The Lord is helping me to understand the prophetic ministry. The first time that I read the words of the prophet Jeremiah was when I just was a teenager. I felt a special connection with him even though I was so unlike him.
Like Moses, and other prophets, the Lord gave Jeremiah messages for those in authority and for the whosevers… the whosoever had ears to hear. The chief function of a prophet is to be steered by God, and then, to call others to give God the steering wheel as well.
The prophetic ministry begins with God. God does the steering. He steers us by His words as we pray and listen to Him. Talking and listening to God is so vital to every human being. The Lord calls us who know Him to pray for men, kings and all who are in authority. He tells us why we should pray for them…
“Therefore, I exhort first that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle—I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying—a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.” [1]
An exhortation is a prompting from the Holy Spirit to do something. In the context of navigation one might say, “turn left, turn right or go straight.” The Holy Spirit directs us to pray for people and for authorities. The answer to prayer that we seek from the Lord is for all people to be saved by coming to the knowledge of the truth about God, and because of that salvation, live quietly and peaceably in all godliness and reverence. We don’t want yelling, quarreling, and cruelty! We want God to guide us. God’s preachers, apostles, and teachers call people to give Jesus Christ the steering wheel.
So, the primary function of God’s servant is to be directed by God’s Word and to call others to give God the steering wheel as well.
How does one connect with people and give God’s directions to them? The Bible is full of such examples.
God called some to speak to kings. God gave directions to kings who did not want to be steered by God via the prophet Jeremiah. One of the kings that Jeremiah spoke with threw his directions in the fire. That king, Jehoiakim, ended up being imprisoned in a foreign land. [2] God offered directions to pagan kings through his prophets. For example, Moses to Pharoah King of Egypt, Daniel to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon; and Esther and Mordecai to King Artaxerxes of Persia. Throughout the Book of Acts, the proclamation of Christ resulted in proclaimers being brought before political and religious authorities. This was their opportunity to give God’s directions to them. [3]
Christ gives us words to say to authorities: “When they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.”
The Lord’s calling to Jeremiah went like this, “Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying: ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born, I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.’ Then said I: ‘Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.’ But the Lord said to me: ‘Do not say, I am a youth, for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.’ Then the Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the Lord said to me: ‘Behold, I have put My words in your mouth. See, I have this day set you over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out and to pull down, to destroy and to throw down, to build and to plant.” [5]
The Lord had a direction for Jeremiah before he was born. He did not have to earn it or initiate it. He had to believe it. He had to look beyond himself to the Lord. He needed to see God as being bigger and greater than the kings and nations to whom he would give directions. He was a voice. God had the words. God’s Word works regardless of people’s reaction to it. It roots out, pulls down, destroys, throws down, builds, and plants. The Lord steers the future as He has the past. Everything He predicts in the Bible happens.
The Lord gave Jeremiah a vision of a blossoming almond tree to say that just as surely as the almond tree blossoms during a particular season of the year His prophetic words are fulfilled in due season. [6] This is the confidence we have! God fulfils His promises in due season! Therefore, our ministry of offering direction from God to people is vital to their temporal and eternal well-being.
[1] 1 Timothy 2:1-7
[2] Jeremiah 36:1-26; Daniel 1:2
[3] Acts 3-28
[4] Matthew 10:19-20
[5] Jeremiah 1:5-10
[6] Jeremiah 1:11-12
Saturday, March 30, 2024
Friday, March 29, 2024
By God’s Grace – A Sphere of Influence
The Lord provided Paul a sphere of influence: “We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the sphere of service God Himself has assigned to us, a sphere that also includes you.” [1]
The Lord speaks to us through Paul, saying, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.” [2]
“In accordance with the faith God has distributed to you!” Both Moses and Jeremiah had faith in God but had serious doubts about themselves. God helped their faith by assuring them that He would help and resource them.
When Jesus called His disciples to serve Him, it was a call to training. He walked with them. He taught them. He showed them how to serve people. He did miracles to boost their confidence in His ability.
Jesus Christ has authority over heaven and earth. He does amazing things as we yield our lives to Him. As we trust that nothing is impossible for God! As we believe in our hearts and profess with our mouths that He is Lord.
What things move you to tears, frustration, anger? For example, if injustice moves you time and time again then that is a clue that maybe you are called to be a voice in the justice arena, maybe in speaking up for those who are downtrodden, or in speaking words of life and encouragement into them. Who do you find yourself praying for the most?
Our Lord Jesus is faithful to increase our sphere of influence when we serve Him faithfully. “His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter the joy of your Lord.’” [3]
[1] 2 Corinthians 10:13
[2] Romans 12:3
[3] Matthew 25:23
The Lord speaks to us through Paul, saying, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.” [2]
“In accordance with the faith God has distributed to you!” Both Moses and Jeremiah had faith in God but had serious doubts about themselves. God helped their faith by assuring them that He would help and resource them.
When Jesus called His disciples to serve Him, it was a call to training. He walked with them. He taught them. He showed them how to serve people. He did miracles to boost their confidence in His ability.
Jesus Christ has authority over heaven and earth. He does amazing things as we yield our lives to Him. As we trust that nothing is impossible for God! As we believe in our hearts and profess with our mouths that He is Lord.
What things move you to tears, frustration, anger? For example, if injustice moves you time and time again then that is a clue that maybe you are called to be a voice in the justice arena, maybe in speaking up for those who are downtrodden, or in speaking words of life and encouragement into them. Who do you find yourself praying for the most?
