As I read Proverbs 31 just now, the Lord revealed to me that the Book of Proverbs in the Bible reflects the metaphor that runs throughout the Bible. Namely, that those who forsake the Lord are compared to a woman who makes foolish choices that result in her destruction and in the destruction of those who join in her promiscuous ways; while those who love the Lord are compared to a faithful bride who is greatly loved, preserved, and provided for by God.
From Proverbs:
“A foolish woman is clamorous; she is simple and knows nothing. For she sits at the door of her house, on a seat by the highest places of the city, to call to those who pass by, who go straight on their way: “whoever is simple, let him turn in here”; and as for him who lacks understanding, she says to him, “stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of hell.” [1]
“Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so, he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.” [2]
The virtuous wife is virtuous because she has accepted and committed to one husband: Jesus Christ. He has redeemed, cleansed, and empowered her by His love to live a new life.
Redeemed: “When we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.” [3]
The harlot: “Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and talked with me, saying to me, “Come, I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication.” [4]
The bride: “Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.’” [5]
Praise be to God! He is faithful to His people. He will keep His promise to bring us who believe in His Son Jesus Christ to His heavenly kingdom.
[1] Proverbs 9:13-18
[2] Proverbs 31:10-12
[3] Romans 5:6-11
[4] Revelation 17:1-2
[5] Revelation 21:2-4
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
Friday, April 26, 2024
Christ’s Love is Better than Worldly Fame or Fortune
Jesus compared our hearts to soil and His Word to seed. He compared cares of the world and deceitfulness of riches to thorns which choke God’s Word in one’s life so that it does not produce fruit. [1]
The Psalmist compared those who trust in worldly wealth to beasts that perish.
“Their inner thought is that their houses will last forever, their dwelling places to all generations; they call their lands after their own names. Nevertheless man, though in honor, does not remain; he is like the beasts that perish.” [2]
The Psalmist had no confidence in worldly wealth, but he did have confidence in God to redeem his soul from the grave, and to resurrect him to a better life…
“Like sheep they are laid in the grave; death shall feed on them; the upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty shall be consumed in the grave, far from their dwelling. But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave, for He shall receive me. Selah” [3]
He describes an element of the worldly culture that hasn’t changed since he wrote the Psalm a few thousand years ago…
“Though while he lives, he blesses himself (for men will praise you when you do well for yourself), he shall go to the generation of his fathers; they shall never see light. A man who is in honor, yet does not understand, is like the beasts that perish.” [4]
Sadly, riding on the crest of a wave of praise from people could be the very sign of one’s own destruction. Jesus warned us, “But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. Woe to you who are full, for you shall hunger. Woe to you who laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep. Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” [5]
Jesus emphasized serving and loving God and others during our earthly lives as opposed to seeking notoriety and fleshly pleasure. A life lived for Christ bears witness to our confidence in the words of Jesus about eternity.
It is not easy to go against the flow of the world. To sacrifice what we could have had in this world for the sake of God’s glory and to put others before ourselves! Therefore, the Psalmist noted: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart—these, O God, You will not despise.” [6]
Loving God and others helps us to avoid false notions about ourselves, laziness and hateful ways…
“Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” [7]
“The lazy man is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly.” [8]
“He who hates, disguises it with his lips, and lays up deceit within himself; when he speaks kindly, do not believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart; though his hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness will be revealed before the assembly. Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, and he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him. A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, and a flattering mouth works ruin.” [9]
Jesus calls us to love God and others because He wants our joy to be full.
“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” [10]
[1] Matthew 13:22
[2] Psalm 49:11-12
[3] Psalm 49:14-15
[4] Psalm 49:18-20
[5] Luke 6:24-26
[6] Psalm 51:17
[7] Proverbs 26:12
[8] Proverbs 26:16
[9] Proverbs 26:24-28
[10] John 15:11-13
The Psalmist compared those who trust in worldly wealth to beasts that perish.
