The Gospel Embodied

“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” [1]

“Receive him [Epaphroditus] therefore in the Lord with all gladness and hold such men in esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me.” [2]

Paul wrote these words “to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons.” [3] He was a prisoner in chains for the sake of the Gospel. [4] Evil people had done him wrong, but he did not press for retribution. No, he urged his followers to shun selfish ambition and conceit, and to esteem others better than themselves, and to look out for the interests of others. AMAZING LOVE! DIVINE AGAPE (selfless) LOVE!

Paul held up to the saints, bishops, and deacons of Philippi the example of Epaphroditus… “Hold such men in esteem.” Epaphroditus risked his life to selflessly and heroically fill a gap that the Philippians Church had failed to supply.

Praise God that He has preserved this first century letter of Paul to the Philippians. Indeed, praise God for preserving the entire Bible! We had not known what true love is unless we had seen, heard, and touched it via the revelation of Christ and His New Testament servants. God is good!

Now, may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit empower us to embody this message to our generation.

[1] Philippians 2:3-4
[2] Philippians 2:29-30
[3] Philippians 1:1
[4] Philippians 1:7, 13-14

More Than Anything Else

Thanks be to God…

In the Name of Christ His Son…
For every soul…
That HE, Almighty God…
Brings to green pastures…
And to still waters…
Of love for Christ.

Born sinners…

Stubborn and rebellious…

Forgetting and disrespecting God…
Betraying His love and faithfulness.

Yet, He, Christ...
In His great love for us…
Doesn’t leave us.
In His stubborn love…
Stronger than our rebellion...
Greater than our disrespect…
He pursues us.

Thank You dear Savior…
Our Lord Jesus Christ…
For changing us…
Replacing darkness...
With light…
So, that we with…
David and Paul can say…
I love Your Word…
I embrace Your crucifixion…
I want You…
More than Anything Else.

“Let my cry come before You, O Lord;
Give me understanding according to Your Word.

Let my supplication come before You;

Deliver me according to Your Word.

My lips shall utter praise,
For You teach me Your statutes.
My tongue shall speak of Your Word,
For all Your commandments are righteousness.
Let Your hand become my help,
For I have chosen Your precepts.
I long for Your salvation, O Lord,
And Your law is my delight.” [1]

“God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” [2]

[1] Psalm 119:169-174
[2] Galatians 6:15

Your Kingdom Come

“Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” [1]

“Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.’” [2]

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” [3]

“Lord Jesus, please grant us, Your servants, grace to work together for You and for Your Kingdom.”

[1] Matthew 6:10
[2] John 18:36
[3] Matthew 6:33

Joyfully Accepting God’s Gifts

“But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles...” [1]

Separated: “This is a Hebrew expression, meaning to sanctify, ordain, prepare. Paul is saying, ‘When I was not yet born God ordained me to be an apostle, and in due time confirmed my apostleship.’”

“Every gift, be it small or great, spiritual or temporal, and every good thing I should ever do, God has ordained while I was yet in my mother's womb where I could neither think nor perform any good thing. After I was born God supported me. Heaping mercy upon mercy, He freely forgave my sins, replenishing me with His grace to enable me to learn what great things are ours in Christ. To crown it all, He called me to preach the Gospel to others.”

And called me by His grace: “What prompted Him to call me? His grace alone.”

“On the question of justification, we must remain adamant, or else we shall lose the truth of the Gospel. It is a matter of life and death. It involves the death of the Son of God, who died for the sins of the world. If we surrender faith in Christ, as the only thing that can justify us, the death and resurrection of Jesus are without meaning; that Christ is the Savior of the world would be a myth. God would be a liar, because He would not have fulfilled His promises. Let this be our resolution, that we will suffer the loss of all things, the loss of our good name, of life itself, but the Gospel and our faith in Jesus Christ—we will not stand for it that anybody take them from us.”

“I must listen to the Gospel. It tells me, not what I must do, but what Jesus Christ, the Son has done for me.”

“If you want to live unto God, find life through faith in Christ Jesus.”

“It is bad enough that we are wicked sinners and transgressors of all the commandments of God; on top of that to refuse the grace of God and the remission of sins offered unto us by Christ, is the worst sin of all, the sin of sins. There is no sin which Paul and the other apostles detested more than when a person despises the grace of God in Christ Jesus. Still there is no sin more common. That is why Paul can get so angry at the Antichrist, because he snubs Christ, rebuffs the grace of God, and refuses the merit of Christ.”

God was pleased: “God was pleased to freely give us His unspeakable gifts. If He offers His gifts free of charge, why not take them? Why worry about our lack of worthiness? Why not accept gifts with joy and thanksgiving?” [2]

[1] Galatians 1:15-16
[2] Martin Luther's Commentary on Galatians

Be Transformed

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." [1]

"Then Saul said to David, 'May you be blessed, my son David! You shall both do great things and also still prevail.'" [2]

David had the opportunity to slay Saul who had been trying to kill him but did not because Saul was king over Israel. David had snuck into Saul's camp and took the spear and water jug near his bedside, but he spared Saul's life. When Saul realized what David had done, he blessed him and predicted his success.

David's thinking did not conform to the world's ways. He allowed God to transform his mind and thus, not only did he evade capture by the king and his army, he was blessed and predicted to prevail by that king who wanted to destroy him.

May the Lord help each of us to seek the renewal of our minds... transformed-thinking! So that, we too may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

[1] Romans 12:2
[2] 1 Samuel 26:25

The Blessedness of Faith in Christ

“O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You!” [1]

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,

And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

For by me your days will be multiplied,
And years of life will be added to you.
If you are wise, you are wise for yourself,
And if you scoff, you will bear it alone.” [2]

“For Moses writes about the righteousness which is of the law, ‘The man who does those things shall live by them.’ But the righteousness of faith speaks in this way… that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For ‘whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’” [3]

[1] Psalm 84:12
[2] Proverbs 9:10-12
[3] Romans 10:5-6, 9-10, 13

God Is The Justifier

“By the deeds of the Law…

No flesh will be justified in His [God’s] sight,

For by the Law is the knowledge of sin.

Now the righteousness of God…

Apart from the law is revealed,

Being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets,

Even the righteousness of God,

Through faith in Jesus Christ,

To ALL and on ALL who BELIEVE.

For there is no difference;

For all have sinned…

And fall short of the glory of God,

Being justified freely by HIS GRACE…

Through the redemption that is in CHRIST JESUS,

Whom God set forth as a propitiation…

By HIS [Christ’s] BLOOD,

Through FAITH,

To demonstrate His righteousness,

Because in His forbearance…

God had passed over the sins…

That were previously committed,

To demonstrate at the present time…

HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS,

That He might be JUST and the JUSTIFIER of…

The one who has FAITH in JESUS.

Where is boasting then?

It is excluded.

By what law?

Of works?

No, but by the law of faith.

Therefore, we conclude that a man is…

Justified by FAITH…

Apart from the deeds of the law.” [1]

Propitiation refers to the mercy-seat. [2] On the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) the high priest sprinkled the blood of the sacrifice on the “mercy-seat,” and so made propitiation or appeasement with God for the sin of all the people. Christ is called the “propitiation for our sins.” [3] Christ is “the propitiation,” because He atoned (covered) our sins with the sacrifice of His blood on the cross for us.

