Zechariah’s Vision of Joshua

The Lord gave Zechariah a vision of Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him.

Praise God because the Lord said to Satan, “The Lord rebuke you, Satan! The Lord, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebuke you! Is not this man a burning stick snatched from the fire?”

Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. The angel said to those who were standing before him, “Take off his filthy clothes.”

Then he said to Joshua, “See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put fine garments on you.”

The angel of the Lord said to Joshua, “‘Listen, High Priest Joshua, you and your associates seated before you, who are men symbolic of things to come: I am going to bring my servant, the Branch. See, the stone I have set in front of Joshua! There are seven eyes on that one stone, and I will engrave an inscription on it,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and I will remove the sin of this land in a single day. In that day each of you will invite your neighbor to sit under your vine and fig tree,’ declares the Lord Almighty.’”

Jesus is the New Testament pronunciation of Joshua. Jesus took our sins, our filth upon Himself, so that He could save us from our sins. Jesus is the Branch of the Lord spoke of by the prophet Isaiah. Jesus is the one who removed the sin of the land in a single day. In Christ, neighbors come together in fellowship. Christ is the Chosen One and Anointed One to save us from Satan’s accusations and filth.

I have attached pictures to further illustrate the work of Christ.

Growth Despite Opposition

Peter and John just healed a lame man in the Name of Jesus. The number of men who believed in Christ grew to about five thousand. “They [The religious leaders] were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. They seized Peter and John and, because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day.” [1]

The same guys who executed Jesus (Annas, Caiaphas, John, Alexander and others of the high priest’s family) began to interrogate Peter and John. [2]

The Holy Spirit filled Peter and he boldly declared in, “It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead that this man stands before you healed.” He added, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” [3]

Here’s how the trial ended, “They commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, ‘Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.’ After further threats they let them go.” [4]

After being released, Peter and John went back to their own people and they raised their voices together in prayer to God. They concluded their prayer by saying, “Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable Your servants to speak Your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [5]

“They [those in the prayer meeting] were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” “God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all.” [6]

There is One God and One Lord. Who is any government or person that he or she can silence God? God created and sustains the universe. Jesus Christ is Lord of all!

[1] Acts 3:6; 4:3-4
[2] Acts 4:5-6
[3] Acts 4:10, 12
[4] Acts 4:18-21
[5] Acts 4:29-30
[6] Acts 4:31, 33

Build Your Church Lord

On the day of Pentecost, Jews from every nation were gathered together in Jerusalem.

The Holy Spirit filled the disciples so that they began to speak in a tongue that people could understand. Peter preached the Gospel to them. When he was done, they asked him, “What shall we do?”

Peter replied, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” [1]

Repent in the original language means to change one’s mind. Repent is what Abraham (the father of the Jewish faith) did. He left Babylon. He forsook the idols that his parents worshiped. Abraham believed God, and God counted his faith as righteousness. [2] True worship of God is to trust Him and act on His Word.

On the day of Pentecost, Peter’s listeners heard God speaking and replied, “What shall we do.” [3] Peter told them to repent and be baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins. Be immersed in Christ. Receive the Holy Spirit!

The word for “church” in the original language of the New Testament is ekklesia. It means to be a “called out.” Like Abraham and like Peter’s listeners, turn from false religions and erroneous teachings. Turn towards the true and living God.

The Christian faith is a calling-out from the world by God to inherit Christ and all that He offers us. Christianity is faith in Christ lived-out by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

[1] Acts 2:37
[2] Genesis 15:6
[2] Acts 2:36

Elijah’s Ministry Strategy

An evil king ruled the nation. He ruined the country’s economy and security. He persecuted the faithful servants of the Lord. Does that sound familiar?

What was Elijah's ministry strategy?

Elijah committed himself to the Lord. He trusted in God no matter what the blasphemous fool on the throne said or did. When the Lord told him to confront the king, he did. He confronted the king with God’s Word not his own.

“Then the word of the Lord came to him (Elijah), saying, ‘Get away from here and turn eastward, and hide by the Brook Cherith which flows into the Jordan. And it will be that you shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there.’ So he went and did according to the word of the Lord, for he went and stayed by the Brook Cherith which flows into the Jordan. The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening; and he drank from the brook.” [1]

Later, the Lord told him to challenge the king’s 700 false prophets to a contest. The Lord turned the tide on that evil king and his false prophets. By a miracle of the Lord, the king’s 700 false prophets were executed that day.

Elijah did not just talk about faith in God, he had it. When an evil leader ruled his country, Elijah’s ministry strategy was to listen to and act on God’s Word. The Lord brought forth the victory.

[1] 1 Kings 17:2-6

No to Torment Yes to Jesus

“’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 unto Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.’

Thomas said to him, ‘Lord, we know not where You go; and how can we know the way?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by Me.’” [1]

What a wonderful promise! Jesus has went to His Father’s house to prepare a place for us so that we may be with Him forever.

Last night, a dream brought me to my knees. Sherry woke up and prayed as well. We prayed for as many people as came to mind.

In the dream, I was in a carnival setting, but I did not want to be there. As I tried to leave, the carnival people kept throwing snakes and candy at me. These things attached themselves to me so that I had to rip them off. In the dream, I did not think to call on the Lord. I tried to leave the place of torment in my own strength but could not escape.

When I woke up, I felt the chill of evil in the room, so that is when I rolled out of bed and onto my knees to pray. Sherry did too. Praise the Lord, as we prayed, Jesus rebuked the evil one. Then, we prayed for our children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, congregational members, neighbors, spiritual leaders, our nation, and the people of the world. We prayed that none would end up in the place of torment where there is no escape and where it is too late to be saved by JESUS.

Jesus has given a wonderful promise to everyone who believes in Him: an eternity with Him in His Father’s house. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life for everyone who believes.

“Lord Jesus, please help all who read this message to realize the value of Your great salvation, repent of sin, call upon Your Name, and follow You by living according to Your Word all their days.”

[1] John 14:1-6

Faith in the Hour that Tries by Fire

“Jesus... was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, ‘Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray Me.’ Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom He spoke. He then lying on Jesus’ breast said to Him, ‘Lord, who is it?’ Jesus answered, ‘It is he to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it.’ And when He had dipped the sop, He gave it to Judas Iscariot.” [1]

“When the host would dip his piece of bread into the dish, and then give the sop to someone, that was very, very significant. The host or master of the house would give the sop to the person to whom he wanted to show his greatest love and esteem. He did that by dipping into the common dish and then placing the sop in the person’s mouth. In doing that, he would show to all those present, and to the person receiving the sop, the love and honor he had for him.

Jesus knew that Judas was about to betray him. Yet, there he sat, quite possibly in a position of honor at the meal, and Jesus gave him the sop.” [2]

Jesus extended grace, honor, and love to Judas. Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. He traded an eternity with God in paradise for earthly money that would only yield a momentary pleasure.

Jim Elliott once said, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain that which he cannot lose.”

The eleven disciples who remained faithful to Jesus, though mistreated on earth, enjoy eternal feasting and joy unspeakable and full of glory with Christ in heaven.

