# 582 - Today's Duvotional comes from: Mr 10:19 "You know the commandments: 'Do not commit adultery,' 'Do not murder,' 'Do not steal,' 'Do not bear false witness,' 'Do not defraud,' 'Honor your father and your mother.'"
It is interesting to note that Jesus does not include the first table of the Law here. The first Table being those commandments that deal with our relationship with God, and the Second table those commandments that deal with our fellow men.
In fact, the Second table of the Law is summed up in one command and that command is, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” And this command actually sums up both Tables of the Law as we read in Ga 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”
How can that be? How can that command include our love toward God? Well, 1Jo 4:20 says, “If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?”
You see, love to man in the way he should be loved, is a fruit and testimony of our love to God! Don't believe for a moment you can say you love God and not extend love to your fellow man! This rich young ruler professed a belief in God. Jesus was just probing here to see if His actions matched up with his words. Hmmm. How about you? How about me?
Father, help me to love my neighbor in the way he should be loved.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Is Jesus Just A Good Teacher
# 581 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:17,18 “Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, "Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?" So Jesus said to him, "Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God..”
This man was a ruler in the church (Luke 18:18) in other words an active church member. The fact that he “ran” to Jesus speaks of his eagerness to connect with Jesus. He kneels solely out of respect for the reputation of Jesus. But the first words out of his mouth betray his opinion of Jesus.
The King James says, “Good Master.” The idea of Master here is that of a school master. This man and so many other Jews viewed Jesus as a better than average Rabbi or teacher, who traveled with his disciples. This man felt that this particular Rabbi, and His school, held the key to eternal life. (The miracles of Jesus being evidence of a special connection to God.)
In His reply, Jesus forces the young ruler to address the true identity of Jesus. “Why do you call Me good?” is just another way of saying, “Who do you say I am?” There is only one good and that is God. “I'm either a good teacher or I am Christ the Son of the Living God. It is the latter confession given by the grace of God and held onto by the grace of God that causes one to inherit eternal life.
Is Jesus God or not? If He is, then why don't we do what He says? Lu 6:46 "But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do the things which I say?
Father, this is a bridge that so many need to cross. Readjust our way of thinking concerning Jesus. He is not some warm fuzzy ace in the hole with some good opinions. He is God and we must “hear Him!”
This man was a ruler in the church (Luke 18:18) in other words an active church member. The fact that he “ran” to Jesus speaks of his eagerness to connect with Jesus. He kneels solely out of respect for the reputation of Jesus. But the first words out of his mouth betray his opinion of Jesus.
The King James says, “Good Master.” The idea of Master here is that of a school master. This man and so many other Jews viewed Jesus as a better than average Rabbi or teacher, who traveled with his disciples. This man felt that this particular Rabbi, and His school, held the key to eternal life. (The miracles of Jesus being evidence of a special connection to God.)
In His reply, Jesus forces the young ruler to address the true identity of Jesus. “Why do you call Me good?” is just another way of saying, “Who do you say I am?” There is only one good and that is God. “I'm either a good teacher or I am Christ the Son of the Living God. It is the latter confession given by the grace of God and held onto by the grace of God that causes one to inherit eternal life.
Is Jesus God or not? If He is, then why don't we do what He says? Lu 6:46 "But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do the things which I say?
Father, this is a bridge that so many need to cross. Readjust our way of thinking concerning Jesus. He is not some warm fuzzy ace in the hole with some good opinions. He is God and we must “hear Him!”
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Must Receive Jesus As An Infant Receives Jesus
# 580 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:15,16 "Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it." And He took them up in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them.”
When Jesus uses the word “assuredly,” it packs an extra wallop. Now remember, the word “child” here includes infants, and then pause and consider what Jesus is really saying!
Observe an infant. What can they possibly do to receive the kingdom of God? Can they “make a decision for Christ?” Can they make an outward confession of their faith? Of course not! All they can do is receive.
But where does it (faith) come from? It comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Rom 10:17) But how can this possibly apply to an infant? Well, when we baptize an infant “in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,” we are merely following the instructions of the great commission given to us by Jesus.
It is the promise of this Word in connection with the water that makes baptism effective. The force of the Greek grammar connected with the great commission is that disciples are made by baptizing. This is the “means” that God uses to enroll us in His kingdom. And when Jesus says “no other means,” He means it!
Read the account of the Ethiopian eunuch again (Acts 8:27-39) The first thing the eunuch said after having the gospel explained to him, was, 'See, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptized?” Why the urgency?
Because we can only surmise that Phillip had included the necessity of baptism in his gospel presentation. The eunuch knew the truth of Mr 16:16, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved;.
Father, how humbling to know that we are enrolled as a disciple of Jesus in the same manner as an infant is enrolled. We have nothing to brag about. We can only be thankful as we receive the robe of Christ's righteousness.
When Jesus uses the word “assuredly,” it packs an extra wallop. Now remember, the word “child” here includes infants, and then pause and consider what Jesus is really saying!
Observe an infant. What can they possibly do to receive the kingdom of God? Can they “make a decision for Christ?” Can they make an outward confession of their faith? Of course not! All they can do is receive.
But where does it (faith) come from? It comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Rom 10:17) But how can this possibly apply to an infant? Well, when we baptize an infant “in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,” we are merely following the instructions of the great commission given to us by Jesus.
It is the promise of this Word in connection with the water that makes baptism effective. The force of the Greek grammar connected with the great commission is that disciples are made by baptizing. This is the “means” that God uses to enroll us in His kingdom. And when Jesus says “no other means,” He means it!
Read the account of the Ethiopian eunuch again (Acts 8:27-39) The first thing the eunuch said after having the gospel explained to him, was, 'See, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptized?” Why the urgency?
Because we can only surmise that Phillip had included the necessity of baptism in his gospel presentation. The eunuch knew the truth of Mr 16:16, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved;.
Father, how humbling to know that we are enrolled as a disciple of Jesus in the same manner as an infant is enrolled. We have nothing to brag about. We can only be thankful as we receive the robe of Christ's righteousness.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Send Them To Me
# 579 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:13,14 - “Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeasesd and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.”
The disciples were preventing parents from bringing their infant children to Jesus for the purpose of connecting with Him. And instead of forbidding them Jesus says, “let them come to Me.”
The word, “let,” here is not to be confused with the idea of merely allowing them to come, it is not an option. The word means “send forth.” In other words, “Send them to Me!”
Why?
In sending the children to Jesus for the purpose of connecting with Him (and this connection is accomplished in baptism) we get a true picture of grace. Ask yourself this question. “What can an infant do to receive God's gift of faith given in baptism? Nothing! All he can do is receive it.
