Marriage and the Resurrection Matthew 22:28-32
This blog discusses what Jesus said about marriage and the resurrection.
Marriage and the resurrection covers the resurrection and marriage in eternity. The Sadducees had two main beliefs. They did not believe angels existed or in a resurrection to a life after death. So, they concocted a convoluted scenario that they thought would stump Jesus. They used the Levirate marriage rule, Deuteronomy 25:5-10, whereby a brother must marry the widow of a brother and bring up children to inherit the brother’ estate.
Their question to Jesus revolved around a brother’s death followed by six brothers, one by one, marrying the widow. No children resulted. So, they asked, Matthew 22:29, “In the resurrection, therefore, of the seven, whose wife will she be? For they all had her.”
Jesus answered, Matthew 22:30. ““You … wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor … given in marriage, but… like angels in heaven.” They were ignorant of Old Testament scripture—Daniel 12:2 and Job19:25-28—that prove the resurrection will occur.
Then, Jesus proved in Matthew 22:31-32 that God’s statements about Himself showed consciousness after death.(Jesus referred to Exodus 3:6.) “And as for the resurrection of the dead, have you not read … said to you by God: ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He… not God of the dead, but of the living.” Thus, Jesus points to the verb tense of this statement by God about Himself. Thus, God remains the God of people already dead—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He did not say, ‘I used to be the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.’ Instead, He says, “I… the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Somewhere the souls of these three exist awaiting resurrection.
This silenced the Sadducees and their argument of ‘no resurrection.’
Note, Jesus thereby also validated the Old Testament as true and from God.
So, what did we learn?
1.No marriages occur in heaven.
2.The Bible teaches that a resurrection will happen.
3.Jesus used the Old Testament as truth.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#NoMarriagesHeaven #resurrectionRealTrue
I Am Who I Am Exodus 3:14-15
This post concerns God’s statement, “I am who I am.” It explains what God meant when He spoke to Moses out of the continually burning bush. God told Moses about his task of bringing the Children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage.
Then, Moses asked about God’s name, Exodus 3:14-15. “God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” God also said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel, ‘The LORD, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’ This …my name forever, and… remembered throughout all generations.”
Language experts say ‘I am who I am’ means that God describes Himself as self-existent and eternal. No one created Him. He has always existed of Himself. Thus, He created everything by His great power, Genesis 1:1. “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” His all powerful or omnipotent nature shows in His creation.
This also means that God did not come from a mass of atoms or was created by some other source. He always existed. In the beginning, nothing existed except God. Then, He made it all.
Names often denote characteristics. God’s name also shows His Deity characteristics and fits what David said, Psalms 8:1. “…our Lord, how majestic …your name in all the earth!”
Note that the formal name of God given to the Israelites, “The LORD, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, includes a reference to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. So, this clearly means that their ancestors worshipped God.
Also, other passages confirm the omnipresence of God. David says God is everywhere, Psalms 139:1-6. David cannot go anywhere that he cannot find God.
Likewise, David says God exhibits omniscience—infinite understanding. Psalms 147:5. “… his understanding is beyond measure.”
So, what did we learn?
1.God’s name shows His self-existence.
2.His creative ability shows His unlimited power.
3.His omnipresence indicates His presence everywhere.
4.His vast knowledge shows His omniscience.
For more on the Bible click https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#omnipresenceGod #omnipotentGod #omnicientGod
A Pharisee’s Invitation Luke 14:1-14
This blog concerns lessons learned from a Pharisee’s invitation to Jesus.
‘A Pharisee’s Invitation’ discusses what Jesus said at a meal on the Sabbath in the house of a Ruler, no doubt, a Pharisee. Probably, they intended to trap Jesus, because a sick man appeared. Possibly, they wished to accuse Jesus of some sin on the Sabbath. Jesus immediately asked if it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath. But they wouldn’t answer. So, Jesus healed the man and sent him away.
Then, Jesus applied reasoning to the situation by asking if they would pull a son out of a well on the Sabbath? Again, they didn’t answer. This lesson involved a lesser to a greater argument. For them, a son became more important than healing a man.
So, Jesus next told a parable because He observed how they vied for the most honorable seats. Jesus said that if you take the highest seats, the host may move you to a lower place and give the higher place to someone with higher honor. Better take the lower seats at the beginning, because the host might move you higher. Then Jesus provides the lesson, Luke 14:11. “ For everyone who exalts himself … humbled, and he who humbles himself …exalted.”
