Rest — The absence of anxiety

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1 Peter 5, Anxiety, Jesus, Matthew 6, Philippians 4, Rest, Teachings

We all need rest. It is essential.

I am anxious about so many things. Anxiety is insidious. There is no rest when I am wallowing in my concerns.

I am a worry wart. I recognize it can be exhausting. When I don’t trust Jesus, I don’t rest well.

There is good news. I can give my anxiety to Jesus. He will take it for me. I hear Him say “I’ve got this!”

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“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Love, Luke 6, Matthew 28, Matthew 7, Obedience

Jesus continues His Manifesto (aka The Sermon on the Mount). Jesus is getting close to wrapping it up. Jesus doesn’t let up. There are some big deal things left to say. Jesus is going to say them. I need to hear them and obey them.

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ | Matthew 7:21-23

Many evangelistic churches make a big deal about the “profession of faith” and it is not to be diminished. That is only the beginning. When all we hear, Sunday after Sunday, is about the profession, we need to find a new church to spend time in. We are not learning as disciples should. 

Patience — Jesus the Messiah’s patience brings about God’s salvation

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1 Timothy 1, 2 Peter 3, Jesus, Love, Mercy, Patience, Romans 2, Teachings

Jesus the Messiah supremely displays God’s patient character in his work of salvation. The patience of Jesus the Messiah is seen in his relationships with people and in his perseverance through trial and suffering to death.

As a disciple of the Messiah I am called to demonstrate patience in all my relationships and circumstances. Jesus has shown me His mercy. I must show patience to all I have a relationship with as well.

“Breakfast is ready.” ~Jesus

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Compassion, God is Good, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 21, Love

This is the third time Jesus appears to the disciples. They’ve been out fishing all night. They’ve been working. They have so much on their minds, better to do something productive.

What does Jesus do? What is he concerned about? Jesus doesn’t want their efforts to be in vain so He directs them on where to fish so they don’t come back empty handed. Jesus cares that they are hungry and fixes them some breakfast.

Gentleness — In showing consideration to all

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Ephesians 4, Galatians 5, Gentleness, Jesus, Philippians 4, Romans 2, Teachings, Titus 3

Gentleness is an expression of compassion, seen in God’s dealings with the frail and weak, and expected of believers in our dealings with others. I need more gentleness in my life. I need to banish harshness and impatience.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. | Galatians 5:22

Gentleness is a mark and a part of the character of a follower of Jesus. We know from Galatians 5:22 that gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. How do others know I am following Jesus? They see my gentleness. Jesus himself, in His Manifesto, said “Happy are those who are gentle (meek) for they will inherit the earth.”

“And you—what are you saying about me? Who am I?” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Questions, Jesus Sayings, King Jesus, Mark 8, Master Jesus, Matthew 13, Messiah

Jesus asks me lots of questions. This one gets to the core of the issue.

Who is Jesus?

Jesus and his disciples headed out for the villages around Caesarea Philippi. As they walked, he asked, “Who do the people say I am?”

“Some say ‘John the Baptizer,’” they said. “Others say ‘Elijah.’ Still others say ‘one of the prophets.’”

He then asked, “And you—what are you saying about me? Who am I?”

Peter gave the answer: “You are the Messiah.” | Mark 8:27-29

“It were better to have no opinion of God at all than such a one as is unworthy of him; for the one is only belief – the other contempt.” ~Plutarch

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Contempt, Jesus, Plutarch, Quote

I like to take comfort in my faith. Of course, I believe in God and Jesus. I have for a very long time.

But what do I think of others? Perhaps even some family members?

Consider the insight from Jesus. It is one thing to trust in God. It is another to trust in myself. Do I think, because “I am a good person” that I am righteous?

Big mistake!

“Then he will turn to the ‘goats,’ the ones on his left, and say, ‘Get out, worthless goats! You’re good for nothing but the fires of hell. And why?” ~Jesus

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Compassion, Homeless, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 25, Matthew 7

Jesus has some goals in mind for me. Jesus is clear what they are. Jesus warns me that there will be eternal consequences to not achieving them. Jesus is clear about “why”.

“Then he will turn to the ‘goats,’ the ones on his left, and say, ‘Get out, worthless goats! You’re good for nothing but the fires of hell. And why? Because—

I was hungry and you gave me no meal,
I was thirsty and you gave me no drink,
I was homeless and you gave me no bed,
I was shivering and you gave me no clothes,
Sick and in prison, and you never visited.’

Love — God’s very character is love

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1 John 4, God, Love, Teachings

Who is God?

Who is God?

How do I describe Him to others?

Where would I start?

Here is a good place to start. It will be good news for many. God is good and God is love. It is not something he does but instead it is who God is. Jesus personified it.

I am so thankful for God’s love. It is truly good news.

“You cannot serve God and wealth.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 6, Money, Treasure, Wealth

The Jesus Manifest continues (Matthew 5-7). This is a critical teaching of Jesus. What should I think about money and wealth? I need to get clear on this. Jesus is!

Who will I serve? It is a stunning question. Jesus now explains that behind the choice between two treasures (where I lay them up) and two visions (where I fix my eyes) there lies the still more basic choice between two masters (whom I am going to serve).

It is a choice between God and mammon, that is between the living Creator himself and any object of our my creation I term ‘money’ (‘mammon’ being the transliteration of an Aramaic word for wealth). For I cannot serve both.

Authority of Jesus the Messiah — Jesus’ authority underlines his divine status

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1 Corinthians 1, Authority, Colossians 2, Jesus, John 14, John 8, Teachings

What gives Jesus the right to speak and act on his Father’s behalf in forgiving sin, pronouncing judgment and promising eternal life to those who believe in him?

Jesus is the Son of our Heavenly Father, God. God is God. God gives His son authority. That is the way in the Kingdom of God.

God doesn’t place any limits on what Jesus can do. God completely trusts Jesus to faithfully execute God’s plan. Now that is really something.

“What a generation! No sense of God! No focus to your lives! How many times do I have to go over these things? How much longer do I have to put up with this?” ~Jesus

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Frustration, Hebrews 12, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 17, Joy, Luke 9

Jesus sounds upset. The day before he went through an amazing experience. We call it the transfiguration.  “While He was praying, the appearance of His face became different, and His clothing became white and gleaming. And behold, two men were talking with Him; and they were Moses and Elijah, who, appearing in glory, were speaking of His departure which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.” God spoke to Him saying, “This is My Son, My Chosen One; listen to Him!” To top things off, Peter, James and John had no clue what was going on. 

When Jesus said “You unbelieving and perverted generation, how long shall I be with you and put up with you?”, Jesus knew exactly how much longer He would be here. It would not be much longer. Jesus is going to complete every task His Heavenly Father has given. But still, there isn’t much time left. Tick tock, tick tock!

Joy — It becomes real in our relationships

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1 Corinthians 12, Joy, Philippians 4, Romans 12, Romans 15, Teachings

Joy is experienced naturally in many circumstances of my life in Jesus and most importantly in relationships I have with His followers. It is especially important in the life of God’s people, who experience joy in response to all that God has done for us.

My joy should be a manifestation of God’s gift of joy to me. Jesus exhibited joy in His ministry on a constant basis. For the joy that was before Him, He suffered a cruel death taking my sins on Him, was raised from the dead in an incorruptible body and ascended back to heaven to take his rightful place of authority.

Jesus received great joy in His relationships. He gives us great joy in our relationships as well. Jesus is smiling!

“Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit.” ~Apostle Paul

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2 Corinthians 2:17, Apostle Paul, False Prophets, Jesus, Prosperity Ministry, Religious Leaders

This is very common. I don’t think of it that way naturally but it is when you start looking below the covers. The first thing the Apostle Paul suggests is that there are many religious leaders in it for the money. 

My reaction is … Really? Yes, really. Paul warns us in Romans 16:18 “For such people are not serving our Lord the Messiah, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.” I know I am naive. I like to believe the best about people.

“Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in the Messiah we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.” | 2 Corinthians 2:17  (NIV) For more, see here.

When I choose to obey Jesus’s call to follow and be a disciple, what will it cost me?

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Cost, Discipleship, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Teaching

I want to follow Jesus’s call and be a disciple. What will it cost me? Am I prepared?

There is only one answer and it is simple but direct. I must give up everything!