[1] Romans 3:20-28

[2] Romans 3:25

[3] 1 John 2:2

Divine Vindication

Haman accused God’s people of being lawbreakers. He had a genocidal plan to eliminate them. Thankfully, God exposed Haman as the one who was evil. God’s people had fasted and prayed. Haman was executed. God’s man Mordecai was promoted. [1]

Government officials passed a law with the specific goal of making Daniel, a good and trust-worthy man, into a lawbreaking criminal. God saved Daniel from the mouth of lions and those who plotted his death were eaten by the lions instead. [2]

The Apostle Paul was on trial due to false accusers. He stated, “…I do not object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar.” [3] God helped him to overcome the kangaroo court.

King Saul had it in his mind to kill his son-in-law, David. God rescued David multiple times from Saul’s attempts to kill him and placed David on Saul’s throne. [4]

David wrote, “Evil shall slay the wicked, and those who hate the righteous shall be condemned. The Lord redeems the soul of His servants, and none of those who trust in Him shall be condemned.” [5]

These Biblical accounts of God saving His servants from evil doers are in a sense promises to anyone who wants to serve God today. Hold on! Keep serving and honoring the Lord! God can turn everything around a day. “In that day the Lord of hosts will be for a crown of glory and a diadem of beauty to the remnant of His people, for a spirit of justice to him who sits in judgment, and for strength to those who turn back the battle at the gate.” [6]

[1] Esther 3:8 – 8:17
[2] Daniel 6:1-23
[3] Acts 25:11
[4] 1 Samuel 18-31
[5] Psalm 34:21-22
[6] Isaiah 28:5-6

The Functions of Law & Gospel

“Fulfillment of the Law is judged by God's perfection, not our best effort.” [1]

The Law acts as a curb and a mirror. The Law as a curb “warns us of impending danger, shocking us back onto the right path.” The Law as a mirror helps us “to see ourselves as God sees us.” [2]

“The Gospel... reveals the actions of God alone to save those who are ‘dead in their trespasses and sins.’ He alone pays the penalty for sin. He alone offers righteousness, salvation, and peace on His merciful terms.

The Gospel not only describes and proclaims what God has done it actually offers the merits of God's work in Christ to all who believe.” [3]

[1] Steven P. Mueller, Called to Believe, Wipf and Stock Publishers, Eugene Oregon, 2006, p. 38
[2] Ibid, pp. 43-44; Ephesians 2:1
[3] Ibid, p. 46; Luke 24:47, Romans 1:17

Fearing God Not People

Zedekiah listened to the voices of people more than to the voice of God. Thus, he abdicated his leadership role among them. In the absence of strong leadership, his nation continued down a path of abandoning God and denying God’s Word. His nation was destroyed. His sons were put to death before his eyes. He was executed.

“Zedekiah the king said to Jeremiah, ‘I am afraid of the Jews who have defected to the Chaldeans, lest they deliver me into their hand, and they abuse me.’” [1]

Jeremiah, the prophet, was also afraid of what the people would do to him if he spoke and led people according to God’s Word, but he prayed about it, and found strength and peace in the Lord to surrender his will to the will of God.

“’Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,’ says the Lord.” [2]

Nations, neighborhoods, and individuals need us to share God’s Word to them.

“Heavenly Father, please open doors for us to speak for You and please grant us the boldness by Your Spirit to speak to them when You do. This I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen.”

[1] Jeremiah 38:19
[2] Jeremiah 1:8

No Other gods Before Me

“You shall have no other gods before Me.” [1]

As the day approaches when we celebrate the Resurrection from the dead of our Lord Jesus Christ, I pray that the Holy Spirit will convict us and cleanse us of idol-worship.

I’m not talking about idols of stone or metal, but the ones who vie for a higher place than Christ in our lives. Idols such as sports and movie figures! Idols such as comic book heroes! The Easter bunny! And the idol of idols... self! “By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom.” [2] Worship of false gods does not end well.

All goodness, love, joy, and peace flows from our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the One who defeated our sin and our death when He died for our sins on the cross. He defeated our true adversary, the devil.

Jesus is the resurrection and the life. He deserves all our praise and worship. Christ gives us the indwelling Holy Spirit of God by whom we can truly die to self, and love God and our neighbor.

[1] Exodus 20:3
[2] Proverbs 13:10

Peter’s Word To Soldiers

Key points of Peter’s Message…
To the soldiers of the Italian Regiment…
Gathered at the home of Cornelius (their leader):

God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and with power
Jesus went about doing good
Jesus healed people who were oppressed by the devil
God was with Jesus
Peter and others were witnesses of all things which Jesus did

Jesus was crucified

God raised Jesus up on the third day

God showed the risen Jesus to His witnesses
Those witnesses ate and drank with the risen Jesus
Jesus commanded Peter and the other witnesses to preach to people…
To testify that Jesus shall Judge the living and the dead…
To testify that all the [Biblical] prophets point to Jesus…
So that whosoever believes in Jesus receives forgiveness of sins

The outcomes of Peter’s preaching were:

The Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the Word
The new-believers were baptized

Acts 10:34-48

When the Lord Wants It Done

The man was threatening, arresting, and murdering Christians.

But the Lord Jesus appeared to him and asked him why he was persecuting Him. Essentially, Jesus told the man that he was only hurting himself. The man submitted himself to Jesus.

Next, the Lord gave a Christian man a vision. He told this Christian the name of a street, and a resident’s name who lived on that street. He informed the Christian that in this house he would find the anti-Christ-man, whom He had just converted, praying. Now, the Christian protested at first. He knew of the harm which the praying man had previously committed against Christians. The Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My Name...” The Christian obeyed the Lord, and the man, who once hurt and killed Christians, became a preacher of Christ.

“Immediately he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God.” All who heard him were amazed. He, who destroyed Christians, is now proving to people that this Jesus is the Christ. [1]

This story is happening today as well. Different people! Different places! Especially, in the countries of Iraq and Iran! The Lord Jesus is appearing to anti-Christian individuals and bringing them to faith in Himself so that they join Him in bringing the Gospel to others.

“Thank You Lord Jesus for Your amazing grace. You save unworthy sinners and make them Your mouth, hands, and feet to speak the message of Your amazing grace to others.”

[1] Acts 9:1-22 full account

JESUS Resurrected on the Third Day

“When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness. With great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.” [1]

Prayer! Filled with the Holy Spirit! Boldly speaking God’s Word! Powerfully witnessing to the resurrection of Jesus! Great grace upon them all! Yes, to all of the above!

All true prophets point people to Jesus, “And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself [Jesus].” [2]

“The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” [3]

“Holy Spirit, please fill us. Help us to speak the Word of God boldly with the view to powerfully witness for JESUS. May Your grace, God’s great grace, be upon us. For it is in Jesus’ Name that I pray. Amen.”

[1] Acts 4:31, 33
[2] Luke 24:27
[3] Revelation 19:10

Spreading the Gospel to All the World

“He [JESUS] also presented Himself alive after His suffering by MANY infallible proofs, being SEEN by them during 40 days and speaking of the things pertaining to the KINGDOM of GOD. … He commanded them … to wait for the Promise of the Father, ‘which,’ He said, ‘you have heard from Me; for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT not many days from now.’

‘You shall receive POWER when the HOLY SPIRIT has come upon you; and you shall be MY WITNESSES in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.’” [1]

The HOLY SPIRIT is the Promise of the Father. JESUS baptizes us His disciples with the HOLY SPIRIT so that we are HIS WITNESSES and LIGHTS in this dark world.

