Today's Bible reading is the 23rd chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+23&version=NASB
In today's passage of scripture we find Jesus announcing 8 woes upon the scribes and the Pharisees. According to Webster's dictionary the word "woe" is used to express grief, regret or distress. The Lord Jesus is pronouncing grief, regret and distress to these two "religious" groups as He speaks to the crowd of people, including His disciples, regarding the scribes and Pharisees having "seated themselves in the chair of Moses". They had exalted themselves and each "woe" seems to be a result of their pride and hypocrisy. Pride and hypocrisy walk hand in hand with each other and hold onto each other tightly. But neither has ever held the hand of our Savior. What a joy and privilege it is to walk in Christ and be blessed in Him. By His grace and with our eyes fixed on Him, may we see the beauty of humility as demonstrated in the Lord Jesus.
Greg
Friday, January 31, 2014
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 22nd chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+22&version=NASB
Matthew 22:23 reminds me of Pastor Don Gillum, a man God used many years ago to help me grow and mature in Christ. I don't know where he had gotten it, but he had this little saying that would help you remember a major difference between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. The Pharisees believed in the resurrection and the Sadducees did not, that's why they were "Sad you see".
Perhaps I should pray it's the only thing that I have in common with the Pharisees, a common belief in the resurrection. In today's scripture reading the Sadducees were questioning Jesus regarding the resurrection, something they did not even believe in, as they attempted to get Him to say something that could be used against Him. Without getting into the question itself, I wanted to note a portion of His response that I feel is a great reminder to us. He told them that they were "mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures nor the power of God."
Oh, the importance of understanding the Scriptures! God has preserved His precious word through the ages and has given us the Holy Spirit, our Helper, that we might understand the Scriptures and know the power of God. In Philippians 3:10 we read the Apostle Paul's purpose statement of knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection. In 2 Timothy 2:15 the apostle spoke of the importance of "accurately handling the word of truth". May God help us in our endeavor to not be mistaken about the things of God, to understand the Scriptures and to know the power of God.
Greg
Matthew 22:23 reminds me of Pastor Don Gillum, a man God used many years ago to help me grow and mature in Christ. I don't know where he had gotten it, but he had this little saying that would help you remember a major difference between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. The Pharisees believed in the resurrection and the Sadducees did not, that's why they were "Sad you see".
Perhaps I should pray it's the only thing that I have in common with the Pharisees, a common belief in the resurrection. In today's scripture reading the Sadducees were questioning Jesus regarding the resurrection, something they did not even believe in, as they attempted to get Him to say something that could be used against Him. Without getting into the question itself, I wanted to note a portion of His response that I feel is a great reminder to us. He told them that they were "mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures nor the power of God."
Oh, the importance of understanding the Scriptures! God has preserved His precious word through the ages and has given us the Holy Spirit, our Helper, that we might understand the Scriptures and know the power of God. In Philippians 3:10 we read the Apostle Paul's purpose statement of knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection. In 2 Timothy 2:15 the apostle spoke of the importance of "accurately handling the word of truth". May God help us in our endeavor to not be mistaken about the things of God, to understand the Scriptures and to know the power of God.
Greg
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 21st chapter of the Book of Matthew. It can be found here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+21&version=NASB
It must have been quite an event to have witnessed. Jesus, the Savior of the world, riding into Jerusalem on a donkey just days before His crucifixion. The people, including the children, were shouting "Hosanna to the Son of David" as they welcomed their king, most were spreading their coats out in the road while others were cutting branches from trees and spreading them in the road as He entered Jerusalem. Not many days later Jesus would walk out of Jerusalem on another road to bear the sins of the world and be crucified on Calvary. The cries had turned from "Hosanna to the Son of David" to "Crucify Him, crucify Him!" He would be wearing a crown of thorns upon His brow as He was being mocked as a king, and bleeding from the beatings inflicted upon Him. There would be no coats or tree branches to cover the road but one most assuredly could have found blood stains along the way. The event we read about in today's passage is often referred to as Jesus' "triumphant entry". As I consider the whole story, it seems that "triumph" is what occurred in the days that followed. Sin's penalty paid in full. Victory over death and the grave. The Son's purpose on earth fulfilled. Praise God for the triumph that we have found in Christ!