Then Jesus turned to His host and provided a lesson on motive, Luke 14:12. “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return …”
Instead, in Luke 14:13, Jesus also taught us to invite those who cannot repay us.
At the resurrection, God will repay.
So, what did we learn?
1.Healing a sick person on the Sabbath rates high in priority.
2.Seek not glory, but humility.
3.In invitations, invite those that cannot repay you.
#mercySick #seekHumility #invitePoor
The Way/Truth/Life John 14:5-6
This post concerns Jesus as the Way/Truth/Life.
‘The Way/Truth/Life’ as a post explains what Jesus meant by His statement to Thomas, John 14:5-6. “Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I… the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” So, when Thomas pictured a path or road that led to a place, Jesus answered in a spiritual sense.
Also, Jesus claimed to be the one and only way for an individual to go to heaven. In front of the Sanhedrin Council, Peter proclaimed this same fact, Acts 4:12. “This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And… salvation in no one else, …no other name under heaven given among men by which we must … saved.”
Thus, Jesus and His teachings provide the only spiritual path to salvation and eternal life.
Note, in the same breath, Jesus labelled Himself as the truth about how to please and obey God, John 1:17. “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” Under the Law of Moses, only the High Priest could go into the Most Holy Place and worship God on one day of the year. So, when Jesus came, He proclaimed the truth about the grace of God in the new dispensation, namely, Christianity. Thus, Jesus taught a salvation of grace from God.
Note, in the beginning of his gospel, John introduced the Word as Life and the source of light for people to see how to gain eternal life, John 1:4. “In him was life, and the life was the light of men” Thus, this means that Jesus and His teachings will provide eternal life and the light to guide people from earth to heaven.
So, what did we learn?
1.Jesus provides the one and only way to God and heaven.
2.Jesus taught the truth about the grace of God for salvation.
3.Also, at the same time that Jesus provided the light for men to live by, He provided eternal life.
#JesusPath #JesusTruthGrace #JesusLightLife
What God Wants Acts 17:26-30
This post concerns what God wants from His creation and describes what the Bible says about God’s wishes for us.
In Acts 17, the Apostle Paul preached the gospel to an audience of pagan philosophers in the Areopagus in Athens. He began by introducing the crowd to the one and only true God who created the universe. This idea, foreign to them, seemed to attract their attention. Paul continued, Acts 17:26-27.
“And he made from one man every nation to live on all the face of the earth… that they should seek God and perhaps feel their way toward Him and find Him.”
Note that God says that everyone descended from one man (Adam). Also, God desired that people seek after Him and find Him. That’s something we need to do.
Then, Paul explains that God desires the audience to repent of worshipping idols.
Acts 17:29-30. “Being then God’s offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man. The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent,”
Then, Paul tells why, Acts 17:30. “… because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”
So, this judgment will occur by a man appointed by God (His Son, Jesus). The proof and evidence that this man would judge lies in the resurrection of that man, Jesus, from the dead.
This broke up the meeting because some of the philosophers would not believe in a resurrection. Others did believe.
So, is needed?
1…believe that God is the creator of everyone.
2…seek Him and find Him.
3… know that Jesus will judge the world on the day of judgment, the end of the world.
So, what did we learn?
1.We need to believe in God and seek Him.
2.The resurrected one, Jesus, will be our judge.
#GodCreator #JesusJudge #SeekGod
The Road To Jerusalem Luke 13:22-35
As Jesus traveled on the road to Jerusalem, He encountered both a question and a warning.
‘The Road To Jerusalem’ as a post provides Jesus’ teachings following a question. Someone asked if only a few would go to heaven. Perhaps, a Jewish person wondered if only Jews were saved.
Note, Jesus doesn’t give a direct answer or a number. Instead, He uses the occasion to stress results on Judgment Day. He teaches that we should strive to enter the narrow door before that day. Many could not rid their lives of evil and thus enter. At judgment, the door shuts. No amount of pleading opens the door despite many wanting to get in. Those that did not enter during their lifetimes are labeled workers of evil.
The obedient in this lifetime enter the narrow door.
Also, those suffering terrible anguish in hell can observe but not take part in the bliss of heaven. Note, people of all nations will be in heaven. In addition, a surprise in who’s first and who’s last will greet some.