“Thank You HEAVENLY FATHER and GLORIFIED SON for BAPTIZING us with the HOLY SPIRIT! HOLY SPIRIT please radiate from us today. Help us to spread the GOSPEL of SALVATION to all the world. In JESUS' NAME, we pray. Amen.”

[1] Acts 1:3-5, 8

Blessed Captives to the Will of God

“Jesus said to them, ‘When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and that I do nothing of Myself; but as My Father taught Me, I speak these things. And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him.’” [1]

The conscience of Jesus stayed on course with the will of His Father. His conscience was held captive to the will of God. How amazing!

As a young person, I imagined that if the Church would adopt the music and the fashion styles of the times, many young people would come. But what’s better, full halls or a small group of missionaries who seek to save the lost?

I see in Jesus the mindset to please His Heavenly Father no matter what a thousand people around Him expected Him to say or do. God was His director. He followed God’s script. Jesus shows us that the power to make a difference in this world is to defiantly obey the will of God no matter how popular culture responds. By obeying the leading of His Father, He saved one adulteress from being stoned by an angry crowd. He considered her worth running the risk of being stoned Himself. [2]

“Then, they took up stones to throw at Him; but Jesus hid Himself and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.” [3]

“Lord Jesus, please help us by Your Spirit to have wills held captive to Father’s will for Your glory and for the salvation of others. In Your Name Jesus, we pray. Amen.”

[1] John 8:28-29
[2] John 8:3-11
[3] John 8:59

Understanding The Bible

“He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.” [1]

We need the Author of the Bible to help us understand the Bible. Next time you read the Bible, ask the Holy Spirit, who breathed its words into the hearts and minds of its writers, to reveal to you the meaning and purpose of the Bible. Keep in mind that Scripture points to Jesus of Nazareth as the Messiah, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” [2]

The Bible was written to help us know Christ... so there is a bigger picture than just a selfie involved... “Then He [Jesus] said to them, ‘Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.’” [3]

[1] Luke 24:45
[2] Luke 24:44
[3] Luke 24:46-47

Nothing in my Hand I Bring

“Then he said to Jesus, ‘Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.’” [1]

Jesus had said previously, “Indeed there are last who will be first, and there are first who will be last.” [2] The thief hanging next to Jesus on the cross was stereotyped by the world as a “last,” but he entered paradise that day with Jesus as a “first.” He placed all his hope for heaven in Jesus and became a “first.” So, it is for all who place 100% faith in Jesus for salvation, and 0% faith in themselves.

“Not the labors of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law’s commands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and Thou alone.

Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to the cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Savior, or I die.” [3]

[1] Luke 23:42-43
[2] Luke 13:30
[3] Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me, Augustus M. Toplady

The Dead Raised to Life in Jesus

Some who listened to Jesus, doubted that people resurrect from the dead. So, Jesus used a title for God that appears in the-burning-bush-narrative to boost their faith. God told Moses that He is “the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.” From this passage, Jesus declared to the doubters that these three men are alive, “Those who are counted worthy to attain that age, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage; nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. Even Moses showed in the burning bush passage that the dead are raised, when he called the Lord ‘the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ For He is not the God of the dead but of the living, for all live to Him.” [1]

Jesus told one woman, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.” [2]

There is life beyond this life, and according to the Bible and Jesus, it is a better life, “There shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” [3]

And God gave us this great salvation as gift at the cost of His own Son’s sacrifice, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” [4]

[1] Luke 20:35-38
[2] John 11:25
[3] Revelation 21:4
[4] John 3:16

Jesus Succeeds Where Others Fail

“He [the Lord] brought me up out of a horrible pit,
Out of the miry clay,
And set my feet upon a rock,
And established my steps.
He has put a new song in my mouth—
Praise to our God;
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the Lord.” [1]

Humanism, rationalism, and syncretism are horrible pits and miry clay. Jesus is the rock of salvation. He puts better and happier songs in our hearts than humanism, rationalism, and syncretism. Praise the Lord!

When all the false narratives are blown away like dust in the wind, the Word of God will still be standing. The Kingdom of God will neither be silenced nor obscured.

God is omnipresent and omnipotent. Thanks to His Son Jesus Christ, we have a new song... a song of “saved by grace” to sing.

Humanism is an outlook or system of thought attaching prime importance to humans rather than divine or supernatural matters. Humanist beliefs stress the potential value and goodness of human beings, emphasize common human needs, and seek solely rational ways of solving human problems.

Rationalism is a belief or theory that opinions and actions should be based on reason and knowledge rather than on religious belief or emotional response. The practice of treating reason as the ultimate authority in religion.

Syncretism is the amalgamation or attempted amalgamation of different religions, cultures, or schools of thought.

Jesus declared that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. [2] He proved His ability to overcome death and bring forth new life by rising from the dead and by ascending into heaven. Only Jesus can do this kind of miracle for people.

[1] Psalm 40:2-3
[2] John 14:6

Grace that Binds My Heart to Thee

“Then one said to Him, ‘Lord, are there few who are saved?’ And He said to them, ‘Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.’” [1]

Let us depend on the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His Holy Spirit to enter the narrow gate as set forth in the Holy Scriptures.

“Oh, to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be;
Let that grace now like a fetter
Bind my wandering heart to Thee:
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it;
Prone to leave the God I love.
Here’s my heart, oh, take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above.” [2]

“Yes, Lord, let Your grace bind my heart to Thee. Seal my heart to You by the power of Your Holy Spirit living in me so that, I love and serve YOU all my days.”

Thankfully, with the Lord, there is forgiveness when we fail Him.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” [3]

“Lord Jesus, I confess that I am a sinner in need of Your forgiveness and cleansing from unrighteousness. Please fill me afresh with Your Spirit of love. In Your Name, Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen.”

[1] Luke 13:23-24
[2] Robert Robinson, “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing”
[3] 1 John 1:9

C.F.W. Walther On The Law & Gospel

“The Law tells us what we are to do. The Gospel reveals to us only what God is doing. The Law is speaking concerning our works; the Gospel, concerning the great works of God.

But does not the Gospel demand faith? Yes; that, however, is just the same kind of command as when you say to a hungry person, ‘Come, sit down at my table and eat.’ the hungry person will not reply: ‘I will not take orders from you.’ No, he will understand and accept your words as a kind invitation. That is what the Gospel is — a kind invitation to partake of heavenly blessings.

At the return of the prodigal the father does not with a single word refer to his horrible, abominable conduct. He says nothing, nothing whatever, about it, but falls upon the prodigal’s neck, kisses him, and prepares a splendid feast for him. That is a glorious parable exhibiting to us the effect of the Gospel. It removes all unrest and fills us with a blessed, heavenly peace.

When God has given them [sinners] the grace to be alarmed on account of their sins, they are in a fit condition to approach the throne of grace, where they receive forgiveness — the true remedy for their ills. They must indeed have contrition; however, not to the end of acquiring some merit by it, but in order that they may gladly accept what Jesus offers them.

The Gospel does not require anything good that man must furnish not a good heart, not a good disposition, no improvement of his condition, no godliness, no love either of God or men. It issues no orders, but it changes man. It plants love into his heart and makes him capable of all good works. It demands nothing, but it gives it all. Should not this fact make us leap for joy?” [1]

[1] Walther, C. F. W., The Proper Distinction between Law and Gospel, Concordia Publishing House, 1929

The Importance of Divine Forgiveness

“Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise up and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”—He said to the man who was paralyzed, ‘I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.’ Immediately he rose up before them, took up what he had been lying on, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. And they were all amazed, and they glorified God and were filled with fear, saying, ‘We have seen strange things today!’” [1]

“That you may know that the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins...”