Our Lord Jesus is faithful to increase our sphere of influence when we serve Him faithfully. “His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter the joy of your Lord.’” [3]
[1] 2 Corinthians 10:13
[2] Romans 12:3
[3] Matthew 25:23
Sunday, March 24, 2024
Saving Sinners Judging Sin
It is a good and praiseworthy thing that when Jesus Messiah came the first time it was to conquer our sin and not to conquer the Romans. If Jesus had come to judge the world in righteousness before He came to pay the penalty for the sins we have committed, He would have had to pronounce us all guilty and conquer us all. But now, that He has come and paid the penalty for our crimes, we need to believe in Him, receive Him and profess Him as our atoning sacrifice, our Savior, to be spared from the righteous judgment of God that is to come.
As Adrian Rodgers said, “If a judge acquits a criminal than he becomes a criminal. God had to make a way to deal with sin so that He could remain just and be the justifier of those who believe in Jesus.”
“God set forth Christ as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” [1]
“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit.” [2]
[1] Romans 3:25-26
[2] 1 Peter 3:18
As Adrian Rodgers said, “If a judge acquits a criminal than he becomes a criminal. God had to make a way to deal with sin so that He could remain just and be the justifier of those who believe in Jesus.”
“God set forth Christ as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” [1]
“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit.” [2]
[1] Romans 3:25-26
[2] 1 Peter 3:18
Friday, March 22, 2024
Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled
“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” [1]
Believing in God the Father and believing in His Son Jesus Christ does calm my heart when it is troubled. The sure promise of a home with God, prepared by Jesus who died on the cross for my sin comforts me. He has prepared a place for me, and at the right moment, He will come for me.
“I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” [2]
What’s more, I am never without help in this journey called life. The Spirit of truth abides with me. I am not an orphan. My Heavenly Father mentors me, encourages me, corrects me, and enlightens me by His ever-abiding Holy Spirit.
“If anyone loves Me, he will keep My Word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” [3]
Indeed, I am blessed to enjoy mountaintop experiences with God as I read His Word, walk with His Word as one does a friend, and experience His loving presence. I have a goodly heritage of those who love His Name. In fact, recently, as I was considering the suffering of the prophet Jeremiah, the Lord revealed to me that he was never alone. His fellowship was with God, and with the people of God who went before him such as Moses, Samuel, David, and Elijah. Their words and personalities still live on via the Bible. His fellowship is with me, as I read his words. His voice continues to live and nurture many people via the printed page.
“These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My Name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. Peace, I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” [4]
Yes, whenever my heart is troubled, I just stop, and wait. Yes, there He is! My Helper! The Holy Spirit! Such peace! Such joy! Such hope! Such love that my heart is able to love again, and give again, and God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is glorified! Praise the Lord!
[1] John 14:1-3
[2] John 14:16-18
[3] John 14:23
[4] John 14:25-27
Believing in God the Father and believing in His Son Jesus Christ does calm my heart when it is troubled. The sure promise of a home with God, prepared by Jesus who died on the cross for my sin comforts me. He has prepared a place for me, and at the right moment, He will come for me.
“I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” [2]
What’s more, I am never without help in this journey called life. The Spirit of truth abides with me. I am not an orphan. My Heavenly Father mentors me, encourages me, corrects me, and enlightens me by His ever-abiding Holy Spirit.
“If anyone loves Me, he will keep My Word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” [3]
Indeed, I am blessed to enjoy mountaintop experiences with God as I read His Word, walk with His Word as one does a friend, and experience His loving presence. I have a goodly heritage of those who love His Name. In fact, recently, as I was considering the suffering of the prophet Jeremiah, the Lord revealed to me that he was never alone. His fellowship was with God, and with the people of God who went before him such as Moses, Samuel, David, and Elijah. Their words and personalities still live on via the Bible. His fellowship is with me, as I read his words. His voice continues to live and nurture many people via the printed page.
“These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My Name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. Peace, I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” [4]
Yes, whenever my heart is troubled, I just stop, and wait. Yes, there He is! My Helper! The Holy Spirit! Such peace! Such joy! Such hope! Such love that my heart is able to love again, and give again, and God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is glorified! Praise the Lord!
[1] John 14:1-3
[2] John 14:16-18
[3] John 14:23
[4] John 14:25-27
Monday, March 18, 2024
What Do You Seek?
Jesus asks us, “What do you seek?” What do we want to see? His disciples wanted to be where He was…
“Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, ‘What do you seek?’ They said to Him, ‘Rabbi’ (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), ‘where are You staying?’” [1]
We see the Lord as we look to Him in His Holy Word the Bible. He reveals Himself via the prophets, apostles and via our Lord Jesus Christ in the Bible.
In the early days of the Bible the prophets were called seers…
“Formerly in Israel, if someone went to inquire of God, they would say, ‘Come, let us go to the seer, because the prophet of today used to be called a seer.’” [2]
Our Lord Jesus assured us that if we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness that He will provide for our earthly needs.
“Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” [3]
The Lord says that we will find Him if we seek Him with all our hearts…
“You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” [4]
The revelation of God and of His kingdom is a gift that He graciously gives to those who seek Him, who find Him and who want to help others see Him as well…
“He answered and said to them, ‘Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.’” [5]
Jesus said that we must come to God as a child to enter His kingdom…
Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” [6]
What a prize! What an outcome! To see God’s kingdom present with power…
Jesus said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that there are some standing here who will not taste death till they see the kingdom of God present with power.” [7]
[1] John 1:38
[2] 1 Samuel 9:9
[3] Matthew 6:33
[4] Jeremiah 29:13
[5] Matthew 13:11
[6] Matthew 18:3
[7] Mark 9:1
“Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, ‘What do you seek?’ They said to Him, ‘Rabbi’ (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), ‘where are You staying?’” [1]
We see the Lord as we look to Him in His Holy Word the Bible. He reveals Himself via the prophets, apostles and via our Lord Jesus Christ in the Bible.