“Lord Jesus, please pray for us that our faith will not fail in the hour that tries by fire. Please bring us to Your heavenly kingdom by keeping our faith in You strong.”

[1] John 13:21, 23-26
[2] Michael A. Verdicchio quote: confidenceandjoy.com

Our Loving Doting Heavenly Father

“The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing.” [1]

Of all the wonderful experiences that our loving doting Heavenly Father has granted me, being a husband, father and grandfather are roles that evoke much joy, love and singing from me. I find myself singing about Sherry, my wife, almost daily. Once, I even converted the national anthem into a love song to her. I enjoy seeing her smile. When I hear from one of our children or grandchildren, my day brightens, especially when we FaceTime.

The Heavenly Father has redeemed my life from the pit of sin and despair and granted me the blessing of delighting in being a doting husband, father, and grandfather.

“Thank You Heavenly Father for filling my life with rejoicing! Thank You for Your love. Thank You for sharing Your songs with me.”

Praise be to God our Father for His great love for us. Jesus is the expressed image of God. [2] If we have seen Jesus in the Gospels, we have seen the Father. [3] Jesus is the image of the invisible God. [4]

Think of how Jesus His Son did not defend Himself when the people preferred the murderer Barabbas before Him. How could God rejoice with joy and singing over such people?

Jesus did not defend Himself against those who hated Him because He wanted to save them. If He defended Himself, He could not save Barabbas. The criminal Barabbas in the Passion Story represents the human race. We all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. [5] “There is none righteous, no not one.” [6] We deserved to be hated not rejoiced over, but the Lord died for our sins because He loves us and wants to save us.

Our Heavenly Father is a doting Father... He delights to sing over us with joy. His promise still stands forgiveness of sins and renewal in His image if we believe in His Son. Christ still pours the pure love of the Holy Spirit into us as we trust in Him. [7]

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we too can rejoice with joy over people as our Heavenly Father does, Jesus took on our nature so that we can experience His divine nature by His grace. The joy of our Loving Doting Heavenly Father! Amen! Alleluia!

[1] Zephaniah 3:17
[2] Hebrews 1:3
[3] John 14:9
[4] Colossians 1:15
[5] Romans 3:23
[6] Romans 3:10
[7] Romans 5:5

Righteousness, Peace, and Joy in the Holy Spirit

A man did a thorough search and documented his findings. He used a scientific approach to uncover which lifestyle is the most meaningful existence in a world filled with meaningless activity. He stated his conclusion at the end of his book…

“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” [1]

Why should we reverence God and uphold the commands He gave us? He’s our Creator and Sustainer! He is wiser than we are! He is more trustworthy than we are! His goal is to bring us into a wonderful existence with Him for all eternity.

“The kingdom of God is… righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” [2]

[1] Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
[2] Romans 14:17

What Does the Holy Spirit Do?

Bible verses that reveal the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives.

He fills us with God’s with love (Romans 5:5)
He empowers us to worship God (John 4:23-24)

Rejected by Leaders but Anointed by God’s Spirit

“It came to pass on one of those days, as He (Jesus) was teaching the people in the temple, and proclaiming good news, the chief priests and the scribes, with the elders, came upon Him.” [1]

The religious leaders feared that the Roman government would close down their meeting places and put them out of jobs if the Jesus movement continued to grow. The fact of the matter is that after these leaders crucified Jesus, the Romans did destroy the religious institutions and gathering places of Jerusalem in 70 AD.

I remember a preacher telling a story about an on-fire-Christian being denied entrance into seminary. He was downcast afterwards. He wanted to learn the Word of God so he could win the world to Christ. As he walked away, Jesus came and walked aside him. Finally, Jesus asked him, “Why are you so downcast?” He replied, “Because the seminary would not let me in.” Jesus replied, “Don’t be too disappointed, I am Messiah, and they won’t let me in either.”

Religious leaders, don’t throw Jesus out of your congregations or student body! Invite the Holy Spirit to teach and proclaim Good News of Jesus to your people. Trust in God to deal with those who oppose Him. After all, He’s got the whole world in His hands.

[1] Luke 20:1

Cleave To & Profess Christ

The Church was initiated by God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. When any religious group, State, or Empire acts on the belief that it has the right to eliminate the Christian Church, it puts itself in direct conflict with the Lord of the Church: Jesus Christ. Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of lords whose kingdom has no end.

Babylon was once a world power. Her king thought he could defy and ignore the living God until a hand appeared and wrote on the wall that his kingdom had been weighed by God and came up short. That very night Babylon was overthrown.

“You… Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart…. You have lifted yourself up against the Lord of heaven. You have been weighed in the balances and found wanting.” [1]

We are in a time of derision because so many kings and their people have risen up against God and His Anointed One (Christ). Political and religious upheavals are happening everywhere.

“Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying, ‘Let us break Their bonds in pieces and cast away Their cords from us.’ He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall hold them in derision.” [2]

It is time to cleave to and profess Christ as Lord. Be saved not lost!

The destiny of every human being is stated in the Bible…

“God has highly exalted Him and given Him the Name, which is above every name, that at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” [3]

We may or may not have to stand before earthly authorities due to our professed beliefs, but every one of us will stand before God’s throne and give an account of what we believed and professed on earth.

[1] Daniel 5:22-23, 27
[2] Psalm 2:1-4
[3] Philippians 2:9-11

Victory Over Futility

“’Meaningless! Meaningless!’ says the Teacher. ‘Utterly meaningless, everything is meaningless.’” [1]

The Teacher tried to satisfy himself by gaining superior wisdom. He tried to satisfy himself with every kind of earthly pleasure. He tried to satisfy himself with his work. At the end of each phase, he came up empty handed and lamenting “meaningless.”

“To the person who pleases Him, God gives wisdom, knowledge, and happiness, but to the sinner He gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” [2]

I believe the Teacher found God’s strategy meaningless because God’s plan was not about gratifying his sinful self. God’s plan is that we unite with Him through faith in Jesus Christ and that with Jesus Christ we carry out God’s will on earth.

Who pleases God? Who experiences victory over futility?

“Everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world, only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” [3]

Life does not have to be meaningless. Jesus Christ replaces futility with faith by filling us with His Spirit. By the power of the Holy Spirit, God can do things through us that otherwise He could not do. Jesus helps us to live victoriously.

[1] Ecclesiastes 1:2
[2] Ecclesiastes 2:26
[3] 1 John 5:4-5

Suffering For Righteousness’ Sake

“The Lord restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.” [1]

The blood test result was Bar Epstein virus. Three months, four rounds of steroids, one round of antibiotic and still not better! The bright side of the trial was more time redeemed in prayer for my family members, relatives, friends, church members and for lost souls.

I’m twelve chapters deep into the seventh edit of a book that I have been working on for three years. I have learned during this trial that much of the Bible was written by authors in exile or prison. The Lord slows down His servants, so that we take time to reflect on and write down what He teaches us from His Word. “Thank You Jesus for pruning us so that we yield good fruit.”