Forgiveness of sins cannot be visually verified to prove that it actually occurred, but a paralyzed man standing up and carrying his mat away is an obvious visible sign that a divine miracle has occurred. Jesus demonstrated to His doubters that He was indeed able to forgive people's sins.

Divine forgiveness is the greatest miracle because sin cannot enter heaven under any circumstance.

“But there shall by no means enter it [the New Jerusalem] anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.” [2]

Our sins must be forgiven by Jesus if we want to enter paradise when we die.

[1] Luke 5:23-26
[2] Revelation 21:27

More With The Lord

“When the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, ‘Alas, my master! What shall we do?’ So, he answered, ‘Do not fear, for those who are with us are MORE than those who are with them.’ And Elisha prayed, and said, ‘LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.’ Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.” [1]

“Yet in all these things we are MORE than conquerors through HIM [Jesus Christ our LORD] who loved us.” [2]

[1] 2 Kings 6:15-17
[2] Romans 8:37

A Good Word

“Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.” [1]

The good word I’m thinking of is the Lord's return. What we see now is NOT what we get. The Lord has something much better instore for us. He told the repentant dying thief next to Him of being in paradise that same day. He told His disciples that in His Father’s house are many dwelling places. They would not be orphans. The Lord will send His angels to bring us to Himself.

My mother-in-law, Dorothy Esterlein, saw Jesus at the foot of her bed before she went to be with Jesus. One of our friends in China, He Rue Hua, converted to Christ after she saw her husband pass away with an appearance of total peace on his face. He was a believer in Christ. He urged her and their three daughters to believe in Jesus. They did.

“Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven.” [2]

An angelic trip to an eternal paradise is a good word that makes my heart glad. This trip is reserved for me and won't be cancelled thanks to the blessed assurance I have as I trust in the merits of Christ for my eternal salvation. Hallelujah! And this promise is to whosoever believes in Jesus.

“O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” [3]

[1] Proverbs 12:25
[2] Mark 13:26-27
[3] 1 Corinthians 15:55-57

He was Wounded for our Transgressions

“He was Wounded for our Transgressions.” [1]

“And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.” [2]

Spirit of grace and supplication help us live in the light of the fact that Christ was pierced for our transgressions.

“The soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who was crucified with Him. But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, ‘Not one of His bones shall be broken.’ And again another Scripture says, ‘They shall look on Him whom they pierced.’” [3]

Jesus, Son of God, thank You for fulfilling the Scriptures that were wrote about You and for submitting to Your Father’s will for Your life here on earth.

“Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.” [4]

Come, Lord Jesus, Come!

[1] Isaiah 53:5
[2] Zechariah 12:10
[3] John 19:32-37
[4] Revelation 1:7

A Praise-Worthy Truth

“By the deeds of the law...
no flesh...
will be justified in His sight,
for by the law is...
the knowledge of sin.

But now the righteousness of God...
apart from the law is revealed,
being witnessed by...
The Law and the Prophets,
even the righteousness of God,
through faith...
in Jesus Christ,
to all and on all who believe.

For there is no difference;
for all have sinned...
and fall short of the glory of God,
being justified freely by His grace...
through the redemption...
that is in Christ Jesus,
whom God set forth...
as a propitiation by His blood,
through faith,
to demonstrate His righteousness,
because in His forbearance God...
had passed over the sins...
that were previously committed,
to demonstrate at the present time...
His righteousness,
that He might be just
and the justifier...
of the one who has faith...
In Jesus.” [1]

The Law was given by God to help us understand what sin is. [2] The Law was never meant to free us from our slavery to sin. It was meant to help us realize that sin is our master and that we need God to forgive the sins we have committed and to deliver us from the power of sin over us.

Forgiveness and deliverance is by faith in Jesus Christ God’s Son. He is our Redeemer - the one who paid the price to free us from our master, namely, sin. He is our propitiation - the one who covered our past and future sins with His blood. He is our Justifier - the one who grants us an innocent verdict before a holy God. In other words, everything that we needed to be in a right relationship with God was accomplished by our Lord Jesus Christ. Our faith is receptivity. It receives Christ and all He done for us to make us right and acceptable by God.

Praise the Lord!

This is a truth that we should take time to meditate on, give thanks for and share with others every day.

[1] Romans 3:20-26 

[2] Romans 3:20

God Answers Prayer

Doubt says, “Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him? And what profit do we have if we pray to Him?’” [1]

God’s Word says, “So, it was that when Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed; when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses’ hands became heavy; so, they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. And Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. So, Joshua defeated Amalek.” [2]

When we pray, God hears our prayers.

“Now when He [the Lamb - Jesus Christ] had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell-down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” [3]

Our prayers to Jesus reach heaven. He takes them seriously. He answers with the resources of heaven and earth.

Praise be to GOD and to the LAMB, who sit upon the throne.

[1] Job 21:15
[2] Exodus 17:11-13
[3] Revelation 5:8

Justified by Faith in Christ Q & A

Study questions with answers and comments from Romans 4:

When Abraham believed God and when we believe God, God counts our faith as…

Righteousness (vss. 3-5)

David declared that a person to whom God imputes righteousness apart from works is…

Blessed (vss. 6-8)

It is a divine blessing to have our lawless deeds forgiven and our sins...

Covered (vs. 7)

Abraham is the father of all who walk by faith in…

God (vs. 12)

We become heirs of the world through faith in…

God. (vs. 13)

The law brings about…

Wrath (vs. 15)

Righteousness by faith is based on God’s…

Grace (vs. 16)

Abraham was not weak in…

Faith (vs. 19)

Abraham did not waver in his faith even though God’s promise to him seemed impossible. The implication here is that we should not waver in our faith that God can impute righteousness to us when we believe in His Son Jesus Christ. (vss. 19-20)

Abraham was strengthened in faith as he gave glory to…

God (v. 21)

Abraham was fully convinced that what God had promised He was also able to…

Perform (vs. 21)

Are you fully convinced that God keeps His promises?

Abraham’s faith in God was accounted to him by God for…

Righteousness (vs. 22)

God imputing to Abraham righteousness was not written for him alone. It was written also for...

Us (vss. 23-24)

Righteousness is imputed to all who believe in God who raised up Jesus our Lord from the...

Dead (vs. 24)

Jesus was delivered up to death because of our…

Offenses (vs. 25)

Jesus was resurrected from the dead for our...

Justification (vs. 25)

When God considers the evidence upon which He justifies us, the evidence He considers is what Christ has done, not what we have done. Christ is our hope.

“For our sake He [God] made Him [Christ] to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him [Christ] we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)

It is by faith in Christ that we stand.

Set Free By The Lord

“Thus, says the Lord God of the Hebrews: ‘Let My people go, that they may serve Me.’” [1]

The Lord kept telling Pharaoh through His servant Moses to let His people go.

Stop enslaving people for your purposes and let them serve My purposes!

The Pharaoh was hardhearted. He thought he could keep God’s people for his own purposes. The Lord had to bring terrible plagues on Egypt before the Pharaoh let His people go.

The Lord God asked Pharaoh, “How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me? Let My people go, that they may serve Me.” [2]

“Pharaoh’s servants said to him, ‘How long shall this man be a snare to us? Let the men go, that they may serve the Lord their God. Do you not yet know that Egypt is destroyed?’” [3]

Finally, Pharaoh offered Moses a partial deal, “Go, serve the Lord; only let your flocks and your herds be kept back. Let your little ones also go with you.” [4]

Moses stuck with the God’s plan… a full release. After a few more plagues, Pharaoh let them go.