In the early days of the Bible the prophets were called seers…
“Formerly in Israel, if someone went to inquire of God, they would say, ‘Come, let us go to the seer, because the prophet of today used to be called a seer.’” [2]
Our Lord Jesus assured us that if we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness that He will provide for our earthly needs.
“Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” [3]
The Lord says that we will find Him if we seek Him with all our hearts…
“You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” [4]
The revelation of God and of His kingdom is a gift that He graciously gives to those who seek Him, who find Him and who want to help others see Him as well…
“He answered and said to them, ‘Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.’” [5]
Jesus said that we must come to God as a child to enter His kingdom…
Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” [6]
What a prize! What an outcome! To see God’s kingdom present with power…
Jesus said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that there are some standing here who will not taste death till they see the kingdom of God present with power.” [7]
[1] John 1:38
[2] 1 Samuel 9:9
[3] Matthew 6:33
[4] Jeremiah 29:13
[5] Matthew 13:11
[6] Matthew 18:3
[7] Mark 9:1
Sunday, March 17, 2024
Savior, Please Help Me to SEE
“The Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and springs, that flow out of valleys and hills; a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey; a land in which you will eat bread without scarcity, in which you will lack nothing; a land whose stones are iron and out of whose hills you can dig copper. When you have eaten and are full, then you shall bless the Lord your God for the good land which He has given you.” [1]
The Lord Jesus by His sacrifice on the cross made a way for me to enter a better Promised Land than the Israelites did when He brought them out of Egypt. By faith in Christ, I escape for eternity the dark kingdom of the oppressive devil and am brought by Christ into the Heavenly Father’s glorious Kingdom to live forever.
“He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and did not destroy them. Yes, many a time He turned His anger away, and did not stir up all His wrath; for He remembered that they were but flesh, a breath that passes away and does not come again. How often they provoked Him in the wilderness and grieved Him in the desert!” [2]
I am so glad that the Lord is full of compassion. I am so glad that He forgives my sins, but I do not want to neglect such a great salvation by forgetting to thank, obey and serve Him.
Jesus once said, “For judgment I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may be made blind.” Some Pharisees asked Him, “Are we blind also?” Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you say, ‘We see.’ Therefore, your sin remains.” [3]
“Thank You Lord Jesus for making me and others aware by Your Word of our blind spots so that we look to You, the Light of the World, and You help us to SEE."
[1] Deuteronomy 8:7-10
[2] Psalm 78:38-40
[3] John 9:39-40
The Lord Jesus by His sacrifice on the cross made a way for me to enter a better Promised Land than the Israelites did when He brought them out of Egypt. By faith in Christ, I escape for eternity the dark kingdom of the oppressive devil and am brought by Christ into the Heavenly Father’s glorious Kingdom to live forever.
“He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and did not destroy them. Yes, many a time He turned His anger away, and did not stir up all His wrath; for He remembered that they were but flesh, a breath that passes away and does not come again. How often they provoked Him in the wilderness and grieved Him in the desert!” [2]
I am so glad that the Lord is full of compassion. I am so glad that He forgives my sins, but I do not want to neglect such a great salvation by forgetting to thank, obey and serve Him.
Jesus once said, “For judgment I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may be made blind.” Some Pharisees asked Him, “Are we blind also?” Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you say, ‘We see.’ Therefore, your sin remains.” [3]
“Thank You Lord Jesus for making me and others aware by Your Word of our blind spots so that we look to You, the Light of the World, and You help us to SEE."
[1] Deuteronomy 8:7-10
[2] Psalm 78:38-40
[3] John 9:39-40
Thursday, March 14, 2024
God’s Promised Victory to His People
Events in Exodus parallel events in Revelation. Israel’s subjugation by “Egypt” symbolizes the evil one’s desire to enslave and defile God’s people. God intervenes for His people when they pray and cry out to Him. God graciously does mighty miracles to rescue His people from the grip of the evil one.
Satan’s goal is to subjugate and defile God’s bride. He wants Israel to be a city of harlotry and not a holy city married to God. The opening of the seven seals by Christ in Revelation begins His judgments of righteousness against the works of the evil one. Just as Jesus, the Son of God, carried out the will of His Father to die on the cross as an atoning sacrifice for the sins of humanity, He will carry out to the letter the will of the Father and judge the world in righteousness.
“Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.” “The Lord is coming to judge the earth. He shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with His truth.” [1]
In Exodus, the Lord tells Moses, “I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows. So, I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up from that land to a good and large land, to a land flowing with milk and honey…” [2]
In Revelation, the Lord gives John a vision of a scroll with seven seals. No one, but Jesus Christ is worthy to open the scroll and release the judgments contained therein. When seal number five is opened, “souls who had been slain for the Word of God and for the testimony which they held… cried with a loud voice, saying, ‘How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?’ Then a white robe was given to each of them; and it was said to them that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed.” The end-time judgments on evil are God’s response to the sufferings and prayers of His people. [3]
In various places in Revelation the prayers of the saints are called the incense of heaven. “And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel’s hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thundering, lightnings, and an earthquake.” [4] The prayers of God’s people fuel His response to evil.
These events will occur in connection with and following Christ’s return, as they occurred in connection with and following Moses’ return to Egypt after a time of being away from them. Moses brought Israel out to establish a new country governed by the Word of God. Jesus Christ leads His people to a city whose founder and maker is God.