Infant baptism is a perfect picture of salvation by grace through faith. And it's why He adds the words, “for of such is the kingdom of God.” because as Eph 2:8,9 says, we are “saved by grace through faith and that not of ourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. Faith is received, not earned.
Father, let me ever be thankful, that salvation is Your work, not mine. Any cooperation with Your work in me is a gift I cannot understand, but let me ever receive what You desire to give.
The disciples were preventing parents from bringing their infant children to Jesus for the purpose of connecting with Him. And instead of forbidding them Jesus says, “let them come to Me.”
The word, “let,” here is not to be confused with the idea of merely allowing them to come, it is not an option. The word means “send forth.” In other words, “Send them to Me!”
Why?
In sending the children to Jesus for the purpose of connecting with Him (and this connection is accomplished in baptism) we get a true picture of grace. Ask yourself this question. “What can an infant do to receive God's gift of faith given in baptism? Nothing! All he can do is receive it.
Infant baptism is a perfect picture of salvation by grace through faith. And it's why He adds the words, “for of such is the kingdom of God.” because as Eph 2:8,9 says, we are “saved by grace through faith and that not of ourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. Faith is received, not earned.
Father, let me ever be thankful, that salvation is Your work, not mine. Any cooperation with Your work in me is a gift I cannot understand, but let me ever receive what You desire to give.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Confidence In Forgiveness Through Baptism
# 578 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:13,14 “Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.”
The word here for “children” is “childling” and it is used in Scripture to indicate infants. The word “touch” means, “to attach oneself to.” and this incident is a beautiful picture of infant baptism. Parents bring their infant children to Jesus for the purpose of becoming attached to Him. Notice who does the touching or the attaching. Jesus!
It is necessary to bring these infants because they have an original sin problem that must be dealt with! In baptism our sins are washed away. Ac 22:16b says, 'Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.'
It is also in baptism that the new birth comes, Joh 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." 4 Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" 5 Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
And Mr 16:16 says, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.”
Baptism is a gift from God, and a necessary element of salvation. Yes God is gracious and merciful, but why disdain this method He has given us to confidently bring our children to Him for cleansing and salvation?
Father, thank You for Your means of grace. Thank You for this sure method of attachment to Jesus that You have given Your children.
The word here for “children” is “childling” and it is used in Scripture to indicate infants. The word “touch” means, “to attach oneself to.” and this incident is a beautiful picture of infant baptism. Parents bring their infant children to Jesus for the purpose of becoming attached to Him. Notice who does the touching or the attaching. Jesus!
It is necessary to bring these infants because they have an original sin problem that must be dealt with! In baptism our sins are washed away. Ac 22:16b says, 'Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.'
It is also in baptism that the new birth comes, Joh 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." 4 Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" 5 Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
And Mr 16:16 says, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.”
Baptism is a gift from God, and a necessary element of salvation. Yes God is gracious and merciful, but why disdain this method He has given us to confidently bring our children to Him for cleansing and salvation?
Father, thank You for Your means of grace. Thank You for this sure method of attachment to Jesus that You have given Your children.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Faith; A Gift
# 578 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:13,14 “Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.”
This dilemma of the church has been with us for a long time and it continues today. The controversy settles around the issue of faith. “Why bother the Master with little children, ( the word children here is used elsewhere in Scripture for little babes and sucklings.) After all these children are such that they cannot possibly understand faith, or express it, therefore they can't have faith.
This is a trap folks. Don't fall for it, lest you think that faith is something that requires a conscious decision on your part. If that's the case, what do we do with those who never develop the faculties to express faith? What do we do with the Alzheimers victim whose faculties are lost? What do we do with the comatose? What do we do when we fall asleep at night? Park our faith in a garage somewhere?
Remember, we are “saved by grace through faith and that NOT OF OURSELVES IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD! And it must be that way for just as a physically dead person cannot revive themselves, so it is with the spiritually dead. God brings faith to us through His means of grace, the Word and the Sacraments.
It is God-given faith that opens the door for us to cooperate with the Holy Spirit and turn us from stubborn people who resist God into willing people who desire to cooperate with the Holy Spirit according to the measure of faith God has given us.
Don't try to reason this out, rather believe the Word of God which says, Ps 22:9b,10, “ You made Me trust while on My mother's breasts. I was cast upon You from birth. From My mother's womb You have been My God.”
Little children are capable of receiving faith, and God has chosen to use baptism as His vehicle to deliver it.
Ac 2:38 Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 "For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call."
“What part of “let every one of you be baptized,” and “the promise is to you and your children,” do we fail to understand?
Father, thank You for the gift of faith. Let us not try to figure it out, rather let us just be thankful for the gift.
This dilemma of the church has been with us for a long time and it continues today. The controversy settles around the issue of faith. “Why bother the Master with little children, ( the word children here is used elsewhere in Scripture for little babes and sucklings.) After all these children are such that they cannot possibly understand faith, or express it, therefore they can't have faith.
This is a trap folks. Don't fall for it, lest you think that faith is something that requires a conscious decision on your part. If that's the case, what do we do with those who never develop the faculties to express faith? What do we do with the Alzheimers victim whose faculties are lost? What do we do with the comatose? What do we do when we fall asleep at night? Park our faith in a garage somewhere?
Remember, we are “saved by grace through faith and that NOT OF OURSELVES IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD! And it must be that way for just as a physically dead person cannot revive themselves, so it is with the spiritually dead. God brings faith to us through His means of grace, the Word and the Sacraments.
It is God-given faith that opens the door for us to cooperate with the Holy Spirit and turn us from stubborn people who resist God into willing people who desire to cooperate with the Holy Spirit according to the measure of faith God has given us.
Don't try to reason this out, rather believe the Word of God which says, Ps 22:9b,10, “ You made Me trust while on My mother's breasts. I was cast upon You from birth. From My mother's womb You have been My God.”
Little children are capable of receiving faith, and God has chosen to use baptism as His vehicle to deliver it.
Ac 2:38 Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 "For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call."
“What part of “let every one of you be baptized,” and “the promise is to you and your children,” do we fail to understand?
Father, thank You for the gift of faith. Let us not try to figure it out, rather let us just be thankful for the gift.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Child-Bearing: A Picture of Evangelism
# 576 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:13,14 “Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.”
I want to go back to Mal 2:15a again today and look at one of the main purposes of marriage. “ “But did He not make them one, Having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? He seeks godly offspring.”
Again we see the reality of the unity of making two, one. Why does God do this? Well, according to this passage, it's because He seeks godly offspring through the union of a believing man and his believing wife. This producing of children, pictures what God expects from the marriage of His Son to the church as well.
He expects us to produce godly offspring for Him through evangelism and baptism.
