Prophecy and Miracle    Luke 18:31-43

This post covers a prophecy by Jesus and a miracle.

This passage in Luke discusses what Jesus foretold

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to the twelve about His death followed by a miracle near Jericho.

Jesus and the twelve were part of a crowd on their way to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. Everyone was expecting something great to happen, like the beginning of the physical kingdom.

Jesus talked to the twelve directly, perhaps to guide their thinking, Luke 18:31-33. “…everything …written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished… delivered over to the Gentiles and… mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. And after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.”

However, the twelve did not fully comprehend what He was saying, perhaps thinking about the new kingdom and their positions in it. This misunderstanding of what was about to happen remained with the twelve until after the resurrection. Then, they would slowly understand.

At this point, as Jesus and the crowd neared Jericho, a blind man asked what was happening. When told about Jesus, he called out “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me.” Apparently, he had heard about Jesus’ miraculous power and believed in Jesus’ Deity because he used an often-cited name, Son of David, for the Messiah. He asked for his sight, which only Jesus could provide, Luke 18:41-42. “Jesus asked,  “What do you want me to do for you?” …, “Lord, let me recover my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Recover your sight;  your faith has made you well.”

Thereafter, the blind man and the crowd praised God. Seeing this happen may have confirmed their hopes that Jesus would soon establish a physical kingdom.

This happening seems to begin Jesus’ public declaration as the Messiah because He cured a blind man as was prophesied in Isaiah and allowed the designation, Son of David, to go unchallenged in the presence of the crowd.

So, what did we learn?

1.The twelve could not comprehend Jesus’ death and resurrection.

2.The blind man called Jesus Son of David.

3.Jesus allowed public declaration of himself as the Messiah.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#TwelveDidNotComprehendDeathResurrection #ariseOnTheThirdDay #blindManHealed

The Church   Matthew 16:18

This post concerns a proper understanding of the church of the New Testament.

‘The Church’ discusses its origin and function. Most denominations teach that salvation and truth arrive from the church. However, this does not align with that found in the New Testament.

Firstly, before any congregations existed, Jesus said, Matthew 16:18, “I will build my church.” After He ascended to heaven, this prophecy came true. The promise of remission of sins to everyone occurred after he ascended. When the Holy Spirit fell on the apostles, Peter preached, Acts 2:14-36. He began with a prophecy from Joel about salvation, covered the life and crucifixion of Jesus, and ended with a pronouncement, Acts 2:36. “…God …made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

Then, some in the audience asked what to do about their sins. Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, replied, Acts 2:38. “Repent and… baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…”

So, the result of this preaching and baptizing resulted in many conversions, Acts2:41. “…those who received his word… baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.”

Thus, God added the saved to an elite group, and continued to add the saved, Acts 2:47. “…And the Lord added to their number day by day those who …saved.”

In addition, Peter did not mention a group or any human organization that stood between the baptized believer and salvation.

Therefore, neither salvation nor truth originates from the church as claimed by many denominations.

Let us find and obey God’s commands so that He will add us to the saved group.

So, what did we learn?

1.God adds the saved to the church.

2.Salvation comes from hearing and believing preaching about Jesus and after repentance and being baptized, not from membership in some church.

3.We need to be a part of the New Testament church.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#GodAddsSavedToChurch #salvationFromPreachingJesus #baptismProvidesSalvation

God Loves Us    John 3:16

This post explains that God loves us.

God Loves Us concerns what God has done and our response. The words “God is Love” occur in verses eight and sixteen in 1 John 4. We could serve God better if we had a better understanding of this phrase.

Perhaps John 3:16 comprises the best known explanation, “…God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This gift of His Son proves that God loves us.

But the Bible contains much more. God created the universe and humans. He loved His creation and provided a beautiful place to live, the Garden of Eden. After sin entered the world, God began a long-term project with the goal of forgiving man and restoring him to a wonderful eternal home of beauty and grandeur like the Garden of Eden.

God’s plan called for sending His Son to redeem all people. That plan was put into motion when Jesus came to earth, preached the word, was crucified and resurrected, and ascended back to heaven. On the Day of Pentecost, the church was established in which saved people were added by God

All of this shows and proves that God loves His created beings.

So, as a result of the love of God, how should we respond?

When asked about the great commandment of the Old Law, Jesus responded with an answer that shows our love for God, Matthew 22:37-39. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind…And a second… like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

These thoughts are reinforced in John 15:12-13. “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

These words teach us to love God with an intensity like that of Jesus when He went to the cross to shed His blood to remit our sins.

So, what did we learn?

1.God loved us first by giving His Son to die on the cross.

2.We are to love God.

3.We are to love our neighbors like God loved us.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#GodIsLove #weMustLoveGod #weMustLoveOneAnother

Pillar of the Truth   1 Timothy 3:15

This post concerns the phrase pillar… of the truth.

Pillar of the truth seeks to clarify the meaning of this phrase found in 1 Timothy 3:15, “…if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God…the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth.”

The Catholic church claims that this verse means that the church puts forth truth. So, whatever the Catholic church issues as an ordinance or rule becomes absolute truth.

Let’s examine this claim carefully.

Scholars define the Bible term pillar as a column supporting the weight of a building. Nothing in the word indicates legislation that issues truth.

Likewise, scholars define buttress as a support, bulwark, or stay. These two words say that the church maintains the truth, but does not issue it. That is, the church stands behind or supports truth already issued.

So, what does the Bible say about pillar of the truth and the source of truth?

Jesus defined truth, John 17:17. “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” This fits with what Jesus said, John 14:6. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” Thus, the church that came into existence in Acts 2 became the pillar and bulwark of that which Jesus spoke, the truth.

How did the church come into existence? Acts 2 describes the Holy Spirit falling on the twelve. Then Peter spoke. He related this appearance of the Holy Spirit to words spoken by the prophet Joel.

Next, he spoke of Jesus, proven by God to be Deity by miracles, as the one they had crucified but God resurrected. He finished by describing Jesus, the source of truth, Acts 2:36. “…God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

At that point those believing in Jesus asked Peter what to do about their sins. Peter said, Acts 2:38. “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…”

This resulted in the church which protected and preached this truth for its growth.

So, what did we learn?

1.The church protects the truth but did not originate it.

2.The truth originated with Jesus, not the church.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#churchSupportsTruth #Jesus’WordTruth #Jesus’WordSalvation

Eternal Life    Luke 18:18-30

This post focuses on gaining eternal life.

‘Eternal Life’ analyzes a question asked by a ruler, Luke 18:18. “And a ruler asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

However, to this great question, Jesus asked, Luke 18:19. ““Why do you call me good? No one…good except God alone.” Note, this answer confirms Jesus as Deity. The ruler missed the lesson and gave no response.

He had asked what he should do. Since he lived under Moses’ Law, Jesus told him: don’t commit adultery, murder, steal, or give false witness and honor your parents. The ruler said he had done all that. Then, Jesus replied that he lacked one thing: He should sell everything, give it to the less fortunate, and come follow Him.

So, should he give away what he loved most, his riches, and follow Jesus? His sadness showed an unwillingness to change.

Jesus said there were things for the ruler to do. However, Jesus also pointed to what the ruler needed to become, namely, a follower of Him and a helper to others.

Jesus’ response on the difficulty of a rich man to get into His kingdom caused his audience to marvel, Luke 18:26. “Then who can be saved?”

Apparently, they imagined a rich meant that God approved of his life. Jesus upset that thinking by His comments about giving up riches and following Him.

Jesus commented, Luke 18:24, 27. ““How difficult it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!…

…what is impossible with man is possible with God.” The rich ruler needed to repent, change his priorities, and love Jesus more than his riches.

Peter responded that the disciples left their homes and followed Jesus. Jesus answered in Luke 18:29-30 that those that left family for the sake of the kingdom will receive many times more in this life and eternal life. We do not know how God will accomplish this, but the granting of eternal life remains the key goal.

So, what did we learn?

         1.One cannot love money more than God and receive eternal life.

          2.Followers of Jesus care for others.

           3.God will take care of His followers in this life and the age to come.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#richRuler #giveUpLoveMoney #giveToPoor

The Unknown God   Acts 17:23-31

This post covers the unknown God.

‘The Unknown God’ provides information about God and how to please Him. The Apostle Paul preached in Athens about the real God, because they worshipped idols. Paul’s starting point was an altar to the unknown god, Acts 17:23. “…What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you.”

Then, he told them of the characteristics of this unknown god, Acts 17:24-25. “The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor…served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all… life and breath and everything.”

In addition, God made of one blood all people, appointed where they should live, and at what time. All this had a purpose, Acts 17:27-28. “that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him… ‘In him we live and move and have our being’… For we …indeed his offspring.”

This means we should not think of God as an idol but seek to know Him. We are His children.

Then Paul continued by quoting a command issued by God,  Acts 17:30-31. “The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world …by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”

At this point, most of his audience left, unbelieving. But unbelief does not change the fact of a future judgment.

This sermon helps us today to believe in God. We can gain deeper understanding  by studying the Bible. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 provides what we need to know. “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

So, what did we learn?

1.An all-powerful God has given us life and commands.

2.We need to obey the God found in the Bible.

3.The Bible provides God’s commands and proof of his nature.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#seekingGod #BibleInspired #lifeFromGod

Two Sinners   Luke 18:9-17

This post seeks to emphasize lessons from a parable about two sinners and the humbleness of children.