Egypt released Israel when the Lord slew the firstborn son of whoever failed to place the blood of lamb over the doorposts of their dwelling. The Revelation-era saints overcome the Satan by the blood of the Lamb. [5]
Exodus recounts God’s rescue of His enslaved people from the mighty grip of evil and its powerful ruler. Revelation was written during a time when another powerful nation, Rome, and its leader, dominated God’s people the Church. The Lord says no worldly power can keep Him from bringing His people to Himself.
God carried Israel on eagles’ wings and brought them to Himself. God also saves His people from the dragon who seeks to destroy her in the last days. His bride is given two eagle’s wings to fly into the wilderness. [6]
Satan’s helpmate in the battle for the hearts of people is described as an immoral harlot. God’s helpmate is described as His bride who is beautiful and eventually adorned with the finest adornments of God. Satan’s partner is destroyed with fire. God’s bride is brought into His presence to abide with Him forever. [7]
The Exodus imagery of oppressed people converted into a kingdom of priests for God resonates with the Revelation imagery of God’s persevering people “made to be a kingdom and priests.” This thought is repeated in the worship song of the four living creatures and twenty-four elders who proclaim that God had purchased the Church by His blood and “made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” [8]
[1] Revelation 19:11; Psalm 96:13
[2] Exodus 3:7-8
[3] Revelation 5:1-10; 6:9-10
[4] Revelation 8:4-5; see also Revelation 5:8
[5] Revelation 12:11
[6] Exodus 19:4; Revelation 12:13-17
[7] Revelation 17:1-6; 21:1-26
[8] Revelation 1:6; 5:10
Satan’s goal is to subjugate and defile God’s bride. He wants Israel to be a city of harlotry and not a holy city married to God. The opening of the seven seals by Christ in Revelation begins His judgments of righteousness against the works of the evil one. Just as Jesus, the Son of God, carried out the will of His Father to die on the cross as an atoning sacrifice for the sins of humanity, He will carry out to the letter the will of the Father and judge the world in righteousness.
“Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.” “The Lord is coming to judge the earth. He shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with His truth.” [1]
In Exodus, the Lord tells Moses, “I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows. So, I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up from that land to a good and large land, to a land flowing with milk and honey…” [2]
In Revelation, the Lord gives John a vision of a scroll with seven seals. No one, but Jesus Christ is worthy to open the scroll and release the judgments contained therein. When seal number five is opened, “souls who had been slain for the Word of God and for the testimony which they held… cried with a loud voice, saying, ‘How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?’ Then a white robe was given to each of them; and it was said to them that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed.” The end-time judgments on evil are God’s response to the sufferings and prayers of His people. [3]
In various places in Revelation the prayers of the saints are called the incense of heaven. “And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel’s hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thundering, lightnings, and an earthquake.” [4] The prayers of God’s people fuel His response to evil.
These events will occur in connection with and following Christ’s return, as they occurred in connection with and following Moses’ return to Egypt after a time of being away from them. Moses brought Israel out to establish a new country governed by the Word of God. Jesus Christ leads His people to a city whose founder and maker is God.
Egypt released Israel when the Lord slew the firstborn son of whoever failed to place the blood of lamb over the doorposts of their dwelling. The Revelation-era saints overcome the Satan by the blood of the Lamb. [5]
Exodus recounts God’s rescue of His enslaved people from the mighty grip of evil and its powerful ruler. Revelation was written during a time when another powerful nation, Rome, and its leader, dominated God’s people the Church. The Lord says no worldly power can keep Him from bringing His people to Himself.
God carried Israel on eagles’ wings and brought them to Himself. God also saves His people from the dragon who seeks to destroy her in the last days. His bride is given two eagle’s wings to fly into the wilderness. [6]
Satan’s helpmate in the battle for the hearts of people is described as an immoral harlot. God’s helpmate is described as His bride who is beautiful and eventually adorned with the finest adornments of God. Satan’s partner is destroyed with fire. God’s bride is brought into His presence to abide with Him forever. [7]
The Exodus imagery of oppressed people converted into a kingdom of priests for God resonates with the Revelation imagery of God’s persevering people “made to be a kingdom and priests.” This thought is repeated in the worship song of the four living creatures and twenty-four elders who proclaim that God had purchased the Church by His blood and “made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” [8]
[1] Revelation 19:11; Psalm 96:13
[2] Exodus 3:7-8
[3] Revelation 5:1-10; 6:9-10
[4] Revelation 8:4-5; see also Revelation 5:8
[5] Revelation 12:11
[6] Exodus 19:4; Revelation 12:13-17
[7] Revelation 17:1-6; 21:1-26
[8] Revelation 1:6; 5:10
Wednesday, March 13, 2024
Old Testament Joshua a Type of New Testament Jesus God’s Son
Joshua was the one God chose to bring the people into the Promised Land. His name is the Hebrew form of the name Jesus. He is a type of Jesus.
“Then Moses spoke to the Lord, saying: ‘Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation, who may go out before them and go in before them, who may lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the Lord may not be like sheep which have no shepherd.’ And the Lord said to Moses: ‘Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him.’ ‘…At his word they shall go out, and at his word they shall come in, he and all the children of Israel with him—all the congregation.’” [1]
“Joshua the son of Nun, who stands before you, he shall go in there. Encourage him, for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.” Joshua, in the context of being a type of Jesus, is the one who leads God’s people into a place of bountiful provision and a place of glorious rest. [2]
The Law (Moses) did not bring people into the Promised Land, the Gospel (Jesus) did. The Law points us to our need for a Savior and Shepherd other than ourselves. The Savior and Shepherd that we need is Jesus Christ.