But with the embracing of birth control in the church today, we aren’t doing a real good job of painting this picture for others to see, and I think our evangelism efforts have suffered as we have gradually adapted to man-controlled programs to evangelize and determine the size of our church families rather than relying on God working through us, using love and the seed of His Word to grow His family.
Father, help us to see that there is so much more to marriage than what we have settled for.
I want to go back to Mal 2:15a again today and look at one of the main purposes of marriage. “ “But did He not make them one, Having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? He seeks godly offspring.”
Again we see the reality of the unity of making two, one. Why does God do this? Well, according to this passage, it's because He seeks godly offspring through the union of a believing man and his believing wife. This producing of children, pictures what God expects from the marriage of His Son to the church as well.
He expects us to produce godly offspring for Him through evangelism and baptism.
But with the embracing of birth control in the church today, we aren’t doing a real good job of painting this picture for others to see, and I think our evangelism efforts have suffered as we have gradually adapted to man-controlled programs to evangelize and determine the size of our church families rather than relying on God working through us, using love and the seed of His Word to grow His family.
Father, help us to see that there is so much more to marriage than what we have settled for.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Birth Control
# 575 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:13,14 “Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.”
How fitting that the Holy Spirit turns from the subject of the permanence of marriage to the subject of children. One of the highest purposes of marriage is to produce godly offspring:
In addition to God's command to Adam and Eve to “be fruitful and multiply,” in Genesis 1:28, we read in Mal 2:15a, “ But did He not make them one, Having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? He seeks godly offspring.”
But look what happened, when we “strayed from the old paths.” Until the 1930's, the idea of birth control was not condoned in the church, but once it became accepted, virtually all churches embraced it. (with the exception of the Roman Catholic church)
What's going on? God calls children an inheritance received from Him and a reward! (Ps 127:3 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.”) Yet we treat them like they are a curse, and it's “thank You Lord, for desiring to give us an inheritance and a reward, but we'll decide how much of a reward and when we will receive it.” Does that sound a little pompous to you?
I wonder what it sounds like to Him?
Father, we struggle so much with believing Your promises. We pick and choose what we will believe and we miss out on the blessings You intend to give us. Forgive us and help us to be more trusting.
How fitting that the Holy Spirit turns from the subject of the permanence of marriage to the subject of children. One of the highest purposes of marriage is to produce godly offspring:
In addition to God's command to Adam and Eve to “be fruitful and multiply,” in Genesis 1:28, we read in Mal 2:15a, “ But did He not make them one, Having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? He seeks godly offspring.”
But look what happened, when we “strayed from the old paths.” Until the 1930's, the idea of birth control was not condoned in the church, but once it became accepted, virtually all churches embraced it. (with the exception of the Roman Catholic church)
What's going on? God calls children an inheritance received from Him and a reward! (Ps 127:3 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.”) Yet we treat them like they are a curse, and it's “thank You Lord, for desiring to give us an inheritance and a reward, but we'll decide how much of a reward and when we will receive it.” Does that sound a little pompous to you?
I wonder what it sounds like to Him?
Father, we struggle so much with believing Your promises. We pick and choose what we will believe and we miss out on the blessings You intend to give us. Forgive us and help us to be more trusting.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Learn From the Eunuchs
# 575 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:11-12 “So He said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her. 12 "And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery."
This remarriage thing is out of control in the church today. What part of “Thou shalt not commit adultery don't we understand? Jesus explains this prohibition against remarriage further in the gospel of Matthew, using the illustration of eunuchs to make His point.
Mt 19:12 "For there are eunuchs who were born thus from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He who is able to accept it, let him accept it."
A eunuch is someone who does not have sex on their radar screen. Some are born that way, some are man-made, and some choose to be celibate for the sake of the kingdom of God.
In context of His discussion here, His point is that a divorcee is a man made eunuch. Since God's Word prohibits divorce and remarriage, a divorcee effectively becomes a eunuch. (Sex is no longer on their radar screen.)
That seems harsh, but it is the truth, and maybe if we understood this truth, we would pause and consider the cost of divorce and take God's Word more seriously in the matter of marriage,
What God has joined together, let not man put asunder.
Father, refresh our view of marriage. It's not Hollywood's picture of marriage that should be sought, but Your design. Forgive us when we fail and help us to turn this problem around, one marriage at a time.
This remarriage thing is out of control in the church today. What part of “Thou shalt not commit adultery don't we understand? Jesus explains this prohibition against remarriage further in the gospel of Matthew, using the illustration of eunuchs to make His point.
Mt 19:12 "For there are eunuchs who were born thus from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He who is able to accept it, let him accept it."
A eunuch is someone who does not have sex on their radar screen. Some are born that way, some are man-made, and some choose to be celibate for the sake of the kingdom of God.
In context of His discussion here, His point is that a divorcee is a man made eunuch. Since God's Word prohibits divorce and remarriage, a divorcee effectively becomes a eunuch. (Sex is no longer on their radar screen.)
That seems harsh, but it is the truth, and maybe if we understood this truth, we would pause and consider the cost of divorce and take God's Word more seriously in the matter of marriage,
What God has joined together, let not man put asunder.
Father, refresh our view of marriage. It's not Hollywood's picture of marriage that should be sought, but Your design. Forgive us when we fail and help us to turn this problem around, one marriage at a time.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Remarriage After Divorce = Adultery
# 573 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:10-12 “In the house His disciples also asked Him again about the same matter. 11 So He said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her. 12 "And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery."
This teaching of Jesus concerning the permanence of marriage is radical. The disciples want to be sure they heard Him right and so they press the matter further. He obliges them with instructions for His church concerning the matter of remarriage
This teaching has become just as radical to us today as we have created man-made loopholes for ending marriages, that we believe allow for remarriage. (Just like the rabbi's of Jesus' day) But listen to the words of Jesus! “Whoever!” No exceptions! Whoever remarries after a divorce commits the specific sin of adultery.
What is adultery? It is sexual unfaithfulness while married. The piece of paper may say the marriage is ended, but God says there will always be a connection. This does not give us the right to force the departing spouse to remain in the marriage, but it does keep the door to reconciliation open as long as the departing spouse does not remarry.
Remarriage after a divorce is never to be sanctioned by the church, and it must be dealt with as the sin of adultery.
So you didn't know this and now you are remarried. What are you to do? Well, let's not make a bigger mess. How did Jesus deal with the woman caught in the act of adultery? He forgave her and told her to “go and sin no more.” Confess your sin of adultery, (that's what Jesus called it) receive His forgiveness, stay in your new marriage and don't make the same mistake again.
Father, help us to really grasp Your idea of the permanence of marriage. Give us a new resolve to do Your will.