Job was laboring for righteousness’ sake when the devil attacked him. His friends believed he was suffering because he sinned against God. Job knew that was not the case, but he did not know why the Lord allowed him to suffer. The Bible tells us that Job’s book was written for our sake, to encourage us that at the end of every trial, we will know just as Job did, that God is merciful and full of compassion. [2]

I enjoyed wonderful times of prayer during my season of hardship. Revelation from God’s Word! Spirit anointed worship! More empathy for others!

Job was a type of Christ. He suffered unjustly so that others could read of the Lord’s faithfulness to His servants. Job blessed the Name of the Lord when he lost his worldly wealth but agonized over the concern that he had lost God.

Remember when Jesus cried out from the cross, “My God, my God why have You forsaken Me.” [3] Christ was forsaken for our sake. But on the third day, Christ resurrected by the power of God and showed Himself to His disciples and to over 500 witnesses. He ate and drank with them for forty days before He ascended up on high. This same Jesus is coming back for all who love Him.

The Bible says, “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” [4]

“Holy Spirit, please anoint God’s servants who are suffering for righteousness’ sake. Please make the latter part of our lives more fruitful than the former, and may You get all the glory, for You alone are worthy! In the Name of the Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen. And by the way, thank You Lord Jesus in advance for healing me. As Your word says, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.” [5]

[1] Job 42:10
[2] James 5:11
[3] Mark 15:34
[4] 2 Corinthians 4:17
[5] Psalm 34:19

The Holy Spirit with Fire Baptism

“He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.

The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Messiah.

John answered them all, ‘I baptize you with water. But One who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.’” [1]

The baptism of repentance is about changing our perspective of who is Savior. Living in a particular geographical place or being of a particular race of people doesn’t save us. The Savior is not an elite religious group. He is not an imaginary comic book hero or a current political leader. He is Jesus Christ.

When we confess Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, He baptizes us with the Holy Spirit and fire. The Holy Spirit gives us the fruits of love, joy, and peace. He gives us grace-gifts which help us navigate through this dark world. He gives us an appetite for righteousness. He ignites in us love for God and love for neighbor.

The unholy trio of the devil, sin and death defile and destroy the human race. The Triune Father, Son and Holy Spirit saves us and renews us. All God’s fullness dwells in Christ. [2] God restores what was stolen and gives us eternal life as we trust in His Son Jesus Christ and receive His Holy Spirit.

[1] Luke 3:3, 15-16
[2] Colossians 2:9

Encouragement for the Lord’s Servants

After God removed His hedge of protection from around Job, Satan attacked and destroyed all his assets and killed ten children. [1]

Job’s response was totally amazing!

“He fell to the ground in worship and said: ‘Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the Name of the Lord be praised.’ In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.” [2]

Job loved God. “Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one’s house for love, it would be utterly scorned.” [3] He wanted to keep on worshipping and loving God despite his losses. He did not want to end the relationship.

Then, Job’s three friends drew near to comfort him. However, when the pain of his losses sunk in, he began to curse the day he was born. Job’s three friends began to debate with him as to who was to fault for his losses. Their point was that God cannot be blamed because God is faultless, so therefore, Job must have done something wrong and that is why Job was being punished. [4]

There was a high school girl who had a “Job experience.” Hateful classmates hacked her social media page and posted accusatory lies on her Facebook page towards her friends. Her friends forsook her. Some beat her. Her Mom finally chose to move to new school district to protect her. Those who delighted in hurting her, started the same cycle again with her new classmates. She probably would have ended her life had two faithful friends not stepped in to defend her.

Thanks to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I understand that good people, even the Son of God, are falsely accused and attacked. Satan hates those who love God and their neighbor. He wants to wipe off of the face of the earth. He wants to humiliate us in every way possible.

The good news is that the Lord confronted the three “friends” about their treatment of Job. He told them to ask Job to pray for them. Then, the Lord restored all that Job lost, twice over. [5]

The Good News about our Lord Jesus Christ is even though people falsely accused Him, tortured Him and crucified Him, God raised Him from the dead on the third day. When Jesus reappeared to His twelve disciples, He did not tell them to slay those who killed Him. He told them to speak of His forgiveness and love. He instructed them to tell the people everywhere how they could have eternal life with God if they only trusted in Him.

During a dialogue with an audience, Jesus framed the story of good versus evil in the following way: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” The devil is a thief. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. [6]

God says, “I will show love to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep My commandments.” [7] Jesus said, “My Father will honor the one who serves Me.” [8] James the Apostle urged the Church, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” [9] The Apostle Peter wrote, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your cares on God because He cares for you.” “The God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. To God be the power for ever and ever. Amen.” [10]

[1] Job 1:8-19
[2] Job 1:20-22
[3] Song of Songs 8:7
[4] Job 2:11; 3:1; 4:1-32:1
[5] Job 42:8-10
[6] John 10:10; 14:6
[7] Deuteronomy 5:10
[8] John 12:26
[9] James 4:7
[10] 1 Peter 5:6-7, 10-11

My Redeemer Lives

Do not say, “There is no way God can make a difference in the world through me.”

God called you not according to your works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to you in Christ Jesus before time began. [1]

For you see your calling, brothers, that...
Not many wise according to the flesh,
Not many mighty,
Not many noble, are called.

God has chosen the world’s foolish things to shame the wise,
God has chosen the world’s weak things to shame the mighty,
God has chosen the base things of the world,
God has chosen the things which are despised,
God has chosen the nothings, to bring to nothing the things that are,
That no flesh should glory in His presence.

But of Him you are in Christ Jesus...
Who became for us wisdom from God,
Who became for us righteousness from God...
Who became for us sanctification from God...
Who became for us redemption from God. [2]

Jesus, not us, is the answer! “O Lord my God, and my Redeemer, I will give thanks to You forever.” [3]

[1] 2 Timothy 1:9
[2] 1 Corinthians 1:26-30
[3] Psalm 30:12; Job 19:25

Let The Seed Die

“The Gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you who are speaking but the Holy Spirit.” [1]

Several times in my life, I had the privilege to see the Spirit of God move through the ministry of God’s Word to bring people to Christ and make disciples of them. This heavenly experience usually comes with severe trials because the devil hates Christ and does not want people to follow Christ. In such times, a decision has to be made. Is it the cross before me, the world behind me, no turning back, I have decided to follow Jesus, or is it to throw up my hands and say the cost is too great?

The main point of Catherine Booth’s book, “Aggressive Christianity” is that if Christianity had continued has it was in the days of the Apostles, the world would have been won to Christ by now. She also pointed out that one way that the enemy defeats Christians is to infiltrate their minds with the thought that Christlikeness is impossible, that we are bound to be sinful wretches that can do nothing right for God.

Jesus said, “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” [2] I can to try to avoid death, or I can yield my life to Jesus, and come what may Christ will produce much through me for His glory and for the salvation of others.

What should I do? What should you do? The souls of people hang in the balance.

[1] Mark 13:10-11
[2] John 12:24

Inheritors of the Kingdom of God

Jesus said to some, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be filled. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of God.” [1]

He said to others, “Is it not written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations, but you have made it a den of robbers.’” [2]

The first audience consisted of common people sitting on a hillside while the second audience consisted of chief priests and the teachers of the law. The first audience gladly heard what Jesus had to say while the second audience “began looking for a way to kill Him, for they feared Him, because the whole crowd was amazed at His teaching.” [3]

The people who put what is right before fame and fortune are persecuted by the world but blessed by God. The people who are highly exalted by the world are rebuked by Jesus for creating a culture of crime.