 

Does that mean?

• Give up my family.
• Give up my money.
• Give up my house.
• Give up my hate.
• Give up my lust.
• Give up my pride.
• Give up my contempt.

It means exactly that and the list goes on and on. Give it all Jesus demands.

The call is simple. Follow me!

Jesus is walking along. Jesus turns to me and is direct. Jesus asks me if I will give up everything. Jesus is serious. Jesus is waiting for an answer.

Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’

“Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won’t he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.

“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out.

“Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”

Source: Matthew 14:25-35

Contempt – Issues of doctrinal differences of opinion

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False Prophets, Heresy, Jesus, Romans 14, Teachings

Am I a member of the “doctrine police” constantly issuing heretic alerts? That is a good question to ask. Why? It might be more about contempt for the opinions of others than heresy. Please read on!

Do I hold fellow followers of Jesus in contempt because of what they believe? What if my contempt is around something that is a weakness of faith and not heresy of doctrine?

It could be that some of our doctrinal disputes are really about theological opinions that aren’t offered by false prophets and heretics. This may seem like a fine line but maybe it isn’t sometimes. There were many old ways of thinking that Jesus and the new covenant leave behind. Like what, you say? How about circumcision? How about what Paul is referencing here in terms of what can and can’t be eaten?

“It’s done . . . complete.” ~Jesus

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Complete, Death of Jesus, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 19, Resurrection of Jesus

Jesus came to complete every task God, His Father, had laid out for Him. Jesus, earlier (John 5:38) had said “These very tasks, as I go about completing them, confirm that the Father, in fact, sent me.” 

And so … It is done. It is complete. There is nothing else to do except be raised from the dead, by the power of God and ascend to Heaven. Jesus has now ushered in a new agreement (aka covenant or testament). His blood poured out for us complete that transaction. The blood of Jesus has cleaned me up from all sin. It is done. It is complete.

A jug of sour wine was standing by. Someone put a sponge soaked with the wine on a javelin and lifted it to his mouth. After he took the wine, Jesus said, “It’s done . . . complete.” Bowing his head, he offered up his spirit. | Source: John 19:29-30 (The Message)

Miracles of Jesus — Raising the dead!

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Acts 20, Acts 9, Jesus, John 11, Luke 7, Mark 16, Matthew 27, Matthew 9, Miracles, Resurrection, Teachings

There are a number of examples of this stunning miracle in the Bible. Notably, 3 are attributed to Jesus. This is the pinnacle of the miracles Jesus would perform under the power of the Holy Spirit as the Son of God. They culminated in the resurrection of Lazarus who had been dead for 4 days.

In John 12 we learn the effect this had on those who knew Lazarus. “The large crowd of the Jews then learned that Jesus was there; and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead. But the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also; because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and were believing in Jesus.”

“If any of you are embarrassed over me and the way I’m leading you when you get around your fickle and unfocused friends, know that you’ll be an even greater embarrassment to the Son of Man when he arrives in all the splendor of God” ~Jesus

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Angels, Ashamed, Devil, Embarrassed, Hell, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 8, Matthew 23, Matthew 25, Self Assessment

So now we are down to the real issue. Jesus has laid out the case for what it takes to follow Him (Mark 8:34-37 The Message). It is all about Jesus and not about me. I have to sacrifice my selfish ways and submit to Jesus as my Master.

Am I proud of my relationship with Jesus and who He is? Am I ashamed and embarrassed?

“If any of you are embarrassed over me and the way I’m leading you when you get around your fickle and unfocused friends, know that you’ll be an even greater embarrassment to the Son of Man when he arrives in all the splendor of God, his Father, with an army of the holy angels.” ~Jesus | Source: Mark 8:38

God is good — God demonstrates His goodness in His actions!

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Acts 10, God is Good, Teachings

God not only is good but more importantly, God does good. God acts on His goodness and demonstrates it to me every day. I may not see it because that is because I am not looking. Jesus has a goal for me. The goal is to see how good God is to me.

Jesus came to bring good news through what He does. That was His mission from His Father. I’ve seen Jesus. He was smiling a lot. I have not always seen Him that way. I think I’ve always confused His directness, particularly with the religious leaders of His day, with grimness and anger.

Jesus demonstrated how good God is by tirelessly healing the sick. Consider this. “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures,and the paralyzed; and he healed them.” (Matthew 4:22-24) Jesus showed God’s goodness every time He could.

“Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life.” ~King David

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Beauty, King David, Love, Wise Sayings

This translation is from The Message. We all recognize Psalm 23. The traditional translation of verse 6 is “Surely goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life.”

I want to live in the world where God’s beauty and love chase me every day of my life. I do, I do, I do! Imagine seeing every minute of every day that way? Imagine living life that way? Imagine?

“God, my shepherd! I don’t need a thing. You have bedded me down in lush meadows, you find me quiet pools to drink from. True to your word, you let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction.  Even when the way goes through Death Valley, ’m not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure.  You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing. Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I’m back home in the house of God for the rest of my life. “ ~King David | Psalm 23 (The Message Bible)

Hypocrisy — Where does it come from?

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Deceitful, Heart, Hypocrisy, Jesus, Mark 7, Teachings

Jesus is clear. Jesus hates hypocrites. Jesus calls it out all the time. My contempt allows me to ignore its reality in my life. I must change my mind (aka repent). This is imperative!

Hypocrisy is an outward pretense masking an inner reality. Jesus condemns hypocrisy, especially in matters of faith. Followers of Jesus are to express our commitment to God in our words and our deeds, as well as in our inner motivation. There should always be alignment of the heart, the mind and my actions.

“Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.” ~Jesus

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Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, John 6, Matthew 6, Money, Wealth

The backdrop to this is the feeding of the five thousand. It is a truly stunning miracle. Jesus was moved not to allow the crowd to go hungry. Jesus took care of their physical needs since they couldn’t afford to take them out for a meal. They were very impressed.

“Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.” ~Jesus | John 6:26-27

“Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again.” ~Jesus

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Giving, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 6:30, Wealth

Jesus is very clear and straightforward. I don’t know why it stumps so many “Christians”, the government and homeless nonprofits, but it does.

I get lots of pushback from disciples of Jesus on giving money directly to the poor.

What do you do if walking down the street or driving your car and someone asks you for money? Do you give? If not, why not?

“Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold.” ~Jesus

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Abortion, False Prophets, Homeless, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 24, Poor

Jesus warns us in Matthew 7 where we hear Him say “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing” 

Jesus is serious. There won’t be just a few. There are many of them. Their goal is to mislead us. And they are. It is sad.

Again, Jesus warns us!

“Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved. This good news of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.” ~Jesus | Source: Matthew 24:11-12

Sometimes my worst fears …

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Fear, Fred Flintstone, Jesus, Love, Power

Sometimes my worst fears come true. It really was cancer. I did go broke. I was homeless and living in my car. My wife did divorce me. I was fired from several jobs. I feared all of these things. They did happen. There is a longer list but I won’t go into it.

Most of the time my fears don’t materialize. My family loves me and supports me. I’ve had work most of my life. The cancer didn’t kill me. I haven’t lost my house and have a place to live. I am not hungry. I have plenty of clothes to wear. I got up this morning and live to tell the story. Jesus hasn’t ever abandoned me. This list is much longer than the one of fears that have happened.

It is a stunning day in paradise. That isn’t a fear but it is reality.

God is in a good mood and shows me His love through it all. Always. Never fails. Completely trustworthy.

God hasn’t given me a spirit of fear. Jesus gives me power. Jesus gives me love. Jesus gives me discipline to persevere.

Now that is worth a happy dance! As my friend Fred would say:

Yabba Dabba Doo!

“The more talk, the less truth; the wise measure their words.” ~King Solomon

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King Solomon, Listen, Proverbs 10, Truth, Wisdom, Wise Sayings

We all know people who have something to say about everything. Is this me? Is this you? Think about it.

It is true that you can’t know something about everything. We all know it. The more I talk about things I am really ignorant about, the less “truth” is contributed to the conversation.

I need to cultivate the habit of listening and learning. That requires that I pontificate less.