This teaching of Jesus concerning the permanence of marriage is radical. The disciples want to be sure they heard Him right and so they press the matter further. He obliges them with instructions for His church concerning the matter of remarriage
This teaching has become just as radical to us today as we have created man-made loopholes for ending marriages, that we believe allow for remarriage. (Just like the rabbi's of Jesus' day) But listen to the words of Jesus! “Whoever!” No exceptions! Whoever remarries after a divorce commits the specific sin of adultery.
What is adultery? It is sexual unfaithfulness while married. The piece of paper may say the marriage is ended, but God says there will always be a connection. This does not give us the right to force the departing spouse to remain in the marriage, but it does keep the door to reconciliation open as long as the departing spouse does not remarry.
Remarriage after a divorce is never to be sanctioned by the church, and it must be dealt with as the sin of adultery.
So you didn't know this and now you are remarried. What are you to do? Well, let's not make a bigger mess. How did Jesus deal with the woman caught in the act of adultery? He forgave her and told her to “go and sin no more.” Confess your sin of adultery, (that's what Jesus called it) receive His forgiveness, stay in your new marriage and don't make the same mistake again.
Father, help us to really grasp Your idea of the permanence of marriage. Give us a new resolve to do Your will.
Friday, October 21, 2011
The Matter of Abuse
# 572 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."
In marriage, man and woman are supernaturally joined together by God. Man is not to allow for separation (divorce) Well, what do we do when abuse is involved? No one should have to remain subject to physical, verbal, or sexual abuse. This is true!
But again, nowhere in Scripture does it list abuse as grounds for ending a marriage! The immediate need in these situations is the safety of the spouse and the children, and the healing of the abuser. This may require a time of separation, and intervention by the church and by the governing authorities.
There are laws against abusing others and they come to us through the God-ordained agency of civil government. Ro 13:3 says, “For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.
Perhaps there needs to be a little more fear (induced by stricter penalties) for those who would abuse others. Such offenders need to think twice before they harm others.
The goal of separation and government intervention is the immediate and long-term safety of the victims. That speaks of rehabilitation for the offender and hopefully eventual reconciliation of the marriage. Separation until safety is restored is allowable, but not divorce.
Father, move in the hearts of magistrates and legislators to deal with abusers according to Your will. Help break the cycle of abuse wherever it appears.
In marriage, man and woman are supernaturally joined together by God. Man is not to allow for separation (divorce) Well, what do we do when abuse is involved? No one should have to remain subject to physical, verbal, or sexual abuse. This is true!
But again, nowhere in Scripture does it list abuse as grounds for ending a marriage! The immediate need in these situations is the safety of the spouse and the children, and the healing of the abuser. This may require a time of separation, and intervention by the church and by the governing authorities.
There are laws against abusing others and they come to us through the God-ordained agency of civil government. Ro 13:3 says, “For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.
Perhaps there needs to be a little more fear (induced by stricter penalties) for those who would abuse others. Such offenders need to think twice before they harm others.
The goal of separation and government intervention is the immediate and long-term safety of the victims. That speaks of rehabilitation for the offender and hopefully eventual reconciliation of the marriage. Separation until safety is restored is allowable, but not divorce.
Father, move in the hearts of magistrates and legislators to deal with abusers according to Your will. Help break the cycle of abuse wherever it appears.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
The Desertion Myth
# 571 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."
Do you see any exceptions granted by Jesus for divorce in this passage? Yet, like a child looking for excuses for his behavior, we keep looking. Still another exception myth that the church has bought into is that of desertion.
Desertion is covered in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians: 1Co 7:10 Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. 11 But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife.
Again, it's pretty straightforward. A wife is not to depart, and a husband is not to divorce. Note the total absence of exceptions here. Divorce and remarriage is consistently forbidden in these passages.
But then in verse 15, we read, “ But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart;” What is the person who departs a marriage called? “An unbeliever!” An unbeliever has an excuse. He or she doesn’t care what the Bible says about the permanence of marriage. Not so for the believer. They ought to know! They certainly ought to care!
Granted, many a believer has been led down the wrong road because of the improper interpretation of the scriptures concerning marriage and divorce, and if this describes your situation, be willing to be corrected.
If possible, reconciliation with the spouse is to be sought, if not possible the spouse is to remain single. If you have departed from a marriage, or remarried after a divorce, ask God for His forgiveness and then “go and sin no more. “ Seek to live within His will in your new circumstances. That means sexual purity for the single and no more divorce. for the remarried!
Father, we have made a mess of this in the church today. Forgive us, help us to grasp these truths and live according to Your will.
Do you see any exceptions granted by Jesus for divorce in this passage? Yet, like a child looking for excuses for his behavior, we keep looking. Still another exception myth that the church has bought into is that of desertion.
Desertion is covered in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians: 1Co 7:10 Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. 11 But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife.
Again, it's pretty straightforward. A wife is not to depart, and a husband is not to divorce. Note the total absence of exceptions here. Divorce and remarriage is consistently forbidden in these passages.
But then in verse 15, we read, “ But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart;” What is the person who departs a marriage called? “An unbeliever!” An unbeliever has an excuse. He or she doesn’t care what the Bible says about the permanence of marriage. Not so for the believer. They ought to know! They certainly ought to care!
Granted, many a believer has been led down the wrong road because of the improper interpretation of the scriptures concerning marriage and divorce, and if this describes your situation, be willing to be corrected.
If possible, reconciliation with the spouse is to be sought, if not possible the spouse is to remain single. If you have departed from a marriage, or remarried after a divorce, ask God for His forgiveness and then “go and sin no more. “ Seek to live within His will in your new circumstances. That means sexual purity for the single and no more divorce. for the remarried!
Father, we have made a mess of this in the church today. Forgive us, help us to grasp these truths and live according to Your will.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
He Could've Said Adultery
# 570 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."
I want to talk again today about the mythical exception clause of adultery for divorce. The church has followed a policy for years that divorce can be granted when adultery is involved. But is that the case?
Adultery is horrific, and it is never to be condoned, but it is not grounds for divorce. Read the so-called exception clause verses in Matthew carefully, in Mt 5:32 and Mt 19:9, Jesus says, “except on the ground of sexual immorality ( the King James says “fornication,”). He does not use the term adultery.
The Holy Spirit uses His words very carefully, and if adultery were grounds for divorce He would've said adultery. (It's not like the word wasn't available, He uses it later on in the same verse!)
Well, what's the difference? The difference is fornication is defined as illicit sexual relations before marriage, and adultery is defined as illicit sexual activity after marriage. The exception therefore is linked to the Jewish custom of betrothal, and that's why it is only found in the Gospel of Matthew. (See yesterday's blog)
Divorce is an extremely emotional topic, but we in the church need to stop interpreting Scriptures according to our emotions. With emotions in neutral we are ready to receive this text. “Let not man separate.” Don't allow for divorce.