Thankfully, one day those who have been hungry for, thirsty for, and persecuted for the sake of righteousness shall inherit the Kingdom of God. Jesus described the inheritors of His Kingdom with such words.

[1] Matthew 5:6,10
[2] Mark 11:17
[3] Mark 11:18

Some Paid to Persecute ~ Others Prayed to Prosper

"Then Haman said to King Xerxes, 'There is a certain people dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom who keep themselves separate. Their customs are different from those of all other people, and they do not obey the king’s laws; it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them. If it pleases the king, let a decree be issued to destroy them, and I will give ten thousand talents (375 metric tons) of silver to the king’s administrators for the royal treasury.'” (Esther 3:8-9)

The "certain people" were Jews who believed in God and lived according to His Word, which by the way, led them to be hard working and law-abiding citizens.

I wonder if someone is paying government officials to not tolerate Christians and that is why so many laws and judgments are coming forth against us.

In the Book of Esther, God's people fasted and prayed for three days and God turned the tables on those who sought to destroy them.

"Father God, please help government leaders to recognize who is their nation's enemies, who is their nation's patriots, in the Name of Your Son Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen."

The Crucified One Lives

“About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eli, Eli, lema Sabathani?’ which means ‘My God, my God, why have You forsaken Me?’ And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, He gave up His spirit.” [1]

Jesus restored walking legs back to lame people, working voices back to mute people, seeing eyes back to blind people, and on a few occasions, life back to dead people. He restored truth to those who had none.

The religious leaders sought to destroy Him. Their best debaters attempted to humiliate Him. When all their attempts to sabotage His popularity failed, they hired a traitor and false witnesses to bring about His execution. As Jesus hung on the cross, they mockingly said, “He saved others, Himself He cannot save.” [2]

Jesus gave up His life to save others. He bore the sin of every murderer, rapist, dictator and yes, even the sins of the false prophets who murdered Him. That is why, God the Father forsook Him. It was for the forgiveness of people’s sins that He died.

However, in three short days, another cry was heard. It was the cry of His faithful followers. They had three key words to tell the world. They told the world, “He is alive!” Sin, Satan, and death lost! Jesus the CHRIST won! HE is Lord! He lives.

The angel said to the women, “’Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you.’ So they went out quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy and ran to bring His disciples word.” [3]

This good news is continuing to spread. People all over the earth are embracing and proclaiming with great joy the saving work of Jesus Christ.

[1] Matthew 27:46, 50
[2] Matthew 27:42
[3] Matthew 28:5-8

The Lord Wins

Who roots for the “underdog” to win? David seemed like an underdog to the people who watched him approach a giant in battle. But was David really the long shot to win?

David had killed lions and bears that approached his father’s sheep to eat them. He was a worshipper of God. As he worshipped the Lord, the Lord revealed to David His mighty power and love for people. Thus, before the battle begun, David knew that the Lord was well able to defeat the evil giant.

His opponent served a god that was not a god. His people’s god was made by human hands. It was lifeless, deaf, mute, and lame. The giant assumed that mere intimidation would be enough to defeat God’s people. So, he stood before them and dared someone to defy him. He had armor and weapons. He was gargantuan in size. His people felt confident that no one could defeat him.

The Philistines were horrified when a young man defeated their champion with a stone and a sling. If one of the least among the Israelites could kill and behead their champion, what could the rest of their soldiers do?

How should we apply David’s victory over the giant to our own lives? Could it be that we give the devil too much credit? The Lord describes the devil’s demise, “How you have fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, you who weakened the nations! For you have said in your heart: ‘I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.’ Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit. Those who see you will gaze at you, and consider you, saying: ‘Is this the man who made the earth tremble, who shook kingdoms.’” [1]

“The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” [2]

Thanks to the Son of David, who also happens to be the Son of God, the devil has an expiration date. Though he is currently defiant against God, he has an appointment with destruction. Jesus Christ wins.

[1] Isaiah 14:12-16
[2] Revelation 20:10

Do Something

Although we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, it is obvious that Jesus wants His followers to do something.

In the parable of the ten virgins, all had lamps, but only five had oil in their lamps. Without oil a lamp gives off no light. In the parable of the talents, the servant who hid his talents was condemned, while the ones who did something with theirs were rewarded. In the parable of the sheep and goats, the sheep were the ones who cared for those who were suffering for their faith in God. The goats did not help them. The sheep were saved while the goats were condemned.

The Lord tells us through these parables the kind of people He will reward when He returns.

“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man comes.” “He that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, ‘Lord, You delivered to me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.’ His Lord said unto him, ‘Well done, you good and faithful servant: you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things: enter into the joy of your Lord.’” [1]

[1] Matthew 25:13, 20-21

When the Enemy Comes in Like a Flood

When the enemy comes in like a flood to wipe you out… Speak God’s Word. Cry out to God. Ask God to fight the battle! Trust in Him to hear your prayer and to come through for you.

“After all that Hezekiah had so faithfully done, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah. He laid siege to the fortified cities, thinking to conquer them for himself.” [1]

Sennacherib was an agent of the devil. Hezekiah was a man of God. God had worked through Hezekiah to bring His kingdom to earth. The god of the carnal world (the devil) was furious and wanted to wipe Hezekiah and his people off the face of this earth.

Hezekiah encouraged his people with these words: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles.” [2]

Then, “King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz cried out in prayer to heaven about this. And the Lord sent an angel, who annihilated all the fighting men and the commanders and officers in the camp of the Assyrian king. So he withdrew to his own land in disgrace. And when he went into the temple of his god, some of his sons, his own flesh and blood, cut him down with the sword.” [3]

The Lord says, “So shall they fear The Name of the Lord from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun; when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.” [4]

The standard that the Spirit lifts up is Messiah. Jesus canceled all Satan’s claims against us when He died on the cross for our sins. We overcome the evil one by the blood of the Lamb. [5]

[1] 2 Chronicles 32:1
[2] 2 Chronicles 32:6-8
[3] 2 Chronicles 32:20-21
[4] Isaiah 59:19
[5] Revelation 12:11

Unable To Remain Silent

“As Jesus and His disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed Him. Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that JESUS was going by, they shouted, ‘Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!’ The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, ‘Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!’ Jesus stopped and called them. ‘What do you want Me to do for you?’ He asked. ‘Lord,’ they answered, ‘we want our sight.’ Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed Him.” [1]

Jesus had disciples and a LARGE crowd following Him down a road. Jesus still has a large following. There are people in many countries today who lay down their lives for Him.

When two blind men heard Jesus coming, they knew what to do. They called out to Him. People rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted even louder to Jesus. What a great example for us. When people tell us tone down our shouts for Jesus, we should actually turn the volume up. Why? Because the Lord responds to such bold faith in Him. He asked them, “What do you want Me to do for you.”

