs us that when we submit to God, we find out that His desire/will for us is one of eternal significance.
At the end of chapter 5, Luke records Jesus’ appeal to Matthew the Tax Collector. It was a powerful but yet simple call when Jesus said to him “Follow Me” (v. 27). Today Jesus is offering the same call to you, the Bible says that many are called but few are chosen. Will you accept the call and become one of God’s choiced servants? As we approach Christmas 2009, I would like to encourage you to submit yourself to Christ’s authority, yield to His leadership and commit yourself to a life of service to Him. May your decision today transform your life and others forever.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Twenty-one Days before Christmas!
“18 THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME,
BECAUSE HE ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR.
HE HAS SENT ME TO PROCLAIM RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES,
AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND,
TO SET FREE THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED,
19TO PROCLAIM THE FAVORABLE YEAR OF THE LORD.”
Luke 1:18-19 (New American Standard Version)
The Gospel according to Luke takes a serious and sensitive look at Jesus’ life through the eyes of attentive and faithful follower of Christ. A Gentile physician (Colossians 4:14) and historian by trade Luke provides a detailed account of the Person, nature and ministry of Christ on earth.
Luke begins his narrative by dealing with Christ’s humanity and His resistance to the onslaught of satanic temptations in obedience to the Word of God. The first eleven verses of Luke chapter 4 records the conflict between Jesus and Satan. Luke observes that Jesus ended the battle by making the solemn declaration, “It has been said, you shall not tempt the Lord your God” (v12). This incident marks the beginning of Jesus’ Galilean ministry.
Christ’s Mission Statement
According to Hebrew customs, it was common practice for a distinguished guest to be invited to read from the biblical scroll one of the passages designated for a given Sabbath (vv. 16-17) and then to expound on it. The Gospel of Luke tells us that Jesus read a text that includes on e of Isaiah’s messianic prophecies (Isaiah 61:1-2). Upon completing the reading, Jesus stuns his audience by declaring it to be in Him at that very moment. This was Jesus’ famous mission statement for His earthly ministry.
Christ’s Purpose Statement
One of the hallmarks of Christ’s ministry was not only the miracles that took place but “…His teaching, for His word was with authority” (vv. 31, 32). Throughout His ministry, all that He did and taught was with total authority. His authority was based on truth. He is the embodiment of truth (John 8:32). No wonder that during His earthly ministry He impressed people with the profound validity of His teaching. Jesus knew his purpose, for He declared “I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.”
Friend, may I ask you two simple questions; what is the purpose in life? And what is your mission statement? I pray that you can seek the Lord concerning these probing questions. And I hope that you receive the answer in twenty-one days. God bless you this Christmas!
BECAUSE HE ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR.
HE HAS SENT ME TO PROCLAIM RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES,
AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND,
TO SET FREE THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED,
19TO PROCLAIM THE FAVORABLE YEAR OF THE LORD.”
Luke 1:18-19 (New American Standard Version)
The Gospel according to Luke takes a serious and sensitive look at Jesus’ life through the eyes of attentive and faithful follower of Christ. A Gentile physician (Colossians 4:14) and historian by trade Luke provides a detailed account of the Person, nature and ministry of Christ on earth.
Luke begins his narrative by dealing with Christ’s humanity and His resistance to the onslaught of satanic temptations in obedience to the Word of God. The first eleven verses of Luke chapter 4 records the conflict between Jesus and Satan. Luke observes that Jesus ended the battle by making the solemn declaration, “It has been said, you shall not tempt the Lord your God” (v12). This incident marks the beginning of Jesus’ Galilean ministry.
Christ’s Mission Statement
According to Hebrew customs, it was common practice for a distinguished guest to be invited to read from the biblical scroll one of the passages designated for a given Sabbath (vv. 16-17) and then to expound on it. The Gospel of Luke tells us that Jesus read a text that includes on e of Isaiah’s messianic prophecies (Isaiah 61:1-2). Upon completing the reading, Jesus stuns his audience by declaring it to be in Him at that very moment. This was Jesus’ famous mission statement for His earthly ministry.
Christ’s Purpose Statement
One of the hallmarks of Christ’s ministry was not only the miracles that took place but “…His teaching, for His word was with authority” (vv. 31, 32). Throughout His ministry, all that He did and taught was with total authority. His authority was based on truth. He is the embodiment of truth (John 8:32). No wonder that during His earthly ministry He impressed people with the profound validity of His teaching. Jesus knew his purpose, for He declared “I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.”
Friend, may I ask you two simple questions; what is the purpose in life? And what is your mission statement? I pray that you can seek the Lord concerning these probing questions. And I hope that you receive the answer in twenty-one days. God bless you this Christmas!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Twenty-two Days before Christmas!