At that time, some Pharisees warned that Herod wanted to kill Jesus. Perhaps, they just wished to rush Jesus back to Jerusalem so they could more easily kill Him. (Later, Herod refused to sentence Jesus to death see Luke 23:8-11.)
Jesus’ calm reply that He would spend three more days in Herod’s jurisdiction shows that He worried not that Herod would kill him. He had predicted His death in Jerusalem—see Matt. 16:21. He again says He will die in Jerusalem, because the Jews would not accept Him. Note, He refers to the temple as your house instead of God’s House. Idolatry caused God to abandon the temple.
They would not see Him again until the judgment day when He would be their judge.
So, what did we learn?
1.Jesus is unafraid of Herod.
2.Jesus knows He will die in Jerusalem.
3.Jesus stresses entering by the narrow door into the kingdom of God for salvation.
#JesusNotAfraidHerod #JesusDieInJerusalem #JerusalemNotAcceptJesus
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
Has God Spoken? 2 Timothy 3:16-17
This post explores the question of ‘has God spoken?’
‘Has God Spoken?’ discusses what God said about salvation. People express various ideas about salvation: 1.Everybody saved or no one lost 2.Do enough good deeds to merit salvation—in the balance of things, more good deeds than wicked deeds can provide salvation. In this way, we think we can save ourselves by good deeds
Has God spoken on this matter?
First, consider the Bible as authoritative in all things, 2 Timothy3:16-17. “All Scripture…breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
Two points emerge from this passage:
1.God inspired the scriptures.
2.The Bible can provide all one needs for salvation.
Second, the Bible can be understood. For example, the Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 1:18, “… having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know… the hope to which he… called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints” They could know from what he wrote.
Third, know that God exists far above us. When Jesus ascended back to the Father, He sat down with God, Ephesians 1:21. “… far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that… not only in the present age but also in the one to come.”
Note also, Jeremiah spoke of God, Jeremiah 10:23. “I know… that the way of man… not in himself…not in man who walks to direct his steps.” These verses teach that God exists far above us, and we cannot save ourselves. So, we must depend on God.
Further, God also speaks through His Son, Hebrews 1:1-2. “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets…but in these last days… spoken to us by his Son,” Thus, we learn about Jesus by reading the Bible. Then, His words, His teachings, His death on the cross, as well as His life teach us about God.
So, what did we learn?
1.God has spoken to us through the scriptures.
2.Salvation comes from the word of God.
For more on the Bible click https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#knowledgeJesusBible #BibleCanMakePerfect #GodSpeaksSon
The True Vine John 15:1-2
This post concerns the true vine, Jesus.
‘The True Vine’ explains what Jesus meant by His analogy of the vine and the branches, John 15:1. “I am the true vine, and my Father… the vinedresser.” In the previous chapter, Jesus talked about His departure. In this chapter, He explains the nature of their future relationship, John 15:2. “Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.”
So, God’s people were characterized in the Old Testament as a vine, Jeremiah 2:21. “Yet I planted you a choice vine, wholly of pure seed. How then have you turned degenerate and become a wild vine?” Thus, worshipping idols made them into a wild vine, totally unacceptable to the Lord.
Then, Jesus explains how the Lord deals with the individual members of the true vine.
We see, every branch falls into one of two categories. Those in the first category will show fruit bearing character and undergo pruning, John 15:2. “and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” (So, Peter exemplifies pruning. Jesus asked him about loving Him three times in John 21.)
Secondly, the disciple becomes non-fruit bearing, such as Judas, John 15:2, 6. “ Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away…
… and If anyone does not abide in me he… thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches… gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.”
Note, eternal torment awaits non-fruit bearing disciples.
Also, these verses teach that we must remain faithful and abide in Jesus, John 15:5. “I am the vine; you… the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he… bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” Thus, we cannot save ourselves.
So, what did we learn?
1.A vine depicts Jesus interacting with disciples as branches.
2.Fruit-bearing disciples show pruning.
3.God removes non-fruit bearing disciples and assigns them a place in hell.
4.Remaining in Jesus, the vine, remains an essential requirement of bearing fruit and salvation.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#fruit-bearingDisciples #non-fruitbearingDisciples #PruningDisciples
Interrupted Teaching Luke 13:10-21
This post explains what Jesus meant after His interrupted teaching.