Their request was an impossible one for any human being to do They wanted their blind eyes to see. Did Jesus rebuke them for asking too much from Him? No, He had compassion on them. He immediately granted to them seeing eyes. Did they run off and forget about Jesus? No, they followed Him.

May the Lord have mercy on us and help our blind eyes to see His worth and His ability to make our impossible possible! May we be His bold followers! May we be among those who cannot be silenced even when rebuked because our faith in Him will not allow us to remain quiet.

[1] Matthew 20:29-34

The Kingdom of Heaven

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” [1]

Our Lord Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins. By believing in Him, thanks to divine grace, we inherit eternal life. Heaven with its walls of jewels and gates of pearl, is a great treasure.

The new heaven and new earth will be unmarred by the curse of sin. The colors will be richer. The culture will be one of love, peace, and joy. There will be no more death, no more tears, no more weeds, and no more sweat on the brow as we work. Jesus told the thief who believed in Him and was about to die, “Today, you will be with me in paradise.” Our Creator, who lives there, is the greatest treasure.

“The kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets but threw the bad away. This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ‘Have you understood all these things?’ Jesus asked.” [2]

Jesus is still asking you, “Have you understood all these things?” Do not allow the concerns of this life to take precedent over your relationship with our Lord Jesus.

“The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Love for our Lord Jesus, and dependance on His grace for salvation is the key to being a deemed by His angels as a treasure, a pearl, and a fish worth keeping.

[1] Matthew 13:44-46
[2] Matthew 13:47-51

God’s Word and Spirit

John the Baptist said of Jesus, “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He that comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit, and with fire.” [1]

Jesus transforms our lives by giving us His Word and Spirit.

“Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” [2]

God’s Word and Spirit renew our mind so that we are able to prove what is good, acceptable, and perfect in the sight of God.

God’s Word and Spirit is the light in the darkness.

God’s Word and Spirit help us to see the difference between right and wrong, and between the holy and unholy.

God’s Word and Spirit reveal truth to us.

God’s Word and Spirit help us discern the presence and work of evil spirits and can cast those spirits out.

God’s Word and Spirit cast down vain imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God and bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. [3]

A relationship with God is not an inconvenience, it is a miracle. We do not deserve to know Christ as our Savior, but God in grace is willing to give us such faith if we are earnest to receive it. This is why the Bible says that if today you hear God’s voice, do not harden your heart. [4]

Our Lord Jesus Christ is the only One who baptizes people with the Holy Spirit.

[1] Matthew 3:11
[2] Romans 12:2
[3] 2 Corinthians 10:2
[4] Hebrews 3:13

The Holy Spirit's Help

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore, be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” [1]

Wolves refers to false prophets. Jesus urges us to be wise and harmless when among them.

“Beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.” [2]

“Deliver you up. This is a technical word, in this context, used for handing over a prisoner for punishment. Persecution of believers has often been the official policy of governments. Such persecution gives opportunity for testifying to the truth of the Gospel.” [2]

“But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should say. 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.” [3]

What a blessing! The Spirit of the Father speaks for us when we do not know what to say.

Twice, while riding trains between Shenzhen and Guangzhou, China, I witnessed to men who happened to be communist party members.

During the first incident, the man began yelling out hate crimes that Christians have committed against humanity. During his tirades, I was asking the Lord what to say. Finally, he stopped yelling and waited for me to reply. By this time, it seemed to me that everyone in the train car was staring at me. I spoke slowly, respectfully, and as I would to a friend, “Sir, I do not know about the hate crimes you have spoken about, but I do know that since I gave my life to Jesus, He has not led me to hurt anyone. I am in your country helping widows and orphans. I tell people that God loves them.” Miraculously, he did not say another word after that, and when the train rolled to a stop, he did not have me arrested.

During the second incident, a soldier dressed in civilian clothes told me that he had killed Christians. He said that if a Christian-God existed, that the Christian-God would kill him. I was speechless until the Holy Spirit brought to my remembrance the story of the thief on the cross. I told him how Jesus forgave the thief and promised to him eternal life. Jesus could forgive him as well. The man did not convert, but he did not arrest me either. He told me that he was with the secret police.

The Holy Spirit is the Wonderful Counselor. He can bring forth truth in the most unlikely places to the most unlikely recipients. Our part is to be led by Him and to have confidence in His ability to bring the Gospel of Jesus to others through us.

[1] Matthew 10:16

[2] Matthew 10:17-18

[3] Matthew 10:19-20  

 

The Little Lion Became a Beast

Standing before a US Senate subcommittee Pastor Richard Wurmbrand answered many questions about the communist exploitation of religion in Romania. Below is one answer he gave to the US Senators on May 6th, 1966:

“A little lion in its first days you can play with him just like with a puppy. When he becomes great, only then he is a lion. Yugoslavian communism is this little communism. And American communism a very little one and English communism is a very little one. When they grow, then, they can do whatever they will to do, then, only we can see them. With us, in the beginning, we also had a very nice communism. I have seen in Romanian Communist demonstrations signs with the slogan, ‘God save the King.’ I have seen the communist Secretaries of State making great crosses, showing themselves as being on the side of religion and making compliments to religion and bowing to religion and saying they are Democrats. They were nice until they had all the power in hand. When they had the whole power in hand, they have done things exactly as in Russia, and so they will do everywhere. There is no difference.” [1]

The baby lion that was not a cause for alarm transformed into a devouring beast.

Pastor Wurmbrand and many others were tortured for their faith in Christ by the communists. [2]

The Bible says, “The mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way.” [3]

Praise the Lord that for the many years God has restrained those who would turn the US into a communist country. However, the Lord tells us when a nation forsakes Him, He will turn them over to a ruler unlike Himself... “That they may distinguish My service from the service of the kingdoms of the nations.” [4] I pray that the Lord will grace the US with a mighty return to Him before it is too late.

Once, the Lord stops restraining lawlessness, an antichrist will appear. The antichrist is worse than any other ruler in history. Revelation 13:1 describes him as a beast. Beasts are hard to control. They buck restraints. They destroy those who defy them.

The beast has a minister of propaganda who has the appearance of a lamb but speaks like a dragon. He causes people to worship the antichrist. He deceives and kills people. [5]

What did God’s people in the Bible do when evil rulers oppressed them? They humbled themselves. They cried out to the Lord. They returned to worshipping and serving the Lord.

“Lord, please send a revival.”

[1] avivamientos.net/en/books/richard_wurmbrand/exploitation
[2] The movie about Wurmbrand is entitled, “Tortured for Christ”
[3] 2 Thessalonians 2:7
[4] 2 Chronicles 12:5-8

Life Winds Upward for the Wise

“Now when Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, He departed to Galilee. And leaving Nazareth...” [1]

Jesus filled the void that John’s imprisonment left. He left Nazareth for Galilee.

“Galilee was a fertile area of about sixty by thirty miles; Josephus says that there were some 204 villages with none having less than 15,000 people... a population of more than three million for the region. Galilee was predominately Gentile in its population, but with a large number of Jewish cities and citizens.” [2]

Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecy by bringing light to this region. “The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” [3]

“From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” [4] To preach (Greek) is to herald a proclamation from a king. Jesus continued John’s preaching of repentance. John announced the Messiah. Jesus is the Messiah.” [5]

Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him from Galilee. “He called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.” [6]

“Jesus called the apostles as they were casting a net into the sea or mending their nets. God often calls workers from survival work to work for God. Moses was tending his father-in-law’s flock.