“Their inner thought is that their houses will last forever, their dwelling places to all generations; they call their lands after their own names. Nevertheless man, though in honor, does not remain; he is like the beasts that perish.” [2]
The Psalmist had no confidence in worldly wealth, but he did have confidence in God to redeem his soul from the grave, and to resurrect him to a better life…
“Like sheep they are laid in the grave; death shall feed on them; the upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty shall be consumed in the grave, far from their dwelling. But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave, for He shall receive me. Selah” [3]
He describes an element of the worldly culture that hasn’t changed since he wrote the Psalm a few thousand years ago…
“Though while he lives, he blesses himself (for men will praise you when you do well for yourself), he shall go to the generation of his fathers; they shall never see light. A man who is in honor, yet does not understand, is like the beasts that perish.” [4]
Sadly, riding on the crest of a wave of praise from people could be the very sign of one’s own destruction. Jesus warned us, “But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. Woe to you who are full, for you shall hunger. Woe to you who laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep. Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” [5]
Jesus emphasized serving and loving God and others during our earthly lives as opposed to seeking notoriety and fleshly pleasure. A life lived for Christ bears witness to our confidence in the words of Jesus about eternity.
It is not easy to go against the flow of the world. To sacrifice what we could have had in this world for the sake of God’s glory and to put others before ourselves! Therefore, the Psalmist noted: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart—these, O God, You will not despise.” [6]
Loving God and others helps us to avoid false notions about ourselves, laziness and hateful ways…
“Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” [7]
“The lazy man is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly.” [8]
“He who hates, disguises it with his lips, and lays up deceit within himself; when he speaks kindly, do not believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart; though his hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness will be revealed before the assembly. Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, and he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him. A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, and a flattering mouth works ruin.” [9]
Jesus calls us to love God and others because He wants our joy to be full.
“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” [10]
[1] Matthew 13:22
[2] Psalm 49:11-12
[3] Psalm 49:14-15
[4] Psalm 49:18-20
[5] Luke 6:24-26
[6] Psalm 51:17
[7] Proverbs 26:12
[8] Proverbs 26:16
[9] Proverbs 26:24-28
[10] John 15:11-13
Monday, April 22, 2024
Christ Wins Evil Loses
The other day, I watched a movie entitled, “The Courageous Heart of Irene Sendler.” The Lord Jesus empowered her to save the lives of nearly 2,500 children from being exterminated. She was tortured by the governing authorities and would have been executed by them if the Lord had not intervened on her behalf.
It should be obvious to all that saving innocent children from extermination is not a crime, but hatred and lies (SIN) had darkened the hearts and minds of her leaders. Their narrative was not to be trusted. Irene, trusted in Christ despite the propaganda that waged against Him and His Word. In the end, those authorities fell. Irene survived, and so did those 2,500 children. Praise the Lord!
It is in this context that Psalm 37:34-40 becomes relative and meaningful...
“Wait on the Lord, and keep His way, and He shall exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you shall see it. I have seen the wicked in great power and spreading himself like a native green tree. Yet he passed away, and behold, he was no more; indeed, I sought him, but he could not be found. Mark the blameless man and observe the upright; for the future of that man is peace. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together; the future of the wicked shall be cut off. But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him.”
It should be obvious to all that saving innocent children from extermination is not a crime, but hatred and lies (SIN) had darkened the hearts and minds of her leaders. Their narrative was not to be trusted. Irene, trusted in Christ despite the propaganda that waged against Him and His Word. In the end, those authorities fell. Irene survived, and so did those 2,500 children. Praise the Lord!
It is in this context that Psalm 37:34-40 becomes relative and meaningful...
“Wait on the Lord, and keep His way, and He shall exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you shall see it. I have seen the wicked in great power and spreading himself like a native green tree. Yet he passed away, and behold, he was no more; indeed, I sought him, but he could not be found. Mark the blameless man and observe the upright; for the future of that man is peace. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together; the future of the wicked shall be cut off. But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him.”