“And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals. Then I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, ‘Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals?’ And no one in heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll, or to look at it. So, I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look at it. But one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.’” [3]
Just as no one else except Jesus, God’s perfect Son, the Lamb, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, was able to carry out God’s plan of redemption of sinners, so no one else except Jesus can carry out God's end-time judgments against the evil of this world. Jesus receives the scroll and is able to loose the seals.
Just as Jesus faithfully carried out God’s plan of redemption of the world, so will He faithfully carry out God’s plan of judgment on the evil one and his followers. He will bring Satan and Satan’s followers to an end. It is recorded in the Book of Revelation.
Old Testament Joshua brought the people into the Promised Land, and he executed judgment on the pagans who rejected the one true God. New Testament Jesus brings His followers into the eternal Promised Land, and executes judgment on the devil, the devil’s angelic helpers, and on the devil’s human accomplices. In the end, Jesus Christ lives and reigns with His flock victorious. Glory to God!
[1] Numbers 27:15-18, 21
[2] Deuteronomy 1:38; Hebrews 4:8
[3] Revelation 5:1-5
“Then Moses spoke to the Lord, saying: ‘Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation, who may go out before them and go in before them, who may lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the Lord may not be like sheep which have no shepherd.’ And the Lord said to Moses: ‘Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him.’ ‘…At his word they shall go out, and at his word they shall come in, he and all the children of Israel with him—all the congregation.’” [1]
“Joshua the son of Nun, who stands before you, he shall go in there. Encourage him, for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.” Joshua, in the context of being a type of Jesus, is the one who leads God’s people into a place of bountiful provision and a place of glorious rest. [2]
The Law (Moses) did not bring people into the Promised Land, the Gospel (Jesus) did. The Law points us to our need for a Savior and Shepherd other than ourselves. The Savior and Shepherd that we need is Jesus Christ.
“And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals. Then I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, ‘Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals?’ And no one in heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll, or to look at it. So, I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look at it. But one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.’” [3]
Just as no one else except Jesus, God’s perfect Son, the Lamb, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, was able to carry out God’s plan of redemption of sinners, so no one else except Jesus can carry out God's end-time judgments against the evil of this world. Jesus receives the scroll and is able to loose the seals.
Just as Jesus faithfully carried out God’s plan of redemption of the world, so will He faithfully carry out God’s plan of judgment on the evil one and his followers. He will bring Satan and Satan’s followers to an end. It is recorded in the Book of Revelation.
Old Testament Joshua brought the people into the Promised Land, and he executed judgment on the pagans who rejected the one true God. New Testament Jesus brings His followers into the eternal Promised Land, and executes judgment on the devil, the devil’s angelic helpers, and on the devil’s human accomplices. In the end, Jesus Christ lives and reigns with His flock victorious. Glory to God!
[1] Numbers 27:15-18, 21
[2] Deuteronomy 1:38; Hebrews 4:8
[3] Revelation 5:1-5
Monday, March 11, 2024
True Love
“For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the Gospel of God?” [1]
As a servant of God’s Word, I pray that He will help me to represent Him well both by word and deed. I have failed Him often. I ask Him to forgive me often. I am convinced by the Word of God that He is judging the world in righteousness. In due season, His judgments are manifest on earth. Peter says that God’s judgment first begins in His own house among His own people, then, spreads to those who are not a part of His family. We see this principle in the Book of Jeremiah.
When Jesus found in His Father’s house those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers doing business, He had made a whip of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen. He poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables. And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!” He told the religious leaders that after they destroyed His temple (His body by crucifixion) He would raise it up in three days. [2] After His resurrection, Jesus filled those who believed in Him with the Holy Spirit. In this way, His house reaches to the ends of the earth. Each believer in Him is a part of His house. He inhabits us who believe in Him.
Peter warns us against a temptation that the devil uses to sabotage servants of God’s Word (the devil even tried this tactic on Jesus – see Matthew 4:8-10). Peter warns us against those who “receive the wages of unrighteousness…” who “have hearts trained in covetous practices…” who “have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness.” [3]
Jesus said to the believers in the Pergamos Church, “I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality.” [4]
The story of Balaam is recorded in Numbers chapters 22-24. A pagan king hired him to curse Israel. Sadly, Jehovah Witnesses often quote Numbers 23:19 to say that Jesus is not God in the flesh: “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent.” But Numbers 24:1 says “Now when Balaam saw that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel, he did not go as at other times, to seek to use sorcery…” The verse they quote is when Balaam used sorcery to speak for God. When Balaam spoke by the Spirit of God, he prophesied of Jesus, “I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near; a Star shall come out of Jacob; a Scepter shall rise out of Israel.” [5] Later, the Israelites executed Balaam by sword. He had counseled the pagan king to send seductive women into the camp of Israel to seduce the men. Sin with these women brought the curse on Israel that Balaam could not bring on them via sorcery. [6]
Jeremiah the prophet counseled his scribe Baruch this way, “’Do you seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them; for behold, I will bring adversity on all flesh,’ says the Lord. ‘But I will give your life to you as a prize in all places, wherever you go.’” [7]
Peter counselled pastors, saying, “Shepherd the flock of God, which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly.” [8]
Jesus said to His disciples, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things [the clothes and food you need] shall be added to you.” [9]
Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Simon the Sorcerer sought to purchase the Holy Spirit with money. [10] They are negative examples for us to avoid.