It must have been quite an event to have witnessed. Jesus, the Savior of the world, riding into Jerusalem on a donkey just days before His crucifixion. The people, including the children, were shouting "Hosanna to the Son of David" as they welcomed their king, most were spreading their coats out in the road while others were cutting branches from trees and spreading them in the road as He entered Jerusalem. Not many days later Jesus would walk out of Jerusalem on another road to bear the sins of the world and be crucified on Calvary. The cries had turned from "Hosanna to the Son of David" to "Crucify Him, crucify Him!" He would be wearing a crown of thorns upon His brow as He was being mocked as a king, and bleeding from the beatings inflicted upon Him. There would be no coats or tree branches to cover the road but one most assuredly could have found blood stains along the way. The event we read about in today's passage is often referred to as Jesus' "triumphant entry". As I consider the whole story, it seems that "triumph" is what occurred in the days that followed. Sin's penalty paid in full. Victory over death and the grave. The Son's purpose on earth fulfilled. Praise God for the triumph that we have found in Christ!
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 20th chapter of the book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+20&version=NASB
In today's passage we find the mother of James and John coming to Jesus and asking Him to appoint her two sons to sit on His left and on His right in His kingdom. In His answer He says that such positions are not His to give but they are for those for whom His Father has prepared them. The passage tells us that the ten other disciples became indignant with the two brothers because of their attempt to seek these positions of honor.
Jesus went on to teach them, saying "whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave". The Son of Man is the divine example, not coming to be served but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many. What a contrast we find between that which was spoken of by Christ and that which springs up in the heart and mind of sinful men.
I could not help but think that the body of Christ had struggled to present servant hood in it's correct lofty position. Oh, I know that we verbalize it and know it intellectually but I was challenged about it being a desire of our hearts. "What do you want to be when you grow up?" is that often asked and often heard question. We hear lots of answers but seldom do we hear someone say, "I want to grow up to be a servant". As we elevate Christ to His rightful position in the Church and look to Him as our perfect example, may we see the glory and grace of being a servant.
Greg
In today's passage we find the mother of James and John coming to Jesus and asking Him to appoint her two sons to sit on His left and on His right in His kingdom. In His answer He says that such positions are not His to give but they are for those for whom His Father has prepared them. The passage tells us that the ten other disciples became indignant with the two brothers because of their attempt to seek these positions of honor.
Jesus went on to teach them, saying "whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave". The Son of Man is the divine example, not coming to be served but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many. What a contrast we find between that which was spoken of by Christ and that which springs up in the heart and mind of sinful men.
I could not help but think that the body of Christ had struggled to present servant hood in it's correct lofty position. Oh, I know that we verbalize it and know it intellectually but I was challenged about it being a desire of our hearts. "What do you want to be when you grow up?" is that often asked and often heard question. We hear lots of answers but seldom do we hear someone say, "I want to grow up to be a servant". As we elevate Christ to His rightful position in the Church and look to Him as our perfect example, may we see the glory and grace of being a servant.
Greg
Monday, January 27, 2014
Today's bible reading is the 19th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+19&version=NASB
I have never considered myself to have much in common with a camel but today's passage in Matthew reminds me that just like the camel, I could never "go through the eye of a needle". Jesus uses these words as He describes how difficult it is for "a rich man to enter the kingdom of God" but surely they are applicable to me as well. But I need not fear the impossibility of going "through the eye of a needle". As it says in today's scripture, "with God, all things are possible". Forgiven in Christ and clothed in His righteousness, the Lord Jesus Himself is my way, my truth and my life. I have entered the kingdom of God by and through the Son of God. At the conclusion of today's chapter, Peter asks Jesus what there would be for those who had left everything to follow Him. I can't help but think that there came a time when Peter realized that his "reward" would to simply one day be in the presence of the glorified Christ. As the Apostle Paul wrote, experiencing that which is "very much better".
I have never considered myself to have much in common with a camel but today's passage in Matthew reminds me that just like the camel, I could never "go through the eye of a needle". Jesus uses these words as He describes how difficult it is for "a rich man to enter the kingdom of God" but surely they are applicable to me as well. But I need not fear the impossibility of going "through the eye of a needle". As it says in today's scripture, "with God, all things are possible". Forgiven in Christ and clothed in His righteousness, the Lord Jesus Himself is my way, my truth and my life. I have entered the kingdom of God by and through the Son of God. At the conclusion of today's chapter, Peter asks Jesus what there would be for those who had left everything to follow Him. I can't help but think that there came a time when Peter realized that his "reward" would to simply one day be in the presence of the glorified Christ. As the Apostle Paul wrote, experiencing that which is "very much better".