‘Two Sinners’ concerns praying by a Pharisee and a publican. The lesson applies mainly to the Pharisee, Luke 18:10, “He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and treated others with contempt: “Two men went up into the temple to pray…a Pharisee and a tax collector. Pharisees were considered highly religious. Publicans were considered gross sinners. Jesus knew the thoughts of each.

Jesus puts forth another single-point parable: Some men trust in themselves as righteous and feel superior to others. The Pharisee expressed his feelings as a righteous person. In contrast, the tax collector viewed himself as a sinner in need of God’s mercy. This parable focuses on the attitude of each man.

The Pharisee did not pray for forgiveness. He simply bragged about himself as if God didn’t know. He did not acknowledge his sins. Instead, this Pharisee showed that he thought how he lived justified his assignment of righteousness. In other words, he felt he had earned salvation. Therefore, he would not need to ask for the grace of God.

The tax collector felt that he was a sinner and needed mercy and grace for salvation.

Jesus makes it plain that of these two, only the tax collector was justified.

How we see ourselves and our sins remains all-important to God. Sin resides in the life of each of us. We need God’s mercy concerning our sins for salvation.

The disciples may have felt superior to children because they prohibited parents from bringing children to be blessed by Jesus. He told them to not hinder the children from coming to Him and then taught an important lesson: One cannot enter the kingdom of God unless he has the attitude of a child. Thus, to come to Jesus, we must depend on him and have faith that He will provide forgiveness and a home in heaven.

So, what did we learn?

1.We need to show humility and recognize our status as a sinner.

2.To enter Christ’s kingdom, we must show faith and trust in Jesus like a child.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#trustSelfRighteousness #treatOthersContempt #beLikeChild

Fellowship with Deity    1 Corinthians 1:9

This post concerns the meaning of fellowship with Deity.

‘Fellowship with Deity’ discusses the meaning of  living as God calls us, 1 Corinthians 1:9. “God … faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” The meaning of this calling and fellowship should have a profound effect on the life of a Christian and how we live.

For example, the Christian now belongs to the Body of Christ with its promise of eternal salvation, Ephesians 5:23. “… Christ…the head of the church, his body, and… himself its Savior.”

This means that this special relationship should  affect our mental outlook, Colossians 3:15. “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And … thankful.” Thus, because Christians belong to the body of Christ or the church, they have a home in heaven. Because of this, they show thankfulness and mental peace. Peace with God promises mental release from concerns with how God feels about this special fellowship.

In addition, the life of the Christian illustrates the role of this fellowship with the world, Hebrews 12:14. “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”

Also, the Apostle Peter stressed this point, 1 Peter 1:15-16. “…as he who called you… holy, you also …holy in all your conduct, since … written, “You shall… holy, for I am holy.” This means exhibiting holiness so that the world can see in the Christian the attributes of God and this fellowship.

Thus, the conclusion of all these verses emphasizes fellowship with God and Jesus in our lives.

So, what did we learn?

1.God calls Christians to live in fellowship with Deity.

2.The called people reside in the Body of Christ, the saved group, the church.

3.Mentally, the Christian at peace with God and strives for holiness toward the world.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#fellowshipWithDeity #mentalPeace #holinessTowardWorld

Independent and Autonomous   Acts 14:23 and 1 Peter 5:2

This post concerns the independent and autonomous nature of the New Testament church.

Independent and Autonomous discusses how God established the New Testament church. Before Paul returned home from establishing churches in Antioch of  Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe, he organized the churches as God desired, Acts 14:23. “And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.” As God directed, the New Testament church had elders in every congregation.

The Apostle Peter was also an elder of a local church. He wrote about what God wanted elders to do, 1 Peter 5:1-2 “I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ…shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight…” Thus, God directed that elders govern this localized organization. But note that elders only oversee one congregation, the one where they worship.

Each congregation directs its own affairs, deciding who to fellowship. The Jerusalem disciples were wary of Saul until Barnabus helped in his acceptance, Acts 9:26-27. “Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord,” Accordingly, each congregation governs who it will accept as a member.

Likewise, each church accumulates a collection of money and decides its use, 1 Corinthians 16:1-3. “Now concerning the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also… do. On the first day of every week, each of you… put something aside and store it up… so that there will… no collecting when I come… I will send those whom you accredit… to carry your gift to Jerusalem. Each church was independent in collecting money and its use.

With Jesus as the supreme commander, each church has its own elders as leaders and directs its own affairs. This God-given arrangement allows each church to stand alone.

So, what did we learn?

1.Elders direct each church.

2.Elders only govern the church where they worship.

3.Each church governs its own collection and its use.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#eachChurchIndependentAutonomous #eldersGovernOneChurch #eachChurchManagesMoneyFellowship

Glory to God   Ephesians 1:22-23 and 3:21

This post concerns glory to God in the church and in Christ Jesus.

‘Glory to God’ discusses what the Apostle Paul taught about this honor for God in Christ Jesus and in the church, Ephesians 3:21. “…to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations,” In the Ephesian letter, Paul explained that the church and the body of Christ are identical, Ephesians 1:22-23. “he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body,” Then these two scriptures show that a main function of the church concerns giving God glory or praise.

Both the church and Jesus glorify Jesus as the savior of the Body, Ephesians 5:23. “Christ is the head of the church, his body, and… himself its Savior”

Also the Apostle Paul clarifies that Christians belong to the body of Christ, 1 Corinthians 12:27. “you… the body of Christ and individually members of it…”

Consequently, Christ as the head of the church has everything under His direction.

So, giving praise to God through Christ in the church can be exercised in two ways by the local church or by the universal church. The church at Philippi exemplified a local church that sent money to the Apostle Paul, Philippians 4:16. “Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.” Therefore, the Philippian church supported Paul in the preaching of the gospel and thus glorified God.

Therefore, as cited above, the church in the universal sense gives honor to God, Ephesians 3:21. “…to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever.” The existence of the church and the salvation provided by God therein provides great glory. Only God could provide His Son as payment for the mistakes of sinful people and thus receive glory forever.

So, what did we learn?

1.Glory to God occurs in the local church and the universal church.

2.The church and the Body of Christ makes up the same group.

3.God deserves great glory for providing the way to be saved eternally.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#BodyOfChrist #localChurchGloryGod #universalChurchGloryGod

Church Universal and Local   Matthew 16:18

This post concerns the use of the word church, in a universal and local sense.

‘Church Universal and Local’ discusses the meaning of church. Church in our Bibles comes from a Greek word meaning a called-out body of people. When the scriptures discuss all the Christians called from the world into God’s service, the word church falls into the universal sense. Jesus forecast the use of this word before there were any congregations, Matthew 16:18. “…on this rock I will build my church.”  Jesus meant that this future group of called out people, designated as a church, would include those He would save.

Then, the Apostle Paul clarified the term church, Ephesians 5:23. “…as Christ … the head of the church, his body, and …himself its Savior.”  Calling the church the body of Christ fits because as the head, He supplies salvation for it.

In addition, this universal group comprises a fellowship with Deity, 1 Corinthians 1:9. “God… faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Thus, as described in the New Testament, this group which includes all of God’s people everywhere, does not have an organization or an earthly head. Therefore, fellowship with Deity embraces the entire purpose of the universal church. Christ, as the Head and Savior, provides payment for sins.

Also, a different use of the word church embraces local congregations. The Apostle John wrote to seven local churches in Asia, Revelation 1:4-5, 11. “… Grace to you and peace … and from the seven spirits… before his throne, and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness…. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood…

…Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.”

Local churches make up the only earthly organization of Christians in a particular place with elders and deacons as leaders. Its fellowship embraces Deity and the local membership.

So, what did we learn?

1.The church in the universal sense includes all the saved.

2.In the local sense, the church consists of local Christians.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#universalChurch #localChurches #fellowshipWithDeityLocalChristians

The Unjust Judge   Luke 18:1-8

This post concerns lessons from a parable about an unjust judge.

‘The Unjust Judge’ discusses what we should learn from a widow’s interaction with a worldly judge. After the discussion of the end of time in the previous chapter, Jesus provides a parable, Luke 18:1-8. “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.”

In this parable, an unjust judge would not hear and rule for a widow. But she continued to ask him for help. Finally, the judge decided to think only of himself and rule for the woman because she would eventually wear him down.

Some have concluded that God personifies the unrighteous judge. That is, even though we pray to and plead with God, He does not want to help us. Jesus corrects this error, Luke 18:6-8. “And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily.”  

This parable stresses a single point.

Luke explains the point being taught in the first sentence: the disciples should always pray and not lose heart. Jesus makes it plain that the character of God is the exact opposite to the judge by using a lesser to the greater argument. If the lesser—the unrighteous judge who was reluctant to hear the widow but finally listened— then how much more will the greater—a loving, just God— hear and help. In contrast to the judge, God will speedily give justice when His people plead with Him day and night.

Jesus also asked about the perseverance of His disciples over a long time period, Luke 18:8. “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” This question shows that a real possibility exists for disciples to fall away. The solution: Not losing heart and praying to a heavenly Father who hears and acts.

So, what did we learn?

1.Unlike the unjust judge, God answers prayer speedily.

2.Disciples should not lose heart or trust in God and pray constantly.

Continue reading

Days   Luke 17:20-37

This post concerns what Jesus instructed about days.