“The more talk, the less truth; the wise measure their words.“ ~~King Solomon (Proverbs 10:19 The Message)

False Doctrine — It contradicts the good news of Jesus the Messiah

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1 Thessalonians 5, 1 Timothy 6, 2 John 7, False Prophets, Jesus, Matthew 7

False prophets

Jesus, the Son of God, is the Messiah. God sent him to live among us, die for our missing God’s goal (aka sin), be resurrected from the dead into an incorruptible body and ascend to heaven to be seated at the right hand of God as King.

We have 4 books that tell the good news (aka gospel) of Jesus. We have his words. We know the truth about why He came and where He now resides. This is not about acceptable theology or opinions of those who are weak in faith. This is about those who are deceived themselves and would deceive us as well about Jesus.

“Who touched my robe?” ~Jesus

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Faith, Healing, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 5, Miracle, Power

Am I thinking, if I can just touch Jesus, He will heal me?

It is a good question. Sometimes I believe yes, sometimes I don’t even think about it. I am forgetful of who Jesus is and the good news He has for me. I have faith but I need more faith.

Jesus was creating quite the stir. Multitudes were coming to him. They were hearing the message of good news. Jesus was healing them all. Every single one of them. They believed He could do it and he did.

Meekness — Examples in the life of Jesus

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Jesus, Matthew 11, Meek, Meekness, Teachings

Jesus is clear that I will be more than happy if I am meek and gentle. I will in fact inherit the earth according to the “Jesus Manifesto”.

According to our dictionary, to be meek means you are “showing patience and humility, gentleness … easily imposed upon, submissive”. The meek one doesn’t throw fits or fly off the handle under pressure. A good synonym is “gentle”. A meek person is under control.

Jesus challenges me to learn from Him. Jesus is gentle. Jesus is humble. Jesus shows me how to have compassion and love.

Matthew 11:29  — “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

“And the disciples were continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” ~Luke (Acts 13:52)

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Acts 13, Happy, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Joy, Luke, Romans 15

Am I happy? Do you see my joy? Or am I just a grumpy old man most days?

In Acts we learn that “And the disciples were continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 13:52 (NASB) Note that it was not a sometime kind of thing. It was continual. They were always joyful and happy. It is just who they were, like Jesus. This is where I get to say one of my favorite things. God is in a good mood!

It is easy to forget about joy. It is essential in the Kingdom of God. The Beatitudes (aka The Jesus Manifesto) traditionally use the word “blessed”. Most translators agree the better translation is “Happy” or “More than Happy”. For the joy that was set before Jesus, he endured the crucifixion. The joy of the Lord is my strength. We have Good News (aka the Gospel). We are a people of hope!

Goodness — God’s people are called on to do good works

Tags

Goodness, James 2, Jesus, Matthew 25, Matthew 5, Teachings

How am I doing with being selfless on behalf of others?

It is a pretty telling question if I answer it honestly.

• How am I at giving to the poor?
• Am I visiting the sick?
• How is my prison ministry going?

“Who is the King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, The Lord mighty in battle.” ~King David

Tags

Glory, Jesus, King, King David, Psalm 24, Wise Sayings

Who is the King of Glory? King David is a warrior King. He spent much of his life fighting to secure Israel and establish God’s rule there. David, while an earthly King, knows who the real King is. Jesus is the King of Glory! Now that is some good news!

Lift up your heads, O gates, And be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in! Who is the King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, The Lord mighty in battle. | Psalm 24:7-8

News alert!

We serve a beautiful, majestic, and amazing King!

Good news. Jesus is the King of Glory!

Faithfulness — Encouragement to be trustworthy

Tags

1 Corinthians 15, Faithfulness, Galatians 5, Teachings, Trustworthy

I am called to be faithful and trustworthy. I am challenged by this some days. When I think about it and focus on it, I execute God’s goal. Some days, like a sheep, I wander off.

I am thankful for the good Shepherd who finds me and brings me back home.

The good news is that God is always faithful. That is just the way He is. He has always been patient, waiting for me to come back to Jesus and follow Him.

God is good! God is in a good mood. God will see me through to the end.

Faithfulness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. [Galatians 5:22 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.]

“This is the end–for me, the beginning of life.” ~Dietrich Bonhoeffer — Right before they hung him (April 8, 1945)

On April 8, 1945, Lutheran pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer is hanged at Flossenburg, only days before the American liberation of the POW camp.

The last words of the brilliant and courageous 39-year-old opponent of Nazism were “This is the end–for me, the beginning of life.”

Two days after Adolf Hitler became chancellor of Germany, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, lecturer at Berlin University, took to the radio and denounced the Nazi Fuhrerprinzip, the leadership principle that was merely a synonym for dictatorship. Bonhoeffer’s broadcast was cut off before he could finish. Shortly thereafter, he moved to London to pastor a German congregation, while also giving support to the Confessing Church movement in Germany, a declaration by Lutheran and evangelical pastors and theologians that they would not have their churches co-opted by the Nazi government for propagandistic purposes.

Bonhoeffer returned to Germany in 1935 to run a seminary for the Confessing Church; the government closed it in 1937. Bonhoeffer’s continued vocal objections to Nazi policies resulted in his losing his freedom to lecture or publish. He soon joined the German resistance movement, even the plot to assassinate Hitler.

In April 1943, shortly after becoming engaged to be married, Bonhoeffer was arrested by the Gestapo. Evidence implicating him in the plot to overthrow the government came to light and he was court-martialed and sentenced to die. While in prison, he acted as a counselor and pastor to prisoners of all denominations. Bonhoeffer’s Letters and Papers from Prison was published posthumously. Among his celebrated works of theology are The Cost of Discipleship and Ethics.

Source: Defiant theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer is hanged – Apr 08, 1945 – HISTORY.com

“The one who listens to you, listens to me. The one who rejects you, rejects me. And rejecting me is the same as rejecting God, who sent me.” ~Jesus

Tags

1 John 4, James 1, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 10, Listen, Luke 10, Matthew 7, Sheep

What am I to do? It all starts with listening. From there, as a follower of Jesus, I am to speak the Word of Jesus to unbelievers. Jesus promises that they are not just listening to me. They are hearing the words of Jesus. People are called upon to listen attentively to God’s word, to his Son and also to words of wisdom. Followers must not only listen to God’s word but also put it into practice. Those who refuse to listen to God’s word or to correction are condemned. They are rejecting Jesus.

Am I listening? Am I rejecting Jesus?

Later the Master [Jesus] selected seventy and sent them ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he intended to go. He gave them this charge … “The one who listens to you, listens to me. The one who rejects you, rejects me. And rejecting me is the same as rejecting God, who sent me.” | Luke 10:16 (The Message)

Who hears Jesus? The sheep, hear Jesus. Those who are willing to follow the voice of the Shepherd hear Jesus. “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand.” John 10:27 (NASB)

Hope — God commands it!

Tags

Hope, Jesus, Justice, Teachings

Dante passes through the gate of Hell, which bears an inscription ending with the famous phrase “Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch’intrate“, most frequently translated as “Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.”

Somewhere between where I am today and Dante’s description, I need to find more hope. God is good and in a good mood. Justice, while lacking here some days, will be done. Beyond faith, I need hope.

It is right for me to hope. Hope is the total grounding of my confidence and expectation in God’s goodness and providential care even in the face of trouble.

The mere sound of the name of Jesus causes me to remember to hope. I need to focus, with confidence, that what Jesus has promised will happen. Jesus is faithful. Justice will triumph!

Before you know it, his justice will triumph;
    the mere sound of his name will signal hope, even 
    among far-off unbelievers. | Matthew 12:21

“Peace to you.” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 19, Peace

Did you lock the doors? That was the compelling question the morning Jesus rose from the dead in an incorruptible body. I am thinking to myself, I think so but let me check again. Yup, it is locked. What about the windows? They’re locked too. Alarm on? Yes! OK. I know I am careful, too careful, as well. Jesus is talking with me, telling me what is about to happen and I don’t listen or understand.

Later on that day [of Jesus’ resurrection], the disciples had gathered together, but, fearful of the Jews, had locked all the doors in the house. Jesus entered, stood among them, and said, “Peace to you.” Then he showed them his hands and side. | John 20:19-20 (The Message)

Good news alert!

I now have real peace with God.

God is in a good mood.