Father, you meant for divorce to be an emotional subject because marriage matters to You. Help us to regard marriage as You do.
I want to talk again today about the mythical exception clause of adultery for divorce. The church has followed a policy for years that divorce can be granted when adultery is involved. But is that the case?
Adultery is horrific, and it is never to be condoned, but it is not grounds for divorce. Read the so-called exception clause verses in Matthew carefully, in Mt 5:32 and Mt 19:9, Jesus says, “except on the ground of sexual immorality ( the King James says “fornication,”). He does not use the term adultery.
The Holy Spirit uses His words very carefully, and if adultery were grounds for divorce He would've said adultery. (It's not like the word wasn't available, He uses it later on in the same verse!)
Well, what's the difference? The difference is fornication is defined as illicit sexual relations before marriage, and adultery is defined as illicit sexual activity after marriage. The exception therefore is linked to the Jewish custom of betrothal, and that's why it is only found in the Gospel of Matthew. (See yesterday's blog)
Divorce is an extremely emotional topic, but we in the church need to stop interpreting Scriptures according to our emotions. With emotions in neutral we are ready to receive this text. “Let not man separate.” Don't allow for divorce.
Father, you meant for divorce to be an emotional subject because marriage matters to You. Help us to regard marriage as You do.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
The So-Called Exception For Adultery
# 568 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."
“Let not man separate,” should be all the instruction we need as it concerns marriage and divorce. Don't allow it for any reason.
Well, wait a minute Duane, what about the exception for adultery?
First of all, please note that this exception is only found in the Gospel of Matthew. (Mt 5:31,32, and Mt 19:9) It is not found here in the Gospel of Mark, nor is it found in the Gospel of Luke, nor anywhere else in Scripture.
Why in Matthew and not in the others? The simple explanation is this: Matthew was written with the Jew in mind and Mark and Luke were written with the Gentiles in mind. The Jewish customs of marriage were different than those for the Gentiles And it is in the Jewish tradition of marriage that the exception comes into play..
The Jews were considered married at the time of the engagement, (the betrothal) and this Jewish exception for ending a marriage was granted, only if it was discovered that the bride had been unfaithful prior to the consummation of the marriage. Damaged goods discovered on the wedding night were the only allowance for a divorce. (Dt 22:20,21)
This Jewish custom of marriage was meant to be a picture of the relationship between Christ and believers. We who are believers now, (brides) have been purchased with a price. (Jesus dying on the cross) We are now living in the time of betrothal. The Groom (Jesus) has gone away to prepare a mansion (living quarters) for us. When He returns (Judgment Day) the marriage will be consummated.
Those who are found in the faith upon His return will go on with Him to eternal life, those who lack faith will be given a bill of divorcement and spend eternity in hell.
Father, let me be found faithful when Jesus returns.
“Let not man separate,” should be all the instruction we need as it concerns marriage and divorce. Don't allow it for any reason.
Well, wait a minute Duane, what about the exception for adultery?
First of all, please note that this exception is only found in the Gospel of Matthew. (Mt 5:31,32, and Mt 19:9) It is not found here in the Gospel of Mark, nor is it found in the Gospel of Luke, nor anywhere else in Scripture.
Why in Matthew and not in the others? The simple explanation is this: Matthew was written with the Jew in mind and Mark and Luke were written with the Gentiles in mind. The Jewish customs of marriage were different than those for the Gentiles And it is in the Jewish tradition of marriage that the exception comes into play..
The Jews were considered married at the time of the engagement, (the betrothal) and this Jewish exception for ending a marriage was granted, only if it was discovered that the bride had been unfaithful prior to the consummation of the marriage. Damaged goods discovered on the wedding night were the only allowance for a divorce. (Dt 22:20,21)
This Jewish custom of marriage was meant to be a picture of the relationship between Christ and believers. We who are believers now, (brides) have been purchased with a price. (Jesus dying on the cross) We are now living in the time of betrothal. The Groom (Jesus) has gone away to prepare a mansion (living quarters) for us. When He returns (Judgment Day) the marriage will be consummated.
Those who are found in the faith upon His return will go on with Him to eternal life, those who lack faith will be given a bill of divorcement and spend eternity in hell.
Father, let me be found faithful when Jesus returns.
Monday, October 17, 2011
The Seamless Garment of Man and Wife
# 568 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:6-9 "But from the beginning of the creation, God 'made them male and female.' 7 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, 8 'and the two shall become one flesh'; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."
The Pharisees are trying to turn people against Jesus by using the volatile issue of divorce. In His answer, He is telling them, “never mind the exceptions that Moses gave you because of the hardness of your hearts, go back to the beginning and rethink your polices regarding divorce and marriage.”
Perhaps we need to do the same today. God has ordained marriage between a man and a woman from the very beginning. In the act of marriage, He does something quite supernatural. He takes two separate entities, (a man that He created and a woman that He created) and makes them one.
Think of marriage as two separate pieces of cloth. (garments) In marriage, God supernaturally and seamlessly makes them one. This is a profound mystery, but one that God desires to use to illustrate to the world the mystery of becoming one with Christ!
Eph 5:30 For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.
31 "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." 32 This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
Marriage is to be a visible demonstration of God's desire to be forever supernaturally united with His children through faith in Christ.
Therefore what God has joined together, let not man tear asunder. (Rip apart.)
Listen to what God says about this seamless garment in Mal 2:16, “For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce, for it covers one's garment with violence,”
God's handiwork in marriage is carelessly ripped apart in divorce and He hates it! Shouldn't we?
Father, restore our perspective of marriage to Your original intent.
The Pharisees are trying to turn people against Jesus by using the volatile issue of divorce. In His answer, He is telling them, “never mind the exceptions that Moses gave you because of the hardness of your hearts, go back to the beginning and rethink your polices regarding divorce and marriage.”
Perhaps we need to do the same today. God has ordained marriage between a man and a woman from the very beginning. In the act of marriage, He does something quite supernatural. He takes two separate entities, (a man that He created and a woman that He created) and makes them one.
Think of marriage as two separate pieces of cloth. (garments) In marriage, God supernaturally and seamlessly makes them one. This is a profound mystery, but one that God desires to use to illustrate to the world the mystery of becoming one with Christ!
Eph 5:30 For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.
31 "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." 32 This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
Marriage is to be a visible demonstration of God's desire to be forever supernaturally united with His children through faith in Christ.
Therefore what God has joined together, let not man tear asunder. (Rip apart.)
Listen to what God says about this seamless garment in Mal 2:16, “For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce, for it covers one's garment with violence,”
God's handiwork in marriage is carelessly ripped apart in divorce and He hates it! Shouldn't we?