Friday, January 24, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 18th chapter of the book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+18&version=NASB
Who might be greatest in the kingdom of heaven, the faith and humility of a child, stumbling blocks, rejoicing over the lost sheep found and the importance of forgiveness are among the lessons in Matthew 18 that one might spend much time on. Let me first say that we should be well content with Jesus being "greatest in the kingdom of heaven". But the thought that stuck in my mind as I read today's passage was that He has "settled my account". Praise God. I could not pay "my account" in denarii, talents or any other form of currency. The Lord Jesus took my overwhelming debt of sins and trespasses and cancelled it out by nailing it to the cross when He bore my sins on Calvary. Yes, "blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will not take into account". I am a blessed man. My account with God is settled in Christ!
Who might be greatest in the kingdom of heaven, the faith and humility of a child, stumbling blocks, rejoicing over the lost sheep found and the importance of forgiveness are among the lessons in Matthew 18 that one might spend much time on. Let me first say that we should be well content with Jesus being "greatest in the kingdom of heaven". But the thought that stuck in my mind as I read today's passage was that He has "settled my account". Praise God. I could not pay "my account" in denarii, talents or any other form of currency. The Lord Jesus took my overwhelming debt of sins and trespasses and cancelled it out by nailing it to the cross when He bore my sins on Calvary. Yes, "blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will not take into account". I am a blessed man. My account with God is settled in Christ!
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 17th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2017&version=NASB
Our scripture reading for today includes that great story of Jesus' transfiguration on the "high mountain" where He had purposely taken Peter, James and John to witness its occurrence. As I read the passage this morning I found myself drawn to a portion of the word's spoken by Peter as he beheld the transfigured Jesus and saw Moses and Elijah also, speaking with Him. Peter spoke to Jesus and said, "Lord, it is good for us to be here", Wow, I should say so. It would have been good to be there!
Certainly I was not there but I feel I can say with a grateful and thankful heart, "Lord, it is good to be here in this place today privileged to know You." By grace we have found ourselves to be in a "good place". Privileged to know the Jesus who was one day transfigured before three of His disciples and privileged to know Jesus who was one day crucified for the whole world to see. Privileged to know the matters of "first importance", His death, burial and resurrection. Privileged to know that God has forgiven me of my sins. Privileged to know that I am presently seated in Christ in heavenly places. Privileged to know that I am secure in Him. Privileged to know that He has prepared good works for me to walk in. Privileged with His many blessings. Privileged to know that He is coming again. Yes, privileged to know that I will one day see Him face to face. When I consider this "place" that I am in, I too can look to Jesus and say, "Lord, it is good for us to be here".
Our scripture reading for today includes that great story of Jesus' transfiguration on the "high mountain" where He had purposely taken Peter, James and John to witness its occurrence. As I read the passage this morning I found myself drawn to a portion of the word's spoken by Peter as he beheld the transfigured Jesus and saw Moses and Elijah also, speaking with Him. Peter spoke to Jesus and said, "Lord, it is good for us to be here", Wow, I should say so. It would have been good to be there!
Certainly I was not there but I feel I can say with a grateful and thankful heart, "Lord, it is good to be here in this place today privileged to know You." By grace we have found ourselves to be in a "good place". Privileged to know the Jesus who was one day transfigured before three of His disciples and privileged to know Jesus who was one day crucified for the whole world to see. Privileged to know the matters of "first importance", His death, burial and resurrection. Privileged to know that God has forgiven me of my sins. Privileged to know that I am presently seated in Christ in heavenly places. Privileged to know that I am secure in Him. Privileged to know that He has prepared good works for me to walk in. Privileged with His many blessings. Privileged to know that He is coming again. Yes, privileged to know that I will one day see Him face to face. When I consider this "place" that I am in, I too can look to Jesus and say, "Lord, it is good for us to be here".
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 16th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2016&version=NASB
Like the Pharisees and Sadducees of Jesus' day, religious leaders of our day, and most of the people in the world, are unable to "discern the signs of the times." Jesus pointed out that although human intellect had allowed men to discern the appearance of the sky, foreseeing fair or stormy weather, they were unable to discern the signs of the times. He proclaimed that "an evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign; and a sign will not be given it, except the sign of Jonah."