Gideon was threshing wheat. David was keeping his father’s sheep. The shepherds were guarding their flocks. Amos was farming in Tekoa. Matthew was working at the tax collector’s table.”

“’They immediately they left the boat and their father and followed Him.’ Following Jesus means leaving some things behind. The Samaritan woman left her pitcher, Matthew left his tax table, and blind Bartimaeus left his cloak to follow Jesus.” [7]

The ministry of Jesus involves teaching, preaching, and healing. [8] “The difference between teaching and preaching is one of emphasis. Preaching is the uncompromising proclamation of certainties; teaching is the explanation of the meaning and significance of them.” [9]

The teaching of Jesus was aimed at saving people’s souls. As the proverbs says, “The way of life winds upward for the wise, that he may turn away from hell below.” [10]

The wise follow Jesus and their lives go upward. Not so, for the fool, who says their is no god. “The fool has said in his heart, there is no God...” Life does not wind upward for fools who live as though there is no god. “God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’” [11] Fools end up in hell.

[1] Matthew 4:12
[2] Morgan - Enduring Word Commentary
[3] Isaiah 9:1-2
[4] Matthew 4:16-20
[5] Barclay – Enduring Word Commentary
[6] Matthew 4:17-20
[7] Enduring Word Commentary
[8] Matthew 4:23-25
[9] Barclay – Enduring Word Commentary
[10] Proverbs 15:24
[11] Psalm 14:1; Luke 12:20

Wise Rulers Reverently Serve the Lord

“Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?

The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together

against the Lord and against His Anointed,

saying,

‘Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.’

The One enthroned in heaven laughs;

the Lord scoffs at them.

He rebukes them in His anger and terrifies them in His wrath,

saying,

‘I have installed My King on Zion, My holy mountain.’

I will proclaim the Lord’s decree:

He said to Me, ‘You are My Son; today I have become your Father.

Ask Me,

and I will make the nations your inheritance,

the ends of the earth your possession.

You will break them with a rod of iron;

you will dash them to pieces like pottery.’

Therefore, you kings, be wise;

be warned, you rulers of the earth.

Serve the Lord with fear

and celebrate His rule with trembling.

Kiss His Son, or He will be angry

and your way will lead to your destruction,

for His wrath can flare up in a moment.

Blessed are all who take refuge in Him.”

Psalm 2

Your Name in the Lamb’s Book of Life

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” [1]

“Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be My children. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters, and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” [2]

“Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” [3]

Is your name in the Lamb’s Book of Life? He is the One to put it there. Have you believed in Him with your heart and confessed Him with your mouth. The Lamb’s Name is Jesus Christ. Salvation is by faith in Him alone. Only in Him can you inherit the Kingdom of God.

[1] Revelation 21:1-4
[2] Revelation 21:7-8
[3] Revelation 21:27

Resolve To Reach

My high school classmate asked me what I was drawing. I had drawn a picture of Jesus on the cross. I was reluctant to show him but because he prodded me, I did so. He asked me, “Why did you draw that?” The teacher looked our way and told us to be quiet. The moment passed, and I did not think to say anything to him after class was over. Sadly, a couple of days later, I learned that he (Timothy James) was killed in a car accident.

On the one hand, a horrible memory! Involving the death of a young classmate! On the other hand, a memory that reminds me of the necessity of sharing the good news of the Gospel!

Jesus our Lord said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [1] Spread the faith, include the new believer in your discipleship group, and know the Lord is always with you in this effort! 

God asks us, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the Gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!’” [2]

We have good news to share with people. The good news is, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” [3]

“Dear Heavenly Father, please stir in us a holy passion to share the Gospel with that someone who does not know You. Please endue us with Holy Spirit resolve to reach that him or her before it is too late. I pray this in the Name of Jesus. Amen.”

[1] Matthew 28:19-20
[2] Romans 10:14-15
[3] John 3:16

Faithfulness

Have you ever experienced grief over idolatry? It seems everything under the sun is praised except our God to whom all praise is due. Walter Brueggemann said, “Without grief, there is no newness.” In other words, nothing changes as long as we are content to let it continue.

Misplaced worship yielded horrific consequences for the nation of Israel and for their king...

“…They were taken captive to Babylon because of their UNFAITHFULNESS.” [1]

“Saul died because he was UNFAITHFUL to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the Lord. So the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse.” [2]

The Lord is looking for faithful followers...

“Many claim to have unfailing love, but a FAITHFUL person who can find?” [3]

“The Lord is faithful...” [4]

“The fruit of the Spirit is... faithfulness...” [5]

“...He who promised is faithful.” [6]

“Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.” [7]

So, we His followers are exhorted to be faithful...

“...Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” [8]

Faithfulness is a fruit that comes forth from us when we walk with the Lord...

“...He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.” [9]

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness to us. Please remove unfaithfulness from us and from our society. May You be praised and served above all else. For we pray this in Your Son’s Name, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

[1] 1 Chronicles 9:1
[2] 1 Chronicles 10:13-14
[3] Proverbs 20:6
[4] 2 Thessalonians 3:3
[5] Galatians 5:22
[6] Hebrews 10:23
[7] 1 Peter 4:19
[8] Revelation 2:10
[9] Revelation 17:14

 

The Happily-Ever-After of the Bride of Christ

In the Book of Revelation, two women symbolize two kingdoms.

One woman is called Babylon the Harlot. Harlot in the Bible is used metaphorically for an unfaithful bride of Christ. A corrupt or false church that rides (partners with) the beast or anti-Christ to persecute the true servants of God. Her days are numbered. The Lord will end her era of influence.

“Then the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness. There I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast [the anti-Christ] that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns. The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold, precious stones, and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominable things and the filth of her adultery. The name written on her forehead was a mystery: Babylon the great, the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth. I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of God’s holy people, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus.” [1]

“They (sea merchants) will throw dust on their heads, and with weeping and mourning cry out: ‘Woe, woe to you, great city [Babylon], where all who had ships on the sea became rich through her wealth! In one hour she has been brought to ruin!’ Rejoice over her, you heavens! Rejoice, you people of God! Rejoice, apostles and prophets! For God has judged her with the judgment she imposed on you.” [2]

The other woman is the Bride of the Lamb (Christ). She loves, adores, and praises Jesus Christ. By the power of Christ’s Spirit within her, she proclaims His promise of eternal salvation to all who listen. Her ambassadors proclaim Christ not themselves. He forgives and cleanses them from sin. His Spirit within them produces fruits of love, joy, and peace. The Bride of Christ remains true to her covenant with God to love Him by keeping His commands and by proclaiming the glories of her bridegroom: Jesus Christ. Jesus has planned a happily-ever-after for her.

“And I heard, as it were, the voice of a great multitude, as the sound of many waters and as the sound of mighty thundering, saying, ‘Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns! Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.’ And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.” [3]

Babylon will fall suddenly. The Bride of Christ enjoys a happily-ever-after thanks to Christ!