‘Days’ discusses the coming of the physical kingdom of God and the day designating the end of the world, Luke 17:20-21. “…asked by Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come… “The kingdom… not coming in ways…  observed. …the kingdom …in the midst of you.”

This means that no one could see the physical appearance of the kingdom of God. It would exist in the hearts of people.

Then He spoke to the disciples, Luke 17:22-24. “The days… coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. And they will say to you, ‘Look, there!’ or ‘Look, here!’…

…Do not go out or follow them. For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man… in his day. But first he must suffer many things and… rejected by this generation.”

These verses explain the future. People would say that Jesus returned. Don’t believe them. When Jesus returns, everyone will see it like lightning. But before that occurs, rejection and suffering of Jesus will happen.

Then, Jesus explained life would go on like in the days of Noah and Lot. But on the day of the Lord, destruction would come like lightning, observable by everyone.

The Apostle Paul described the judgment day, 1 Thessalonians 4:17. “Then we… alive, who are left, …caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air,”

This fits what Jesus said, Luke 17:34. “…, in that night… two in one bed. One will…taken and the other left… two women grinding together. One …taken and the other left.”  The Lord will lift the saved from the earth and leave the lost for destruction.

The disciples asked, “Where?” So, Jesus described the lost as dead bodies, Luke 17:37. “…Where the corpse… the vultures will gather.”

So, what did we learn?

1.The physical kingdom of God will not come with observable signs.

2.Lightning will signify the end of the world to everyone.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#DisciplesSign #comingOfKingdom #daysOfTheLord

The Character of Love   1 Corinthians 13:4-8

This post concerns the character of love as explained by the Apostle Paul.

The Character of Love discusses the attributes exhibited by Christians who properly love. In the previous chapter, the Apostle enumerated the gifts of the Spirit and the unity that should prevail in the Corinthian church. In the last verse, he says he will describe “a still more excellent way.” In verses 1-3 of this chapter, Paul makes it clear that unless love prevails, spiritual gifts provide zero value.

Then, the Apostle describes the attributes that characterize proper love by a Christian, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. “Love… patient and kind; love does not envy or boast… not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way… not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.”

Patience and kindness exemplify love for our children and mates. To church members with different skills, boasting or showing envy will not occur. In everyday life, arrogance or rudeness toward people must not show. For my mate, I will not insist on having everything my way or everything to please me. In other words, I must not insist on ‘my rights.’

So, when I do not get what I want, I will not show resentment or irritation. Toward the people I work with in the community, I will rejoice in truth and not in the wrongdoing in the headlines of the newspaper.

The Apostle summarizes the actions of love by saying that love bears all things, even the wrongs that life brings. Despite persecutions and problems, love believes that all things about the Christian life make it the proper life. When things go badly, even when a friend sins, love hopes all things—a home in heaven—and repentance of the friend. Thus, love endures whatever occurs.

As a result, love helps me live through whatever happens in life. In this way, I keep the faith and endure as a Christian.

So, what did we learn?

1.The love of a Christian covers all his activities.

2.The heart of a loving Christian includes everyone in his life.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#loveCharacter #superiorityCondemned #matesPatientKind

 

 

 

The Failure of Spiritual Gifts    1 Corinthians 13:1-3

This post concerns the failure of spiritual gifts in the Corinthian church.

The Failure of Spiritual Gifts discusses how some Christians with special spiritual gifts fail. In the previous chapter, the Apostle Paul made a list and explained about spiritual gifts in the church. He clearly taught that the church should have unity and the importance of all members, even those without spiritual gifts.

At the end of the chapter, he points out the leadership hierarchy: the apostles first, then those with these unique gifts. Lastly, those speaking in tongues comprise the lowest on the list of spiritual gifts. Then, he says he will describe a more excellent way.

Chapter 13 describes that way, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3.

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I… a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I… nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.”

Firstly, he points out that without love, speaking in tongues resembles the output of stifling air or wind blowing. Secondly, he says that without love, the gifts of prophecy, special understanding, and special faith have no value. Thirdly, giving away everything and submitting to persecution by burning my body avails nothing without love.

In summary, the use of the unique gifts of the Holy Spirit provides zero benefit to the recipient without displaying proper love toward others.

In the next chapter, the Apostle gives directions on the use of these extraordinary gifts in the worship assembly. Love for all should be apparent as well as order in the assembly.

So, what did we learn?

1.Love provides something more important than spiritual gifts can.

2.Zero describes the benefit of these gifts without love.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

10 Lepers   Luke 17:11-19

This post concerns Jesus curing Ten Lepers at once.

10 Lepers discusses the differences of this miracle from earlier miracles.

By the time Jesus did this miracle on these Lepers, the gospel of Luke had recorded thirteen miracles across a broad spectrum that stretched from raising the dead to curing all types of disease and deformities, plus demonstrating mastery over nature. Earlier miracles occurred by touch or from afar but only on single individuals.

Could the reader think of this miracle as just another miracle? Instead, this big miracle was performed on ten at one time from afar while curing a horrible disease!

On Jesus’ final trip to Jerusalem, He met these

lepers pleading for mercy and standing afar. Then, as a test of their faith, Jesus sent the lepers to go show themselves to the priests as required by the Old Law in Leviticus 13. As they went, they were cleansed. However, only one, a Samaritan, turned back to give thanks and praise God. Jesus seemed surprised and reminded this Gentile that his obedient faith had made him well.

The return to thank Jesus probably interrupted his trip to Mount Gerizim in Samaria to have a priest there declare him clean. Because he was a Gentile, a Jewish priest likely would not have touched him or examined him.

Jesus knew he was not a Jew. But He still healed him. Although Jesus came primarily to preach to the Jews, He still showed compassion to this Samaritan. Other passages like Mark 7:24-30 illustrated His care for Gentiles. See also John 4 and the woman at the well.

Another special nature of this miracle ensued when only one of ten was thankful, a foreigner, not an Israelite. Thus, by citing this miracle as Jesus progressed toward Jerusalem and the cross, Luke cites another example of the ungrateful nature of many Jews.

So, what did we learn?

1.Be thankful for every blessing.

2.Jesus cares for all people.

3.Jesus did an awesome miracle.

#tenLepersCleansed #SamaritanThankful #faithPlusObedienceCleansed

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

The Quest   2 Timothy 3:16-17

This post concerns the use of scripture to find the church pleasing to God.

The Quest discusses what the Bible says about a method to locate the church in which God delights. Many contradictory guides and churches, all claiming to please God, appear everywhere we look. But they contradict one another and cause confusion.

Let God provide a key through His word, 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

“All Scripture… breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God… complete, equipped for every good work.”

Consider what this scripture teaches.

Firstly, God has provided all scripture. Another passage helps understand this point, 2 Peter 1:20-21. “… that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

So, these two passages say that scriptures come from the Holy Spirit of God. Thereby, they can serve as a correct guide to finding His church.

Secondly, what can scriptures do? They can teach, reprove, correct, and train the servant to please God.

Thirdly, adhering to and obeying scripture provides a servant of God with every good endeavor in life. The writings of men cannot add anything. All we need, God has provided.

Finally, in the quest for the right church, one needs to belong to and associate with a group that teaches what the Bible says, no more and no less. That practice will please God.

So, what did we learn?

1.God inspired the writing of the Bible, the scriptures.

2.The Bible provides what the seeker needs to find a church that pleases God.

3.One needs to find a church based only on the inspired writings of the Bible.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#BibleInspiredHolySpirit #BibleProvidesKeyGoodWorks

Newly Baptized    Philippians 4:8; James 3:5-8

This post addresses concerns of those newly baptized.

Newly Baptized discusses what comes after baptism for those just converted.

An important command from the Apostle Paul for newly baptized Christians admonishes them how to develop proper thinking in their daily life, Philippians 4:8. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

So, thinking pure thoughts—true, honorable, just, lovely, and commendable governs everybody’s the life.

Likewise, your speech should become an important part of life, James 3:5-8. “So also the tongue…a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest… set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue… fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue… set among our members staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature… tamed but no human being can tame the tongue. It… a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not ….”

In summary, these verses teach diligence and watchfulness of your thoughts and speech.

In addition, praying described by Paul includes all men, 1 Timothy 2:8-10. “I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting l holy hands without anger or quarreling.” Therefore, prayer becomes an important part of every day.

This same verse continues by emphasizing wearing modest clothes and good works, “likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly but with …proper for women who profess godliness— with good works.”

Clothing that does not cause sin in others should be the goal of a Christian.

So, what did we learn?

1.A Christian should think pure thoughts.

2.A Christian should use clean speech.

3.Every day should contain prayers to God.

4.A Christian should wear modest clothes.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#thinkPureThoughts #speakCleanLanguage #dailyPrayer

Deeper Teaching   Luke 17:1-11

This post involves Jesus teaching the disciples several intense subjects while traveling toward Jerusalem.

Deeper Teaching by Jesus stresses intense subjects such as not tempting others, forgiveness, and the use of little faith.

The tragedy of tempting a little one, no doubt someone younger in the faith, may describe the sin of the rich man just mentioned in chapter 16. His bad example of selfishness probably encouraged his brothers to follow his way of life and end up in torment too.

Possibly, the disciples thought that they would never tempt someone weaker or younger in the faith. This was untrue because Jesus says ‘examine yourself!’

Then, Jesus reverses the picture. Rebuking happens after a brother sins. But, if you are one of the ones sinned against and the brother repents, forgiveness must follow, even seven times in a day.