Father, restore our perspective of marriage to Your original intent.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
What Part of "Let Not" Don't We Understand?
# 567 - Today's Duvotional comes from: Mr 10:3-9 And He answered and said to them, "What did Moses command you?" 4 They said, "Moses permitted a man to write a certificate of divorce, and to dismiss her." 5 And Jesus answered and said to them, "Because of the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept.
6 "But from the beginning of the creation, God 'made them male and female.'
7 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife,
8 'and the two shall become one flesh'; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."
The Pharisees are trying to pin Jesus down on the matter of divorce. Their question boils down to the two schools of thought of their day, (and ours) Can a man divorce a wife for any reason (No-fault divorce) or just for the reason of sexual immorality? (in cases of adultery)
Look at His answer.
I mean really look at it!
His answer is, “neither school is right.” “What God has joined together, let not man separate.” There is no allowance for divorce! Or what part of “let not” have we failed to understand? God allowed it in the days of Moses, but He never approved of it. He allowed it because of the “hardness of their hearts.” Is this a tag you want as a follower of Christ? Then stop allowing for divorce. God hates it!
Father, soften our hearts to Your words of truth.
6 "But from the beginning of the creation, God 'made them male and female.'
7 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife,
8 'and the two shall become one flesh'; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."
The Pharisees are trying to pin Jesus down on the matter of divorce. Their question boils down to the two schools of thought of their day, (and ours) Can a man divorce a wife for any reason (No-fault divorce) or just for the reason of sexual immorality? (in cases of adultery)
Look at His answer.
I mean really look at it!
His answer is, “neither school is right.” “What God has joined together, let not man separate.” There is no allowance for divorce! Or what part of “let not” have we failed to understand? God allowed it in the days of Moses, but He never approved of it. He allowed it because of the “hardness of their hearts.” Is this a tag you want as a follower of Christ? Then stop allowing for divorce. God hates it!
Father, soften our hearts to Your words of truth.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Jesus Tackles the Issue of Divorce
# 566 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 10:1,2, Then He arose from there and came to the region of Judea by the other side of the Jordan. And multitudes gathered to Him again, and as He was accustomed, He taught them again. The Pharisees came and asked Him, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?" testing Him.
As soon as Jesus returns to “Pharisee country,” (Judea) they are on him. I wonder how long they schemed to come up with this question designed to turn the people against Jesus?
The question comes from a great debate about divorce among the religious leaders of the day. There were two schools of thought. One school championed by Rabbi Shammai allowed for divorce if a man found something indecent (sexual immorality) in his wife, and the other school, championed by Rabbi Hillel allowed for a divorce if a wife so much as burned her husband's food.
These schools are still with us today. The Hillel school is our own “no fault” divorce laws, and the Shammai school is the exception we make for adultery. These Pharisees are trying to make Jesus pick a side, and no matter what side He picked, He would anger a large number of people.
As we shall see, He picked neither side. He picked God's side in the debate, and what God has to say about the matter of divorce, and remarriage after a divorce will shock many today. It's shocking because we have all become to comfortable with the schools of Shammai and Hillel.
Father, Thy Word is truth. Prepare our hearts to receive it.
As soon as Jesus returns to “Pharisee country,” (Judea) they are on him. I wonder how long they schemed to come up with this question designed to turn the people against Jesus?
The question comes from a great debate about divorce among the religious leaders of the day. There were two schools of thought. One school championed by Rabbi Shammai allowed for divorce if a man found something indecent (sexual immorality) in his wife, and the other school, championed by Rabbi Hillel allowed for a divorce if a wife so much as burned her husband's food.
These schools are still with us today. The Hillel school is our own “no fault” divorce laws, and the Shammai school is the exception we make for adultery. These Pharisees are trying to make Jesus pick a side, and no matter what side He picked, He would anger a large number of people.
As we shall see, He picked neither side. He picked God's side in the debate, and what God has to say about the matter of divorce, and remarriage after a divorce will shock many today. It's shocking because we have all become to comfortable with the schools of Shammai and Hillel.
Father, Thy Word is truth. Prepare our hearts to receive it.
Friday, October 14, 2011
How To Have Peace With Others
# 565 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 9:50 "Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another."
When you read about salt in Scripture, I hope you will immediately think in terms of forsaking sin, the ways of the world, and the old sinful nature in you. If salt loses its flavor, it has ceased to be a forsaker. How will you season it?
The word “season” in the Greek means to “prepare with stimulation” What is Jesus saying here? He is saying that if we refuse to be forsakers, we put up a wall against Holy Spirit stimulation. Those who are caught up in sin, the ways of the world, and themselves, reject the idea of surrender, and they have no room for the idea of forsaking. They become hardened to the idea of being salted.
One more telling connection between being salt and being a forsaker is included in the last part of this verse. If you have salt in yourselves, (if you are willing to be a forsaker) one of the byproducts will be peace with each other.
As a forsaker, you will no longer insisting on having your own way, and this is a great breeding ground for peace with others.
Father, there will be times today, when I will be faced with forsaking my ways and the ways of this world, help me to let go. Help me to be open to the stimulation of the Holy Spirit in all things.
When you read about salt in Scripture, I hope you will immediately think in terms of forsaking sin, the ways of the world, and the old sinful nature in you. If salt loses its flavor, it has ceased to be a forsaker. How will you season it?
The word “season” in the Greek means to “prepare with stimulation” What is Jesus saying here? He is saying that if we refuse to be forsakers, we put up a wall against Holy Spirit stimulation. Those who are caught up in sin, the ways of the world, and themselves, reject the idea of surrender, and they have no room for the idea of forsaking. They become hardened to the idea of being salted.
One more telling connection between being salt and being a forsaker is included in the last part of this verse. If you have salt in yourselves, (if you are willing to be a forsaker) one of the byproducts will be peace with each other.
As a forsaker, you will no longer insisting on having your own way, and this is a great breeding ground for peace with others.
Father, there will be times today, when I will be faced with forsaking my ways and the ways of this world, help me to let go. Help me to be open to the stimulation of the Holy Spirit in all things.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
The Second Shortest Verse In the Bible and Why It's Important To You
# 564 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 9:50 "Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another."
I want to talk a little more about the connection between being salt and being a forsaker. In Luke 14:33,34 we read, "So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple. "Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?”
The connection is unmistakable. Furthermore, in Mt 5:13 Jesus said that His followers are the “salt of the earth,” We ARE the forsakers. The ones who have turned our backs on the ways of the world and turned our eyes toward Him.
Everyone knows the shortest verse in the Bible is “Jesus wept.” Do you know the second shortest verse? It's Lu 17:32 "Remember Lot's wife” Then verse 33 says, "Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.”