Thursday, April 18, 2024
In Christ - Humanity Restored
Being the people of God - in Christ - humanity/personability is restored.
Amen! Come, Lord Jesus, come!
Amen! Come, Lord Jesus, come!
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit
“While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Then Peter answered, ‘Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?’” [1]
The Gentiles, Italians, received the gift of the Holy Spirit just as the Jewish apostles did according to the above the passage. We non-Jewish believers in Jesus had our first Pentecost-type experience that day. Peter used the fact that the Italians were speaking in tongues and magnifying God to say to his fellow Jews, the Gentiles should be allowed to be baptized with water.
What did Peter preach prior to the Holy Spirit’s outpouring? He preached:
God shows no partiality…
Those who fear Him are accepted by Him.
Those who work righteously are accepted by Him.
Peace is in Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ is Lord of all.
This word was proclaimed throughout Judea.
God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit.
God anointed Jesus with power.
Jesus went about doing good.
He healed people of demonic oppression.
God was with Jesus.
Peter witnessed what Jesus did.
The Jerusalemites crucified Jesus.
God raised Jesus up on the third day.
Jesus was seen alive after being dead by witnesses of God.
Peter ate and drank with Jesus after His resurrection.
God commanded Peter to preach Jesus to people.
God commanded Peter to testify that Jesus will judge all people.
God’s prophets testify that sins of believers in Jesus are forgiven. [2]
The good news is that God is still pouring out His Holy Spirit on believers in Jesus, especially when we offer ourselves to Him to proclaim His Gospel to people. Praise the Lord!
[1] Acts 10:44-47
[2] Acts 10:34-43
The Gentiles, Italians, received the gift of the Holy Spirit just as the Jewish apostles did according to the above the passage. We non-Jewish believers in Jesus had our first Pentecost-type experience that day. Peter used the fact that the Italians were speaking in tongues and magnifying God to say to his fellow Jews, the Gentiles should be allowed to be baptized with water.
What did Peter preach prior to the Holy Spirit’s outpouring? He preached:
God shows no partiality…
Those who fear Him are accepted by Him.
Those who work righteously are accepted by Him.
Peace is in Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ is Lord of all.
This word was proclaimed throughout Judea.
God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit.
God anointed Jesus with power.
Jesus went about doing good.
He healed people of demonic oppression.
God was with Jesus.
Peter witnessed what Jesus did.
The Jerusalemites crucified Jesus.
God raised Jesus up on the third day.
Jesus was seen alive after being dead by witnesses of God.
Peter ate and drank with Jesus after His resurrection.
God commanded Peter to preach Jesus to people.
God commanded Peter to testify that Jesus will judge all people.
God’s prophets testify that sins of believers in Jesus are forgiven. [2]
The good news is that God is still pouring out His Holy Spirit on believers in Jesus, especially when we offer ourselves to Him to proclaim His Gospel to people. Praise the Lord!
[1] Acts 10:44-47
[2] Acts 10:34-43
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Times of Refreshing from the Lord
“Do you show contempt for the riches of God's kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” [1]
Complaining and campaigning against deceiving, bribing, and defrauding may bring about a measure of positive change in our nations, but repentance is what we really need. We need God to graciously lead our nation to repent of how we treat His Son whom He sent to save us from our sin. Jesus Christ is the only One who can cleanse peoples’ hearts from sin and give them a new and steadfast heart to do what is right.
Jesus said that the Holy Spirit convicts of the sin of unbelief... not believing in Christ. [2]
The Apostle Peter preached, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that He may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus.” [3]
As each of us determine to dedicate ourselves to honoring Jesus and Jesus alone, God will turn the tide in our nation, so that corrupt people fall from leadership, and good-willed people arise.
“Dear Heavenly Father, please, in Your kindness, forbearance and patience, bring about a return to faith in Jesus Christ in this land. The kind of faith that knows and professes that only He takes away our sin and gives us appetites to do and uphold what is right. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.”