The disciples’ response seems to indicate that such obedience would require an increase in their faith. But Jesus disagreed and said that just a little bit of faith can do big things in the service of the Lord. By using the example of casting a tree into the ocean—a large task if literally performed—Jesus taught figuratively that a small amount of faith can produce big results.

Why then, would Jesus tell about the duty of a hard-working servant in the kingdom of the Lord? Perhaps the disciples would feel self-important as they realized how much their faith could do. But Jesus issued a warning by telling about a servant who worked all day. At evening, no doubt exhausted, he must serve the evening meal to the master without being thanked. In any case, the servant is just doing his duty.

So, Jesus then introduces a theoretical servant—one that does all of his duty—theoretical because no one ever does all. Yet, Jesus labels the theoretical servant as still unworthy—unworthy of a home in heaven as a reward. Thus, service does not earn the disciple a  place in the kingdom. This teaches that earned salvation cannot occur, even if he were to do all, which no one can.

So, what did we learn?

1.We must not tempt others.

2.We must forgive repentant brethren.

3.Service characterizes our duty as disciples.

#don’tTemp #forgiveRepentant #grainOfMustardSeedFaith

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

New Converts    Acts 11:26, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

This post stresses facts for new converts.

New Converts discusses basic knowledge needed by baptized believers. On being baptized into Christianity, one launches a new life as a member of the church. Baptized believers and fellow members use the name Christian, Acts 11:26. “And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” This name means you believe and follow the teachings of Jesus as given in the New Testament.

In addition, a baptized believer calls other Christians brothers and sisters. The apostles used that term in selecting men for a needed work, Acts 6:3. “Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute,” Then, these brethren began caring for Grecians widows in the church.

For a convert, a new relationship now exists, 1 Corinthians 12:27. “Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” Thus, the church, the body of Christ, the saved people, exists under a Head and a Savior, Ephesians 5:23. “Christ…the head of the church, his body, and… himself its Savior.”

In this new relationship new converts partake of the Lord’s Supper on Sundays at worship services with other saints, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

“For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This… my body which… for you. Do this in remembrance of me. In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup… the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”

Lastly, the Apostle Peter described our strivings in the Christian life, 1 Peter 1:15. “…as he who called you …holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,”

So, what did we learn?

1.New converts wear the name Christian, strive for holiness, and belong to the church, the body of Christ.

2.Members of the church wear the name brother or sister.

3.On Sundays, baptized believers partake of the Lord’s Supper while remembering His death.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#nameChristian #memberChurch #partakeLord’sSupper

Jesus as God’s Son 1 Corinthians 15:3-8

This post discusses the Deity of Jesus.

Jesus as God’s Son is a post discussing proof of His Deity. The Bible proclaims Jesus as the Son of God. Ancient manuscripts attest to the life and crucifixion of Jesus. However, the Bible provides much more trustworthy testimony. Thus, once we believe in the inspiration of the Bible, it becomes the primary source of proof for Jesus as God’s Son.

Jesus as God’s Son is shown in more than 300 fulfilled Old Testament prophecies.

This fact alone provides adequate proof of His Deity. Only God could manage all these fulfillments.

Also, the Bible contains four additional proofs:

1. As Deity, He should openly claim to be the Son of God. He did so before the Sanhedrin court, Mark 14: 61-62: “… the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” And Jesus said, “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power….”

Thus, at this point, Jesus verified His claim as the Messiah.

2. As the Son of God, He prophesied things that came true. Matthew records three times that Jesus prophesied about His death and resurrection, Matthew 16:21: “From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.”

Only Deity can truly prophesy.

3. Jesus performed many miracles.

A spectacular miracle concerned bringing Lazarus to life. When Jesus came to Lazarus’ tomb, He prayed and said, “Lazarus come out.”  Wearing burial clothes, Lazarus came out, John:11: 43-44.

4. His resurrection and an open tomb provide the final proof of Jesus as the Son of God.

Early on the Sunday morning after the crucifixion, two women came to the tomb, found the stone rolled away, and an empty tomb. This proves the resurrection of Jesus, Luke 24:1-3.

Later, Jesus appeared in the flesh to further verify His resurrection. The Apostle Paul said that Jesus appeared to Peter, then the twelve, then 500 brethren, then James, then to the Apostle himself, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8:

Therefore, the resurrection comprises firm proof about Jesus, the Son of God.

So, what did we learn?

1.Jesus fulfilled 300 Old Testament prophecies.

2.Jesus claimed to be the Son of God and performed many miracles.

3.After His crucifixion, a resurrected Jesus appeared to many.

For more on the Bible click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#JesusFulfilledProphecy #JesusProphesied #openTomb

Jesus on John Luke 7:18-35

This post discusses a question by John the Baptist, and Jesus’ comments about John.

Jesus on John as a post contrasts the two.

After his disciples reported Jesus’ activities, John, imprisoned by Herod (see Matthew 11:2), had doubts about Jesus. So, he sent two disciples to ask about Jesus as the Messiah. Jesus did not answer directly. Instead, He told John’s disciples to report to John the miracles they had seen. Jesus seems to be referencing Is. 35:5-6 and Is. 61:1 where such miracles were prophesied for the Messiah. Thus, His miracles fulfilled prophecy and served as proof of His Messiahship.

To the crowd, Jesus calls John a messenger and clarifies that John fulfilled prophecy, namely, Mal. 3:1. But, John was more than a prophet. Namely, He was a forerunner for the Lord and carried a message from God.

The comment about John being great but not as great as the least in the kingdom of God, the church, puzzles some people. However, John lived under the Old Law and did not have the opportunity to belong to the church. The members of the kingdom occupy a position greater than John and have the promise of eternal life. This comparison by Jesus emphasizes the vast importance of being in the church.

Then, Jesus references two groups of people:

1.Those who were baptized by John and believed that John delivered a command of God.

2.The scribes and lawyers who were not baptized and rejected the will of God.

From these contrasting responses, Jesus drew a word picture of two groups of children playing. One group was trying to please the other who would not be satisfied with any of their efforts. This was a comparison. John came as a rough-hewn prophet-preacher. Jesus came as an ordinary preacher doing miracles. The scribes and lawyers would not accept either John or Jesus.

This parable thus characterizes Jesus’ enemies.

Then, Jesus drew a conclusion: The disciples of John and Jesus show the rightness of the wisdom of God.

What we learned:

1.John fulfilled prophecy as a great forerunner of Jesus.

2.Members of the kingdom of God, the church, occupy a place above John the Baptist.

For more on the Bible click https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#johnTheBaptist #rejectionByPharisees #proofOfMessiahship #miraclesFulfilProphecy

God and the Bible Daniel 2:36-45

God and the Bible as a post focuses on proof that God inspired the Bible.

This post, God and the Bible, provides evidence that God spoke via the Bible. Once we believe that God exists, we ask for proof that the Bible is God’s word.

God and the Bible post shows amazing prophecies that came true and gives proof that the Bible is from God. For example, when Nineveh ruled the world, Nahum 3:7, prophesied, “Wasted is Nineveh; who will grieve for her?” Nineveh’s thorough destruction made it difficult for archeologists to find its site.

Next, after Nineveh, Babylon ruled the world. However, with Babylon at the height of its glory, Isaiah 12:19 said, “… Babylon, the glory… the splendor and pomp of the Chaldeans, will be like Sodom and Gomorrah.”

Only God could know the future and utter such clear prophecies.

Many prophecies in the Bible describe the coming Messiah, Jesus.

Many details about Jesus’ trial and crucifixion are given in Isaiah 52 and 53. For example:

1.Piercing of Jesus by a Roman soldier, John 19:34.

2.His silence at His trials, Matthew 27:12-14.

3.Burial with the rich, Matthew 27:57-60.

It all happened just as prophesied.

Daniel 2 describes an outstanding prophecy to be fulfilled during the next 400 years.

In a dream, the king saw a rock or pebble destroy an image made of metal parts. Then, the pebble became a great mountain. God gave Daniel the interpretation, Daniel 2:36-45. Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar, “You are the head of gold. Another kingdom inferior to you shall arise after you, and yet a third kingdom of bronze, which shall rule over all the earth. And there shall be a fourth kingdom, strong as iron… And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed,”

Thus, this prophecy predicted the next 400 years and four world kingdoms.  As prophesied, God sent Jesus during the Roman kingdom to be crucified for the sins of the world and to establish the church (see Acts 2). Its destruction would not happen. It all happened exactly as prophesied.

In summary, fulfilled prophecies show that Deity authored the Bible.

So, what did we learn:

The prophecies in the Bible all came true and prove that Deity was its author.

For more on the Bible click https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#babylonianMedo-persianGreekRomanKingdoms #God’sKingdom #fulfilledProphecies

 

Two Great Miracles Luke 7:1-17

This post discusses the significance of two great miracles by Jesus.

In these two great miracles, Jesus shows deity characteristics.

In the first miracle, healing the Centurion’s servant, Jesus did not actually see the sick person, but caused the miracle to happen from a distance.

For the audience, this is a powerful miracle and an amazing story. Consider the Centurion, no doubt, a Gentile, favored by the Jews because he built their synagogue in Capernaum. This may even mean that he had converted to Judaism. Possibly, Jesus probably taught in this synagogue.

Somehow, he developed a strong faith in Jesus and His power to heal. He understood authority and especially Jesus’ great authority. He did not feel worthy of Jesus coming into his house. But, his faith caused him to say to Jesus just ‘speak the word to heal the servant.’