A red sky in the evening was discerned as a predictor of fair weather. A red sky in the morning was discerned as a predictor for stormy weather. But the signs of the times are a much different matter. Although it would not have been the sort of sign that men would have asked for, Jesus said "the sign of Jonah" would be given them. This sign of Jonah is certainly a reference to the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The red blood of Jesus that stained Calvary's cross would not be subject to discernment by human intellect as a red sky had been. May we pray for the church leaders of our day to seek the Lord and the truth of His word in order to be discerning of the signs of the time in which we live. May God grant us wisdom as we seek to share the gospel message and trust the Holy Spirit to grant spiritual discernment of the "sign of Jonah".
Like the Pharisees and Sadducees of Jesus' day, religious leaders of our day, and most of the people in the world, are unable to "discern the signs of the times." Jesus pointed out that although human intellect had allowed men to discern the appearance of the sky, foreseeing fair or stormy weather, they were unable to discern the signs of the times. He proclaimed that "an evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign; and a sign will not be given it, except the sign of Jonah."
A red sky in the evening was discerned as a predictor of fair weather. A red sky in the morning was discerned as a predictor for stormy weather. But the signs of the times are a much different matter. Although it would not have been the sort of sign that men would have asked for, Jesus said "the sign of Jonah" would be given them. This sign of Jonah is certainly a reference to the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The red blood of Jesus that stained Calvary's cross would not be subject to discernment by human intellect as a red sky had been. May we pray for the church leaders of our day to seek the Lord and the truth of His word in order to be discerning of the signs of the time in which we live. May God grant us wisdom as we seek to share the gospel message and trust the Holy Spirit to grant spiritual discernment of the "sign of Jonah".
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 15th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2015&version=NASB
It has certainly not been limited to the scribes and pharisees that we find Jesus speaking to in the beginning of today's text in Matthew. Until our present day men have had a tendency to put church traditions above what the word of God says about a host of matters. In doing so, perhaps we have also found ourselves, as Jesus had pointed out to these religious leaders, being hypocritical in our faith. The word of God should always supersede the traditions of men. May any of the “traditions” that Christian churches develop be founded in scripture.
The religious leaders had wanted to point out that Jesus' disciples had not ceremoniously washed their hands prior to the eating of bread. Discussing that which "defiled a man", Jesus taught that it wasn't the things that entered the mouth but the things that proceeded out from one's mouth. It is not the things that a person puts into his stomach through his mouth that defile a man but the things that he has put into his heart that become evident as they come out of his mouth. As I read today's passage I could not help but think about the days in which we live. Diet this and diet that, and this not just being something that the world is preoccupied with but the church as well. Certainly there is nothing wrong with having a desire for healthy living but I suppose there is often much more emphasis put on that which goes into the stomach than that which goes into the heart. May we seek to fill our hearts with the glorious person of Christ and may He be seen in the things that come forth from our mouths.
It has certainly not been limited to the scribes and pharisees that we find Jesus speaking to in the beginning of today's text in Matthew. Until our present day men have had a tendency to put church traditions above what the word of God says about a host of matters. In doing so, perhaps we have also found ourselves, as Jesus had pointed out to these religious leaders, being hypocritical in our faith. The word of God should always supersede the traditions of men. May any of the “traditions” that Christian churches develop be founded in scripture.
The religious leaders had wanted to point out that Jesus' disciples had not ceremoniously washed their hands prior to the eating of bread. Discussing that which "defiled a man", Jesus taught that it wasn't the things that entered the mouth but the things that proceeded out from one's mouth. It is not the things that a person puts into his stomach through his mouth that defile a man but the things that he has put into his heart that become evident as they come out of his mouth. As I read today's passage I could not help but think about the days in which we live. Diet this and diet that, and this not just being something that the world is preoccupied with but the church as well. Certainly there is nothing wrong with having a desire for healthy living but I suppose there is often much more emphasis put on that which goes into the stomach than that which goes into the heart. May we seek to fill our hearts with the glorious person of Christ and may He be seen in the things that come forth from our mouths.
Monday, January 20, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 14th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+14&version=NASB
Matthew 14 contains several accounts that speak of the wonder of our Lord Jesus. There is the feeding the five thousand, Jesus walking on water, Jesus quieting the wind as His disciples feared for their lives out on the sea and the many sick who were cured by simply touching the fringe of His cloak while He was in Gennesaret.
But it is the account of John the Baptist's death that we find in the first twelve verses that I will comment on today. The account seems to be a graphic display of sin and the depravity of man. We are told that John had previously spoken the truth about the unlawfulness of Herod having a relationship with his brother Philip's wife, Herodias. The text tells us that both offenders in the matter, Herod and Herodias, seem to have nurtured a hatred in their hearts for John that led each one to desire his death.