It just goes to show how the devil tries to hinder people from serving the Lord.

We should never settle for less than a life that is free to serve the Lord.

Once, while Jesus was ministering in synagogue a man with unclean spirit cried out, saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!”

Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, saying, “Be quiet, and come out of him!”

The unclean spirit convulsed him, cried aloud, and came out of him.

The people of that synagogue were amazed, and the fame of Jesus spread throughout all the region around Galilee. [5]

Jesus set that man free from his personal demon. He does the same for people today.

“Lord Jesus, thank You for releasing people from their enslavement to the evil. Thank You for the freedom to serve and honor You with our lives.”

[1] Exodus 9:1
[2] Exodus 10:3
[3] Exodus 10:7
[4] Exodus 10:24
[5] Mark 1:23-38

A Tender Heart

“For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end, while it is said: ‘Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.’ For who, having heard, rebelled? Indeed, was it not all who came out of Egypt, led by Moses?” [1]

The Pharaoh’s heart was hard. The Lord did miracles throughout his kingdom, but he refused to admit that he was wrong about God. He refused to believe no matter what God did. [2]

Surprisingly, after God freed the Jewish slaves from Pharaoh by use of mighty miracles, many of them hardened their hearts against God and began to worship idols and engage in ungodly living. They did not retain their confidence steadfast to the end.

Moses, on the other hand, never stopped believing. “By faith he [Moses] forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.” [3] Moses kept his eyes on the Lord not on evil. God gave him the victory.

“Dear Lord Jesus, help us to fight the good fight of faith. Help us to hold tight to what we know and believe of You. A tender heart is all You need to take Your love where love is in need.”

[1] Hebrews 3:14-16
[2] Exodus 7-8
[3] Hebrews 11:27

Christ's Suffering For Our Salvation

The religious leaders gathered at the palace of the high priest to plot by trickery the death of Jesus. The high priest was in a palace. [1]

When a woman anointed Jesus with very costly fragrant oil, His disciples were angry. They asked, “Why this waste?” Jesus explained to them that she did it to prepare for His burial. [2]

Judas Iscariot went to the high priest and betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. [3]

Jesus explained to His disciples that He was making a new covenant in which His blood [not the blood of bulls and goats], would be the source of their forgiveness. [4]

Later that evening, Jesus said to Peter, James, and John, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death.” He moved away from them and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” [5]

The disciples fell asleep.

Jesus prayed three times to His Father with the hope that He might not have to drink the cup that He was destined to drink, but each time, He concluded, “Your will be done.” [6]

Judas Iscariot arrived with a great mob of people carrying swords and clubs to arrest Jesus. The disciples of Jesus forsook Him and fled. [7]

The religious leaders brought forth many false witnesses to falsely accuse Jesus. Jesus kept silent. Finally, the high priest commanded Jesus, “I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!” Jesus replied, “It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.” [8]

The high priest tore his clothes, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! He asked the jurors, “What do you think?” They answered and said, “He is deserving of death.” Then, they spat in His face and beat Him. Others struck Him with the palms of their hands. [9]

“Thank You Lord Jesus for suffering for us and for our salvation. We love You. We praise You.”

[1] Matthew 26:3-4
[2] Matthew 26:7-12
[3] Matthew 26:15-16
[4] Matthew 26:26-28
[5] Matthew 26:38-39
[6] Matthew 26:44-45
[7] Matthew 26:47, 56
[8] Matthew 26:60-64
[9] Matthew 26:65-67

Preparing for the Lord's Return

Jesus connected His return to oil, talents, and charity.

In regards to oil, Jesus spoke of five virgins who are locked out of the kingdom of God because they had no oil in their lamps. They had time to get oil, but they chose to sleep instead. Jesus concluded this parable by saying, “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.” [1]

In regards to talents, Jesus spoke of three servants who received talents to invest from their master. A talent weighed between 57 to 80 pounds. A talent of silver was about 6,000 days’ wages of a common laborer and a talent of gold was about 180,000 day’s wages, Two of the master’s servants yielded a profit back to their master, while the third servant did not. The master said to the productive servants, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter the joy of your Lord.” But He called the third servant wicked and lazy and had him cast into the outer darkness where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth. [2]

In regards to charity, Jesus spoke of His return in glory. He will return with all His holy angels and then sit on a throne of glory. All nations will be gathered before Him. He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides sheep from goats. He will say to the sheep on His right hand, “Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”

The sheep on His right hand fed the hungry, quenched the thirst of the thirsty, welcomed foreigners, clothed the naked and visited prisoners. When they served the least of Jesus’ brothers, they served Him. [3] The goats on His left hand did not do charitable deeds. Jesus said to them, “Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” [4] The world praises the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) people. They do well for themselves, but the Lord sees nothing of Himself in them. Jesus concludes Matthew 25 by saying, “These will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” [5]

These three parables form a metaphor for healthy spirit growth. We begin with oil in our lamps. The oil represents the Holy Spirit. He is Christ in us. The Holy Spirit leads us to make good investments with our time and resources. Finally, with time and resources on hand, we are to be charitable towards others.

The Lord urges us in the Bible: “Do not receive the grace of God in vain.” [6] God gives us grace us to be more like Christ! When Jesus returns, it will be to gather Christians to Himself. The meaning of the word Christian is "little christ." This is what God’s grace does. His grace empowers us to be more like Jesus.

[1] Matthew 25:13
[2] Matthew 25:26, 30
[3] Matthew 25:35-40
[4] Matthew 25:41-45
[5] Matthew 25:46
[6] 2 Corinthians 6:1

Pride Not People Are Expendable

The prophets, apostles, and Jesus Christ urged us to be humble.

Peter wrote, “Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” [1]

He was speaking to Christians who were being mistreated for their faith in Christ. Rather than rise-up against the powerful, he urged them to lower themselves before God. Let go and let God! Or has Beth Moore once said, “Duck, and let God take care of it.”

Jesus warned the multitudes and His disciples against those who want to be the center of everyone’s attention. He assured them that proud people will be humbled, and that humble people will be cared for by God.

As to spiritual leaders who wanted to be the center of everyone’s praise, Jesus taught…

“Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, saying: ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. Therefore, whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments. [See * below] They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’ But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi;’ for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.’” [2]

Sometimes the disciples of Jesus argued over who was the greatest. Jesus urged them not to argue over greatness, but to seek to be humble like little children.

“Heavenly Father, please grant us grace to shun pride and embrace humility. To You be the glory!”

[1] 1 Peter 5:6
[2] Matthew 23:1-12

* Phylacteries were Scripture boxes tied to one’s body. The hems of the Pharisees had 613 threads in them to represent the 613 laws of the Old Testament. They enlarged their Scripture boxes and hems to make a statement, namely, we are more like God than others.

God’s Beloved Son

“He [Jesus] was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’” [1]

Peter, James, and John saw Jesus with His face aglow, and with His clothing shining like light! They saw Moses and Elijah talking with Him. How did Peter know that the two men with Jesus were Moses and Elijah? They did not have name tags. Their names were not announced. Peter knew their names the way people in heaven knew each other; by divine revelation.