Jesus marveled at this depth of faith, deeper than any of the Jews.

After this, the second great miracle involved giving life to a dead person.

The first miracle had caused His fame to grow.  So, a large crowd traveled with him to Nain. At Nain’s gate, He met another crowd bearing a dead body. As the only son of a widow, no doubt older and now derived of income, Jesus felt sorrow for her. He touched the bier on which the dead man lay and stopped the procession. Jesus spoke and the man was instantaneously came back to life. He sat up, and spoke.

After this, some in the crowd called Jesus a great prophet and glorified God.

Some probably realized that four-hundred years had passed since God inspired Malachi, the last oral or written prophet of the Old Testament. Further, no one with the power to raise the dead had appeared since Elisha.

Finally, note that even the dead obeyed the voice of Jesus.

What we learned:

1.Jesus knows the depth of faith of people.

2.His fame grew.

3.He could raise the dead.

For more on the Bible click https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#raiseDead #speaksMiracles #growingPopularity

God and Design Genesis 1:1

This post focuses on design to show that God must exist.

God and design analyzes the workings of the water cycle on this earth, our bodies, and our planet system.  This design could not happen by chance. This means that God must be the designer.

The earth’s water cycle begins when rain falls from the clouds. Absorption into the ground for use by plants or running off into streams and rivers provides a pooling of the water to dump into the ocean. Evaporation of the sea water for storage in the clouds occurs until the cycle repeats.

One might imagine that as the rivers spill into the oceans, they would fill up and cover the land. But despite the passage of thousands and thousands of years, this does not happen. Instead, the amount of the oceans at 71% of the globe and the land at 29% provide a steady state that remains. Thus, this division of ocean and land causes rainfall, nourishment of the plants, and replenishment of the oceans year after year. This amazing design of the workings of our planet must have come from a master designer—God—and did not happen by chance.

Consider our bodies. After food enters the stomach, absorption by the blood allows the digested food to be transported to the muscles. This replenishes the energy utilized in muscle movement. At the same time, the blood transports carbon dioxide, the product of muscle use, to the lungs to be expelled into the air.

One might imagine that expelled carbon dioxide into the air would accumulate and destroy life. However, the plants use the carbon dioxide to grow. This maintains the balance of carbon dioxide in the air at about 2%. Again, such amazing design and balance demands the existence of a highly intelligent master designer—God.

Finally, consider our planetary system. The location of the earth, so far from the sun that it takes 8 minutes for light from the sun to reach the earth, allows life to exist. A closer position would make the earth too hot for people or animals to live. A location further away would result in a frozen planet without life. Such a wonderful position must come from a master designer—God.

This earth, this universe, and our bodies all point to design.

Only God could provide such design. Therefore, He must exist. The Bible names this designer as God, Genesis 1:1:

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

What we learned: The designs all about us strongly support the existence of God as the master designer.

For more on the Bible click https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#GodDesigner #waterCycleDesign #bloodStystemDesign #planetSystemDesigm

False Teachers Luke 6:39-49

This post shows Jesus teaching against false teachers.

In these verses, false teachers receive criticism from Jesus.

Jesus uses a parable to condemn false teachers with three statements: 1) The blind cannot lead the blind. 2) Disciples cannot rise above their teachers. 3) Hypocritical teachers and prophets should remove the big sins of their lives before correcting a brother’s smaller sins.

Thus, false teachers cannot lead their students to know the truth. Their disciples cannot learn the truth because they are taught error. These fake teachers, called hypocrites by Jesus, need to remove the large sins from their lives before correcting the smaller errors of others.

Therefore, these statements by Jesus explain the importance of self-knowledge. Namely, do I know and teach the truth? Then self-correction, that is, correcting my teaching of error, needs implementation before correcting a brother.

Next, Jesus cites a well-known fact that bad trees cannot produce good fruit.

Good fruit comes from teaching the truth.

Then, Jesus cites the source of good fruits. They come from within a good heart. Like a bad tree producing bad fruit, an evil heart produces evil words and actions.

The obvious application appears. Correct our heart first, then a brother’s sin.

Finally, building our lives on a rock requires a firm foundation in our hearts, the commands of Jesus. Building our lives without an adequate foundation of Christ’s teaching means a crash will occur in a crisis. Without a foundation of Jesus’ teaching, our lives and teachings will crash.

Note that in verse 46, Jesus condemns belief and confession without obedience. These people believed in Jesus and even confessed Him. But they would not do what Jesus said. Even though they believed and confessed, without obedience they would reap the result of building on the sand.

What we learned:

1.False or fake teachers produce bad students like bad trees produce bad fruit.

2.Obedience from the heart to the commands of Jesus will provide a life built upon a solid spiritual foundation.

3.Always correct our own teaching before correcting others.

For more on the Bible click https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#rockFoundation #goodBadFruit #goodBadTree #speakFromHeart

God and Logic Genesis 1:1

‘God and Logic’ shows logically that God exists

God and logic, used in an analysis of the origin of the universe, shows that God exists. We know from our practical everyday knowledge that solid matter cannot come from nothing. In short, nothing produces nothing. According to all we know, one must start with something containing atoms and electrons to make something solid like this world.

We see the earth and the universe existing all about us. So, where did it all come from? Some say that in the distant past electrons and atoms somehow managed to form the world we live in. But the question to those people remains: where did those early electrons and atoms come from?

However, they can continue to answer that these early electrons and atoms came from even earlier electrons and atoms. Again, the question remains as to the source of these earlier atoms. Ultimately, all atoms and electrons must come from nothing before there were any atoms and electrons. How could this occur since our experience says that nothing always provides nothing?

A logical answer to the source of the universe is that in the beginning before electrons and atoms existed, a tremendous force, God, with vastly superior knowledge from outside any universe and not itself made up of atoms and electrons must have created all the atoms and electrons that now make up this world.

Thus, to explain the origin of this world logically an outside force of great power and intellect must have been involved creating something from nothing in the beginning. The Bible records this happening in Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Thus, logic shows that God must exist to create this world.

What we learned:

1.The universe must have come from creation by a powerful force of great intellectual ability outside of this world, namely God.

 2.The Bible attributes creation to God.

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#beginning #somethingNothing #GodPowerfulForceIntellect

Daily Living for Jesus’ Disciples Luke 6:32-38

This post amplifies Jesus’ teaching of His disciples about daily living.

Jesus’ disciples will utilize the golden rule “as you you wish that others would do to you, do so to them,” and “love your enemies.”

Now, Jesus explains daily living for his disciples the attitude needed to carry out these two principles. Verse 36 provides the key—“be merciful even as your Father is merciful.” Daily living as a Christian requires disciples to be merciful like God. We treat others with mercy, love, and thoughtfulness. Also, reciprocation where we only extend love and mercy to those that love us does not characterize the life of Jesus’ disciples.

Next, Jesus details how His disciples judge and  analyze the lives of those in sin.

We treat them as God treats them and do not judge without adequate proof and never on hearsay.

Further, examination of other scriptures shows that sometimes we must decide or judge on some things of great importance. For example, the church must decide upon the sinfulness of members. See 1 Corinthians chapter 5 for instructions on withdrawing fellowship from someone. In the sermon on the mount, Jesus said in Matthew 7:6, to “not throw your pearls before pigs.” Such a decision of the mind requires a decision or judgment before designating a person into the classification of pigs.

Thus, this prohibition by Jesus means judging others without evidence. In other words, don’t judge on hearsay.

What we learned:

1.In daily living, disciples of Jesus, like God, need to be compassionate, kind, and helpful to their fellowman even though they may not receive reciprocation and may even be persecuted.

2.Followers of Jesus in their daily living, like God, do not judge or decide character or sinfulness without adequate proof.

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#disciplesCompassionateLoveEnemies #mercifulLikeGod #judgeNot

Jesus and Angels Hebrews 1-2

This post discusses Jesus and angels and how we should consider them.

The Hebrews writer contrasted Jesus and angels in Hebrews 1 and 2. The word ‘angel’ means messenger. The Hebrews writer calls them “ministers” and “ministering spirits”, Hebrews 1:7, 14, sent to God’s people. Much of the work of angels in the Bible involved bringing messages from God. For example, in Luke chapter 1, the Archangel Gabriel revealed God’s word to Zechariah and Mary about the coming births of John the Baptist and Jesus.

God sometimes endowed Angels with special powers or characteristics. For example, in 2 Kings 19:35 an angel killed 185,000 enemies in one night. Also, sometimes angels can cause anxiety. Soldiers were guarding Jesus’ tomb. But when an angel came and rolled away the large stone, they feared, Matthew 28:2-3:

“an angel of the Lord…came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men.”

Clearly, angels were very impressive.

So, how much attention should we give angels?

In chapter one, Hebrews begins by asserting that God previously spoke by the prophets. But now He speaks through His Son. Then, the writer points to the superiority of Jesus over another of God’s former speakers, namely, angels, because Jesus sits at God’s right hand. Then, God says that the Son will have a throne forever and ever. To make the point even more forcefully, God asks a rhetorical question in Hebrews 1:13 as to which angel did God ever say, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet”?

The answer is ‘no one.’ Clearly, this statement honors only His Son and not angels. Thus, speaking through His Son now supersedes God speaking to people through angels. This means that we should revere and listen to Jesus as recorded in the New Testament. Today we should not expect to hear from an angel. God wants us to listen to His Son.