‘Interrupted Teaching’ as a post discusses hypocrisy and the size of the kingdom.
As Jesus journeyed, He taught in the synagogues, often on the Sabbath. Once, He observed a women bent over, Luke 13:12-13.
“When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, “Woman, you… freed from your disability.” And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she…made straight, and she glorified God.”
Everyone should rejoice after this wonderful miracle. Not so. The unhappy ruler of the synagogue told the people to come on some day besides the Sabbath for healing. Note, by his statement, this ruler acknowledged Jesus’ power to heal.
Jesus calls him a hypocrite because the Jews watered their animals on the Sabbath and did not consider it sinful. Jesus pointed this out and said that the woman was superior to an animal and should have been released from Satan’ binding. This lesser to greater comparison shows the woman of more value than the animals.
This brought happiness, Luke 13:17. “As he said these things, all his adversaries were put to shame, and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.”
Then, Jesus used this occasion and good feeling by the people to add a comparison, Luke 13:18-19.
“… the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It…like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden, and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches…
… like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, until it was l all leavened.”
Possibly, His audience had a false expectation about the future kingdom of God and expected it to form a Jewish army and defeat the Romans. Not so.
1) It would start small like a tiny seed and grow to a large tree that would provide shelter and comfort for people.
2) It would grow silently like leaven and spread everywhere.
So, what did we learn?
1.Jesus branded hypocrisy accurately.
2.The kingdom will begin small, grow large, and quietly affect everyone.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#womanBentOver #hypocrisy #mustardSeedLeavenKingdomOfGod
Acts of Worship John 4:23
This post focuses on acts of worship.
‘Acts of Worship’ explains what Jesus said about worship. As Jesus passed through Samaria, he paused at Jacob’s well for a drink and met a Samaritan woman who asked about worship. Jesus explained, John 4:23-24. “…the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father… seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
Thus, Jesus explains correct worship—in spirit and truth. Worship in truth means that God’s will, the truth, governs correct worship.
Note, God seeks people to worship Him.
The New Testament guides us to the five aspects of worship in truth. The New Testament church engaged in prayer and the Apostles’ teaching, Acts 2:42. “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” Thus, prayer and Bible study comprise two acts of worship.
The Apostle Paul added additional elements of worship, Colossian 3:16. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. This passage stresses singing and thankfulness as worship.
The Apostle Paul also shows giving is part of worship, 1 Corinthians 16:2. “On the first day of every week, each of you… put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that… no collecting when I come.” God’s people always give as an act of worship.
Finally, Jesus initiated the Lord’s Supper as part of worship, 1 Corinthians 11:23-25. “…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, …for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” … 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.”
So, what did we learn?
1.Worship must be in spirit and truth.
2.Five acts of worship are authorized: singing, praying, giving, preaching or Bible study, and the Lord’s Supper.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#fiveActsOfWorship #worshipSpiritTruth #BibleAuthorizedWorship
Repentance Luke 13:1-9
This post concerns what Jesus taught about repentance.
‘Repentance’ discusses Jesus’ comments about two calamities. In the previous chapter Jesus strongly stressed the necessity of repentance before judgment day. Now someone in His audience cites a case where some died and did not have a chance to repent and make things right. Jesus used this occasion to teach that everyone must repent before death robs them of the opportunity.
Then, Jesus cites a similar example.
A tower had fallen suddenly and killed eighteen people before they could correct their lives. Jesus repeats His command for all to repent before judgment day. Note, Jesus repeating something twice emphasizes the matter strongly.
Next, Jesus tells a parable, Luke 13:6-9. “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none… for three years now I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and I find none. Cut it down… ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and put on manure. Then if it should bear fruit next year… good; but if not… cut it down.’”
This parable continues Jesus’ teaching about the necessity of repentance in this lifetime. The owner wanted to cut the tree down due to the lack of fruit for three years. The gardener asked for a one-year grace period to see if the tree would produce fruit. The owner agreed to the one-year extension but said to cut it down if it did not produce fruit.
This parable applies directly to the Jewish nation. During Jesus’ lifetime and for several years afterwards, the Jews could take the opportunity to produce the fruits of righteousness by accepting Jesus and His word. The book of Acts provides the response of the Jewish nation to gospel preaching. Mostly they did not repent. Like the fig tree, the nation and the temple were destroyed in the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D.
So, what did we learn?