A hymn by Timothy Dwight comes to mind:

“I love Thy kingdom, Lord,
The house of Thine abode,
The Church our blest Redeemer saved
With His own precious blood.

I love Thy Church, O God,
Her walls before Thee stand,
Dear as the apple of Thine eye
And graven on Thy hand.

Beyond my highest joy
I prize her heavenly ways
Her sweet communion, solemn vows,
Her hymns of love and praise.

Jesus, Thou Friend Divine,
Our Savior and our King,
Thy hand from every snare and foe
Shall great deliverance bring.”

[1] Revelation 17:3-6
[2] Revelation 18:19-20
[3] Revelation 19:6-8

Beauty-Beast Replaced by Bride-Lamb

“So, he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet-colored beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.” [1]

Adrian Rodgers entitled his message on this Bible passage the story of the Beauty and the Beast. Unfortunately for them, they make the fatal mistake of opposing Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and His Bride.

In fact, John the Apostle was given a vision of the beauty that was not pretty at all: “I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of God’s holy people, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus. When I saw her, I was greatly astonished.” [2] Her goal was to destroy God’s holy people. And how did they become holy? They believed in Jesus Christ. They bore testimony to Jesus. The Lamb took away their sins, and nothing could stop them from talking about Him.

The victories of” beauty” destroy good people. But her victories turn into losses. The narrative of the Beauty and Beast is suddenly overcome by narrative of the Bride and Christ.

“These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful.” [3]

The Lamb wins! And He still has people with Him who are called, chosen and faithful.

After the Lamb’s victory, John hears the voice of a great multitude saying, “Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns! Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.” [4]

The beauty and beast of Revelation 17 do not steal the show. They were unfaithful to each other. [5] No, the true beauty is the Bride of Christ – The Lamb’s people. And the true prince is the Prince of Peace Jesus Christ. And the Lamb and His bride do live happily ever after.

The Lord conquers the beast (the antichrist) and his false prophet. He throws them into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. [6]

We who believe in Jesus have this precious promise in God’s Word, the Bible: “God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” [7]

[1] Revelation 17:3
[2] Revelation 17:6
[3] Revelation 17:14
[4] Revelation 19:6-7
[5] See Revelation 17:16
[6] See Revelation 19:19-20
[7] 1Thessalonians 5:9

Three Key Differences Between the Law and Gospel

“What are the three key differences between the Law and Gospel?

1. The Law teaches what we are to do; the Gospel teaches what God has done and still does for our salvation.

2. The Law shows us our sin and the wrath of God; the Gospel shows us our Savior and the grace of God.

3. The Law must be preached to all men, but especially to impenitent sinners; the Gospel must be preached to sinners who are troubled in their minds because of sin.

Conversion consists of a heart broken and contrite because of sin, trusting in Christ for grace and forgiveness.”

A Summary of Christian Doctrine, Edward W. A. Koehler, CPH, 1939

Entering the Kingdom of God as a Child

Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” [1]

“The emphasis is on the fact that children will receive and don’t feel they have to earn everything they get. Children are in a place where often all they can do is receive. They don’t refuse gifts out of self-sufficient pride. So we must receive the kingdom of God as a little child – because we surely will by no means enter it by what we do or earn. We must come to God with a faith that trusts God just like a little child trusts his father – and leave all the problems up to daddy.” [2]

Jesus told a highly educated theologian named Nicodemus, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” [3]

“Jesus’ reply to Nicodemus shattered the Jewish assumption that their racial identity – their old birth – assured them a place in God’s Kingdom. Jesus made it plain that a man’s first birth does not assure him of the kingdom; only being born again gives this assurance.

Being born again isn’t simply a moral or religious reform, but the bringing of new life. To belong to the heavenly kingdom, one must be born into it. This isn’t something that we can do to ourselves.” [4]

“Jesus answered, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.’” [5]

“Jesus was emphatic in saying that man does not need reformation, but a radical conversion by the Spirit of God. We must be born of water and the Spirit.

No man in the world can make himself to be born of God; though he should struggle never so much, he could never accomplish what is beyond his power. (Spurgeon)

Without the new birth of the Spirit, the flesh taints all works of righteousness. Yet, everything that a Spirit-led man does can be pleasing to God.” [6]

“Therefore, if anyone [is] in Christ, [he is] a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” [7]

[1] Mark 10:15
[2] Enduring Word Commentary
[3] John 3:3
[4] Enduring Word Commentary
[5] John 3:5-6
[6] Enduring Word Commentary
[7] 2 Corinthians 5:17

Divine Revelation in the Last Days

Have you ever experienced a light bulb moment? The dictionary defines a light bulb moment as a moment of sudden inspiration, revelation, or recognition.

Simon Peter had a light bulb moment when he confessed faith in Christ. Flesh and blood did not reveal the deity of Christ to Peter. The Heavenly Father did. [1]

Do you know for certain that Christ is the Son of God? There is a huge difference between knowing about Christ and knowing Christ.

One day, many followers of Jesus forsook Him. This falling away is recorded in John 6:66. Is it coincidence that 666 is the number of the anti-Christ? [2] Don’t ever forsake the Lord. Follow Him!

Jesus asked His remaining disciples if they would leave Him too. [3] Peter replied to Jesus, “You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that You are the Holy One of God.” [4] Notice, Peter said, “We believe and KNOW that You are the Holy One of God.” Do you believe and KNOW that Jesus is the Holy One of God?

I cannot think of a worse scenario than to know information about Jesus but not KNOW Him as Lord and Savior. Knowing information about Jesus does not save you. Jesus does. Many know about God, but they do not know Him. They have the right book and the right God but lack divine revelation.

The first sign Jesus gave His disciples of the end times was, “Watch out that no one deceives you.” [5] Jesus warned that many would come in His Name and claim to be the Messiah. [6] These deceptions flow from the deceiver and his minions. The first four words that the evil one spoke to our first mother, Eve, were, “Did God really say?” [7] Jesus called the devil a murderer and the father of lies. [8] Jesus said that he is a thief who steals, kills, and destroys. [9]

Satan’s propaganda against God and the Bible are strong because his time is short. He wants the world to be a culture of lies against God and His people. But Satan will fail. The Lord will throw him into the lake of fire. [10]

How fitting that the last book of the Bible is entitled, “Revelation.” Revelation means to uncover, unveil, and reveal. We need revelation from Jesus to know and stand for the truth. The reason Jesus gave us the book of Revelation is to help us stand for God during the last days. The Book of Revelation begins with these words: “The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants what must soon take place.” [11] Jesus said we will be blessed if we read Revelation aloud and take it to heart. “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” [12]

As far as true and false prophecy goes, the Bible says that “the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” [13] A true prophet of God will tell people to witness for Jesus. The Church functions as a prophet when it calls people to believe in Christ.

Paul said that God revealed Christ to him so that he could reveal Christ to the nations. [14]

Christ revealed Himself to me when I was nineteen. My first light bulb moment was when I declared Jesus as my Lord and me as His servant. After that, when I read the Bible, I could understand and enjoy it. After that, I knew that the trees, grass, and squirrels were God’s creation. The Bible says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard. [15] God’s creation speaks day and night for Him.