What did we learn?

1.Jesus, superior to angels, sits at God’s right hand eternally.

2.God now speaks via His Son.

3.Angels no longer reveal God’s will on this earth.

https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#angelsfearful #GodspeaksSon #JesusSuperiorAngels

The Sermon on the Plain Luke 6:17-31

This Sermon on the plain discusses what Jesus taught about how to live.

Jesus’ Sermon on the plain covers beatitudes about people with low income, woes concerning the rich, and the attitude of mind in daily living. At the end of the sermon when Jesus summarized, He gave ‘the golden rule,’ Luke 6:31: “…as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”

Luke chapter six opens with a description of the large multitude who came for healing and to hear Jesus’ teachings. His amazing power to heal could go from Him when they touched Him.

In this sermon, He spoke beatitudes about people with low income, Luke 6:20-23:

““Blessed are … poor, for yours is the kingdom of God …who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied… who weep now, for you shall laugh. Blessed … when people hate you … exclude you …revile you …spurn your name, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice in that day…your reward is great in heaven.”

Thus, the message of the beatitudes applies to those poor in this world’s goods. Following Jesus would allow them future entrance into the kingdom of God. Then, they will receive an eternal reward that makes for rejoicing now, even though living in poverty.

Next in the sermon, the four woes Jesus pronounces on the rich —they will receive consolation, experience hunger, mourn and weep—express regrets for their condition, Luke 6:24-26.

They refuse to follow Jesus and therefore suffer eternal loss. If people all speak well of a person, they fall into the class of the false prophets who received material rewards for their falsehoods.

Then, as Jesus continues His preaching, He commands a general attitude of life of kindness and forbearance toward those who mistreat us. We should never seek revenge. We should pray for and love our enemies. Disciples of Jesus will  show this attitude.

Finally in the sermon on the plain, Jesus expresses the golden rule,‘ Treat others as we wish to be treated.’

What we learned:

1.The correct attitude of a heart of kindness and forbearance characterizes Jesus’ disciples.

2.Discipleship should outrank a desire for riches.

3.We should follow the golden rule as an attitude in life toward others.

https://berksblog.net https://justchristian.com https://podcastjustchristian.com

#goldenRule #woeToRich #AttitudeOfHeart

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The Holy City Revelation 21-22

This post discusses the Holy City and what it means.

The Holy City, described in Revelation 21 and 22 was seen by John as it came down from heaven. John also calls the city “a new Heaven and a new earth,” and “new Jerusalem,” in Revelations 21:1-2. In this new earth that John saw, old Jerusalem and the seas did not exist. John also saw God, resplendent as a new bride, dwelling in the city among His people. Also John saw that this new earth had no pain and suffering and death.

The Holy City emerges in the book of Revelation after the finishing of all the prophecies and actions.

God explained “… the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end” said “It is done!” in Revelation 21:6. The statement ‘It is done’ means that God had completed His work. Satan, his angels, and all the wicked were in the lake of fire. Those remaining, the redeemed, reside with God in the Holy City.

What did this name mean to John?

‘Holy’ shows that holiness characterizes the city where God and the saved dwell.  Because of God’s holiness, no light such as the sun or moon appears because God provides the light. In this Holy City, God also provides eternal life for His people “from the spring of the water of life,” Revelation 21:6. Drinking this water insures eternal life for the redeemed people of God.

In order to impress John, a special angel showed him the appearance of the city, Revelation 1:10-11:

“… and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God.”

As John saw the city coming down, he could see it gave glory to God.

Then, John saw many details: great, high walls, twelve beautiful gates, and everything covered with gold. Next, underneath the city, he saw twelve foundations that provided eternal security for the residents. In addition, someone estimated the size of this city as being over a million miles on each side of a cube.

The angel also showed John eternal food and drink, Revelation 22:1-2, “…angel showed me the river of the water of life… flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb… also, on either side of the river, the tree of life,”

To summarize, the city, prepared for the redeemed, shows beauty and description almost beyond belief. God dwells there for His people to worship forever. Looking forward, God’s people see the city as an extreme and wonderful blessing.

What we learned:

1.Worshipped eternally in the Holy City, God will dwell among his people.

2.This eternal abode possesses great beauty.

3.The Holy City, new Jerusalem in a new heaven and a new earth, provides a great blessing for the redeemed in eternity.

Links: https://berksblog.net https://justchristian.com https://podcastjustchristian.com

#GodIsLight #savedInCity #newHeavenNewEarth

Sabbath Criticism Luke 6:1-16

Sabbath criticism discusses criticism of Jesus and His actions.

Sabbath Criticism of Jesus involved His disciples plucking grain to eat.

Sabbath criticism by the Pharisees involved Jesus for not teaching them to obey their ‘teachings of the elders.’ (The Pharisees made up the ‘teachings of the elders,’ a set of rules apart from Moses’ Law.) They considered plucking grain and rubbing it so they could eat it a violation of God’s Law prohibiting working on the Sabbath.

Jesus gave a two-fold answer. First, he pointed to their lack of consistency. King David sinned by eating the showbread from the tabernacle. They did not condemn King David but criticized Him for not teaching their made-up doctrine.

Second, he pointed to His position as ‘Lord of the Sabbath.’ That meant that He knew the Old Law and correct Sabbath conduct. So, His disciples committed no sin.

Criticism also occurred when Jesus saw a man with a withered hand in the synagogue audience as He taught.

The Scribes and Pharisees watched to find something of which they could accuse Him. Jesus knew their thoughts and motioned for the man to come closer. Then He asked a rhetorical question about whether it was proper to do good or do harm, to save life or destroy life on the Sabbath. Everyone knew the answer. Then He healed the man. This made the scribes and Pharisees angry and accelerated their desire to harm Him. At this point, Luke shows the increasing anger of the scribes and Pharisees.

Thereafter, a set of vital decisions loomed ahead foSr Jesus. So, after praying all night, He chose twelve of His disciples to become apostles. Judas, not now a traitor, became a traitor later.

What we learned:

1.Jesus possesses the power to heal, and how to deal with His enemies’ criticism.

2. Jesus communicated with His heavenly Father and carefully chose His apostles after a night of prayer.

Here are more links to the Bible: https://berksblog.net  https://justchristian.com  https://podcastjustchristian.com

#hungryDisciplesSabbath #healedWitheredHand #KingDavidSinned #LordOfTheSabbath #twelveChosen

Sins in Jude

This post, Sins in Jude, discusses three examples of rebellious sin and the lessons to us.

Sins in Jude involves how God dealt with previous sinful behavior.

Initially, Jude set out to write about the faith. Instead, the ungodly conduct of some caused him to write, v.3 “to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.”  Some ungodly people were perverting the faith. Their teaching involved sexual sins and denying the rulership of Jesus. Jude cites three examples that show the folly of those sins.

In v.5, Jude describes the first example involving unbelieving Israelites, “Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe.”

This happened in Numbers 16 when more than 250 men assembled against Moses and Aaron, God’s-appointed leaders. God punished them with death.

As a second example, Jude follows in v. 6 with what happened to fallen angels.

“And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day…”

These angels would not remain in their proper God-appointed sphere. They rebelled against the right and power of God to be in control. They now wait in darkness and chains for the final judgment day.

In Jude v.7, Jude cites Sodom and Gomorrah as the third example. In Genesis 19, God sent angels to examine the sexual behavior of several cities in the valley below Abraham. These citizens exhibited God-forbidden homosexual practices and were then destroyed by fire from heaven.

Continuing in v.8, Jude uses three phrases to describe the ungodly people threatening the church.

“Yet in like manner these people also, relying on their dreams, defile the flesh, reject authority, and blaspheme the glorious ones.”

These phrases identify heretics in the church, both then and now.

Jude’s lesson: If God did not let any of the three sinful past activities escape, then God will not overlook similar activities now.

Instead, we must respect His written word in the New Testament.

What do we learn?

1.God expects obedience to His word and respect.

2.The punishment for offenders involves eternal chains and darkness.

3.Christians must avoid sexual sins and rebellion against the authority of God.

For more links on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#rebelliousIsraelites #fallenAngels #SodomGomarrah

Criticism of Jesus Luke 5:33-39

This post discusses new criticism of Jesus by the scribes and Pharisees.

Criticism of Jesus at this point concerned His disciples not fasting.

Earlier grumbling about Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners now brought on this new criticism. So, here they criticize His training of His disciples, Matthew 5:33: “And they said to him, “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink.”

Their comment infers that Jesus failed to teach his disciples correctly, unlike John the Baptist and the Pharisees who followed the Old Law. Thus, they say that Jesus sins by this omission. Jesus answered, Luke 5:34: “And Jesus said to them, “Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?”

As they mulled this question in their minds, they should have realized that fasting as wedding guests does not occur. It is inappropriate as long as the groom is present.

Jesus then told them that in the future, fasting of the disciples would happen because at that point, Jesus would not be present. This, the first indication of the cross and Jesus’ later ascension into heaven, appears early in His ministry.

To further teach the inappropriateness of what they were suggesting, Jesus then told them a two-fold parable.

One cannot use new cloth to repair an old garment. When washed, the shrinkage of the new cloth will pull a hole in the old garment. They knew this was true, no doubt, from earlier experiences.

Likewise, they surely remembered the inappropriateness of putting new wine into old wineskins. On storage the new wine expands and bursts the old wineskins. Again, they knew this as a truism.