I was blessed years ago to have four Russian Christians share at a meeting with people in China about what happened before the demise of the cruel and atheistic government in the USSR. The Christians began repenting and serving the Lord. These four Russians were from a Bible school in Siberia that had more than 700 students. They were sending missionaries out to the world.
The Lord promised, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
The thing to remember is that when a seed is planted, it takes time to grow and produce a harvest. Let us turn to the Lord now so that the harvest of blessings can come sooner rather than later.
The Apostle Peter wrote, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” [5]
[1] Romans 2:4
[2] John 16:8-9
[3] Acts 3:19-20
[4] 2 Chronicles 7:14
[5] 1 Peter 5:6
Complaining and campaigning against deceiving, bribing, and defrauding may bring about a measure of positive change in our nations, but repentance is what we really need. We need God to graciously lead our nation to repent of how we treat His Son whom He sent to save us from our sin. Jesus Christ is the only One who can cleanse peoples’ hearts from sin and give them a new and steadfast heart to do what is right.
Jesus said that the Holy Spirit convicts of the sin of unbelief... not believing in Christ. [2]
The Apostle Peter preached, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that He may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus.” [3]
As each of us determine to dedicate ourselves to honoring Jesus and Jesus alone, God will turn the tide in our nation, so that corrupt people fall from leadership, and good-willed people arise.
“Dear Heavenly Father, please, in Your kindness, forbearance and patience, bring about a return to faith in Jesus Christ in this land. The kind of faith that knows and professes that only He takes away our sin and gives us appetites to do and uphold what is right. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.”
I was blessed years ago to have four Russian Christians share at a meeting with people in China about what happened before the demise of the cruel and atheistic government in the USSR. The Christians began repenting and serving the Lord. These four Russians were from a Bible school in Siberia that had more than 700 students. They were sending missionaries out to the world.
The Lord promised, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
The thing to remember is that when a seed is planted, it takes time to grow and produce a harvest. Let us turn to the Lord now so that the harvest of blessings can come sooner rather than later.
The Apostle Peter wrote, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” [5]
[1] Romans 2:4
[2] John 16:8-9
[3] Acts 3:19-20
[4] 2 Chronicles 7:14
[5] 1 Peter 5:6
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Joshua and Jesus
King Adoni-Zedek of Jerusalem heard how Joshua conquered two great kingdoms and was about to absorb Gibeon (a kingdom of mighty men without a fight). He was greatly afraid. He sent messages to four kings and asked them to help him conquer Gibeon before they surrendered to Joshua. [1]
“The Lord said to Joshua, “Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand; not a man of them shall stand before you.” Joshua armies surprised the enemies. The Lord routed them. As they retreated, the Lord cast down large hailstones from heaven on them, and they died. “There were more who died from the hailstones than the children of Israel killed with the sword.” [2]
The Lord will use a similar approach to the nations who war against Him before He returns: “And great hail from heaven fell upon men, each hailstone about the weight of a talent. Men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail, since that plague was exceedingly great.” [3]
Joshua asked the Lord to cause the sun and moon to hold their positions until His enemies were defeated, and the Lord answered his prayer. “And there has been no day like that, before it or after it, that the Lord heeded the voice of a man; for the Lord fought for Israel.” [4]
I remember being inspired to pray a type of Joshua’s prayer once when a co-laborer in Christ wanted to secure a teaching position in China. I prayed that the sun would not go down until he had a position even if we had to visit many universities. He got a position at the first stop. The Lord had directed our steps to the right place.