The Word of the Lord says, “Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.” [11] May our Heavenly Father in His grace, help us to choose love for Him and people over selfish ways. May He help us to guide people to Him who loves them with true love.
[1] 1 Peter 4:17
[2] John 2:14-19
[3] 2 Peter 2:13-15
[4] Revelation 2:14
[5] Number 24:2; 17
[6] Numbers 31:8; 16
[7] Jeremiah 45:5
[8] 1 Peter 5:2
[9] Matthew 6:33
[10] Matthew 26:15; Acts 8:18-24
[11] Proverbs 11:4
As a servant of God’s Word, I pray that He will help me to represent Him well both by word and deed. I have failed Him often. I ask Him to forgive me often. I am convinced by the Word of God that He is judging the world in righteousness. In due season, His judgments are manifest on earth. Peter says that God’s judgment first begins in His own house among His own people, then, spreads to those who are not a part of His family. We see this principle in the Book of Jeremiah.
When Jesus found in His Father’s house those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers doing business, He had made a whip of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen. He poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables. And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!” He told the religious leaders that after they destroyed His temple (His body by crucifixion) He would raise it up in three days. [2] After His resurrection, Jesus filled those who believed in Him with the Holy Spirit. In this way, His house reaches to the ends of the earth. Each believer in Him is a part of His house. He inhabits us who believe in Him.
Peter warns us against a temptation that the devil uses to sabotage servants of God’s Word (the devil even tried this tactic on Jesus – see Matthew 4:8-10). Peter warns us against those who “receive the wages of unrighteousness…” who “have hearts trained in covetous practices…” who “have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness.” [3]
Jesus said to the believers in the Pergamos Church, “I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality.” [4]
The story of Balaam is recorded in Numbers chapters 22-24. A pagan king hired him to curse Israel. Sadly, Jehovah Witnesses often quote Numbers 23:19 to say that Jesus is not God in the flesh: “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent.” But Numbers 24:1 says “Now when Balaam saw that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel, he did not go as at other times, to seek to use sorcery…” The verse they quote is when Balaam used sorcery to speak for God. When Balaam spoke by the Spirit of God, he prophesied of Jesus, “I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near; a Star shall come out of Jacob; a Scepter shall rise out of Israel.” [5] Later, the Israelites executed Balaam by sword. He had counseled the pagan king to send seductive women into the camp of Israel to seduce the men. Sin with these women brought the curse on Israel that Balaam could not bring on them via sorcery. [6]
Jeremiah the prophet counseled his scribe Baruch this way, “’Do you seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them; for behold, I will bring adversity on all flesh,’ says the Lord. ‘But I will give your life to you as a prize in all places, wherever you go.’” [7]
Peter counselled pastors, saying, “Shepherd the flock of God, which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly.” [8]
Jesus said to His disciples, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things [the clothes and food you need] shall be added to you.” [9]
Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Simon the Sorcerer sought to purchase the Holy Spirit with money. [10] They are negative examples for us to avoid.
The Word of the Lord says, “Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.” [11] May our Heavenly Father in His grace, help us to choose love for Him and people over selfish ways. May He help us to guide people to Him who loves them with true love.
[1] 1 Peter 4:17
[2] John 2:14-19
[3] 2 Peter 2:13-15
[4] Revelation 2:14
[5] Number 24:2; 17
[6] Numbers 31:8; 16
[7] Jeremiah 45:5
[8] 1 Peter 5:2
[9] Matthew 6:33
[10] Matthew 26:15; Acts 8:18-24
[11] Proverbs 11:4
Saturday, March 9, 2024
The Spirit of Prophecy is the Testimony of Jesus
“No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.” [1]
The key that opens the way to knowing God and understanding the Bible is Jesus Christ. When one bows before Him with faith and a humble heart and asks Him to reveal God via the Bible, He does.
“You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.”
In the passage above, Jesus was speaking to people who wanted to kill Him. They had Scriptures, but Scripture did not have them. They had Scriptures but lacked a relationship with the Author of the Scriptures. When the God of the Scriptures stood before them in human flesh, they argued with Him and hated Him. Jesus effectively told them that the Scriptures testify that He is the Messiah.
“Then he said to me, ‘Write: Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’ And he said to me, ‘These are the true sayings of God.’ And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, ‘See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.’” [3]
The marriage feast of people with God is a supper with the Lamb, that is Jesus Christ. The people who sit at this banquet table looked to the Lamb of God to save them while on the earth, now they are with Him for all eternity.
When John fell at the feet of the angel to worship him for revealing to him these amazing truths, the angel stopped him. The angel told him, “Worship God!” He explained to John that he too was a brother and servant of the TESTIMONY of JESUS. He stated a very important truth about the prophetic ministry for all who want to represent God to others. The truth is, “the TESTIMONY of JESUS is the SPIRIT of PROPHECY.”
May all we who use the Name of Jesus use His Name rightly! He deserves our praise, gratitude, testimonies, and worship!
[1] John 1:18
[2] John 5:39
[3] Revelation 19:9-10
The key that opens the way to knowing God and understanding the Bible is Jesus Christ. When one bows before Him with faith and a humble heart and asks Him to reveal God via the Bible, He does.
“You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.”
In the passage above, Jesus was speaking to people who wanted to kill Him. They had Scriptures, but Scripture did not have them. They had Scriptures but lacked a relationship with the Author of the Scriptures. When the God of the Scriptures stood before them in human flesh, they argued with Him and hated Him. Jesus effectively told them that the Scriptures testify that He is the Messiah.