Moses represents the five books of Old Testament Law. Elijah represents the books of Old Testament Prophets – two divisions in the Hebrew Bible. Jesus is glowing brightly amidst these two men. Their writings point to Him. Jesus is about to make a new covenant with humankind. Moses and Elijah are talking with Jesus Christ about His coming death in Jerusalem. [2]

While he [Peter] was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!” [3]

The voice of the Heavenly Father from a bright cloud confirmed that Jesus is God's Son, and that people should listen to Him. That Jesus pleases the Heavenly Father well, punctuates the fact we should place Jesus in the highest place. We are to worship Him, learn from Him and follow Him.

The disciples of Jesus asked Him, “Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” Jesus replied, “I say to you that Elijah has come already, and they did not know him but did to him whatever they wished. Likewise, the Son of Man is also about to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that He spoke to them of John the Baptist.” [4]

The Prophet Malachi had prophesied that Elijah would return before Messiah came. The disciples had just seen Elijah with Jesus. So, they asked about this. Jesus told them that John the Baptist was Elijah in a metaphoric sense. The Old Testament Elijah opposed the idolatry of Ahab and Jezebel. John the Baptist opposed the adultery and corruption of King Herod and his mistress. John lost his head for opposing his king’s sin. More importantly, John pointed people to Christ. He said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” [5]

God the Father spoke from heaven to point the disciples to the Messiah, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!”

[1] Matthew 17:2-4
[2] Luke 9:31
[3] Matthew 17:5
[4] Matthew 17:12-13
[5] John 1:29

Overcoming Opposition

“Look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin.” [1]

Jesus overcame opposition. Some went so far as to call Jesus Beelzebub, the prince of demons. [2] Jesus countered their accusations with teaching moments and continued His mission of spreading GOOD NEWS to the poor and healing those who were physically hurting.

The closer we get to Jesus the farther away those who oppose Him become to us. The more we love Him, the less they love us. But in the end, being close to Jesus is what matters. He is the One who grants us eternity with God in New Jerusalem where there are innumerable angels, and with joy unspeakable and full of glory.

“Lord Jesus, thank You for enduring the hostility of sinners and not compromising the truth that they needed to hear. Please help us to be like You. Make us strong. Make us compassionate. In our lives be glorified! For it is Your Name we pray. Amen.”

[1] Hebrews 12:2-4
[2] Matthew 12:24

A Tale of Two Cities

“Abraham returned to the place…
where he had stood before the Lord.
[where he had prayed for Sodom and Gomorrah]
[where he had asked for the cities to be spared…]
[if just five righteous people could be found.]
The land was smoking like a furnace.

When God destroyed these cities…
God remembered Abraham
He sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow...

It had happened on the day of judgment that…
The angels urged Lot to hurry, saying,
‘Arise, take your wife…
your two daughters…
lest you be consumed in the punishment of the city.’
And while he hesitated,
the men took hold of his hand,
his wife’s hand,
and the hands of his two daughters,
the Lord being merciful to him,
And they brought him out...” [1]

I’m thankful that the Lord interceded for me when I was in Sodom and Gomorrah. Not in these cities geographically, but there spiritually! What a terrible place to be! Lot and his family had a hard time pulling out even though they knew they were living in a place destined for destruction. Abraham is a metaphor for God in this story. He interceded for his nephew Lot.

“Thank you, Lord. for getting me out Sodom and Gomorrah. You have been very merciful to me. Please keep me from ever looking back as Lot’s wife did… to her own destruction.”

“As Jesus sat at the table in the house…
many tax collectors and sinners came and…
Sat down with Him and His disciples.
When the Pharisees saw it,
They said to His disciples,
‘Why does your Teacher…
Eat with tax collectors and sinners?’

“Jesus… said to them,
‘Those who are well need not a physician,
but those who are sick do.
Go and learn what this means:
‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.’
For I did not come to call the righteous,
I came to call sinners, to repentance.”

“Jesus went about… cities and villages,
teaching in their synagogues,
preaching the gospel of the kingdom,
healing every sickness and every disease...
When He saw the multitudes,
He was moved with compassion for them,
Because they were weary and scattered,
like sheep having no shepherd.
Then He said to His disciples,
‘The harvest truly is plentiful,
but the laborers are few.
Pray, therefore, the Lord of the harvest…
To send out laborers into His harvest.’” [2]

“Lord of the Harvest, Jesus Christ, please do move us to pray for lost souls and to go out everywhere to harvest them for an eternity with You in Your Heavenly City.”

[1] Genesis 19:27-29, 15-16
[2] Matthew 9:10-13, 35-38

I Want To Be Like You

Yesterday, I watched Disney’s Jungle Book movie with my grandchildren. One of the songs had the following lines:

“Ooh, I wanna be like you
I wanna walk like you
Talk like you, too
You'll see it's true.”

I want to be like Jesus. Which character traits did Jesus commend? The traits that He commended in His sermon the mount include being poor in spirit, being one who mourns, being meek, being hungry and thirsty for righteousness, being merciful, being pure in heart, being peacemakers, being one who is persecuted for righteousness’ sake, being one who is persecuted for the sake of Christ, being one who is like the salt of the earth, being one who is like the light of the world, and, being one who is like a city built on hill that cannot be hidden. [1]

Jesus taught us to let our light shine before others, that they see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven.” [2] He warned against continuing in anger towards a brother or sister. [3] He warned against looking at a woman lustful look at a woman lustfully. [4]

Jesus encouraged us to make sacrifices for the sake of being a Christ-like witness to others. He taught, “If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.” He said, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven [because] He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” [5]

“Dear Lord Jesus, please help us to walk and talk like You.”

[1] Matthew 5:1-14
[2] Matthew 5:16
[3] Matthew 5:21-22
[4] Matthew 5:28-29
[5] Matthew 5:40-45

Sin & Salvation

“Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden?’ The woman said to the serpent, ‘We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree, which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’ Then, the serpent said to the woman, ‘You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.’ So, when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave it to her husband with her, and he ate it. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings.” [1]

The devil got our first parents to compromise their relationship with God. He wanted enmity between humankind and God. When he succeeded, Adam and Eve hid from God. Thankfully, God came looking for Adam and Eve after they sinned. They heard the Lord God walking in the garden. The Lord called them out and asked them to explain what happened. And they did. [2]

The Lord God said to the serpent, “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.” [3]

The above passage is the first prophecy of Christ in the Bible. Jesus is the Seed that God was referring to. Jesus bruised the serpent’s head when He paid for humanity’s sin on the cross and when He conquered death by rising from the dead on the third day. The heel of Christ was bruised by Satan in the sense that He paid a terrible price to stomp on him. He was whipped and nailed to a tree. Jesus took the punishment that humanity deserved for our sin against God and God’s Word.

The Lord God made tunics of skin and clothed Adam and Eve. This was God’s first sacrifice of life (animal skins) for people. [4]

The Lord also placed cherubim (winged creatures - angels) at the garden of Eden to guard the way to the tree of life. He did not want them to eat of the tree of life and live forever in a state of sinfulness. [5] Cherubim is plural. Most likely, there were two angels. There were two angels facing the Mercy Seat on the cover of the Ark of the Covenant. [6] There were two angels that met Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb when Jesus resurrected from the dead. [7] The Lord Jesus made a way back to paradise for humanity by dying for our sins and resurrecting from the dead for our resurrection. Now, the angels rejoice when sinners repent and believe in Jesus. [8]

God’s plan for us after death is to give to us heavenly bodies so that we can live in communion with Him forever. “As we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man.” [9] Praise the Lord for salvation!