1.Because we do not know when life will end, we need to repent now.
2.Although the Jewish nation had additional years of grace and adequate time to accept Jesus, they did not and were destroyed suddenly.
#everyoneRepent #fallenTower #figTree #JewishNationDestroyed
Helping Others James 1:27; Galatians 6:10
This post explores helping others.
‘Helping Others’ as a post describes pure religion, James 1:27. “Religion… pure and undefiled before God the Father… visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.”
Christians desire this pure and undefiled status before God. Thus, this verse teaches two requirements: helping widows and orphans in their need and avoiding the sins found in the world. We can sometimes forget widows and orphans in our busy lives.
Note, that what James wrote agrees with what the Apostle Paul commanded, Galatians 6:10 “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Doing good to everyone includes taking care of widows and orphans.
Also, Jesus told a story about a rich man and a poor beggar, Luke 16:19-21. “There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table.”
Apparently, the rich man did not share with or help the poor beggar. When the rich man died he found himself in torment. Nothing he could do in eternity made up for failing to help the poor man at his gate. He stood condemned.
Jesus described helping others as part of the judgment scene when He comes with His angels and sits on His throne to judge.
The wicked He says did not help Him with food, drink, or visits when sick or in prison. The wicked asked, ‘When did we not minister to you?’ Jesus replied, Matthew 25:45. “Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.”
This verse shows Jesus judging us as to how we treat the needy in our daily lives.
So, what did we learn?
1.We should care for the needy, especially widows and orphans.
2.Jesus equates helping the needy to helping Him.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#careForWidowsOrphans #doGoodEveryone #helpingNeedyHelpJesus
Warnings Luke 12:49-59
This post concerns Jesus’ warnings.
‘Warnings’ as a post describes what Jesus meant by warnings about division, understanding the times, and preparing for eternity. First, He warns about what will happen at the beginning of Christianity, Luke 12:49-51. “I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished. Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division.”
In these verses, Jesus forecasts what would happen after His crucifixion. Division and discord like fire would occur in families. Although Isaiah prophesied (Isaiah 9:6) that a Prince of peace would come at Jesus birth, His crucifixion would divide those who believed from those that did not. Peace from God would come to the obedient. A fire of division would separate believers from all others.
Then, Jesus urges the practical use of the mind. Most of His audience would reason that a breeze from the Mediterranean would bring a shower. Likewise, a wind from the hot desert would bring scorching heat. But they would not acknowledge the meaning of his miracles. Their hypocrisy would not let them accept the miracles and teachings of Jesus and draw the conviction that He must be the Son of God.
As a second example, Jesus cites a guilty party on the way to court, Luke 12:57. “As you go with your accuser before the magistrate, make an effort to settle with him on the way…”
If not, Jesus says the judge will put the person in prison with terrible consequences, Luke 12:59. “ I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the very last penny.” So, settle before going before the judge. Thus, we need to take care of our sins in this lifetime. In this way, Jesus signified that those sent to Hell on judgment day, can never get out.
So, what did we learn?
1.Christianity will bring divisions, even in families.
2.Reasoning should cause belief in Christ.
3.We need to get ready for eternity while still alive.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#familyDivisions #ReasoningChristDeity #prepareEternityNow
The Good Shepher
d John 10:11-12
This post covers Jesus as a good shepherd.
‘The Good Shepherd’ as a post uncovers the meaning of Jesus as a shepherd. Earlier, Jesus introduced the concept of Himself as the door of God’s sheepfold. Next, He changes the picture of Himself to that of a shepherd, John 10:11.
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” Note the point Jesus stresses—He will lay down His life for the sheep. Thus, Jesus prophesies His death on the cross for the eternal salvation of His sheep.
Also, Jesus’ action of self sacrifice contrasts to that of a hired hand, John 10:12-13. “He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.”
So, the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, Pharisees, priests, and scribes, acted like the hireling and did not really care for the people. They did not accept Jesus and the salvation He offered.
As the good shepherd, Jesus also prophesies about other sheep not as yet in the fold, John 10:16. “And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock… ” This means that in the future Jesus will invite the Gentiles into the flock of God or the church. Then, Jesus will oversee the one flock.
So, what did we learn?
1.Jesus will care for God’s people and keep them safe.