Have you experienced a light bulb moment from Jesus?

The Bible says that “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human mind has conceived—the things God has prepared for those who love Him. God reveals these things to us by His Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.” [16]

Would you like to see things that your eyes have not seen? Would you like to hear things your ear has not heard? Would you like to receive thoughts that never came to your mind before? The Bible says that no one knows the thoughts of God except His Spirit.

Salvation is meant to be only the first of many light bulb moments from God. He wants to keep revealing His thoughts and ways to us. God wants to reveal Himself to us so that we can reveal Him to others. Are you willing to reveal what you know about God with others?

Many people in our neighborhoods are in the dark. They need us to turn the light on for them. Let’s do it! Amen.

[1] Matthew 16:17
[2] Revelation 13:18
[3] John 6:67
[4] John 6:68-69
[5] Matthew 24:4
[6] Matthew 24:5
[7] Genesis 3:1
[8] John 8:44
[9] John 10:10
[10] Revelation 20:10
[11] Revelation 1:1
[12] Revelation 1:3
[13] Revelation 19:10
[14] Galatians 1:16
[15] Psalm 19:1-3
[16] 1 Corinthians 2:9-11

Seeing God Clearly

Have you ever had your vision tested? If you have blurred vision, you need the right pair of glasses to see clearly. This same principle applies to seeing God. Without the right lens you cannot see God clearly.

In the days when Jesus walked the earth, most people did not understand who He was. Once, Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Peter responded, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.” How did Peter see clearly? How did he know that Jesus was the Messiah? Jesus said that this was not revealed to him by flesh and blood, but by His Father in heaven. [1]

Peter did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah because he was better than others. No, he recognized Jesus as the Messiah because God gave him grace to do so. We need a revelation from God to understand that Jesus is the Messiah. This is how Paul knew Jesus. He told the Ephesians that the mystery of the Gospel was made known to him by a divine revelation. [2]

Paul’s perspective was this, “I became a servant of this Gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of His power. Although I am less than the least of the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the nations the boundless riches of Christ.” [3]

This is the perspective we need of God and of our salvation. We are saved by His grace and not because of anything we did. God called us thru His Gospel. The revelation of the Gospel is the power of God that brings salvation to sinners. [4]

A 15th century monk named Martin Luther was convinced that the Gospel was indeed God’s “power for salvation.” God revealed to Luther that the words of the Gospel have creative power like God’s words in Genesis 1. God spoke into existence that which formerly did not exist. The message of the Gospel brings new creation to sinners living in the void of darkness.

The world did not know God through its wisdom because God was pleased through the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe. [5] The wisest and richest men of this world cannot see God. Human reason cannot make God clear. Our spiritual eyes must be opened by a miracle of God’s grace. Faith in Jesus Christ is the key to unlocking the mysteries of God. Jesus is the way, truth, and life no one comes to God, except through Him. [6]

By creating faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, the Gospel bestows the benefits of His death and resurrection upon people. [7] God’s Word kills the sinner and makes him or her alive as a new creature in Christ.

Once upon a time, there was a gangster named Nicky Cruz. His parents were worshippers of Satan. They raised Nicky to hate and kill people. Nicky became the leader of a New York gang called the Mao Mao’s.

David Wilkerson was a Gospel preacher. He preached Jesus to Nicky. Nicky threatened to slice up David. He slapped David and spit in his face. David responded to Nicky’s hatred by telling him that Jesus loved him.

One day, as David shared the Gospel with Nicky, he believed. His life was totally transformed. He became a worldwide evangelist. Did Nicky deserve to know Jesus? No. Did God reveal Jesus to him? Yes.

The Apostle Paul’s testimony is, “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that He considered me trustworthy, appointing me to His service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.” [8]

Did you catch that? Paul blasphemed God. He persecuted Christians. He was a man of violence. God had mercy on Paul. He poured His grace out on him abundantly. In exchange for Paul’s bad language and violent behavior, God gave him faith and love. This is what God’s grace is all about. It is unmerited favor. You get saved by God when you least deserve it.

Paul told Timothy, “I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His immense patience as an example for those who would believe in Him and receive eternal life.” Paul was the worst of sinners and yet God saved him. His salvation perspective is, “God has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.” [9]

So before Paul did anything good or bad, even before the beginning of time, God had a plan to reveal his salvation to him and have him preach it to others. The point here is that if you have believed in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, it is because of God’s grace. God did not leave you in the dark. He did not let you die in your sins.

Paul was blind after he met Jesus. He could not see for three days. God sent a man named Ananias to pray for him, As Ananias prayed for Paul, the Lord opened his eyes. [10] We all need Jesus to open our blind eyes. Only Christ can give us clear vision.

As Christians we must understand this point. Salvation is of God. Only God can save us. He gets all the credit. To God alone belongs all the glory.

The monk Martin Luther tried to earn God’s favor by doing many good works. His good works did not ease his troubled conscience. No matter how good he tried to be, he never had peace of mind about his salvation. What if his best works were not good enough for God? That is why he turned to the Bible and studied it diligently. Through his studies, he saw that the Bible focuses on Christ. He read where Paul said to others, “For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.” [11]

We do not have to be famous or fabulous to be God’s messenger. We do not have to be superman or wonder woman to serve God. We do not have to have great accomplishments, titles, or degrees because the power is of God and not of us.

It is not about us. “We have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” [12] The message that we are saved by grace glorifies God.

The message of grace is the correct perspective of humanity’s position before God. The message of grace points to Christ. Faith in Christ is the sure foundation to build your eternal future on.

Phillip Melanchthon wrote that the chief worship of God is to preach the Gospel. When we tell sinners about Christ, and they repent and believe all heaven breaks out in praise and worship.

Paul wrote that his only aim in life was to finish the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. [13]

What about people who say that if we are saved by God’s grace, we can sin as much as we want? What should we say to them? We can point them to Jude 1:4. It says, “For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.”

God did not save us TO sin. He saved us FROM sin. God did not give us grace so that we could sin more but so that we could escape it’s bondage and live holy lives that glorify Him.

Paul credited God’s grace for his ability to work effectively for God. “By the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” [14]

The same grace that opens our eyes to salvation empowers us to live a new life. When Peter confessed Jesus as the Son of the Living God, Messiah had a word for him. He told Peter, “I tell you that you are Peter, and on this Rock, I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” [15] The revelation of Jesus as Messiah is the mighty power of God to overcome all the works of the evil one.

[1] Matthew 16:15-18
[2] Ephesians 3:3
[3] Ephesians 3:7-8
[4] Romans 1:16
[5] 1 Corinthians 1:21
[6] John 14:6
[7] Romans 4:25
[8] 1Timothy 1:12-14
[9] 1Timothy 1:16; 2 Timothy 1:9
[10] Acts 9:10-17
[11] 2 Corinthians 4:5
[12] 2 Corinthians 4:7
[13] Acts 21:24
[14] 1Corinthians 15:10
[15] Matthew 16:18