The Lord gave Joshua the victory. The five enemy kings fled to a cave. Joshua had a large stone rolled in front of the cave. What does this remind you of? Who else had a stone blocking an entrance? Jesus Christ! Joshua completed the mopping up operation of the defeated armies, then, he had his men roll the stone away. He had his captains place their feet on the necks of the kings, and then, said to them, “Do not be afraid, nor be dismayed; be strong and of good courage, for thus the Lord will do to all your enemies against whom you fight.” Afterward, Joshua struck them and killed them, and hanged them on five trees. Who else on a tree, but for our sin, not His own? Jesus Christ! Jesus defeated our greatest enemy: sin. [5]
Many more kings gathered against Joshua, but the Lord said to him, “Do not be afraid because of them, for tomorrow about this time I will deliver all of them slain before Israel.” The Lord did as He said. And the Lord said of Joshua, “He left nothing undone of all that the Lord had commanded Moses.” [6] Like Jesus, he sought to fulfill all that God expected him to accomplish.
The Lord says that He hardened the hearts of His foes against His people so that He might destroy them. He even destroyed the giants in the land. None of them survived except the ones who were in Gaza, in Gath, and in Ashdod. [7]
The apostles told those who opposed Christ, “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.” [8]
It is only in Jesus that there is forgiveness of sin. It is only in Jesus that there is mercy and salvation from God. Those who know Jesus testify to this, and so does the Holy Spirit.
A leader named Gamaliel told those who arrested the apostles, “If this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God.” They agreed, and after beating the apostles, they released them. The apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of Jesus and continued to teach and preach Jesus as the Christ. [9]
The question is, “Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? They want to defy the Lordship of Christ and humiliate those who profess Him, but God laughs. God has declared His Son to be the King whom all should worship. “Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.” [11]
[1] Joshua 10:1-5
[2] Joshua 10:8-11
[3] Revelation 16:21
[4] Joshua 10:12-14
[5] Joshua 10:15-27
[6] Joshua 11:1-8, 15
[7] Joshua 11:20-22
[8] Acts 5:30-33
[9] Acts 5:34-42
[10] Psalm 2
“The Lord said to Joshua, “Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand; not a man of them shall stand before you.” Joshua armies surprised the enemies. The Lord routed them. As they retreated, the Lord cast down large hailstones from heaven on them, and they died. “There were more who died from the hailstones than the children of Israel killed with the sword.” [2]
The Lord will use a similar approach to the nations who war against Him before He returns: “And great hail from heaven fell upon men, each hailstone about the weight of a talent. Men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail, since that plague was exceedingly great.” [3]
Joshua asked the Lord to cause the sun and moon to hold their positions until His enemies were defeated, and the Lord answered his prayer. “And there has been no day like that, before it or after it, that the Lord heeded the voice of a man; for the Lord fought for Israel.” [4]
I remember being inspired to pray a type of Joshua’s prayer once when a co-laborer in Christ wanted to secure a teaching position in China. I prayed that the sun would not go down until he had a position even if we had to visit many universities. He got a position at the first stop. The Lord had directed our steps to the right place.
The Lord gave Joshua the victory. The five enemy kings fled to a cave. Joshua had a large stone rolled in front of the cave. What does this remind you of? Who else had a stone blocking an entrance? Jesus Christ! Joshua completed the mopping up operation of the defeated armies, then, he had his men roll the stone away. He had his captains place their feet on the necks of the kings, and then, said to them, “Do not be afraid, nor be dismayed; be strong and of good courage, for thus the Lord will do to all your enemies against whom you fight.” Afterward, Joshua struck them and killed them, and hanged them on five trees. Who else on a tree, but for our sin, not His own? Jesus Christ! Jesus defeated our greatest enemy: sin. [5]
Many more kings gathered against Joshua, but the Lord said to him, “Do not be afraid because of them, for tomorrow about this time I will deliver all of them slain before Israel.” The Lord did as He said. And the Lord said of Joshua, “He left nothing undone of all that the Lord had commanded Moses.” [6] Like Jesus, he sought to fulfill all that God expected him to accomplish.
The Lord says that He hardened the hearts of His foes against His people so that He might destroy them. He even destroyed the giants in the land. None of them survived except the ones who were in Gaza, in Gath, and in Ashdod. [7]
The apostles told those who opposed Christ, “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.” [8]
It is only in Jesus that there is forgiveness of sin. It is only in Jesus that there is mercy and salvation from God. Those who know Jesus testify to this, and so does the Holy Spirit.