Self-control — A discipline that is hiding along with the other fruits of the Spirit of God

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1 Peter 1, 1 Peter 4, 1 Peter 5, 1 Thessalonians 5, 2 Peter 1, Galatians 5, Self-Control, Teachings

Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. It is physical and emotional self-mastery, particularly in situations of intense provocation or temptation. It isn’t talked about alot and I surely can use more of it in my life. I can use a ton of it. Paul reminds me “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22

Before I go too much further, it is worth pointing out while it is called “self-control”, it comes from the Holy Spirit. It is not something I can just will, on my own, to happen. But it is still self-control. I have to make choices.

“Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” ~Jesus

There have been way too many times I have ignored getting some rest. I worked too many days in a row and eventually paid the price for it. Jesus wanted to take some time with his friends and get some rest. What happened?

The apostles then rendezvoused with Jesus and reported on all that they had done and taught. Jesus said, “Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat. | Mark 6:30-31

By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. | Genesis 2:1-2

Kindness — The kindness of Jesus the Messiah

Tags

Compassion, Jesus, Kindness, Matthew 9, Teachings

I desperately need more kindness and compassion in my life. I need to judge less and love more. That is the way of Jesus. That is what Jesus calls me to do. I know I want others to be kind to me. I need to be kind and compassionate no matter what.

Kindness is the quality of compassion and generosity, characteristic of God’s dealings towards the weak and poor, and demanded of believers. The kindness is also shown in the words and deeds of Jesus the Messiah.

“Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd.” ~Jesus | Matthew 9:36 (NASB)

“Exploit or abuse your family, and end up with a fistful of air; common sense tells you it’s a stupid way to live.” ~~King Solomon

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Abuse, Family, Jesus, King Solomon, Proverbs 11, Wise Sayings

There is right and there is wrong. We all know the difference. I must remember to stand up for the abused and keep up the good fight for justice.

“Exploit or abuse your family, and end up with a fistful of air [inherit the wind]; common sense tells you it’s a stupid way to live.” ~~King Solomon (Proverbs 11:29)

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.” ~Jesus | Matthew 5:21-22

Peace — It is established in a believer’s relationship with the Father and Jesus

Tags

Faith, Good News, Jesus, Love, Peace, Romans 5

There are times I am clearly not at peace. I am not at peace with myself and I am not at peace with God or Jesus. Something is wrong. I may or may not know it but it becomes evident in my anxiety and worry. I am not convinced, at that point in time, that God is good and has my best interest at heart. 

It starts with faith. I need to get clear with my faith in Jesus. When peace leaves me, I need to get back to the real issue. I don’t have faith, I don’t believe who Jesus is and what He accomplished. Lack of peace comes from ignoring the core issue of unbelief. God is good. God sent His son to make me right with God. God did it out of love for me. Now that is some good news!

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus the Messiah.” | Romans 5:1 (NASB)

“The proposed eschatological, christological, apologetic, polemical, ecclesiological, and pastoral concerns have both strengths and weaknesses” ~Lexham Bible Dictionary.

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Quotes, Theology

Huh?

“The proposed eschatological, christological, apologetic, polemical, ecclesiological, and pastoral concerns have both strengths and weaknesses.” ~Lexham Bible Dictionary

And what, you say, is wrong with theology?

Duh!

Dr. King is assassinated – April 04, 1968

May we all remember his vision on this anniversary of his assassination. Jesus is in the justice business.

Thoughts on culture, politics and more

I really appreciate everything Dr. King did for our country. Most of it was very controversial.

He would be arrested for it. He would be killed for it. Whether I agree or not, Dr. King stood up for what he thought God wanted him to do.

Dr. King believed in justice and the justice of God.

God bless Dr. King and his legacy.

“Just after 6 p.m. on April 4, 1968, Martin Luther King Jr. is fatally shot while standing on the balcony outside his second-story room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. The civil rights leader was in Memphis to support a sanitation workers’ strike and was on his way to dinner when a bullet struck him in the jaw and severed his spinal cord. King was pronounced dead after his arrival at a Memphis hospital. He was 39 years old.

“In the months before his assassination, Martin Luther King became…

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“Who here qualifies for the job of overseeing the kitchen? A person the Master can depend on to feed the workers on time each day.” ~Jesus

Tags

1 Corinthians 15, Faithful, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 24, Servant, Slave

Can Jesus depend on me? There have been many times where He couldn’t. I didn’t step up to the plate, so to speak. Let’s hear what Jesus has to say on this.

“Who here qualifies for the job of overseeing the kitchen? A person the Master can depend on to feed the workers on time each day. Someone the Master can drop in on unannounced and always find him doing his job. A God-blessed man or woman, I tell you. It won’t be long before the Master will put this person in charge of the whole operation.” ~Jesus | Matthew 24:45-47 (The Message)

What is God’s goal for me? Jesus wants me to do my job. That is to love God and love everyone else I come in contact with. Jesus wants me to sacrifice my desires for what Jesus wants to have happen. Jesus wants me to listen and act on what He says.

Will I be faithful (qualified)? The Apostle Paul challenges me “My beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Cor 15:58) Will I be found to be faithful? Will Jesus commend me? That is what I desperately want. It is my hearts desire.

Will Jesus say this to me? “Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.” (Mat. 25:21) I want to hear Jesus say that! I want to enter the joy of Jesus. What could mean more than to hear that?

 

Patience — It’s importance in enduring life’s circumstances and sufferings

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1 Peter 2, Jesus, Patience, Perseverance, Teachings

I hate pain. I try to avoid suffering, I hate being poor and I don’t go out of my way to look for affliction. But pain, suffering, poverty and affliction find me. They find all of us. If you are free of these things, brace yourself and be patient. All you have to do is live long enough. Suffering and affliction are human conditions. And when suffering and affliction come, be patient, remembering that God is God and in a good mood. There is a reason!

Patience is a gift of God in enduring life’s circumstances and sufferings. We know that in this world we will have trouble and suffer. Jesus promised that would be true. Persecution will come our way when we follow Jesus. Again, Jesus promised that.

Our patience finds favor with God even in the middle of suffering. Our patience moves God and Jesus shows us great compassion.

Patience is an attitude of the heart. It is because of the patience of Jesus suffering on my behalf that I have salvation. With the strength of the Holy Spirit, I can endure suffering with patience. I can persevere. I can finish the race. w00t!

“Well Done!” Pastor Marvin Winans sings it

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings

We all want to hear it when we complete our journey. Hear Pastor Marvin Winans sing it at New St. Paul Tabernacle COGIC where Bishop P.A. Brooks presides.

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ | Matthew 25:21 New International Version (NIV)

“Happy are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” ~Jesus

Tags

Gentleness, Humble, Inheritance, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 5, Meek

Jesus is a kind, loving King. Jesus is not angry with me. Jesus wants me to be kind and gentle. His goal for me is for me to love.

“Happy (aka Blessed) are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” ~Jesus | Source: Matthew 5:5

What sort of gentleness is it, on account of those who have it, are pronounced happy? It seems important to note that in the manifesto ‘the meek’ come between those who mourn over sin and those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. The particular form of meekness which the Messiah requires in his disciples will surely have something to do with this sequence. This meekness denotes a humble and gentle attitude to others which is determined by a true estimate of ourselves. It is comparatively easy to be honest with ourselves before God and acknowledge ourselves to be sinners in his sight. Remember the “Jesus Prayer” — “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.”

Gentleness — A mark and part of the character of a follower of Jesus

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1 Timothy 6, Colossians 3, Ephesians 4, Galatians 5, Gentleness, Jesus, Teachings

Gentleness is a mark and a part of the character of a follower of Jesus. We know from Galatians 5:22 that gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. How do others know I am following Jesus? They see my gentleness. Jesus himself, in His Manifesto, said “Happy are those who are gentle (meek) for they will inherit the earth.”

The Greek word is πραΰτης praëtēs, prah-oo´-tace meaning mildness, humility or meekness. Jesus himself said we would be happy if we are gentle.(meek). The benefit is we will inherit the earth.

“How is it written of the Son of Man that He will suffer many things and be treated with contempt?” ~Jesus

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Contempt, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 9, Mercy, Sinner

Am I treating Jesus with contempt? Now that is a tough question. I don’t really want to think about it. Yet, if I am nullifying what Jesus wants to be happening, is that not contempt? If I don’t help the poor or those in prison, is that not contempt? Jesus is clear that if I don’t help them, I am evil and going to spend my eternal life in “fiery hell”.