Anyway, the daughter of Herodias, having found favor with Herod when she had danced before him at his birthday celebration, was given the opportunity to ask from Herod whatever she pleased. I suppose that any young lady of that day could have developed quite a list of possible things to ask of Herod, but influenced by her mother and her mother's hatred for John, she asked for John's head to be delivered on a platter. Can you imagine the heart of a woman who would have her daughter ask for such a thing. To use her "one wish", if you will, for this purpose. John was "the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ' Make ready the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight!'" He would be the forerunner of Jesus, the One who would bear my sins and the sins of Herodias and her daughter on Calvary. "What wondrous love is this, that caused the Lord of bliss, to bear the dreadful curse for my soul".
Matthew 14 contains several accounts that speak of the wonder of our Lord Jesus. There is the feeding the five thousand, Jesus walking on water, Jesus quieting the wind as His disciples feared for their lives out on the sea and the many sick who were cured by simply touching the fringe of His cloak while He was in Gennesaret.
But it is the account of John the Baptist's death that we find in the first twelve verses that I will comment on today. The account seems to be a graphic display of sin and the depravity of man. We are told that John had previously spoken the truth about the unlawfulness of Herod having a relationship with his brother Philip's wife, Herodias. The text tells us that both offenders in the matter, Herod and Herodias, seem to have nurtured a hatred in their hearts for John that led each one to desire his death.
Anyway, the daughter of Herodias, having found favor with Herod when she had danced before him at his birthday celebration, was given the opportunity to ask from Herod whatever she pleased. I suppose that any young lady of that day could have developed quite a list of possible things to ask of Herod, but influenced by her mother and her mother's hatred for John, she asked for John's head to be delivered on a platter. Can you imagine the heart of a woman who would have her daughter ask for such a thing. To use her "one wish", if you will, for this purpose. John was "the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ' Make ready the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight!'" He would be the forerunner of Jesus, the One who would bear my sins and the sins of Herodias and her daughter on Calvary. "What wondrous love is this, that caused the Lord of bliss, to bear the dreadful curse for my soul".
Friday, January 17, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 13th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2013&version=NASB
In Matthew 13 we find Jesus teaching by parables large crowds of people that had gathered by the seashore to listen to Him. There is the parable of the Sower, that of the wheat and tares, of the mustard seed, of leaven, of the hidden treasure, of the costly pearl and of the dragnet. Each have been the topic of countless lessons and sermons over the many years since He first spoke them. Today I would like to comment briefly on the question His disciples asked of Him regarding His manner of teaching and His answer.
We read in verse ten that Jesus' disciples had came to Him and asked Him why He had spoken to the people in parables. I suppose they were intrigued by this new method of speaking and wondered why it was so. His answer, in part anyway, was that they (the disciples) had "been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven" but those who composed the large crowds had not. As I thought about that I considered how privileged I was to be counted among those who have been granted by God to know the soul saving and life changing mystery of Christ. Jesus went on to quote the prophet Isaiah and I could not help but see the application to the day in which we live. The people hear but don't understand. They see but don't perceive. The hearts of people have become dull. Praise God that He is still in the business of opening hearts and revealing Christ. Still causing the spiritually deaf to hear, the spiritually blind to see! To God be the glory in Christ.
In Matthew 13 we find Jesus teaching by parables large crowds of people that had gathered by the seashore to listen to Him. There is the parable of the Sower, that of the wheat and tares, of the mustard seed, of leaven, of the hidden treasure, of the costly pearl and of the dragnet. Each have been the topic of countless lessons and sermons over the many years since He first spoke them. Today I would like to comment briefly on the question His disciples asked of Him regarding His manner of teaching and His answer.
We read in verse ten that Jesus' disciples had came to Him and asked Him why He had spoken to the people in parables. I suppose they were intrigued by this new method of speaking and wondered why it was so. His answer, in part anyway, was that they (the disciples) had "been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven" but those who composed the large crowds had not. As I thought about that I considered how privileged I was to be counted among those who have been granted by God to know the soul saving and life changing mystery of Christ. Jesus went on to quote the prophet Isaiah and I could not help but see the application to the day in which we live. The people hear but don't understand. They see but don't perceive. The hearts of people have become dull. Praise God that He is still in the business of opening hearts and revealing Christ. Still causing the spiritually deaf to hear, the spiritually blind to see! To God be the glory in Christ.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 12th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2012&version=NASB
As the song says, "I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God, I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood. Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod. For I'm part of the family, the family of God." Praise God for the relationship we have with God in the Lord Jesus Christ. We are reminded today that He is greater than the temple, greater than Jonah, greater than Solomon and Lord of the Sabbath. Praise God!