Jesus told these two examples of inappropriate behavior to illustrate that the old law does not mix with the new (Christianity.)

Jesus then characterizes the scribes and Pharisees as liking the ‘old’ more than the new. Their contentment with the Old Law made them not want to even hear Jesus tell of something new from God.

For the first time, Luke records opposition to Jesus by the scribes and Pharisees—an opposition that would increase.

What we learned:

1.Jesus always answers criticism correctly.

2.The Old Law does not mix with Christianity.

3.At a future time, a separation from His disciples will occur.

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#johnTheBaptist’Pharisee’sDisciples #NewWineBurstOldWineskins #JesusTakenAway

The Father and the Son; Matthew 3; 2 Peter 1; John 12

This post discusses the close relationship of God the Father and Jesus the Son.

The Father and the Son interacted via prayer and public announcements. The scriptures show that Jesus as the Son often sought out a quiet place to pray to the Father, Luke 5:15-16, “…he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.” In this way, the Son frequently communicated with the Father and, no doubt, constantly received strength to continue His long and difficult mission.

Three times the Father spoke publicly from Heaven about the Son and His work. Each emphasized the relationship between God the Father and Jesus the Son.

The first occasion occurred in the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry just after His baptism by John the Baptist, Matthew 3:16-17:

“…when Jesus was baptized… behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

In this way, the Father announced His approval publicly.

1. The second time God spoke about Jesus and His work happened at the transfiguration in front of three disciples.  Accordingly, Peter wrote that God the Father spoke from heaven, 2 Peter 1:18:

“For when he received honor and glory from God the Father…we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain.”

Then, Jesus, nearing the end of His ministry, heard God speak for a third time, John 12:28-29:

“Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven: “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” The crowd that stood there and heard it said that it had thundered.”

This occasion happened after Jesus heard that Greeks sought Him. At that point, Jesus knew that the time for His death approached and that the cross glorified the Father. The voice from heaven assured Him of that fact.

In summary, what do these three utterances from heaven teach?

1.Firstly, these verses show that the Father and the Son communicated both publicly and in prayer during Jesus’ ministry.

2.Secondly, God encouraged Jesus at critical points in His ministry.

3.Finally, the public announcements show Jesus as God’ Son.

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#God’sVoiceEncouragesJesus #proofJesus’Deity #JesusPraysFather

Jesus and Sinners Luke 5:17-32

Jesus and sinners, discussed in this post, shows His interaction with two sinners.

Jesus and sinners interacted in His teaching. He attracted great crowds from everywhere to listen and to see Him cure the afflicted. As He spoke, Pharisees and teachers of the Law assembled with the crowds.

During a teaching session, some men brought a paralytic on his bed for possible healing by Jesus. But they could not enter the house to get close to Jesus because of the crowd. So, they ascended to the rooftop. There they removed enough of the rooftiles to lower the man to Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the man, “your sins are forgiven you.”

The assembled Pharisees and teachers labeled this language as blasphemy. They probably expected Jesus to heal the man by just speaking. Instead, Jesus forgave the man’s sins, something they knew only God could do. In this way, they rejected Jesus’ previous miracles as proof of His Deity.

Jesus knew their thoughts and asked about the difficulty of curing paralysis or forgiving sins. Then He healed the paralytic.

This miracle, a powerful argument that proved Jesus’ Deity, caused amazement and glorification of God.

After this, Jesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at his tax booth. The public considered tax collectors to be noted sinners. Yet, Jesus called him by saying “follow me.”

Note that Levi—like Peter—left everything to follow Jesus. The next day Levi arranged for his friends to meet Jesus in a big reception. When Jesus attended, the scribes and Pharisees grumbled and disapproved of eating with sinners.

Jesus’ answer to them revealed much about His mission, Luke 5:31-32:

“And Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”

That reply explained why Jesus ate with and talked to sinners. The scribes and Pharisees imagined themselves as righteous, not needing repentance or teaching by Jesus.

What we learn in these verses:

1.Jesus as Deity could forgive sin.

2.Jesus came to call the sinful to repentance.

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#JesusHealedForgaveSinsParalyzedMan #JesusCalledTaxCollector #JesusDeity

The Two Resurrections 1 Corinthians 15

This post concerns the two resurrections found in 1 Corinthians 15, Jesus first, then Christians.

In 1 Corinthians 15, the Apostle Paul starts the discussion of the two resurrections by first affirming the resurrection of Jesus, 1 Corinthians 15:3-6: “…I delivered to you… Christ died for our sins… he was buried… he was raised on the third day… he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time…” The Apostle cites the two-fold proof of Jesus’ resurrection—the open tomb and the visual appearances.

Note Jesus retained the same visual features and voice as in earlier life. For example, Jesus showed Thomas the marks of the crucifixion on His resurrected body. Also, as Deity, He still retained miraculous powers, John 20:26-27, “Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them.”  Through locked doors, Jesus came and stood among them. He said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side…”

Paul needed to counteract the teaching that a bodily resurrection would not occur. He explained that such teaching also meant that Jesus was still in the grave. Further, such teaching robs Christianity of its power. Then he affirmed the resurrection.

1 Corinthians 15:20, “But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, ”

Next, he describes the resurrection of Christians, 1 Corinthians 15:35, “But someone will ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body do they come?”

To clarify, the Apostle used an analysis of a seed. The seed splits open or dies and then produces a new plant with a new body unlike the seed. The human body placed in the grave as perishable emerges as a new, imperishable body, 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, “So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What … sown … perishable; what… raised … imperishable.”

Even those remaining alive when Jesus comes will receive an imperishable body.

1 Corinthians 15:51: “We shall not all sleep, but …  all … changed.”

In summary, the Apostle describes Jesus’ resurrection and secondly, that of the saved.

We learn two lessons:

1.At the resurrection, the new human body will be like Jesus’—imperishable.

2.The imperishable body of the saved will be unlike the old, buried body.

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#resurrectionJesus #resurrectionChristians #imperishable body

JESUS and MIRACLES Luke 5:1-16

This post concerns the miracles of Jesus in His work of selecting apostles and preaching.

Two miracles occurred during Jesus’ teaching. While by the lake of Gennesaret, He began to teach, Luke 5:2-6: “he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land… he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking.”

Note the characteristics of these ordinary men chosen as apostles—hard at work in their daily lives as fishermen cleaning their nets.

These obedient men did as Jesus asked even when it contradicted their expectations. After experiencing a nighttime of failure, these commercial fishermen might reply, ‘If there were any fish, we would have caught them.’ Instead, Peter said, ‘I will obey, because You commanded it.’

Jesus then miraculously caused many fish to enter their nets.

Seeing the miracle, Peter acknowledged his sinful nature and gave up everything to follow Him, Luke 5:8,11:

“But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord…”

 “…And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.”

In this apostolic call, Jesus changed their lives from catching fish to catching men—that is, from commercial fishing to teaching and converting men to believe in Jesus.

After calling these disciples, Jesus went to other towns to teach. In one of these he healed a man of leprosy, an extreme physical sickness, by just touching him. Immediately the leprosy left him.

Jesus told the man to go show himself to the priest—the requirement under the Law of Moses for being clear of leprosy—see Lev. 14:2-32. This illustrates that Jesus lived and died under the Old Testament Law and insisted that people obey it.

Although Jesus told him to not tell others of his cleansing, somehow the news spread and Jesus became even more famous as time passed.

After these two notable miracles, Jesus found a desolate place to pray to His Heavenly Father.

In summary:

1.Jesus assembled obedient disciples.

2.Jesus can overcome the most dreaded disease—leprosy.

3.Jesus lived under and obeyed Moses’ Law.

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#JesusHealedLeper #disciplesObedient #disciplesGiveUpAll #JesusKeptOldLaw

Heaven as an Inheritance Matthew 25:34

This post discusses the meaning of heaven as an inheritance.

When Jesus discussed the judgment day, he described heaven as a kingdom, an inheritance, Matthew 25:34: “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”

Thus, as members of the family of God, heaven remains an unearned gift of God. Jesus said the children of God will receive heaven as an inheritance in eternity as a gift of grace from God.

Unfortunately, some children imagine that they deserve the inheritance due to their position as a member of the family. Parental grace does not enter their thinking. Likewise, Christians may have this warped view and imagine they deserve heaven. Instead, we should view this eternal abode in heaven as a gift of undeserved grace.

John the Baptist dealt forcefully with this erroneous view in the minds of his Jewish listeners, Luke 3:8: “Bear fruits in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham.”

Obviously, the children of Abraham imagined that they didn’t need to bear fruits showing repentance. John the Baptist pointed out that God valued the present state of their heritage as no better than stones. Today, we must also view any heritage in God’s kingdom as a gift, not something we deserve. Instead, once we enter the kingdom of God—the church— heaven becomes a gift as part of our heritage.

The Apostle Paul made clear that salvation is by grace and not works, Ephesians 2:8-9:

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

Note that the Apostle does not mention an earned salvation because of being in the family.

 What do we learn about heaven as a heritage?

1.We receive heaven as a gift as part of our heritage.

2.Belonging to the church by itself does not earn us a place in heaven.

3.As a member of the family of God, heaven remains a gift of God not something earned.

See earlier posts by this author? Click  https://tdroberts.org

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#heritageByGrace #graceSavedThroughFaith

Jesus in Capernaum Luke 4:31-44

This post concerns Jesus in Capernaum and lessons therefrom.