2.Jesus will also add the Gentiles into the one fold with Him as Head.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#hirelings #GentilesInFlock #JesusOverOneFlock
The Resurrection John 11:25-26
This post concerns Jesus as the resurrection.
‘The Resurrection’ as a post explores what Jesus meant when He said, “I am the resurrection.” When Lazarus became ill, his sisters informed Jesus who knew in advance what would happen, John 11:4. “This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”
He delayed for two days and then started toward Bethany. The surprised disciples warned that the Jews would stone Him. Jesus replied that He needed to work while the sun shone. Then, He explained to the disciples, John 11:11. “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” The disciples did not understand until Jesus explained, John 11:14-15. “Lazarus has died, and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.”
When Jesus arrived, He found that Lazarus had been dead four days. Martha came to meet Him and said that if Jesus had been there, Lazarus would not have died. Jesus comforted her, John 11:23. “Your brother will rise again.” Martha thought He meant the final resurrection.
Then, Jesus explained, John 11:25-26. “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” This caused Martha to confess her faith, John 11:27. “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God,” Then, Jesus raised Lazarus.
The Apostle Paul explained the meaning of Jesus as the resurrection and the Life, Colossians 3:4. “When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” Thus, for Christ to be the resurrection means that He will exert His power to raise the faithful for a home in heaven with Him at the final judgment scene.
So, what did we learn?
1.Jesus has the power to cause a resurrection.
2.At judgment, the saved will be resurrected for a home with Jesus in heaven.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#JesusRaiseDead #ChristiansEternityWithJesus
Rules for Disciples Luke 12:31-48
This post concerns rules for the disciples of Jesus.
‘Rules for Disciples’ examines Jesus’ commands for how His disciples should live. 1) We should seek His kingdom, Luke 12:31. Note that God wants us to seek and desire what He will give us, Luke 12:32. 2) We should remember the needy and focus our hearts on heaven, Luke 12: 33-34.
“Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Living this way provides us a secure ‘bank account’ in heaven.
Then, Jesus issues a call to get ready for judgment and stay ready at all times, because we do not know when Jesus will return. Luke 12:35-40. “Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning … like men… waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast…Blessed… servants whom the master finds awake when he comes … You also,… for the Son of Man … coming at an hour you do not expect.”
When the master is away, some servants are not diligent, Luke 12:46-47. “The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers. The servant who knows the master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows.”
As servants of God, we should always be ready for the Lord’s return.
Jesus adds that His disciples will receive the stricter judgment because they sat before Him and actually heard His teachings.
So, what did we learn?
1.To please God, we need to place our hearts and thoughts in heaven.
2.As I look forward to the judgment day, I need to get ready and stay ready because I do not know when Jesus will return.
For more on the Bible, click
https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#treasureInHeaven #KeepLampsBurning #punishUnpreparedServant
Attributes of God Exodus 34:6-7
This post concerns glorifying God by realizing His attributes.
‘Attributes of God’ discusses how God described Himself to Moses, Exodus 34:6-7. “The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children’s children, to the third and the fourth generation.” God perfectly fits His description.
Merciful describes relief from unpleasant actions. Consider Adam and Eve. God did not annihilate Adam after he knowingly sinned in the Garden of Eden, Genesis 3. Likewise, God showed Eve graciousness (kindly consideration of an inferior) and allowed her to live after her sin.
In the years before Noah and the flood, God exhibited slowness to anger, Genesis 6. Finally, He would not clear the guilty and sent the flood to destroy the wicked.
After the Children of Israel failed to honor Him and worshipped a golden calf, God’s anger burned. But God listened to Moses’ entreaty and did not completely consume them, Exodus 32. Thus, God showed abundant love for these wayward people.
After hundreds of years and repeatedly turning to idol worship, God did not clear the Children of Israel of sin. They had split into a northern kingdom of Israel and a southern kingdom of Judah. God allowed the Assyrians to capture the northern kingdom and banish the survivors to foreign lands. Thus, the children bore the consequences and were lost as a people of God.
Likewise, the Babylonians overcame the southern kingdom of Judah and took them captive for seventy years. Then, God allowed them to return to their land and build anew a small country.
After Jesus’ crucifixion, one would have thought that God would destroy everyone.
Instead, He resurrected Jesus. Then, the love of God allowed the church and salvation to come into existence for the saving of obedient believers.
So, what did we learn?
1.God exhibits patient love for everyone.