“Then he said to me, ‘Write: Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’ And he said to me, ‘These are the true sayings of God.’ And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, ‘See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.’” [3]
The marriage feast of people with God is a supper with the Lamb, that is Jesus Christ. The people who sit at this banquet table looked to the Lamb of God to save them while on the earth, now they are with Him for all eternity.
When John fell at the feet of the angel to worship him for revealing to him these amazing truths, the angel stopped him. The angel told him, “Worship God!” He explained to John that he too was a brother and servant of the TESTIMONY of JESUS. He stated a very important truth about the prophetic ministry for all who want to represent God to others. The truth is, “the TESTIMONY of JESUS is the SPIRIT of PROPHECY.”
May all we who use the Name of Jesus use His Name rightly! He deserves our praise, gratitude, testimonies, and worship!
[1] John 1:18
[2] John 5:39
[3] Revelation 19:9-10
Friday, March 8, 2024
God Revealed!
“They said to one another, ‘Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?’” [1]
It is heartwarming when the Lord Jesus makes the Bible understandable and applicable to you.
“He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.” [2]
Jesus helps even simple-minded people to see and understand God...
“I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes.” [3]
The revelation of Creator God to a person is a divine miracle worked by His Son Jesus Christ…
“All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.” [4]
Saul of Tarsus, later known as the Apostle Paul, vehemently opposed the Christian faith until God graciously revealed His Son Jesus Christ to him. After Paul got the revelation of Jesus, he went everywhere talking and writing about Him…
“When it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood.” [5]
Jesus Christ reveals the Kingdom of God to His servants…
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants…” [6]
If you find the Bible to difficult to understand, ask the Heavenly Father in the Name of Jesus to forgive your sins, and give you His Holy Spirit to help you understand Him and His Word. Come to Him, with a heart that wants to know Him, and wants to represent Him truthfully and lovingly to others.
“…No one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” [7]
God is ready to reveal Himself to those who want to know and serve Him.
[1] Luke 24:32
[2] Luke 24:45
[3] Matthew 11:25
[4] Matthew 11:27
[5] Galatians 1:12-13
[6] Revelation 1:1
[7] 1 Corinthians 2:11-12
It is heartwarming when the Lord Jesus makes the Bible understandable and applicable to you.
“He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.” [2]
Jesus helps even simple-minded people to see and understand God...
“I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes.” [3]
The revelation of Creator God to a person is a divine miracle worked by His Son Jesus Christ…
“All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.” [4]
Saul of Tarsus, later known as the Apostle Paul, vehemently opposed the Christian faith until God graciously revealed His Son Jesus Christ to him. After Paul got the revelation of Jesus, he went everywhere talking and writing about Him…
“When it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood.” [5]
Jesus Christ reveals the Kingdom of God to His servants…
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants…” [6]
If you find the Bible to difficult to understand, ask the Heavenly Father in the Name of Jesus to forgive your sins, and give you His Holy Spirit to help you understand Him and His Word. Come to Him, with a heart that wants to know Him, and wants to represent Him truthfully and lovingly to others.
“…No one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” [7]
God is ready to reveal Himself to those who want to know and serve Him.
[1] Luke 24:32
[2] Luke 24:45
[3] Matthew 11:25
[4] Matthew 11:27
[5] Galatians 1:12-13
[6] Revelation 1:1
[7] 1 Corinthians 2:11-12
Tuesday, March 5, 2024
Jesus Christ is the One whom God has Sent to Save Us
Example One: Seventy men receive a portion of the Spirit that is on Moses. Seventy disciples receive a portion of the Spirit that is on Jesus.
“The Lord said to Moses: “Gather to Me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them; bring them to the tabernacle of meeting, that they may stand there with you. Then I will come down and talk with you there. I will take of the Spirit that is upon you and will put the same upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with you, that you may not bear it yourself alone.” [1]
“After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.” “Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, ‘Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.’” [2]
Example two: Moses has a multitude in the wilderness that wants to be fed meat. The Lord miraculously provides meat for them. Jesus feeds a hungry multitude in the wilderness.
“Moses said, ‘The people whom I am among are 600,000 men on foot; yet You have said, ‘I will give them meat, that they may eat for a whole month.’ Shall flocks and herds be slaughtered for them, to provide enough for them? Or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered for them, to provide enough for them?’ And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Has the Lord’s arm been shortened? Now you shall see whether what I say will happen to you or not.’” [3]
Great crowds of people are following Jesus. His disciples come to Him and say, “This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food.” Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” They said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.” He said, “Bring them here to Me.” Jesus “took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples.” “They all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained. Now those who had eaten were about five thousand men, besides women and children.” [4]
Example three: Joshua wants Moses to forbid a man from prophesying. Moses defends the man who is prophesying. John wants Jesus to forbid a man from casting out demons in the Name of Jesus. Jesus defends the man’s ministry.
“A young man ran and told Moses, and said, ‘Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.’ So, Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, one of his choice men, answered and said, ‘Moses my lord, forbid them!’ Then Moses said to him, ‘Are you zealous for my sake? Oh, that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put His Spirit upon them!’” [5]
John said to Jesus, “’Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.’ But Jesus said, ‘Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me. For he who is not against us is on our side.’” [6]
Example four: The Lord gave Jeremiah the sign of an almond tree’s faithful blossoming in due season as a sign that His prophetic Word would surely come to pass. Jesus gave His disciples a vision of a fig tree’s faithful blossoming in due season as a sign that His prophetic Word would surely come to pass.
“The word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Jeremiah, what do you see?’ And I said, ‘I see a branch of an almond tree.’ Then the Lord said to me, ‘You have seen well, for I am ready to perform My word.’” [7]
“Then He spoke to them a parable: ‘Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. So, you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” [8]
Conclusion: Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is the One that God has sent to save us. All Scripture points to Him. He is the Savior of the world, and your Savior when you believe in Him and profess Him.