And Jesus said to them, “Elijah does first come and restore all things. And yet how is it written of the Son of Man that He will suffer many things and be treated with contempt? (Mar 9:12 NASB)

“He has risen from the dead!” ~Angel | Breaking News! Jesus rises from the dead in an incorruptible body!

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Acts 2, Angel, Death, Incorruptible, Jesus, Life, Matthew 28, Psalm 16, Resurrection

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee.There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” | Matthew 28:5-7

One of the things I am reminded of, that we don’t emphasize very much on Resurrection Sunday, is the Jesus was raised to an incorruptible body. Unlike others who were resurrected, they would die again. Jesus defeated death.

For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol; Nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay. | Psalm 16:10 (NASB) And again by Peter “Brethren, I may confidently say to you regarding the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. And so, because he was a prophet and knew that God had sworn to him with an oath to seat one of his descendants on his throne, he looked ahead and spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, that He was neither abandoned to Hades, nor did His flesh suffer decay. | Acts 2:29–31 (NASB)

Death is not to be feared by the followers of Jesus. We shall live in a literal body just as real as the one we have now, for, says Paul: “We look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body . . .” (Philippians 3:20, 21).

“Peace be with you!” ~Jesus

Tags

God is Good, Holy Week, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 20, Resurrection

Here we are. It is “Resurrection Sunday”. I’m celebrating the resurrection of Jesus not bunnies and chocolate candy. That’s just me though.

Jesus died for me and on the third day after He was buried Jesus was raised from the dead to an incorruptible body. Do I believe that? Is it the core of my faith?

Now there is some good news! It is really, really good news! It is stunning. It is amazing news!

What is it?

He is risen!

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” | John 20:19-23

“Easter says you can put truth in the grave but it won’t stay there.” ~~Clarence W. Hall

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Easter, Resurrection Sunday

Jesus is risen. Hallelujah! Easter says you can put truth in the grave but it won’t stay there. ~~Clarence W. Hall

Source: “Easter says you can put truth in the grave but it won’t stay there.” ~~Clarence W. Hall | Quotes, thoughts and musings

“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” ~Jesus

Tags

Holy Saturday, Holy Week, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 23

There is a break from the horror of Good Friday! Jesus is carrying out the plan of His Father. His disciples are huddled up trying to figure it all out. No matter how many times Jesus had told them, they didn’t get it. I don’t either many days. Jesus is talking to me. Jesus has things He wants me to do. I am scared and I am hiding. Yikes!

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner!

Holy Saturday is the name given to the day between Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. Some theories exist about what is going on from the time of the death of Jesus to His resurrection on Sunday morning. Some have a good case for Jesus visiting Hell or Sheol (the place of the dead). Here is one.

From the scriptures, it is clear Jesus did visit Sheol. After His crucifixion, Jesus was laid in a nearby tomb, and His body remained there the entirety of Holy Saturday (Matthew 27:59-60; Mark 15:46; Luke 23:53-54; John 19:39-42). Saturday turned into Sunday!“‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!’ And having said this he breathed his last” (Luke 23:46)

Joseph bought a linen shroud, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. (Mark 15:46)

Brethren, I may confidently say to you regarding the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. And so, because he was a prophet and knew that God had sworn to him with an oath to seat one of his descendants on his throne, he looked ahead and spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, that He was neither abandoned to Hades, nor did His flesh suffer decay. (Acts 2:29-31)

What can I do about my bitterness?

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Bitterness, John Piper, Romans 12, Vengeance

Great message (and short) from John Piper on bitterness. When I harbor feelings of vengeance I show that I don’t have faith in what God has promised.

Vengeance belongs to the Lord. He will repay.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”says the Lord. | Romans 12:18-20 (NASB)

Κύριε Ἰησοῦ Χριστέ, Υἱέ τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐλέησόν με τὸν ἁμαρτωλόν

Tags

Authority, Jesus, Mercy, Messiah

Translated: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner”

 

On this most holy day, the day when our Messiah humbled himself and died for all of us, I pray the Jesus Prayer. On this “Good Friday”.

I thankful that Jesus died for me. I am thankful that God loved me so much He sent His only Son to die for me. I am thankful that God did not want to condemn us but wanted to save us. And save us He did.

“At just the right time, when we were still powerless, the Messiah died for the ungodly. God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, the Messiah died for us” ~Apostle Paul

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Atonement, Good Friday, Holy Friday, Holy Week, Jesus, Messiah, Reconciliation, Romans 5:6-11

Good Friday, also known as “Holy Friday,” is the Friday immediately preceding Resurrection Sunday. It is celebrated traditionally as the day on which Jesus was crucified.  The Bible instructs us to remember Christ’s death by observing the Lord’s Supper. First Corinthians 11:24-26 declares, “…do this in remembrance of me…for whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, the Messiah died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners [missing God’s goal], the Messiah died for us.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus the Messiah, through whom we have now received reconciliation. | Romans 5:6-11

Love – Is it optional?

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1 Corinthians 13, Apostle Paul, Commandments, Fruit of the Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Love

Is love optional? Yes, I get to decide whether to love or not. So do you. I often am not loving. I can be mean and cruel. I have no defense. “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

There is good news in that the Word of God and Jesus offers an understanding of the source, character, requirement and value of love, based on the nature and actions of God our Father. Jesus sums up God’s goal (command) for us as one of loving God and our neighbors.

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the great and foremost commandment. “The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ~Jesus | Matthew 22:37

I must confess that I am not the best at this. I am challenged many days. Let’s dig in. There is much to learn on how to love.

“Truly I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” ~Jesus to Peter

Judas betrays Jesus. Peter and the others deny they know Jesus. Nobody is with Jesus at the end. I am not either. I would have been no different. I have to ask would it have been by betrayal or denial. Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.

Then Jesus told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written: ‘‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.”

Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.”

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.”

But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. | Source: Matthew 26:31-35

“This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” ~Jesus

Tags

Feet Washing, Holy Week, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Last Supper, Luke 22, Maundy Thursday, New Covenant

Maundy Thursday, also known as “Holy Thursday,” is the Thursday of Passion Week, one day before Good Friday (the Friday before Easter). Maundy Thursday is the name given to the day on which Jesus celebrated the Passover with His disciples, known as the Last Supper. Two important events are the focus of Maundy Thursday. The overlying principle is that Jesus establishes a New Covenant with us.

Jesus celebrated the Last Supper with His disciples and instituted the Lord’s Supper, also called Communion. Some Christian churches observe a special Communion service on Maundy Thursday in memory of Jesus’ Last Supper with His disciples.

When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. And he said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table. The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed. But woe to that man who betrays him!”  | Luke 22:19-20 New International Version (NIV)

“Just because I don’t understand what Jesus the Messiah says, I have no right to determine that He must be mistaken in what He says.” ~Oswald Chambers

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Jesus, John 11, Obedience, Oswald Chambers

“Let us go to Judea again.” The disciples said to Him, “…are You going there again?” —John 11:7-8

Great insight via Oswald Chambers?  Isn’t There Some Misunderstanding? | My Utmost For His Highest

Just because I don’t understand what Jesus the Messiah says, I have no right to determine that He must be mistaken in what He says.

“Precious Lord, Take My Hand” ~Rev. James Cleveland

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Gospel, James Cleveland

This seemed like a good day for some music from the Reverend James Cleveland. Let’s all sing now, precious Lord, take my hand!

Rev. Cleveland, in my opinion, is the greatest gospel singer ever! On February 9, 1991 Rev. Cleveland passed on to be with Jesus.

“What are you willing to give me if I deliver Jesus over to you?” ~Judas

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Acts 1, Betrayal, Holy Week, Jesus, John 12, John 13, John 6, Judas Iscariot, Luke 22, Matthew 26, Matthew 27, Psalm 41, Spy Wednesday

According to the traditional interpretation of the Bible, Holy Wednesday is the day on which Jesus was anointed with spikenard during a meal (Matthew 26:6–13). [Note: This is a similar but different anointing from the one on Lazarus Saturday] The day is sometimes called “Spy Wednesday” since it is traditionally thought of as the day Judas conspired with local authorities to betray Jesus (Matthew 26:14–16).

Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver Jesus over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over. On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?” He replied, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover. | Matthew 26:14-19

“Nor will I tell you by what authority I do these things.” ~Jesus

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Authority, Holy Week, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 20, Religious Leaders

Holy Tuesday is is a busy day. Many chapters of the Gospels are devoted to it.(Matthew 21:23—23:39; Mark 11:27—12:44; Luke 20:1—21:4). Here is one of the core issues. By what authority does Jesus the Messiah do the things He does?

On one of the days while He was teaching the people in the temple and preaching the good news, the chief priests and the scribes with the elders confronted Him, and they spoke, saying to Him, “Tell us by what authority You are doing these things, or who is the one who gave You this authority?” Jesus answered and said to them, “I will also ask you a question, and you tell Me: Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men?” They reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From men,’ all the people will stone us to death, for they are convinced that John was a prophet.” So they answered that they did not know where it came from. And Jesus said to them, “Nor will I tell you by what authority I do these things.” | Luke 20:1-8

“Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” ~Greeks coming to Jerusalem for Passover

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Cross, Crucifixion, Holy Monday, Holy Week, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 12:20-26, Resurrection

In the timeline of Passion week, it is a little unclear where to place the story of the Greeks seeking Jesus. Some place it on Monday, so here it is. It is my desire to see Jesus. That is the huge point of this week. It seems to me, I have missed the importance of this story about the Greeks request.

Now there were some Greeks among those who were going up to worship at the feast; these then came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and began to ask him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip came and told Andrew; Andrew and Philip came and told Jesus. And Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him. | John 12:20-26

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” ~ God

Tags

Isaiah 1, Justice, Religious Leaders

What should followers of Jesus think about justice and the social justice movement?

“If we take the Bible seriously then justice should be a big deal for us. God does not suggest, He commands that we “Do justice and righteousness, and deliver from the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed” (Jer. 22:3). Jesus declared his mission to “proclaim good news to the poor… liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed” (Luke 4:18, quoting Isa. 61:1, 2). “Seek justice” (Isa. 1:17) is a clarion call of Scripture, and those who block their ears to that call are simply not living by the Book.” | Thaddeus Williams Source: How Should Christians Think About Social Justice? | The Stream

So what does God say? “Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong. Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” | Isaiah 1:17

“I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!” ~Jesus to the religious leaders

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Glory, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Joy, Luke 19, Palm Sunday, Religious Leaders

Some of the religious leaders [Pharisees] in the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” But Jesus answered, “I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!” | Luke 19:39–40 (NASB)

Jesus is the Messiah, the anointed one. Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a colt, royally yet humbly, to the rejoicing of his followers, but provoking opposition from the Jewish religious leaders. This is the stunning entry of the King to the holy city Jerusalem. Jesus doesn’t ride in on a horse with an army. The entry of Jesus is in victory, yet humility. There was no stopping Jesus and His march to the cross. God is going to glorify Him in the beauty of his obedience. For the joy that is before Him, Jesus enters triumphantly.

“Let her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of My burial.” ~Jesus

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1 Corinthians 1, Anointed, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 12, Mary Magdalene, Messiah

Jesus came to Bethany the day before Palm Sunday. This actually starts our most holy week! In the Orthodox church, this is known as “Lazarus Saturday”. As a church, we ought to recognize and celebrate this more! The week kicks off with the anointing of Jesus by Mary. What an honor.

Jesus, therefore, six days before the Passover, came to Bethany where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So they made Him a supper there, and Martha was serving; but Lazarus was one of those reclining at the table with Him. Mary then took a pound of very costly perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of His disciples, who was intending to betray Him, said, “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and given to poor people?” Now he said this, not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box, he used to pilfer what was put into it. Therefore Jesus said, “Let her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of My burial. For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.”

The large crowd of the Jews then learned that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead. But the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also;  because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and were believing in Jesus. | John 12:1-11 NASB 

I saw Jesus last night …

Tags

Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Matthew, Sermon on the Mount

I saw Jesus last night. Of course, it was not the Jesus I was expecting. He was delivering the “Jesus Manifesto” (aka The Sermon on the Mount).

This was stunning. Jesus was smiling most of the time and did not speak in a sterilized monotone. He was serious but he interacted spontaneously with those who were following Him. This is not a sermon delivered from behind a pulpit. This had no stage lighting. There was no microphone. Just Jesus with His followers laying out how the Kingdom of God works. Slowly but powerfully. And did I mention He had a smile on his face?

“Happy are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Saying, Matthew 5, Peacemaker

“Happy (aka Blessed) are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” ~Jesus Source: Matthew 5:9 (NASB)

Jesus continues on with his manifesto (aka sermon on the mountain). Jesus calls on us to be peacemakers. Now that is a tall order.

The sequence of thought from purity of heart in the previous prescription for happiness (aka beatitude), to peacemaking seems very natural. One of the most frequent causes of conflict is the secret planning of something illicit or detrimental to someone, while openness and sincerity are essential to all true reconciliation. Purity of heart leads directly to the ability to be a peacemaker.

“At the center of nonviolence stands the principle of love.” ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

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Jesus, Love, Martin Luther King Jr., Nonviolence

Martin Luther King’s rationale for love and nonviolence was an attempt to follow in the steps of Jesus. Throughout his life, he reminded himself and others about Sermon on the Mount’s (the Jesus Manifesto) call to love our enemies (Matthew 5:43-48) and the arrest of Jesus (Matthew 26-36-56), which calls people to a nonviolent love in search for justice.

“Jesus told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt.” ~Luke

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Contempt, Humility, Jesus, Love, Luke 18, Religious Leaders, Romans 14

Jesus told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, the sinner!’ I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Source: Luke 18:9-14 (NASB)

As background, the Greek word for contempt is ἐξουθενέω exouthenéō, (ex-oo-then-eh’-o). It means contemptible, despise, least esteemed or set at naught. The first principle of Jesus is to love. Contempt is hate but it is insidious in that I don’t see it in my life.

“God, who is by nature good and dispassionate, loves all men equally as His handiwork.” ~Maximos the Confessor

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Jesus, Love, Maximos the Confessor, Mercy, Quote

We all know what Jesus said. Or do we? Do we serve an “angry God” who is out to do me in? Or is God good? I must decide and it makes a difference.

For God so loved the world …

We know that God is good. God is also in a good mood.

We also know there will be justice. There will be a judgement day. We will have to give an account of ourselves.

“God, Who is by nature good and dispassionate, loves all men equally as His handiwork. But He glorifies the virtuous man because in his will he is united to God. At the same time, in His goodness he is merciful to the sinner and by chastising him in this life brings him back to the path of virtue. Similarly, a man of good and dispassionate judgment also loves all men equally. He loves the virtuous man because of his nature and the probity of his intention; and he loves the sinner, too, because of his nature and because in his compassion he pities him for foolishly stumbling in darkness.”

— Maximos the Confessor

 

Κύριε Ἰησοῦ Χριστέ, Υἱέ τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐλέησόν με τὸν ἁμαρτωλόν

Translated “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner”

“Religious leaders talk a good line, but they don’t live it.” ~Jesus

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Action, Doing, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 23, Religious Leaders

“Now Jesus turned to address his disciples, along with the crowd that had gathered with them. “The religion scholars [Scribes and Pharisees] are competent teachers in God’s Law. You won’t go wrong in following their teachings on Moses. But be careful about following them. They talk a good line, but they don’t live it. They don’t take it into their hearts and live it out in their behavior. It’s all spit-and-polish veneer.” ~Jesus | Matthew 23:1-3 (The Message)

Jesus has a real thing about hypocrisy. His frequent target are the religious leaders. In Matthew 23 he goes on a real rant about the frauds. He introduces 8 “woes” on them. “Woe to you!” Jesus says over and over. Even more, “Your lives are roadblocks to God’s kingdom. You refuse to enter, and won’t let anyone else in either.”

“We ought not to treat living creatures like shoes or household belongings, which when worn with use we throw away.” ~Plutarch

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Love, Plutarch, Quotes

Jesus compels us to love our neighbor as ourselves.

Jesus isn’t having any of our “Use and toss away” culture.