A leader named Gamaliel told those who arrested the apostles, “If this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God.” They agreed, and after beating the apostles, they released them. The apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of Jesus and continued to teach and preach Jesus as the Christ. [9]
The question is, “Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? They want to defy the Lordship of Christ and humiliate those who profess Him, but God laughs. God has declared His Son to be the King whom all should worship. “Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.” [11]
[1] Joshua 10:1-5
[2] Joshua 10:8-11
[3] Revelation 16:21
[4] Joshua 10:12-14
[5] Joshua 10:15-27
[6] Joshua 11:1-8, 15
[7] Joshua 11:20-22
[8] Acts 5:30-33
[9] Acts 5:34-42
[10] Psalm 2
Wednesday, April 3, 2024
Jesus is Alive and Well, and Returning Soon
“Do not envy the oppressor and choose none of his ways; for the perverse person is an abomination to the Lord, but His secret counsel is with the upright.” [1]
Prefer the Lord not perversity! Don’t oppress, enjoy sweet fellowship with God.
“The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the home of the just. Surely, He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble. The wise shall inherit glory, but shame shall be the legacy of fools.” [2]
Prefer just living over wickedness. Pride leads to scorn of the Lord, while humility leads to enjoying His grace. Glory or shame hang in the balance!
“Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and preached in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about 5,000.” [3]
While a small group of corrupt and oppressive rulers used lawfare against those who proclaimed the resurrection of Christ from the dead, others, about 5,000 men, believed their message and embraced Christ as their Lord and Savior.
“Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” [4]
Like the mustard seed that is as small as a grain of sand but yields a plant that grows rapidly and is hard to get rid of, so is the Kingdom of Christ. His kingdom conquers all kingdoms. Therefore, let us ask God to heal, and do signs and wonders in the Name of His Son Jesus to help people believe in Him. The greatest sin is not to believe in Jesus for without faith in Him there is no forgiveness of sin. Salvation is by faith in Christ alone.
“With great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.” [5]
Jesus is alive and well and returning soon.
[1] Proverbs 3:31-32
[2] Proverbs 3:33-35
[3] Acts 4:1-2, 4
[4] Acts 4:30-31
[5] Acts 4:33
Prefer the Lord not perversity! Don’t oppress, enjoy sweet fellowship with God.
“The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the home of the just. Surely, He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble. The wise shall inherit glory, but shame shall be the legacy of fools.” [2]
Prefer just living over wickedness. Pride leads to scorn of the Lord, while humility leads to enjoying His grace. Glory or shame hang in the balance!
“Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and preached in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about 5,000.” [3]
While a small group of corrupt and oppressive rulers used lawfare against those who proclaimed the resurrection of Christ from the dead, others, about 5,000 men, believed their message and embraced Christ as their Lord and Savior.
“Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” [4]
Like the mustard seed that is as small as a grain of sand but yields a plant that grows rapidly and is hard to get rid of, so is the Kingdom of Christ. His kingdom conquers all kingdoms. Therefore, let us ask God to heal, and do signs and wonders in the Name of His Son Jesus to help people believe in Him. The greatest sin is not to believe in Jesus for without faith in Him there is no forgiveness of sin. Salvation is by faith in Christ alone.
“With great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.” [5]
Jesus is alive and well and returning soon.
[1] Proverbs 3:31-32
[2] Proverbs 3:33-35
[3] Acts 4:1-2, 4
[4] Acts 4:30-31
[5] Acts 4:33
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
A Cheerful Countenance
“To you first, God, having raised up His Servant Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your iniquities.” [1]
Jesus Christ is able and willing to turn us who turn to Him from sin. What's more, He replaces destructive, deceiving, and defrauding ways with constructive, commendable, and charitable ways.
“A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” [2]
Jesus Christ fills our heart until overflowing with love, joy, and peace. No one can help us to cope with and overcome the miseries of this evil world like Jesus does.