"The mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart" Jesus is quoted as saying in today's scripture reading. One will either speak out of the "good treasure" or the "evil treasure" of his heart Jesus said. May God help us and direct us to fill our hearts with the good treasures of Jesus and may He be glorified in our lives. May we have a desire for our words be consistent with the character of Christ.
As the song says, "I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God, I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood. Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod. For I'm part of the family, the family of God." Praise God for the relationship we have with God in the Lord Jesus Christ. We are reminded today that He is greater than the temple, greater than Jonah, greater than Solomon and Lord of the Sabbath. Praise God!
"The mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart" Jesus is quoted as saying in today's scripture reading. One will either speak out of the "good treasure" or the "evil treasure" of his heart Jesus said. May God help us and direct us to fill our hearts with the good treasures of Jesus and may He be glorified in our lives. May we have a desire for our words be consistent with the character of Christ.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 11th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here on Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11&version=NASB
In today's scripture passage Matthew tells us that while imprisoned, John the Baptist had sent some of his disciples to ask Jesus this important question, "Are You the Expected One, or shall we look for someone else?". Jesus instructed John's disciples to return to him and report to him the things that they had seen Him do and heard Him say. Without using the words, Jesus was telling John, "Yes, I am He. Do not look for some else." What a great and glorious answer. Jesus IS the "Expected One"! We should not look for another. All such looking is in vain.
Near the end of the chapter Matthew is inspired by God to share these powerful words spoken by Jesus: "All things have been handed over to Me by My Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father; nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wills to reveal Him." I sit here today as a recipient of God's graciousness in Christ Jesus. I am privileged to find myself among those that the Son has willed to reveal His Father to. There is no greater blessing, as all others find their true meaning in Him. Yes, Jesus IS the "Expected One". We need not look for another!
In today's scripture passage Matthew tells us that while imprisoned, John the Baptist had sent some of his disciples to ask Jesus this important question, "Are You the Expected One, or shall we look for someone else?". Jesus instructed John's disciples to return to him and report to him the things that they had seen Him do and heard Him say. Without using the words, Jesus was telling John, "Yes, I am He. Do not look for some else." What a great and glorious answer. Jesus IS the "Expected One"! We should not look for another. All such looking is in vain.
Near the end of the chapter Matthew is inspired by God to share these powerful words spoken by Jesus: "All things have been handed over to Me by My Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father; nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wills to reveal Him." I sit here today as a recipient of God's graciousness in Christ Jesus. I am privileged to find myself among those that the Son has willed to reveal His Father to. There is no greater blessing, as all others find their true meaning in Him. Yes, Jesus IS the "Expected One". We need not look for another!
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the tenth chapter or the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+10&version=NASB
In today's scripture reading we are given Matthew's account of Jesus selecting the twelve disciples and providing them instructions for ministry. One thing is clear; He did not promise that serving Him would be easy. Jesus told them plainly that they would face difficulties and opposition in ministry. He tells them they are being sent out "as sheep in the midst of wolves". Under normal circumstances, sheep would not fair well in the midst of wolves. Praise the Lord that He is our good shepherd! As a source of encouragement He tells them that God would give them the words to speak when facing those in opposition. He encouraged them to maintain a fear of the Lord and not fear men.
Regarding the matter of suffering and opposition, He told the twelve that "a disciple is not above his teacher" and if the "head of the house" is called Beelzebul, much more would the members of his household be maligned. We, the members of the Body of Christ, are of His household. Scripture tells us that some of the religious leaders of Jesus' day said that he was possessed by Beelzebul, the ruler of demons. We should not be surprised when we are maligned for our faith in Christ and for our trust in His word and His ways. As the Apostle John also said, "Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you." Praise the Lord that His love for us is greater than the world's hate for us.
In today's scripture reading we are given Matthew's account of Jesus selecting the twelve disciples and providing them instructions for ministry. One thing is clear; He did not promise that serving Him would be easy. Jesus told them plainly that they would face difficulties and opposition in ministry. He tells them they are being sent out "as sheep in the midst of wolves". Under normal circumstances, sheep would not fair well in the midst of wolves. Praise the Lord that He is our good shepherd! As a source of encouragement He tells them that God would give them the words to speak when facing those in opposition. He encouraged them to maintain a fear of the Lord and not fear men.