It just won’t do at all. There is going to be a day of judgement. Jesus has been given the authority from God the Father decide who will spend eternity with Him and who will spend eternity in the eternal flames of hell. Don’t think so. From Matthew 25 “Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; ⁴² for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; ⁴³ I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’ ⁴⁴ Then they themselves also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not ^[e]take care of You?’ ⁴⁵ Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ ⁴⁶ These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

“We ought not to treat living creatures like shoes or household belongings, which when worn with use we throw away.”

– Plutarch

“So don’t waste your time on a scoffer; all you’ll get for your pains is abuse. But if you correct those who care about life, that’s different—they’ll love you for it!” ~King Solomon

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Arrogance, Cynic, Jesus, Judge, King Solomon, Proverbs 9, Scoffer, Wise Sayings

“If you reason with an arrogant cynic, you’ll get slapped in the face; confront bad behavior and get a kick in the shins. So don’t waste your time on a scoffer; all you’ll get for your pains is abuse. But if you correct those who care about life, that’s different—they’ll love you for it!” ~King Solomon | Proverbs 9:7-12 (The Message)

News flash!

The wise will love us.

God is in a good mood.

Jesus challenges me “Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine, or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” King Solomon and Jesus know more than a thing or two.

“For truly barren is profane education, which is always in labor but never gives birth.” Gregory of Nyssa

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Gregory of Nyssa, Life, Quote, Wisdom

Jesus told we must be born again. Jesus did not suggest we be barren or be in labor forever.

Jesus is clear. We can’t see the Kingdom of God in our current state. We must die to ourselves and be raised to new life.

Our current focus of our educational system leads us astray. It gives us false hope of wisdom and knowledge.

Jesus will not have any of that.

The wisdom of this world is barren. It will never lead to life in Jesus. We must declare it for what it is.

“For truly barren is profane education, which is always in labor but never gives birth. For what fruit worthy of such pangs does philosophy show for being so long in labor? Do not all who are full of wind and never come to term miscarry before they come to the light of the knowledge of God, although they could as well become men if they were not altogether hidden in the womb of barren wisdom?”

– Gregory of Nyssa, in The Life of Moses

“We’re not keeping secrets; we’re telling them. We’re not hiding things; we’re bringing everything out into the open.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Kingdom of God, Light, Luke 8, Transparent

“No one lights a lamp and then covers it with a washtub or shoves it under the bed. No, you set it up on a lamp stand so those who enter the room can see their way. We’re not keeping secrets; we’re telling them. We’re not hiding things; we’re bringing everything out into the open. So be careful that you don’t become misers of what you hear. Generosity begets generosity. Stinginess impoverishes.” | Luke 8:16-18 (The Message)

Good news alert!

Jesus doesn’t have any secrets.

God is in a good mood.

Jesus sets up a principle of the Kingdom of God. We live in a Kingdom (aka country) that has complete transparency. There is no hiding. There are no secrets. Everything is out in the open. Jesus is not on a mission to make you feel good about yourself. When I read what Jesus says I often say “Yikes”, “Uh Oh”, “Oh No”, “Really?” and a few things I can’t repeat in polite company. Jesus isn’t hiding anything. Jesus is telling the truth and He is saying it with the full authority of God. That is good news. We can count on Jesus.

“We think we make the picture hang straight on our wall by telling our neighbors that all his pictures are crooked.” ~Bishop Fulton J. Sheen

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Bishop Fulton Sheen, Hypocrisy, Quote

Jesus is clear that we should not worry about the speck in brothers eye when we have a plank in our own. Jesus despises hypocrites.

“Criticism of others is thus an oblique form of self-commendation. We think we make the picture hang straight on our wall by telling our neighbors that all his pictures are crooked.”

~Bishop Fulton J. Sheen

Κύριε Ἰησοῦ Χριστέ, Υἱέ τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐλέησόν με τὸν ἁμαρτωλόν

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner!

“My kingdom, doesn’t consist of what you see around you.” ~Jesus

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1 Corinthians 15, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 18, Kingdom of God, Matthew 7

Pilate said, “Do I look like a Jew? Your people and your high priests turned you over to me. What did you do?” “My kingdom,” said Jesus, “doesn’t consist of what you see around you. If it did, my followers would fight so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. But I’m not that kind of king, not the world’s kind of king.” | Source: John 18:35-36 (The Message)

Breaking news!

Jesus is in charge of God’s Kingdom.

God is in a good mood.

I’m looking out my window. I see lots of stuff. The yard, the house across the street, a tree in the front yard, our daughter’s car …. Lots of stuff for sure. If I turn around, more stuff. Computers, books, clocks, desk and much more. More stuff.

“I was born in order to die. I die that I may live. Remember me, O Lord, in Thy Kingdom!” ~St. Tikhon of Voronezh

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Death, Eternity, Kingdom, Life

We all know the saying, “Life is short”. Indeed it is if we do not know our Messiah Jesus who has promised us eternal life. We shall all die. We won’t all spend eternity with God. Some will go on to the eternal fire.

Eternity is a mighty long time. Imagine trillions and trillions of years.

And then trillions more.

And then quadrillions and quadrillions.

On and one it will go. Will it be with Jesus?

“We see the water of a river flowing uninterruptedly and passing away, and all that floats on its surface, rubbish or beams of trees, all pass by. Christian! So does our life. . .I was an infant, and that time has gone. I was an adolescent, and that too has passed. I was a young man, and that too is far behind me. The strong and mature man that I was is no more. My hair turns white, I succumb to age, but that too passes; I approach the end and will go the way of all flesh. I was born in order to die. I die that I may live. Remember me, O Lord, in Thy Kingdom!”

— St. Tikhon of Voronezh

Κύριε Ἰησοῦ Χριστέ, Υἱέ τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐλέησόν με τὸν ἁμαρτωλόν

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner!

“Those are your words, not mine.” ~Jesus

Tags

Crucifixion, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 23, Pilate

Then they all took Jesus to Pilate and began to bring up charges against him. They said, “We found this man undermining our law and order, forbidding taxes to be paid to Caesar, setting himself up as Messiah-King.” Pilate asked him, “Is this true that you’re ‘King of the Jews’?” “Those are your words, not mine,” Jesus replied. | Source: Luke 23:1-2 (The Message)

God’s plan was moving along on schedule. Jesus had been arrested and was now on trial. It was a little confusing. First to Pilate, then to Herod and then back to Pilate. Jesus was going to die and shed his blood for us. That was God’s plan and it was going to happen. Nothing could stop it.

“I come by here to say that America, too, is going to hell, if we don’t use her wealth.” ~Martin Luther King Jr.

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Jesus, Martin Luther King Jr., Poor, Quotes, Wealth

Jesus is clear that what we do for the poor we do for Him. He is equally clear that if we don’t do for the poor, we have ignored Jesus. Hell is waiting for us if we don’t.

Consider “For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.”

“What could you ever trade your soul for?” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Questions, Jesus Sayings, Kingdom of God, Mark 8, Soul

“Calling the crowd to join his disciples, Jesus said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? What could you ever trade your soul for?” ~Jesus  | Mark 8:34-37 (The Message)

Jesus is building his Father’s Kingdom and lays out for us the core requirements. Jesus is the leader. I have to sacrifice what I want and let Him lead. That is it. The is the core.

What could you ever trade your soul for? The answer is I could trade it for a lot of different things. There are lots of “gods” to choose from. There is materialism, secularism, politics, myself, and on and on the goes the list. I have a choice.

“God has never let you down, never looked the other way when you were being kicked around.” ~King David

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King David, Psalm 22, Trust, Wise Sayings, Worship

“Here’s the story I’ll tell my friends when they come to worship, and punctuate it with Hallelujahs: God has never let you down, never looked the other way when we were being kicked around. God has never wandered off to do his own thing; he has been right there, listening.” ~King David | Source: Psalm 22:22-24 (The Message)

David has just spent 20 verses talking about how he feels abandoned by God. Seriously, he goes on and on about it. David is depressed and in despair. It is worth reading to put this in context. He starts out by saying “God, God . . . my God! Why did you dump me miles from nowhere? Doubled up with pain, I call to God all the day long. No answer. Nothing. I keep at it all night, tossing and turning.” Not only is he depressed, he is whining about it to God.