‘Jesus in Capernaum’ describes how Jesus ministered in villages other than Nazareth.  This, the beginning of Jesus’ personal ‘healing work’, involved twenty-one miracles cited by Luke as proof of His divinity. Note that He taught with power and authority. He then demonstrated that power and authority by casting out the evil spirit of an unclean demon who acknowledged Jesus as “the Holy One of God.” Because it was inappropriate for Jesus to be acknowledged by a demon, Jesus told the demon to be quiet and come out of the man.

Much of the amazement of the onlookers resulted when they realized that Jesus could cast out the demon simply by speaking. In this way, the onlookers could link his authority and power with his words.

As a result of this miracle, the news about Jesus spread far and wide.

The next demonstration of Jesus’ power involved healing the high fever of Simon’s mother-in-law by simply speaking. This is the first ‘disease-healing-miracle’ that Jesus did as reported by Luke. This is also the only time Jesus rebuked a disease during healing. This miracle showed Jesus’ power, not only over demons, but over disease.

The Jews would not travel very far on the Sabbath because longer would involve working on the Sabbath, forbidden by the Law of Moses in Ex. 12:16. But when the sun went down and a new day began, many came. Jesus cast out demons and healed them all. Again, He would not allow the demons to testify that He was the Son of God.

Sometimes, Jesus “laid His hands” on them to cure them.

On the next day, they desired that Jesus stay with them. However, He replied that He came into the world to preach the good news about the kingdom of God in many towns. So, he turned south to preach to towns in Judea.

What can we learn from these verses?

1.Jesus could cast out demons and heal diseases by the words He spoke as proof of His divinity.

2.He did not allow the demons to identify Him.

3.He preached and healed far and wide.

For more on the Bible click https://berksblog.net or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#castOutDemonsDeseases #demonsForbiddenToIdentifyJesus #JesusSpokeWithPowerAuthority

 

 

LUKE 1:26-38                                  

1. Announce Jesus Birth: In the previous post on Luke, an angel announced that John would be born. If you missed the post, click https://tdroberts.org

2.  In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, an angel, Gabriel, was sent to Nazareth to a virgin, Mary. She was betrothed to Joseph, a man in the lineage of David, v. 26-27. (A betrothal was a contract like an engagement in which the couple was bound to each other but not married.)

Gabriel’s unusual greeting—“Greetings O favored one, the Lord is with you”—surprised Mary. Gabriel told her that she “had found favor with God.” She would bear a Son named Jesus who would be called the “Son of the Most High.” He would be given the throne of David. (See 2 Samuel 7:4-16 for the promise of the Messiah to reign on David’s throne.) His kingdom would last forever, v. 33.

Mary believed the angel but didn’t understand how it would happen since she was a virgin. Perhaps she wondered if the conception would come after her marriage to Joseph.

Gabriel told her that the Holy Spirit would overshadow her for conception. This would make the child “holy—the Son of God.” This meant that neither Joseph nor any other man would be involved. The Holy Spirit would be responsible for the conception.

As a sign that the message was from God, Mary was told that her older relative, Elizabeth, was six months along in her first pregnancy.

It is remarkable, but Mary accepted this future birth and declared herself a servant of the Lord.

Mary’s faith and the fact that God managed the birth of both the forerunner, John, and Jesus is faith building for us.

      3. What I learned: Nothing is impossible with God, v. 37

#unusualBirth #GabrielsMessage #BirthJesus

2 Timothy 4:2                                    The Circuit Rider

#27 Question: What was the old preacher always saying?

The old man was a gospel preacher, kinda. All week long he worked as a janitor for the ‘gyp mill’ in Acme, Texas. On Sundays, he would get up very early and stand on the highway outside his rented company house to flag down the westbound Greyhound bus. He would then ride northwest on Highway 287 to an ‘appointment’ to preach in one of four or five small congregations in small towns along the highway. After the evening service, he would return home on the eastbound Greyhound bus. Usually, he would be paid at least the cost of the bus ticket, sometimes less than one dollar.

In this way he could be called a more modern ‘circuit rider without a horse.’

As he got the opportunity, he would always encourage young men to become preachers and “Preach the word” like Paul told Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:2: “…preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” Two of his sons became preachers.

Only God knows how much good he accomplished. The lesson to us is to do what we can with what we have and let God worry about the increase.

See earlier posts? Click  https://tdroberts.org

#PreachWord #circuitRider #doWhatWeCan

The Bible and OLD AGE #25 … YOU BELIEVE IN GOD?   In old age, some have lost faith in God. Yet, our universe had to come from somewhere. Consider the design all about us. The earth is the perfect distance from the sun to not burn up or freeze. The rain cycle continues to pour the output of rivers into the ocean without ever filling it up. The human body has an amazing blood system to take food and oxygen to every part of the body. All this shows design. Only God could accomplish this great design, Genesis 1.

#designComesFromGod #universeFromSomewhere #genesis1 #earthNotBurn #earthNotFreeze #oceanNeverFull #riversIntoOceans #humanBodyDesigned #bloodCarriesFoodOxygen #rainCycleContinues #OnlyGodCouldDesign #GodGreatDesigner

The Bible and OLD AGE #18 … CHURCH IS BORING …  Sometimes, older people think of church as boring because we view worship like attendance at a concert or sports event. If I’m bored at concerts or games, I stop going because I’m bored. Worship should be the opposite. It’s not for my entertainment. I’m the one on stage or on the field and God is watching. I need to do my best to sing, pray, and listen to please God and not me.

#boringChurch #boringWorship #worshipLikeConcert #GodIsWatching #PleaseGod #singForGod #PrayToGod #worshipGod #worshipNotEntertainment #churchInspiring? #i’mBored #stopIfBored

What is meant by ‘Now is the Son of Man GLORIFIED?’ John 13:31-32

Once Judas has left the upper room, Jesus begins to prepare the eleven for the terrible crucifixion on the morrow. He describes Himself as the sacrifice and Savior of the world and the cross as a glorification of both Himself and God the Father—see also 1 John 4:14. The Father will also be glorified by Jesus’ resurrection from the tomb.

#Judusleft #JesusPreparesApostles #crucifixionOnMorrow #JesusTheSacrifice #JesusTheSavior #crossGlorificationJesusFather #resurrectionGlorifiesJesus #resurrectionGlorifiesFather #1John4:14 #SonOfMan #SonOfManGlorified

 

Ephesians 5:25-33

“HUSBANDS love your wives as Christ loved the church.” Eph 5:25-33

This means love sacrificially because Jesus gave Himself as a sacrifice. This means love purposefully because Jesus died for a purpose…to save the church, v. 26-27. This means love her as yourself, v. 33.

Am I loving my wife scripturally? Do I sacrifice for her? Do I purposefully do things for her? Do I do for her as I do for myself?

#husbandsLoveWives #ChristLovedChurch #loveSacrificially #lovePurposefully #loveAsSelf #SaveTheChurch #sacrificeForWife #loveWifeScripturally #doPurposefullyForWife #selfCheck #forHusbands

The Bible and OLD AGE #17 … IS CHRISTIANITY WORTH IT? … Older people see the failures, disappointments, mistakes of life, and the feebleness of old age and wonder if religion is worth it. The problem is our scope is limited to this life. It’s a mistake to equate heaven with our life on earth. Heaven will be like living in a mansion, John 14:1-3, without the fear of death, Revelation 21:1-4. Get ready. It’s worth it!

#worthIt? #olderPeopleWorthIt? #scopeLimitedToLife #mansionInHeaven #John14:1-3 #Revelations21:1-4 #failuresMakeReligionWorthIt #feeblenesOldAge #mistakesOfLife #mistakeEquateHeavenEarthLife #noFearDeath #heavenWorthIt

Luke 3:21-38

Question: What can be learned about Jesus being baptized, v. 21-22?

Answer: Luke uses a flashback concerning the baptism of Jesus by John. The key here is what happened after Jesus’ baptism and prayer—the heavens opened. The two other parts to the Trinity appeared. The Holy Spirit approved by descending like a dove on Jesus as the Father spoke of His pleasure in His beloved Son. This, in the beginning of His public ministry, shows that Jesus was approved by God and the Holy Spirit.

Question: What can be learned from Jesus’ ancestry in v. 23-38?

Answer: Luke tells us that the work of Jesus began when He was thirty-years old. Since God had authenticated Jesus as His Son in v. 22, Luke traces His ancestry to show Jesus as a physical descendant of God—see v. 38.

This genealogy has a major difference from that of Matthew in that Joseph, the husband of Mary, is said to be the son of Jacob, Matthew 1:16. Luke’s account can be understood by making the parenthesis of Luke 3:23 to be: ‘(as was suspposed of Joseph.)’ Greek scholars point out that all the other men in Luke’s account have the words ‘the son of’ before their names. But Joseph does not. This means that “the son of Heli” in v. 23 is Mary’s father and Jesus’ grandfather. Thus Matthew gives the ancestry of Joseph back to King David while Luke provides the genealogy of Mary back to God.

An interesting contrast can be observed between the genealogy of Matthew and that of Luke. Matthew stressed the kings in the lineage. Luke contains only two kings, Zerubbabel and David. Although Luke’s account includes Abraham and Noah, the emphasis is that God, the Father of all mankind, is the ultimate ancestor. This links with the fact that Jesus will be interested in the salvation of all people.

What I learned: Jesus is part of The Trinity. His ancestry can be traced back to God

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