[1] Genesis 3:1-7
[2] Genesis 3:8-13
[3] Genesis 3:14-15
[4] Genesis 3:21
[5] Genesis 3:22-24
[6] Exodus 25:18-22
[7] John 20:12
[8] Luke 15:10
[9] 1 Corinthians 15:49

Genesis 1-2 Blessings on New Year's Day

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

"The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the SPIRIT of GOD was hovering over the face of the waters."

God spoke WORDS, ‘Let there be light;’ and there was light.”

The Spirit of God and the Word of God give light.

“God said, ‘Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear;’ and it was so.”

When God shows up, chaos is replaced with order.

“God said, ‘Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit according to its kind, whose seed is in itself on the earth;’ and it was so.”

When God is at work, there is fruit.

“And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.”

God is our Creator. Our very life breath is from Him.

“And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs and closed up the flesh in its place. Then, the rib which the Lord God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man.”

God is the original matchmaker. He is the original originator of love and friendship.

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation.

Genesis 1:1, 3, 9, 11, 27, 2:7, 21-22

Lessons from Lemuel’s Mother

“The words of King Lemuel, the utterance which his mother taught him: Do not give your strength to women, nor your ways to that which destroys kings.” [1]

She is obviously referring to multiple uncommitted relationships based on pleasing one’s fleshly desires and instead of a relationship with one woman that places God and others before oneself.

“It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes intoxicating drink; lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the justice of all the afflicted.” [2]

She taught her son that there a good reason to avoid using harmful substances to one’s body… they impair one’s ability to fight for the causes that really manner such as loving God and one’s neighbor and caring for the afflicted.

“Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” [3]

Rather than being preoccupied with pleasing himself (as people with great power tend to do), he was to rescue perishing people, make good judgments, and advocate for people who did not have their basic needs met.

“Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.” [4]

Here she counters her earlier warning about “women” with the inestimable valuable of a virtuous wife: one wife, who is committed to their relationship.

“She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.” [5]

Surely only God could give such a woman to a man.

“Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.” [6]

She not only respects her husband, but she helps others to respect him as well.

“She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.” [7]

She has been with the Lord and He has taught her how to use her mouth and tongue to build up and not tear down. She surely is more valuable than many rubies.

“She watches over the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.” [8]

She helps her husband bear the weight of providing for the health of their family.

“Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: Charm is deceitful, and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.” [9]

Unlike the men who pursue the women who use feminine wiles to win the temporary praise of the masses, Lemuel is marry a woman who will be a blessing to his children and his praise as well. Incidentally, the word praise comes from the old French word "preisier” which means to prize. Lemuel’s mother taught him to avoid women and substance abuse, do what’s right in God’s eyes and for others, and marry UP! Good advice!

[1] Proverbs 31:1
[2] Proverbs 31:4-5
[3] Proverbs 31:8-9
[4] Proverbs 31:10
[5] Proverbs 31:11
[6] Proverbs 31:12
[7] Proverbs 31:26
[8] Proverbs 31:27
[9] Proverbs 31:28, 30

Lord Jesus, You Are...

“Lord Jesus, You are...
Worshiped by millions of angels...
The focus of adoration in heaven...
Help us here on earth...
To know Your matchless worth...
To esteem You higher than...
Worldly riches...
Worldly pleasures...
Worldly approval...
Grant that we would...
Render abundant praise...
Lavish thanksgiving...
Celebration with songs...
Unto Your Name alone...
Unmute our lips...
To proclaim Your salvation...
To everyone.”

“By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.” [1]

“Look carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God... lest there be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright. For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears.” [2]

“Help us, dear Lord Jesus, to follow the example of Moses who by Your Spirit and Word knew Your matchless worth. Let us not be like Esau who traded his blessed inheritance for temporary pleasures. For it is in Your Name we pray. Amen.”

[1] Hebrews 11:24-26
[2] Hebrews 12:15-17

Meek & Humble People

Meek and humble people
Amidst the rebellious and arrogant
Trusting in God,
Experiencing God's presence
Experiencing God's gladness
Experiencing God's love
Experiencing God's songs
God Almighty saves them

“Woe to her who is rebellious and polluted,
To the oppressive city!
She has not obeyed His voice,
She has not received correction;
She has not trusted in the Lord,
She has not drawn near to her God.

The Lord is righteous in her midst,
He will do no unrighteousness.
Every morning He brings His justice to light;
He never fails,
But the unjust knows no shame.

I will leave in your midst
A meek and humble people,
And they shall trust in the name of the Lord.

In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem:
‘Do not fear;
Zion, let not your hands be weak.
The Lord your God in your midst,
The Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.’”

Zephaniah 3:1-2, 5, 12, 16-17

ομολογώ

The primary Greek word for “confess” is homologeo (see above) basically means “to say the same word.”

homo - same
logos - word

To be a confessor of our Lord Jesus Christ is to say the same thing that He is saying in His Holy Word - the Bible.

Jesus declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” [1]

To be a follower of Christ is to be one who believes and confesses that Jesus Christ alone is the way to the Father... the way to eternal bliss after this life is over. The Gospel is that Jesus Christ accomplished everything that was needed for our salvation. We receive salvation from Him as a free gift with no merit of our own... “by grace you are saved.” [2]

We need to beware of confessing or believing something that is other than what Jesus said. “Obscurantism is, obscuring the Gospel by emphasizing things that are actually external to the Gospel as being central to it. The end result is a false gospel that becomes a stumbling block to those Christians and churches are trying to reach. Syncretism is the mixing of Christianity with something else so that it becomes a different gospel. Syncretism can take place with a positive-thinking gospel, a nationalist emphasis, or emerging culture.

When anything is added to the message of the Gospel, the uniqueness and sufficiency of Christ is compromised and another gospel can be created that is, well, actually not the gospel. In this, obscurantism and syncretism are closely related, each leading to the creation of a false gospel.” [3]

[1] John 14:6
[2] Ephesians 2:8
[3] christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2014/june/avoiding-pitfall-of-syncretism.html

Glory & Honor to Our Redeemer King

“He by whom all things were made...

was made one of all things.

The Son of God by the Father without a mother...

became the Son of man by a mother without a father.

The Word Who is God before all time...

became flesh at the appointed time.

The Maker of the sun was made under the sun.

He Who fills the world lays in a manger,

Great in the form of God,

but tiny in the form of a servant;

This was in such a way that neither was...

His greatness diminished by His tininess,

nor was His tininess overcome...

by His greatness.” [1]

“He was in the world,

and the world was made through Him,

and the world did not know Him.

He came to His own,

and His own did not receive Him.

But as many as received Him,

to them He gave the right to...

become children of God,

to those who believe in His name:

who were born, not of blood,

nor of the will of the flesh,

nor of the will of man,

but of God.” [2]

[1] Augustine of Hippo, Sermon 187

[2] John 1:10-13

The Word of God

Once upon a time in a land faraway, the Director of Hong Kong Youth for Christ, David Chu, passed onto me an illustration that the Navigators had passed onto him.

He asked me to hold out one finger. He asked me if I could hold onto the Bible very well with one finger.

My was answer, "no". He said that trying to hold onto the Bible with one finger was like trying to remember the Word of God with only hearing others preach about it.

He proceeded to add that we needed five fingers to hold onto the Bible so tightly that no one could pull it from our hand. Each finger was a metaphor for a method to retain Bible knowledge. (Please see the attached pictures.) When I gripped the Bible with five fingers, it was difficult for Director David to pull it from my hand.