“15 Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John might be the Messiah. 16 John answered their questions by saying, “I baptize you with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”
Luke 3:15-16 (New Living Translation)
Have you ever wondered what it might have been like to witness John the Baptist preach? As we continue our count down till Christmas, we read about a man named John who went into the country around the Jordan River preaching and telling people to prepare for the coming of the Lord. The passage in Luke 3 reveals that repentance is the center piece of the Gospel message. When John told people to prepare for the coming of the Lord, he didn't mean that they should go home and sweep the floor, pick up their toys, and make their beds. He meant that they should prepare their hearts through godly sorrow (repentance). How? By repenting of their sins and turning toward God. When they did this, John would baptize them in the Jordan River. That is how he got the name, "John the Baptist."
“I baptize you with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am…He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”
It was perhaps a normal day in the life of people in the region around the Jordan River. I can sense that life was business as usual for many on that day; for many it was another to come and collect water for many basic necessities, it was a place where women gathered. But for John it was a day that was divinely orchestrated, he was about to fulfill the purpose for which he was born.
John the Baptist understood his role and the revelation of Christ as Savior of the world. In many respect, his prophetic ministry fulfilled the scripture in Isaiah 40 which states, “Prepare the way of the Lord; Make straight in the desert a highway for our God”. In Luke 3:21-22, it is said that “21 When all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened. 22 And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.”
Jesus is the reason for the season, and it is my prayer that you would make room for Him in your heart. It is my desire that “you would bear fruit worthy of repentance” (v8) and that you would follow the Lord in water baptism, which is an outward expression of your commitment to Christ. I know that He is ready to baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. May the Lord bless you during this Christmas season.
Luke 3:15-16 (New Living Translation)
Have you ever wondered what it might have been like to witness John the Baptist preach? As we continue our count down till Christmas, we read about a man named John who went into the country around the Jordan River preaching and telling people to prepare for the coming of the Lord. The passage in Luke 3 reveals that repentance is the center piece of the Gospel message. When John told people to prepare for the coming of the Lord, he didn't mean that they should go home and sweep the floor, pick up their toys, and make their beds. He meant that they should prepare their hearts through godly sorrow (repentance). How? By repenting of their sins and turning toward God. When they did this, John would baptize them in the Jordan River. That is how he got the name, "John the Baptist."
“I baptize you with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am…He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”
It was perhaps a normal day in the life of people in the region around the Jordan River. I can sense that life was business as usual for many on that day; for many it was another to come and collect water for many basic necessities, it was a place where women gathered. But for John it was a day that was divinely orchestrated, he was about to fulfill the purpose for which he was born.
John the Baptist understood his role and the revelation of Christ as Savior of the world. In many respect, his prophetic ministry fulfilled the scripture in Isaiah 40 which states, “Prepare the way of the Lord; Make straight in the desert a highway for our God”. In Luke 3:21-22, it is said that “21 When all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened. 22 And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.”
Jesus is the reason for the season, and it is my prayer that you would make room for Him in your heart. It is my desire that “you would bear fruit worthy of repentance” (v8) and that you would follow the Lord in water baptism, which is an outward expression of your commitment to Christ. I know that He is ready to baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. May the Lord bless you during this Christmas season.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Twenty-three Days before Christmas!
Today is day two of our count down till Christmas day. It is not my purpose here to retell the simple story of the birth of Jesus, which is narrated so beautifully in Luke’s Gospel. But there are certain events or facts closely associated with the birth of Jesus that provide indications of the objectives to be gained by His advent. He comes first to reveal God the Father. Zacharias calls Him the One to be born "..the Dayspring from on high," who will give light to those who sit in darkness" (Luke 1:78-79). Welsh poet George Herbert, described the event of his advent well when he wrote:
“The God of power, as he did ride
In his majestick robes of glorie
Resolv’d to light; and so one day
He did descend, undressing all the way”
The second chapter of Luke not only focuses on Jesus as the Savior of the world, but it also focuses on the events of His early life. “You shall call his name Jesus,” said the angel, “for he will save people from their sins.” The arrival of Jesus marked one of the great turning points of time. It marked the moment when God interfered directly, decisively, and dramatically in human affairs to deal with the age-old problem of human sin.
In the previous chapter, Luke's record of the annunciation to Mary (1:26-38), her visit to Elizabeth (1:39-45), the birth and childhood of John (1:57-80), the birth of Jesus, the coming of the shepherds and the announcement of the angels (2:8-20), the circumcision of Jesus (2:21), the presentation of Jesus in the temple (2:22-24), the praise of Simeon and Anna in the temple (2:25-38), a short narrative about Jesus’ childhood (2:40, 51-52), his growth and advancement in wisdom and favor (2:51-52).