[1] Numbers 11:16-17
[2] Luke 10:1, 17
[3] Numbers 11:21-23
[4] Matthew 14:13-21
[5] Numbers 11:27-29
[6] Mark 9:38-40
[7] Jeremiah 1:11-12
[8] Luke 21:29-33
“The Lord said to Moses: “Gather to Me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them; bring them to the tabernacle of meeting, that they may stand there with you. Then I will come down and talk with you there. I will take of the Spirit that is upon you and will put the same upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with you, that you may not bear it yourself alone.” [1]
“After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.” “Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, ‘Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.’” [2]
Example two: Moses has a multitude in the wilderness that wants to be fed meat. The Lord miraculously provides meat for them. Jesus feeds a hungry multitude in the wilderness.
“Moses said, ‘The people whom I am among are 600,000 men on foot; yet You have said, ‘I will give them meat, that they may eat for a whole month.’ Shall flocks and herds be slaughtered for them, to provide enough for them? Or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered for them, to provide enough for them?’ And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Has the Lord’s arm been shortened? Now you shall see whether what I say will happen to you or not.’” [3]
Great crowds of people are following Jesus. His disciples come to Him and say, “This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food.” Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” They said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.” He said, “Bring them here to Me.” Jesus “took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples.” “They all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained. Now those who had eaten were about five thousand men, besides women and children.” [4]
Example three: Joshua wants Moses to forbid a man from prophesying. Moses defends the man who is prophesying. John wants Jesus to forbid a man from casting out demons in the Name of Jesus. Jesus defends the man’s ministry.
“A young man ran and told Moses, and said, ‘Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.’ So, Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, one of his choice men, answered and said, ‘Moses my lord, forbid them!’ Then Moses said to him, ‘Are you zealous for my sake? Oh, that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put His Spirit upon them!’” [5]
John said to Jesus, “’Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.’ But Jesus said, ‘Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me. For he who is not against us is on our side.’” [6]
Example four: The Lord gave Jeremiah the sign of an almond tree’s faithful blossoming in due season as a sign that His prophetic Word would surely come to pass. Jesus gave His disciples a vision of a fig tree’s faithful blossoming in due season as a sign that His prophetic Word would surely come to pass.
“The word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Jeremiah, what do you see?’ And I said, ‘I see a branch of an almond tree.’ Then the Lord said to me, ‘You have seen well, for I am ready to perform My word.’” [7]
“Then He spoke to them a parable: ‘Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. So, you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” [8]
Conclusion: Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is the One that God has sent to save us. All Scripture points to Him. He is the Savior of the world, and your Savior when you believe in Him and profess Him.
[1] Numbers 11:16-17
[2] Luke 10:1, 17
[3] Numbers 11:21-23
[4] Matthew 14:13-21
[5] Numbers 11:27-29
[6] Mark 9:38-40
[7] Jeremiah 1:11-12
[8] Luke 21:29-33
Monday, March 4, 2024
Circumstances Change But His Love Remains the Same
“At the command of the Lord they remained encamped, and at the command of the Lord they journeyed; they kept the charge of the Lord, at the command of the Lord by the hand of Moses.” [1]
“So, when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him.” [2]
The Lord led the Israelites by a cloud through the wilderness. See Numbers 9 for more details. The same Lord, we call Him Jesus, leads us His followers today. As He led the Israelites in the wilderness, as He led His disciples in the Gospels, so He leads us who follow Him by His Word and His indwelling Holy Spirit. The setting and the circumstances change from time to time, but His presence, His love and His blessings remain constant and steady.
The kingdom of God is about righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. The journey has twists and turns, but the faith, hope and love that He gives us remains the same. [3]
When I consider what the Lord Jesus is doing for me, and for His other followers, I want to praise Him and say, “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” [4]
[1] Numbers 9:23
[2] Luke 5:11
[3] Romans 14:17; 1 Corinthians 13:13
[4] Psalm 107:1
“So, when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him.” [2]
The Lord led the Israelites by a cloud through the wilderness. See Numbers 9 for more details. The same Lord, we call Him Jesus, leads us His followers today. As He led the Israelites in the wilderness, as He led His disciples in the Gospels, so He leads us who follow Him by His Word and His indwelling Holy Spirit. The setting and the circumstances change from time to time, but His presence, His love and His blessings remain constant and steady.
The kingdom of God is about righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. The journey has twists and turns, but the faith, hope and love that He gives us remains the same. [3]
When I consider what the Lord Jesus is doing for me, and for His other followers, I want to praise Him and say, “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” [4]
[1] Numbers 9:23
[2] Luke 5:11
[3] Romans 14:17; 1 Corinthians 13:13
[4] Psalm 107:1
Sunday, March 3, 2024
Our Lord’s Vision for a Temple Filled with Love
“‘Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!’ Then His disciples remembered that it was written, ‘Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.’ So the Jews answered and said to Him, ‘What sign do You show to us, since You do these things?’ Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ Then the Jews said, ‘It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?’ But He was speaking of the temple of His body.” John 2:16-21
Jesus is zealous for temples filled with His Holy Spirit where faith, hope and love abound. This is my prayer for God's people today as we gather in the Name of His Son Jesus to worship the Father in Spirit and in truth.
Jesus is zealous for temples filled with His Holy Spirit where faith, hope and love abound. This is my prayer for God's people today as we gather in the Name of His Son Jesus to worship the Father in Spirit and in truth.
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