Regarding the matter of suffering and opposition, He told the twelve that "a disciple is not above his teacher" and if the "head of the house" is called Beelzebul, much more would the members of his household be maligned. We, the members of the Body of Christ, are of His household. Scripture tells us that some of the religious leaders of Jesus' day said that he was possessed by Beelzebul, the ruler of demons. We should not be surprised when we are maligned for our faith in Christ and for our trust in His word and His ways. As the Apostle John also said, "Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you." Praise the Lord that His love for us is greater than the world's hate for us.
Monday, January 13, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the ninth chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here on Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%209&version=NASB
In the beginning of today's text we read the account of Jesus telling the paralytic man that his sins were forgiven. We are told that there were some who were awestruck at His statement and some who would be angry and accuse Jesus of blaspheme. But it was wondrous news to the paralytic man and it is a glorious truth for each of us. Jesus has authority to forgive sins! May we also be awestruck and glory in Christ alone.
In the last portion of the text we are given further insight into the heart of our Savior. As He is "going through all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom", He sees the people. And despite what outward appearance they might have had, He see's that they are "distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd" and feels compassion for them. May God help us to see people through the eyes of our Savior and have His compassion for them.
In the beginning of today's text we read the account of Jesus telling the paralytic man that his sins were forgiven. We are told that there were some who were awestruck at His statement and some who would be angry and accuse Jesus of blaspheme. But it was wondrous news to the paralytic man and it is a glorious truth for each of us. Jesus has authority to forgive sins! May we also be awestruck and glory in Christ alone.
In the last portion of the text we are given further insight into the heart of our Savior. As He is "going through all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom", He sees the people. And despite what outward appearance they might have had, He see's that they are "distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd" and feels compassion for them. May God help us to see people through the eyes of our Savior and have His compassion for them.
Friday, January 10, 2014
Today's bible reading is in the eighth chapter of the book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%208&version=NASB
As I read today's passage there was a particular theme that stuck out for me. Jesus was willing. The chapter begins with a man affected by leprosy saying to Jesus, that if He is willing, Jesus can make him clean. His response is glorious news, not only to the leper, but for you and I also. "I am willing; be cleansed" are the words from our gracious Savior. What wonderful words. I'm so thankful that He was willing to cleanse me. He continues to be willing to cleanse the hearts of men, women and children all around the world. As we read on in the chapter, we see that Jesus is willing to heal the centurion's paralyzed servant, relieve Peter's mother in-law of her fever, save His disciples in the boat by rebuking the winds and the sea and casting demons out of the two men He met coming out of the tombs. Jesus is willing. Praise God!
Greg
As I read today's passage there was a particular theme that stuck out for me. Jesus was willing. The chapter begins with a man affected by leprosy saying to Jesus, that if He is willing, Jesus can make him clean. His response is glorious news, not only to the leper, but for you and I also. "I am willing; be cleansed" are the words from our gracious Savior. What wonderful words. I'm so thankful that He was willing to cleanse me. He continues to be willing to cleanse the hearts of men, women and children all around the world. As we read on in the chapter, we see that Jesus is willing to heal the centurion's paralyzed servant, relieve Peter's mother in-law of her fever, save His disciples in the boat by rebuking the winds and the sea and casting demons out of the two men He met coming out of the tombs. Jesus is willing. Praise God!
Greg
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the seventh chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+7&version=NASB
The volume of content in today’s passage makes it difficult
to pull just a short thought out from it all. I guess I would say praise God
for the Rock of our Salvation! In a sin affected, sin torn world, it is a wonderful
reminder that when life’s “rain” falls, when it’s floods come up around us, and it’s
winds blow and slam against us, a life built upon the Lord Jesus Christ, our Rock, can stand victorious. Praise the Lord.
Greg
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Today's Bible reading is in the sixth chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6&version=NASB
In today’s scripture reading in Matthew Chapter 6, the word
“secret” caught my attention. The word “secret” is repeated 6 times in the text
and appears to be the same word used in the NASB, the ESV and the King James.