Learn from Lot's wife in the matter of forsaking. She looked back! She was not willing to forsake the lifestyle of Sodom and Gomorrah and God turned her into a pillar of salt. How fitting a judgment. It's like He was saying, if you don't want to be salt, (a forsaker) I will make you salt (forsaken.) Lot's wife is a monument set before the eyes of all who refuse to forsake all and follow Jesus. He must be the most important thing in your life.
Father, this is a battle we all face, help us to always keep Jesus number one in our lives.
I want to talk a little more about the connection between being salt and being a forsaker. In Luke 14:33,34 we read, "So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple. "Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?”
The connection is unmistakable. Furthermore, in Mt 5:13 Jesus said that His followers are the “salt of the earth,” We ARE the forsakers. The ones who have turned our backs on the ways of the world and turned our eyes toward Him.
Everyone knows the shortest verse in the Bible is “Jesus wept.” Do you know the second shortest verse? It's Lu 17:32 "Remember Lot's wife” Then verse 33 says, "Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.”
Learn from Lot's wife in the matter of forsaking. She looked back! She was not willing to forsake the lifestyle of Sodom and Gomorrah and God turned her into a pillar of salt. How fitting a judgment. It's like He was saying, if you don't want to be salt, (a forsaker) I will make you salt (forsaken.) Lot's wife is a monument set before the eyes of all who refuse to forsake all and follow Jesus. He must be the most important thing in your life.
Father, this is a battle we all face, help us to always keep Jesus number one in our lives.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Salt Is For-Saking
# 563 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 9:49 "For everyone will be seasoned with fire, and every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt.
You can't read this and not think of the Old Testament system of sacrifice. We read in Le 2:13, “And every oblation (offering) of thy meal-offering shalt thou season with salt; neither shalt thou suffer the salt of the covenant of thy God to be lacking from thy meal-offering: with all thine oblations (offerings) thou shalt offer salt.
But how does this play out in the New Testament where such sacrifices are no longer necessary because of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus?
Jesus is speaking here of His followers. They will all be tested with trials, and every sacrifice (every follower) will be seasoned with salt. Here's the thing about salt....it is a forsaker. It gives itself up to meat to make it taste better. It gives itself up to hard water to make it soft. It gives itself up to icy roads to make them drivable.
Jesus is the salt that we need to be seasoned with. He forsook everything for us, He gave Himself up for us, and now He lives in His followers bringing His forsaking qualities with Him. Therefore, we must be forsakers too as He lives through us, and helps us to say no the devil, the world, and our flesh.
Believe it or not, God has spiritual tastebuds. (We read in Revelation how He will spit out the lukewarm) It is Jesus who removes the putrid taste of sin from us, and helps us to forsake sin and the ways of the world in order to be a palatable sacrifice to God.
Thank You Jesus for forsaking all for me. Help me now to forsake those things that would draw me away from You.
You can't read this and not think of the Old Testament system of sacrifice. We read in Le 2:13, “And every oblation (offering) of thy meal-offering shalt thou season with salt; neither shalt thou suffer the salt of the covenant of thy God to be lacking from thy meal-offering: with all thine oblations (offerings) thou shalt offer salt.
But how does this play out in the New Testament where such sacrifices are no longer necessary because of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus?
Jesus is speaking here of His followers. They will all be tested with trials, and every sacrifice (every follower) will be seasoned with salt. Here's the thing about salt....it is a forsaker. It gives itself up to meat to make it taste better. It gives itself up to hard water to make it soft. It gives itself up to icy roads to make them drivable.
Jesus is the salt that we need to be seasoned with. He forsook everything for us, He gave Himself up for us, and now He lives in His followers bringing His forsaking qualities with Him. Therefore, we must be forsakers too as He lives through us, and helps us to say no the devil, the world, and our flesh.
Believe it or not, God has spiritual tastebuds. (We read in Revelation how He will spit out the lukewarm) It is Jesus who removes the putrid taste of sin from us, and helps us to forsake sin and the ways of the world in order to be a palatable sacrifice to God.
Thank You Jesus for forsaking all for me. Help me now to forsake those things that would draw me away from You.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Delectable Sacrifices
# 562 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 9:49a "For everyone will be seasoned with fire, “
The context of this passage is Jesus' warnings about the dangers of habitual sin or disobedience. The question for all of us is this: “Who do we love more? Jesus or our sins. Jesus or the world?
In using the phrase, “seasoned with fire,” He turns our thoughts toward testing, because that's what fire does. It tests us to see what we are made of. God applies these testings to us like a master chef applying seasoning to food. He knows what sort of tests, (seasonings) we need. to verify and strengthen our faith, our trust in Him. God knows our heart, so these “tests” are for our benefit, not His.
De 8:2b says, "the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.”
So know this beloved. God will allow seasons of testing to come your way. His purpose is to help you see where you're at spiritually. How will you react? Will you keep (treasure) His commandments or will you bolt and treasure your sin and the ways of the world. Will we run to Him or run to our sin?
Romans 12:1 reminds us to present our bodies as living sacrifices. If we are willing, God uses His testings (seasonings by fire) like spices, to make us all the more delectable sacrifices as followers of Christ.
Father, thank You for loving me where I'm at right now, and thank You for loving me so much that You don't want to leave me that way. Help me to continue to allow You to mold me and shape me according to Your will.
The context of this passage is Jesus' warnings about the dangers of habitual sin or disobedience. The question for all of us is this: “Who do we love more? Jesus or our sins. Jesus or the world?
In using the phrase, “seasoned with fire,” He turns our thoughts toward testing, because that's what fire does. It tests us to see what we are made of. God applies these testings to us like a master chef applying seasoning to food. He knows what sort of tests, (seasonings) we need. to verify and strengthen our faith, our trust in Him. God knows our heart, so these “tests” are for our benefit, not His.
De 8:2b says, "the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.”
So know this beloved. God will allow seasons of testing to come your way. His purpose is to help you see where you're at spiritually. How will you react? Will you keep (treasure) His commandments or will you bolt and treasure your sin and the ways of the world. Will we run to Him or run to our sin?
Romans 12:1 reminds us to present our bodies as living sacrifices. If we are willing, God uses His testings (seasonings by fire) like spices, to make us all the more delectable sacrifices as followers of Christ.
Father, thank You for loving me where I'm at right now, and thank You for loving me so much that You don't want to leave me that way. Help me to continue to allow You to mold me and shape me according to Your will.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Be Careful Little Eyes What You See
# 561 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 9:47,48 "And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes, to be cast into hell fire-- "where 'Their worm does not die, And the fire is not quenched.'