2.People can be saved by being part of the church God’s love established.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#loveOfGod #patienceOfGod #GodPunishes
Infant Baptism Acts 2:38
This is a post on baptizing infants and the practices of the Catholic church.
‘Infant Baptism’ concerns what the Bible has to say about baptism. No passage authorizes baptism of babies. When Peter stated the terms for forgiveness of sins to the Jews who crucified Jesus, Acts 2:38, he did not mention baptizing infants.
“And Peter said to them, “Repent and… baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…” No mention of infants appears, because babies did not take part in the sin of crucifying Jesus.
Also, when Peter first preached the gospel to the Gentiles, (Cornelius, his relatives, and friends), God caused them to speak in tongues due to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Then, Peter commanded baptism, Acts 8:44-48. “While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word…
…And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God…
…Then Peter declared, “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” And he commanded them …baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
Again, no mention of infant baptism appears. In fact, these people spoke in tongues, something babies cannot do.
Philip did signs and taught the Samaritans about salvation, Acts 8:12. “But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” Again, no mention of infants. They cannot believe.
Infant baptism, not found in the New Testament church, started in the late second century.
It remains practiced by the Catholic church despite no mention in the Bible.
So, what did we learn?
1.In the New Testament, baptism applied to repentant believers only.
2.No scripture authorizes infant baptism.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#repentBeBaptized #HolySpiritPouredOutBaptizeGentiles #baptizeBelievingSamatarians
A New Apostle Acts 1:21-22
This post concerns the selection of a new apostle to replace Judas Iscariot who hung himself and fell to his destruction.
‘A New Apostle’ discusses the rules employed to appoint a new apostle. After Jesus ascended, Peter reminded the brethren that David prophesied that Judas Iscariot’s office should go to another, Acts 1:15-17. “In those days Peter stood up among the brothers… and said, “… the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas… For he … numbered among us and… allotted his share in n this ministry.”
Then, in Acts 1:20, he quotes from Psalms 100:8. “Let another take his office.”
Next, he gives the criteria for finding a replacement, Acts 1:21-22. “So, one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us— one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.”
They found only two men with these qualifications. First, they prayed that God would designate which of the two should replace Judas as an apostle. Then, they cast lots to determine which God wanted. Matthias replaced Judas.
Also, despite two men meeting the qualifications, the prophecy designated only one as a replacement for Judas. The other man did not become an apostle.
Note, after Herod killed James, Acts 12:1-2, no one succeeded him. “About that time Herod the king laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. He killed James the brother of John with the sword,” This means that the New Testament contains no authority for general apostolic succession. Further, no one today achieves the office of an apostle because he has not accompanied Jesus during His life.
However, despite the lack of scriptural authority, the Catholic Church claims apostolic succession for the Pope.
So, what did we learn?
1.An earlier prophecy by David directed the choosing of a successor to Judas.
2.No scripture provides authority for apostolic succession today.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#prophecyNewApostle #noApostolicSuccessionAuthority
Anxiety Luke 12:22-31
This post links anxiety to life concerns.
‘Anxiety’ discusses what Jesus taught about anxiousness.
Anxiety is a universal concern. Everyone wants to secure adequate food and clothing. Those who accumulate money worry less, think less about material needs, and often love their money more than God.
Those with little or no money often show anxiety about the physical needs of life, even food and clothing. Jesus says anxiousness shows a wrong evaluation of our existence on this earth, Luke 12:22-23. “And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing.”
Then, Jesus provides three examples to show how to think and combat worry:
1)God takes care of ravens even though they do not sow or reap. We should realize that God values disciples more than birds.
2)Worrying about how long we will live does not add even one hour to our lives. Thus, we cannot increase or decrease our lifespan by worry.
3)Although we show concern about how our clothes affect our looks, consider the fields about us. God clothes the grass beautifully. God will surely see to it that we can take care of our physical needs.
Then, Jesus provides an outstanding cure for anxiety—the degree of faith we exhibit shows our anxiety. He chides their little faith when he says O you of little faith, Luke 12:28. More faith in God’s ability to provide for us will dispel our anxiety.
Everybody in the world seeks to fulfill their physical needs on a daily basis. God knows how the world thinks. Instead, disciples should make the kingdom of God first in their lives. Their physical needs will follow.
So, what did we learn?
1.We should dispel anxiety and put the kingdom of God first.