How can we learn from our reading today? The passage in Luke 2 reveals the maturing years of Jesus as a young boy. The passage also teaches us that Jesus humbled himself to await God’s timing by allowing Himself to reach full maturity both physically and in wisdom. Luke shows us Christ’s connection with the human race. He underlines the fact that Jesus was truly human. It is a humbling to know that God came to be with man. He became Emmanuel, God with us!
“The God of power, as he did ride
In his majestick robes of glorie
Resolv’d to light; and so one day
He did descend, undressing all the way”
The second chapter of Luke not only focuses on Jesus as the Savior of the world, but it also focuses on the events of His early life. “You shall call his name Jesus,” said the angel, “for he will save people from their sins.” The arrival of Jesus marked one of the great turning points of time. It marked the moment when God interfered directly, decisively, and dramatically in human affairs to deal with the age-old problem of human sin.
In the previous chapter, Luke's record of the annunciation to Mary (1:26-38), her visit to Elizabeth (1:39-45), the birth and childhood of John (1:57-80), the birth of Jesus, the coming of the shepherds and the announcement of the angels (2:8-20), the circumcision of Jesus (2:21), the presentation of Jesus in the temple (2:22-24), the praise of Simeon and Anna in the temple (2:25-38), a short narrative about Jesus’ childhood (2:40, 51-52), his growth and advancement in wisdom and favor (2:51-52).
How can we learn from our reading today? The passage in Luke 2 reveals the maturing years of Jesus as a young boy. The passage also teaches us that Jesus humbled himself to await God’s timing by allowing Himself to reach full maturity both physically and in wisdom. Luke shows us Christ’s connection with the human race. He underlines the fact that Jesus was truly human. It is a humbling to know that God came to be with man. He became Emmanuel, God with us!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Twenty-four Days Before Christmas!
The first day of December is almost over, which means that we are only 23 days before Christmas. I am thrilled that we are not only ending another year but we are approaching one of the most celebrated Holy Day of the year. Christmas is celebrated in all culture, language, and country in the world.
As I was meditating about the meaning of Christmas this morning, I thought what would make this Christmas more special? On my way to work I heard the host of a popular Christian radio program encouraged listeners to read the Book of Luke, which incidentally has 24 chapters, and there are 24 days before Christmas. I found the idea of reading the Gospel according Luke to be an excellent one, and decided that I would write a blog for each day to connect with the 24 chapters in the Gospel of Luke.
If you are going to read the Christmas story, then get it right the first time. The original Christmas story is in the Bible, the book of Luke. As I read the first chapter in Luke, verse 13 struck my heart. In this particular verse, Luke records the announcement of the angel Gabriel to Zecharias and Elizabeth his wife and the verse reads likes this:
“But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elizabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John." (Luke 1:13, KJV)
How many of us are praying for a specific need to be met? Maybe you are believing God for a new job, a healing or the salvation of a loved one, I am adding my faith to your faith and trust that God in His divine providence would “supply all your needs according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus.” And like Zechariah, I want you to know that your prayer is heard in the chambers of heaven! May the Lord honor your prayers by granting you answers to your petitions this Christmas.
I pray that you would join me in reading the book of Luke, as we march to Christmas 2009. I trust that the next 23 days will not only encourage you in your walk with the Lord, but will also inspire you to pursue Christ “as the deer pants after the water brooks” (Psalms 42:1).
As I was meditating about the meaning of Christmas this morning, I thought what would make this Christmas more special? On my way to work I heard the host of a popular Christian radio program encouraged listeners to read the Book of Luke, which incidentally has 24 chapters, and there are 24 days before Christmas. I found the idea of reading the Gospel according Luke to be an excellent one, and decided that I would write a blog for each day to connect with the 24 chapters in the Gospel of Luke.
If you are going to read the Christmas story, then get it right the first time. The original Christmas story is in the Bible, the book of Luke. As I read the first chapter in Luke, verse 13 struck my heart. In this particular verse, Luke records the announcement of the angel Gabriel to Zecharias and Elizabeth his wife and the verse reads likes this:
“But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elizabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John." (Luke 1:13, KJV)
How many of us are praying for a specific need to be met? Maybe you are believing God for a new job, a healing or the salvation of a loved one, I am adding my faith to your faith and trust that God in His divine providence would “supply all your needs according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus.” And like Zechariah, I want you to know that your prayer is heard in the chambers of heaven! May the Lord honor your prayers by granting you answers to your petitions this Christmas.
I pray that you would join me in reading the book of Luke, as we march to Christmas 2009. I trust that the next 23 days will not only encourage you in your walk with the Lord, but will also inspire you to pursue Christ “as the deer pants after the water brooks” (Psalms 42:1).
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