We read of giving in secret, praying in secret and fasting in secret. These
three seem to cover our outward acts of service, our pray life and our “fasting”
or I might suggest, our Spirit lead self examination and seeking the Lord’s
will to obey. I don’t suppose this “secret place” is truly a closet, a
monastery, or an effort to remain anonymous in all that we do in Christ. It
appears to be the secret place of the heart. Verse 21 tells us that “where your
treasure is, there will your heart be also.” When Christ is our treasure, the
preeminent One in our life, our acts of giving and service are pleasing to Him,
we find our prayers more consistent with His will and we desire a relationship
marked by “simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ”. Oh, that Christ might
be our treasure and that we might guard the secret place of the heart.
Greg
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Today's bible reading is the fifth chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+5&version=NASB
The
first verse of today passage reminded me of Ephesians 4:29 which admonishes us
to “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only
such a word as is good for edification according
to the need of the moment,
so that it will give grace to those who hear.” This would be quite an
accomplishment in this life. Sort of the ultimate “taming of the tongue”. But
today’s text tells us that Jesus “opened His mouth and began to teach….”. He opened His mouth, He taught and He edified those who listened. John 14 tells us that Jesus did not speak on His own initiative but that His words were the words of His Father. Oh, that we might teach and edify others when
we open our mouths. As Paul was inspired to admonish the believers in Colossee, may our "speech always be with grace".
Greg
Monday, January 6, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the fourth chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%204&version=NASB
What a simple but powerful
lesson from the Lord in today’s Matthew 4 passage. In His interaction with the
tempter, Jesus taught the great importance of proclaiming the whole counsel of
God’s word. In verses 3-4 we read, "And the tempter came and said
to Him, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones
become bread.” But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out
of the mouth of God.’” Time and again the Lord Jesus is our perfect example. As Paul admonished his dear son in the faith, we read in 2 Timothy 2:15, "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." Clearly it has always been so, but how great it seems that we must heed this admonishment in our day.
Greg
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the first chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+1&version=NASB
The first 17 verses trace the genealogy of the Jesus, beginning with Abraham. In the first verse Jesus is referred to as "the son of David" and "the son of Abraham". In the last 8 verses we find these wonderful truths. The virgin Mary is miraculously found to be "with child". We see the angelic announcement to Joseph that the child she is carrying is "of the Holy Spirit". I have never really taken much time to consider Joseph's response but I appreciate today's text that tells us that Joseph was concerned about Mary and he did not want to disgrace her. I think that tells us much about the man who was Jesus' earthly father. I also appreciate that he is described by the writer as a "righteous man".
Joseph is also said to have been obedient to the angelic message to take Mary as his wife. I was reminded of an incident that would take place sometime later (recorded in Matthew 2) when Joseph would again be spoken to by "an angel of the Lord" and told to take his son and his wife and flee to Egypt. Again, Joseph was obedient and the baby Jesus was kept safe from Herod's evil attempt to kill him as he ordered the murder of all male children 2 years of age and younger residing in and around Bethlehem. Yes, Mary had "found favor with God" and it is clearly God's hand that had orchestrated her engagement to a "righteous man", Joseph.
Greg
The first 17 verses trace the genealogy of the Jesus, beginning with Abraham. In the first verse Jesus is referred to as "the son of David" and "the son of Abraham". In the last 8 verses we find these wonderful truths. The virgin Mary is miraculously found to be "with child". We see the angelic announcement to Joseph that the child she is carrying is "of the Holy Spirit". I have never really taken much time to consider Joseph's response but I appreciate today's text that tells us that Joseph was concerned about Mary and he did not want to disgrace her. I think that tells us much about the man who was Jesus' earthly father. I also appreciate that he is described by the writer as a "righteous man".
Joseph is also said to have been obedient to the angelic message to take Mary as his wife. I was reminded of an incident that would take place sometime later (recorded in Matthew 2) when Joseph would again be spoken to by "an angel of the Lord" and told to take his son and his wife and flee to Egypt. Again, Joseph was obedient and the baby Jesus was kept safe from Herod's evil attempt to kill him as he ordered the murder of all male children 2 years of age and younger residing in and around Bethlehem. Yes, Mary had "found favor with God" and it is clearly God's hand that had orchestrated her engagement to a "righteous man", Joseph.
Greg
Reading Through the New Testament
My home church has started a Bible reading program for the new year that will take us through the entire New Testament. I am praying and asking God to help me write a brief thought from each chapter. My hope and my prayer is that anything that I write might be used by our Lord for the edification of others in the Body of Christ and be to His glory.
Greg
Greg
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