2.Deeper faith in God will destroy anxiousness.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#ravens #grassClothed #trustGod
The Seventh Sign John 11:43-44
This post concerns the seventh sign in John’s gospel.
‘The seventh sign’ as a post describes the last miracle found in John’s gospel. Lazarus became ill. His sisters, Mary and Martha, sent word to Jesus. But Jesus did not respond immediately, John 11:4. “… when Jesus heard it he said, “This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” Thus, Jesus knew in advance what would happen.
Then, when Jesus delayed, He explained to the disciples that Lazarus had died, Luke 11:15. “Lazarus has died, and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.”
When Jesus arrived, He explained to Martha about Himself and the resurrection, John 11:25-26. “Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” After Martha confessed her belief, she called Mary who came weeping to Jesus.
Jesus reacted, John 11:35. “Jesus wept.” Then, deeply moved, He came to the cave/tomb with a stone over the opening and asked for it to be removed. Martha objected, Luke 11:39. “Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead four days.” Jesus explained, Luke 11:40-41. “Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?” So they took away the stone.”
Jesus then prayed to His heavenly Father and simply said, “Lazarus come out.” Lazarus came from the tomb wearing grave cloths. Jesus said to unbind him and let him go.
This spectacular miracle caused much belief and attracted such attention that the Pharisees resolved to kill Jesus.
When Jesus knew of it, He no longer walked where they could easily capture Him.
So, what did we learn?
1.Jesus has the power to raise the dead even though their bodies may have corrupted.
2.Such miracles give massive glory to God.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#MaryMarthaLazarus #raiseDead #powerOfJesus
Priests 1 Peter 2:5-9
This post covers priests in God’s service.
‘Priests’ describes what the Bible says about priests. When Moses came down from the mountain after receiving the Ten Commandments, He found the Children of Israel worshipping a golden calf. He unhappily called out, “Who is on the Lord’s side?” Exodus 32:26. Only those of the children of Levy responded and went through the camp destroying idol worshippers. For this action, God appointed them as priests to guide worship services.
A new covenant replaced the Old Law in the New Testament, Galatians 3:24-26. “Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law… the law was our guardian until Christ came…But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian,” Thus, in Christianity, the Levitical priesthood no longer exists.
Instead, the Christians became the new priesthood, 1 Peter 2:5, 9. “…you yourselves like living stones … built up… a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God…
… But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession…” Therefore, in the church all Christians serve as priests under Christ.
The High Priesthood now belongs to Jesus, Hebrews 4:14. “… we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God,” Note, there is no scripture that authorizes any other priesthood, nor any person to assess sins and then prescribe forgiveness for sins. The Catholic practice for such priests does not rest on scriptural authority.
Instead, individual Christians are taught by Jesus in His model prayer to pray to God and obtain forgiveness.
Matthew 6:9-13 “Pray then like this… and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors… And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” When we pray, God forgives us as we forgive others.
So, what did we learn?
1.In the Old Testament, only Levites were priests.
2.Christianity superseded Moses Law.
3.In the church, all Christians are priests and pray to God for forgiveness.
For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#oldLaw #priestsChristians #ChristiansPrayForForgiveness
Covetousness Luke 12:13-21
This post concerns covetousness by disciples.
‘Covetousness’ as a post provides an illustration of covetousness, both in a parable and in Jesus’ words. The parable came after someone asked Jesus to make his brother divide his inheritance. Jesus said ‘no,’ Luke 12:14-15.
“Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
Covetousness, an excessive desire to acquire or possess more than one needs or deserves, especially material wealth, defined the man who wanted Jesus to be an arbitrator.
Then Jesus told them a parable as an illustration of covetousness, Luke 12:16-20.
“The land of a rich man produced plentifully, and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’”
Thus, Jesus taught that covetousness causes us to measure the success of our lives by the size of our possessions. He told this parable about this man, who blessed by God, needed larger storage facilities for his crops. He thought that his goods would take care of him and his soul. This shows his trust in material things and that he lived for himself and not for God or others.
God took his life. Jesus taught that if we exhibit covetousness and just think of ourselves, then we will receive the same condemnation. Instead, we should show richness toward God by obeying and depending on Him rather than ourselves.
So, what did we learn? I must be rich toward God and not covetous or rich toward self.
For more on the Bible, click
https://tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com
#parableRichFool #richToGod Continue reading
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