The Apostle Paul who wrote much of the New Testament and planted churches in Asia minor taught his young disciple, Timothy, in a similar way. He wrote to Timothy:

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” [1]

King David, one of God's greatly used men of God, wrote:

“Your Word [Lord] is very pure; Therefore, Your servant loves it.” [2]

“Consider how I love Your precepts; Revive me, O Lord, according to Your lovingkindness.” [3]

“How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your Word.” [4]

Let us endeavor to hear, read, study, memorize and meditate on the Word of God - the Bible.

[1] 2 Timothy 3:15
[2] Psalm 119:140
[3] Psalm 119:159
[4] Psalm 119:9

Thank You Jesus for Caring for Souls

“The Lord said [to Jonah], ‘You have had pity on the plant for which you have not labored, nor made it grow, which came up in a night and perished in a night. And should I not pity Nineveh, that great city, in which are more than 120,000 persons who cannot discern between their right hand and their left—and much livestock?’” [1]

“For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive,
And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.

For great is Your mercy toward me,
And You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.

You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious,
Long-suffering and abundant in mercy and truth.

Show me a sign for good,
That those who hate me may see it and be ashamed,
Because You, Lord, have helped me and comforted me.” [2]

[1] Jonah 4:10-11
[2] Psalm 86:5, 13, 15, 17

A Faithful Witness for Christ

We have a High Priest [Jesus Christ] who sympathizes with our weaknesses. He was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. [1]

“He [Jesus Christ] is...
despised and rejected by men,
A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.

We hid, as it were, our faces from Him;
He was despised,
And we did not esteem Him.

Surely, He has borne our griefs
And carried our sorrows;
Yet we esteemed Him stricken,
Smitten by God and afflicted.

He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was bruised for our iniquities;
The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,
And by His stripes we are healed.

All we like sheep have gone astray;
We have turned, every one, to his own way;
And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

He was oppressed and He was afflicted,
Yet He opened not His mouth;
He was led as a lamb to the slaughter,
And as a sheep before its shearers is silent,
So He opened not His mouth.

He poured out His soul unto death,
He was numbered with the transgressors,
He bore the sin of many,
And made intercession for the transgressors.” [2]

“I am thankful that You, Jesus Christ, are my high priest. I don’t deserve You. I cannot earn You. But I worship and love You. Thank You for suffering for me. I am an unworthy sinner. You are my hope. You are the hope of all people. Please help me to be a faithful witness for You.”

[1] Hebrews 4:15
[2] Isaiah 53:3-7, 12

THE HEAVENLY VISION

Paul told King Agrippa, “I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision.” [1]

What was the heavenly vision that JESUS gave to Paul?

The heavenly vision is a mission...

Open their [the nations’] eyes
Turn them from darkness to light,
Turn them from the power of Satan to God,
So that...
They receive forgiveness of sins...
And an inheritance among those...
Who are sanctified...
[set apart for divine use]
by faith in Me [Jesus Christ]. [2]

The vision that Jesus gave Paul was the same mission that Jesus gave His church...

“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. Amen.” [3]

Go and do!

The first two letters of God’s name are:

G O

The last two letters from right to left are:

D O

TO BE OBEY THE HEAVENLY VISION OF JESUS CHRIST, THE GREAT COMMISSION, WE MUST BE A COMMUNITY OF BELIEVERS IN JESUS CHRIST ON A MISSION TO BRING OTHERS TO FAITH IN HIM... AND TO FOLLOW HIM.

Let’s go and do...

[1] Acts 26:19
[2] Acts 26:18
[3] Matthew 28:19-20

On The Very First Christmas

A Divine Son left His home

He left the best food

He left the most beautiful vacation spot

He left the best fellowship

He left the place where He was loved

To do what?

To be born into human body

That could suffer and die

Placed as an infant

In an animal's feed box

To serve us

To walk with us

To enrich our lives

To bring us to heaven

To heal out broken hearts

To set us free

To save our souls

To open heaven doors

For you and me

Heaven is a Wonderful Place

“Heaven is a wonderful place,
Filled with glory and grace.
I want to see my Savior’s face,
Because heaven is wonderful place.” [1]

When we realize how wonderful God is and how splendid His eternal kingdom is, it seems a small thing to obey His will. For example, Moses chose to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin. The heroes of the Christian faith embraced and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. They desired a better country, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God was not ashamed to be called their God, for He prepared a [heavenly] city for them. [2]

“The path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.” [3] The brighter days happen as we grow in Christlikeness. The final outcome of our walk with Christ is a better and heavenly country.

[1] Words and music by O.A. Lambert, © 1958, 1964 SACRED SONGS
[2] Hebrews 11:13-14, 16, 25
[3] Proverbs 4:18

Praying for Persecuted Christians

Is it possible that a government would show favoritism to those who abandon God? Would a government of man destroy places of worship to God? Would one of us, a human being, flatter and praise godly people who forsake godly living? Would there be anyone to resist such corruption? Could deceivers infiltrate the godly and betray their trust? Could godly people die martyrs’ deaths?

Yes, there, will always be agents of the evil one in high places and with much power who seek to destroy God’s people.

The Lord gave Daniel a prophecy about Antiochus IV Epiphanes long before he rose to power. And, yes, he did carry out atrocities against people who were faithful to God.

“…therefore he [Antiochus IV Epiphanes] will be discouraged and turn back [to Israel] …and show favoritism toward those [Jews] who abandon (break) the holy covenant [with God].

Armed forces of his will arise [in Jerusalem] and defile and desecrate the sanctuary, the [spiritual] stronghold, and will do away with the regular sacrifice [that is, the daily burnt offering]; and they will set up [a pagan altar in the sanctuary which is] the abomination of desolation.

With smooth words [of flattery and praise] he will turn to godlessness those who [are willing to] disregard the [Mosaic] covenant, but the people who [are spiritually mature and] know their God will display strength and act [to resist]. They who are wise and have spiritual insight among the people will instruct many and help them understand; yet for many days some [of them and their followers] will fall by the sword and by flame, by captivity and by plunder. Now when they fall, they will receive a little help, and many will join them in hypocrisy. Some of those who are [spiritually] wise and have insight will fall [as martyrs] in order to refine, to purge and to make those among God’s people pure, until the end time; because it is yet to come at the time appointed [by God].” [1]

Thankfully, Antiochus IV Epiphanes and his regime are no more. However, after the Romans defeated the Greeks, the Romans persecuted the people of God. Nero burned Christians alive to light his garden at night. He also fed them to wild animals. He forced Christians parents to watch their children suffer.

Let us pray for persecuted Christians: “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also.” [2]

When the Apostle Peter was imprisoned, constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. In response to the church’s prayers, the Lord sent His angel, and delivered him from King Herod and from the expectation of those who wanted him to die.” [3]

Pray that God would sustain their faith: “The one who endures to the end will be saved.” [4]

Pray for the spread of the Gospel: “…Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” [5]

Pray for pastors as they are primary targets of persecution: “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.” [6]

Jesus invites us to continually come before God with prayers for justice. [7]

Pray that God will provide for their needs. “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.” [8]

More information is available through Voice of the Martyrs and Open Doors.

[1] Daniel 11:30-35 Amplified Bible
[2] Hebrews 13:3
[3] Acts 12:5, 11
[4] Matthew 10:22
[5] 1 Peter 3:15
[6] Mark 14:27
[7] Luke 18:1–8
[8] 3 John 1:2