“Yes, Lord Jesus, we give to You our sins and ask You to forgive us, and to give to us Your blessings that yield glory to You and love to those around us. It is Your Name, Jesus, that I pray. Amen.”
[1] Acts 3:26
[2] Proverbs 15:13
Jesus Christ is able and willing to turn us who turn to Him from sin. What's more, He replaces destructive, deceiving, and defrauding ways with constructive, commendable, and charitable ways.
“A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” [2]
Jesus Christ fills our heart until overflowing with love, joy, and peace. No one can help us to cope with and overcome the miseries of this evil world like Jesus does.
“Yes, Lord Jesus, we give to You our sins and ask You to forgive us, and to give to us Your blessings that yield glory to You and love to those around us. It is Your Name, Jesus, that I pray. Amen.”
[1] Acts 3:26
[2] Proverbs 15:13
Monday, April 1, 2024
The Earthly and Heavenly Promised Land
Circumcision and Baptism
The Lord ordered Joshua to have the sons of Israel circumcised in preparation to inherit the Promised Land…
“At that time, the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Make flint knives for yourself, and circumcise the sons of Israel…” “So it was, when they had finished circumcising all the people, that they stayed in their places in the camp till they were healed. Then the Lord said to Joshua, ‘This day I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.’ Therefore, the name of the place is called Gilgal (Rolling) to this day.” [1]
Moses had given the people the spiritual significance of circumcision before this day when he wrote, “And the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.” [2] It was a dethroning of the flesh’s desires to enthrone the spirit’s desire to love God.
Paul spoke of circumcision in a similar fashion, when he wrote, “A Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God.” [3] Circumcision was to be done for God’s praise as an expression of a man’s love for and dedication to God.
The apostle describes baptism as a circumcision of Christ; a burial of the sinful self and a resurrection by the power of God as a sanctified self; a person being set apart by God for His use instead one’s own selfish use: “In Him [Christ] also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, having been buried with Him [Christ] in baptism, in which you were also raised with Him [Christ] through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised Him [Christ] from the dead.” [4]
Passover and Christ
The Lord led His people to observe the Passover before they took possession of the Promised Land: “Now the children of Israel camped in Gilgal and kept the Passover on the 14th day of the month at twilight on the plains of Jericho. And they ate of the produce of the land on the day after the Passover unleavened bread and parched grain, on the very same day.” [5]
Passover is symbolic of Jesus delivering those who trust in Him from the slavery and penalty of sin. Egypt is not just a geographical location it is also a state of mind: “Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” “You were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.” [6]
“Then the manna ceased on the day after they had eaten the produce of the land; and the children of Israel no longer had manna, but they ate the food of the land of Canaan that year.” [7] Manna is symbolic of the Bible that came down from God and fed our souls. Once, we enter the Promised Land of eternal paradise, we no longer need Bibles because we are with Him to whom the Bible bears witness. Our pilgrimage is over. We are in New Jerusalem.
After circumcision and Passover, the Commander of the Lord’s armies met Joshua. After baptism and recognizing Christ’s atoning sacrifice for our sins, Jesus, the Commander of God’s army appears to us in the Scripture more brilliantly than He ever did before. By His Word He leads us onto victory over every foe and brings us into the Heavenly Promised Land which is eternal. Praise the Lord!
“And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, ‘Are You for us or for our adversaries?’ So, He said, ‘No, but as Commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.’” [8]
This is what Peter was talking about during his Pentecost message: “Therefore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” [9] Jesus is the Messiah, the One who completes the Old Testament stories.
The impact of Peter’s message was that his listeners were convicted of their need to do something, “Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Men and brethren, what shall we do?’” [10]
Peter urged them to repent of sin, be baptized and to receive the Holy Spirit: “Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.’” [11]
The people who believed, responded with action: “Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.” [12]
The apostles’ doctrine that they studied, the fellowship that they enjoyed, the bread that they broke and the prayers that they prayed were due to being born again into a new and lively hope via God’s Messiah, Jesus His Son. Praise the Lord!