Miracles of Jesus – How they reveal and confirm his Messianic credentials and the coming of God’s Kingdom

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God is Great, Jesus, Miracles, Religious Leaders, Teachings

There are so many stunning, amazing and supernatural acts of Jesus. They reveal and confirm his Messianic credentials. They announce the coming of God’s kingdom. The miracles of the Messiah are to be seen as an integral part of his ministry and are signs that point to the power of God.

We tend to think of the dramatic miracles where Jesus heals the sick. Jesus also casts out demons with evil obeying Him. Most amazing of all, Jesus raises the dead. Jesus also had authority of nature and natural forces. Jesus establishes that “nothing is impossible with God”.

John tells us that “many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.”

The Greek word for miracle is δύναμις dunamis, doo´-nam-is. Think of the power of dynamite. It is stunning and amazing power, i.e. the power of the Holy Spirit from God the Father. It is the power that raised Jesus from the dead, never to die again. 

“Are you listening to this? Really listening?” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Questions, Jesus Sayings, Listen, Mark 4, Understand

“Are you listening to this? Really listening?”

When they were off by themselves, those who were close to him, along with the Twelve, asked about the stories. He told them, “You’ve been given insight into God’s kingdom—you know how it works. But to those who can’t see it yet, everything comes in stories, creating readiness, nudging them toward receptive insight.”

Source: Mark 4:9-12 (The Message)

Jesus asks really loaded questions. They get to the heart of the issue. Jesus isn’t going to ignore what I am up to. Jesus is going to confront me. Jesus is going to let me in on the Kingdom. Now that is a big deal.

“Here are six things God hates, and one more that he loathes with a passion.” ~King Solomon

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Family, King Solomon, Obedience, Passion, Proverbs 6, Wise Sayings

Here are six things God hates, and one more that he loathes with a passion:

eyes that are arrogant,
a tongue that lies,
hands that murder the innocent,
a heart that hatches evil plots,
feet that race down a wicked track,
a mouth that lies under oath,
a troublemaker in the family.

Source: Proverbs 6:16-19 (The Message)

What does God hate? We must watch out for our eyes, tongue, hands, heart, feet and mouth. These are issues of arrogance, lies, murder, evil, wickedness, and lying under oath. Got it. This is serious and we know it.

Peacemakers – What is peace, how do we make it real and what is the promise of Jesus?

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Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Matthew 5, Peace, Peacemaker, Teachings

Jesus says “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”

The commendation of peacemakers – It is one thing to keep the peace and it is quite another to make peace. In the one case it already exists, in the other we are calling it into existence since it is lacking. Jesus calls us to be peacemakers. That is a huge challenge. Jesus gives us the power! We are to seek peace. We are to pursue peace. We are not to let up until we achieve it. Jesus challenges us to be tenacious.

How is peace made? Where does it come from? Consider this from Paul in Colossians (1:20). “Through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.”

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” ~Jesus

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Golden Rule, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Love, Matthew 7

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” ~ Jesus | Source: Matthew 7:12-14 (ESV)

Jesus is beginning to wrap up his Manifesto (aka the Sermon on the Mount). Jesus now lays out for us the summary of all summaries. Jesus says “this is the Law and the Prophets”. Jesus gives it to us at the highest level. This is what is known as the “30,000 foot view”. It is also traditionally known as the “Golden Rule”.

“Rats and roaches live by competition under the laws of supply and demand; it is the privilege of human beings to live under the laws of justice and mercy.” –~Wendell Berry

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Jesus, Justice, Mercy, Quotes, Wendell Berry

Jesus challenges us to live a life of mercy and to work for justice and mercy. Jesus uses harsh language calling out the religious leaders as hypocrites. Jesus is not happy at all. Jesus is clear. Justice and mercy are not to be ignored under any circumstance.

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others.” (Matthew 23:23)

 “Rats and roaches live by competition under the laws of supply and demand; it is the privilege of human beings to live under the laws of justice and mercy.” ~Wendell Berry

“These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” ~Jesus

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Commandments, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Love, Matthew 22

“When the Pharisees heard how he had bested the Sadducees, they gathered their forces for an assault. One of their religion scholars spoke for them, posing a question they hoped would show Jesus up: “Teacher, which command in God’s Law is the most important?”

“Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” | Source: Matthew 22:34-40

The religious leaders, in their contempt, arrogance and hypocrisy, thought they could get the best of Jesus. Of course, they couldn’t. It hasn’t stopped though. Religious leaders, and their followers, still think they can. Of course, they can’t.

God is good – Would that explain why God is in a good mood and does good? God is good y’all!

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Compassion, God is Good, Jesus, Kindness, Love

All God’s perfect qualities are made freely available to all for the benefit of the whole world. God is good. Jesus alerts us that God alone is good. God is good, kind, thoughtful, compassionate and loving. God so loved the world that He sent Jesus to die for us. God is good y’all.

Because God is good, God is in a good mood. It is a myth that the old testament (aka covenant) is all about an angry God. As James alerts us “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.” God never varies from being good. At all. Ever!

“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 6, Prayer

“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” ~Jesus | Source: Matthew 6:5-6 (ESV)

Read more on Hypocrisy – What it is, why it is evil and hated by Jesus here.

Prayer essential in our relationship with God. One of the pillars in the Jesus Manifesto (Matthew 5 – 7) is prayer.  Prayer is not what we think. Jesus lays out what prayer is all about in the Kingdom of God where Jesus is in charge. Jesus draws a distinction between hypocrites who love to pray and those who pray because they love.

Hypocrisy – What it is, why it is evil and hated by Jesus

Tags

Hypocrisy, Hypocrite, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Teachings

Hypocrisy is an outward pretense masking an inner reality. Jesus condemns hypocrisy, especially in matters of faith. Followers of Jesus should express their commitment to God in their words and their deeds, as well as in their inner motivation. There should always be alignment of the heart, the mind and our actions.

Jesus is clear and hates hypocrites. Jesus calls it out all the time. Our contempt allows us to ignore its reality in our lives. I must change my mind (aka repent).

The Greek word is ὑποκριτής (hupŏkritēs, hoop-ok-ree-tace) meaning  an actor under an assumed character (stage-player), i.e. a dissembler (“hypocrite”):— hypocrite.

The origin of hypocrisy  – Our nature is one that is fallen and we constantly miss God’s goal (aka sin). We try to cover that up by appearing to be a good person. I am not. You are not. 

“Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery? He is not here, but raised up.” ~Angels about Jesus

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Angels, Crucifixion, Jesus, Luke 24, Resurrection

“They were puzzled, wondering what to make of this. Then, out of nowhere it seemed, two men, light cascading over them, stood there. The women were awestruck and bowed down in worship. The men said, “Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery? He is not here, but raised up. Remember how he told you when you were still back in Galilee that he had to be handed over to sinners, be killed on a cross, and in three days rise up?” Then they remembered Jesus’ words.” | Source: Luke 24:4-8

Why didn’t the repetition help? Over and over again, Jesus told those closest to him, that He would be crucified, buried and rise again in three days. Jesus didn’t hide this at all. Jesus is  clear. Jesus is specific. I guess, on face value, it was (and is) hard to believe. Who in their right mind would say such things? Well … Jesus did and it happened. Jesus is the truth!

“I glorified you on earth by completing down to the last detail what you assigned me to do.” ~Jesus

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God's Goal, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 17, Mission, Obsession, Plan, Prayer

“Then, raising his eyes in prayer, Jesus said: … I glorified you on earth by completing down to the last detail what you assigned me to do.” ~Jesus | Source: John 17:1-5 (The Message)

Jesus was on a mission. Jesus had as his focus only doing what God, His Father, wanted him to do. God is God and has a plan all laid out for me. My mission is to do what Jesus has in mind for me. That is how I glorify God.

“Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” ~Jesus

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Evil, Jesus, Jesus Manifesto, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 6, Temptation

“Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” ~Jesus Source: Matthew 6:13 (ESV)

Jesus taught us to pray. Jesus gave us the template. The prayer is a part of the Jesus Manifesto. This is the core of what I need to say to God. One of the pillars is to ask God to deliver us from evil (or as most translators agree) the evil one.

“What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you?” ~Jesus

Tags

Cross, Health, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 8, Pain, Suffering, Wealth

Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you [or soul]? What could you ever trade your soul for?” Source: Mark 8:34-37 (The Message)

Jesus ties everything together for me. I’m not left guessing what is required of me in the Kingdom of God where Jesus is in charge.