[1] Joshua 5:2, 8-9
[2] Deuteronomy 30:6
[3] Romans 2:29
[4] Colossians 2:11-12
[5] Joshua 5:10-11
[6] 1 Corinthians 5:7; John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:18–19
[8] Joshua 5:13-14
[9] Acts 8:36
[10] Acts 8:37
[11] Acts 2:38-39
[12] Acts 2:41-42
The Lord ordered Joshua to have the sons of Israel circumcised in preparation to inherit the Promised Land…
“At that time, the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Make flint knives for yourself, and circumcise the sons of Israel…” “So it was, when they had finished circumcising all the people, that they stayed in their places in the camp till they were healed. Then the Lord said to Joshua, ‘This day I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.’ Therefore, the name of the place is called Gilgal (Rolling) to this day.” [1]
Moses had given the people the spiritual significance of circumcision before this day when he wrote, “And the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.” [2] It was a dethroning of the flesh’s desires to enthrone the spirit’s desire to love God.
Paul spoke of circumcision in a similar fashion, when he wrote, “A Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God.” [3] Circumcision was to be done for God’s praise as an expression of a man’s love for and dedication to God.
The apostle describes baptism as a circumcision of Christ; a burial of the sinful self and a resurrection by the power of God as a sanctified self; a person being set apart by God for His use instead one’s own selfish use: “In Him [Christ] also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, having been buried with Him [Christ] in baptism, in which you were also raised with Him [Christ] through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised Him [Christ] from the dead.” [4]
Passover and Christ
The Lord led His people to observe the Passover before they took possession of the Promised Land: “Now the children of Israel camped in Gilgal and kept the Passover on the 14th day of the month at twilight on the plains of Jericho. And they ate of the produce of the land on the day after the Passover unleavened bread and parched grain, on the very same day.” [5]
Passover is symbolic of Jesus delivering those who trust in Him from the slavery and penalty of sin. Egypt is not just a geographical location it is also a state of mind: “Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” “You were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.” [6]
“Then the manna ceased on the day after they had eaten the produce of the land; and the children of Israel no longer had manna, but they ate the food of the land of Canaan that year.” [7] Manna is symbolic of the Bible that came down from God and fed our souls. Once, we enter the Promised Land of eternal paradise, we no longer need Bibles because we are with Him to whom the Bible bears witness. Our pilgrimage is over. We are in New Jerusalem.
After circumcision and Passover, the Commander of the Lord’s armies met Joshua. After baptism and recognizing Christ’s atoning sacrifice for our sins, Jesus, the Commander of God’s army appears to us in the Scripture more brilliantly than He ever did before. By His Word He leads us onto victory over every foe and brings us into the Heavenly Promised Land which is eternal. Praise the Lord!
“And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, ‘Are You for us or for our adversaries?’ So, He said, ‘No, but as Commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.’” [8]
This is what Peter was talking about during his Pentecost message: “Therefore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” [9] Jesus is the Messiah, the One who completes the Old Testament stories.
The impact of Peter’s message was that his listeners were convicted of their need to do something, “Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Men and brethren, what shall we do?’” [10]
Peter urged them to repent of sin, be baptized and to receive the Holy Spirit: “Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.’” [11]
The people who believed, responded with action: “Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.” [12]
The apostles’ doctrine that they studied, the fellowship that they enjoyed, the bread that they broke and the prayers that they prayed were due to being born again into a new and lively hope via God’s Messiah, Jesus His Son. Praise the Lord!
[1] Joshua 5:2, 8-9
[2] Deuteronomy 30:6
[3] Romans 2:29
[4] Colossians 2:11-12
[5] Joshua 5:10-11
[6] 1 Corinthians 5:7; John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:18–19
[8] Joshua 5:13-14
[9] Acts 8:36
[10] Acts 8:37
[11] Acts 2:38-39
[12] Acts 2:41-42
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