Remember, Jesus is not advocating the plucking out of our God-given eyes. He is using this extreme example to warn us of the eternal horrors of hell! He started with the hand, then the feet, and now He moves to the eyes as they relates to the acts of habitual sin, that can lead to the damning hardened heart of unbelief.
Whereas the hand is symbolic of the actual commission of sin by our actions, or the sins of omission by the inaction, and the foot is all about putting us in position to sin, or removing us from the position of doing what is right, the eye is all about allowing our sinful desires into our heart, when, if not checked, will mobilize our feet and hands to commit the wrongful act or omit the righteous one.
Beloved, as the children's song says, “Be careful little eyes what you see.” Jesus said in Lu 11:34 "The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is bad, your body also is full of darkness.”
Stop the lingering looks at earthly things, and instead allow your eyes to linger on Jesus.
Father, turn my eyes toward Jesus.
Remember, Jesus is not advocating the plucking out of our God-given eyes. He is using this extreme example to warn us of the eternal horrors of hell! He started with the hand, then the feet, and now He moves to the eyes as they relates to the acts of habitual sin, that can lead to the damning hardened heart of unbelief.
Whereas the hand is symbolic of the actual commission of sin by our actions, or the sins of omission by the inaction, and the foot is all about putting us in position to sin, or removing us from the position of doing what is right, the eye is all about allowing our sinful desires into our heart, when, if not checked, will mobilize our feet and hands to commit the wrongful act or omit the righteous one.
Beloved, as the children's song says, “Be careful little eyes what you see.” Jesus said in Lu 11:34 "The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is bad, your body also is full of darkness.”
Stop the lingering looks at earthly things, and instead allow your eyes to linger on Jesus.
Father, turn my eyes toward Jesus.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Watch Where You're Walking
# 560 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 9:45,46 "And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life lame, rather than having two feet, to be cast into hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched-- "where 'Their worm does not die, And the fire is not quenched.”
Remember, Jesus is not advocating the maiming of our God-given bodies. He is using this extreme example to warn us of the eternal horrors of hell! He starts with the hand and now moves to the foot as it relates to the acts of habitual sin, that can lead to the damning hardened heart of unbelief.
Whereas the hand is symbolic of the actual commission of sin by our actions, or the sins of omission by the inaction, the foot is all about putting us in position to sin. We are to seek to avoid putting ourselves in the position of temptation.
The Bible tells us to “flee fornication (1Co 6:18) and to “flee idolatry” (1Co 10:14) and to “flee youthful lusts,” ( 2Ti 2:22) What did Joseph do when Potiphar's wife tempted him to fornicate? He fled! (Gen 39:12)
We can also use our feet to commit sins of omission as the priest and the Levite did when they walked on the other side of the road failing to offer aid to the mugging victim on the road to Jericho. Be careful where you walk my friend, lest you bring your hands to the place where sin can be committed.
Holy Spirit, When I am tempted to put myself into bad situations, where sin can ensnare me, or when I am tempted to walk away from doing what is right, remind me in a supernatural way to follow You. Let me flee from the bad and flee to the good.
Remember, Jesus is not advocating the maiming of our God-given bodies. He is using this extreme example to warn us of the eternal horrors of hell! He starts with the hand and now moves to the foot as it relates to the acts of habitual sin, that can lead to the damning hardened heart of unbelief.
Whereas the hand is symbolic of the actual commission of sin by our actions, or the sins of omission by the inaction, the foot is all about putting us in position to sin. We are to seek to avoid putting ourselves in the position of temptation.
The Bible tells us to “flee fornication (1Co 6:18) and to “flee idolatry” (1Co 10:14) and to “flee youthful lusts,” ( 2Ti 2:22) What did Joseph do when Potiphar's wife tempted him to fornicate? He fled! (Gen 39:12)
We can also use our feet to commit sins of omission as the priest and the Levite did when they walked on the other side of the road failing to offer aid to the mugging victim on the road to Jericho. Be careful where you walk my friend, lest you bring your hands to the place where sin can be committed.
Holy Spirit, When I am tempted to put myself into bad situations, where sin can ensnare me, or when I am tempted to walk away from doing what is right, remind me in a supernatural way to follow You. Let me flee from the bad and flee to the good.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
There IS A Hell And You Don't Want To Go There
# 559 - Today's Du-Votional comes from: Mr 9:43,44 "If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed, rather than having two hands, to go to hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched-- "where 'Their worm does not die, And the fire is not quenched.'
Again, Jesus is not advocating the removal of body parts as if that would keep us from falling into the kind of habitual sin that hardens the heart and douses our faith. It's the heart that is the problem! Mt 15:19 says, "For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.”
He is using this extreme picture to impress upon us the horrors of hell. Most people don't give a lot of thought to hell. They can't fathom their idea of a loving God sending anyone to such a place. Well, if that's what you believe, then you might as well rip these pages out of your Bible.
Or if you think, “It can't be that bad, I'll be able to handle it.” You'd better think again. A fire never quenched speaks of unbelievable physical pain, and the worm that never dies speaks of unbelievable inner pain or torment. There is no relief. No breaks. You won't be able to push a button for more morphine. No wonder Jesus describes hell as the place where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Mt 22:!3)
Hell awaits the indifferent. Bow your knee to Him today before it's too late! Ask Him to save you from your sins, and allow Him to be the Lord of your life from this day forth.
Father, thank You for this reminder from Jesus about the realities of hell. Open eyes and hearts to see that because You are loving, and we are not, You have provided a way to escape eternal torment and pain through Jesus Christ.
Again, Jesus is not advocating the removal of body parts as if that would keep us from falling into the kind of habitual sin that hardens the heart and douses our faith. It's the heart that is the problem! Mt 15:19 says, "For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.”
He is using this extreme picture to impress upon us the horrors of hell. Most people don't give a lot of thought to hell. They can't fathom their idea of a loving God sending anyone to such a place. Well, if that's what you believe, then you might as well rip these pages out of your Bible.
Or if you think, “It can't be that bad, I'll be able to handle it.” You'd better think again. A fire never quenched speaks of unbelievable physical pain, and the worm that never dies speaks of unbelievable inner pain or torment. There is no relief. No breaks. You won't be able to push a button for more morphine. No wonder Jesus describes hell as the place where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Mt 22:!3)
Hell awaits the indifferent. Bow your knee to Him today before it's too late! Ask Him to save you from your sins, and allow Him to be the Lord of your life from this day forth.
Father, thank You for this reminder from Jesus about the realities of hell. Open eyes and hearts to see that because You are loving, and we are not, You have provided a way to escape eternal torment and pain through Jesus Christ.
Friday, October 7, 2011
The Dangers of Habitual Sin
# 558 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 9:43 "If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed, rather than having two hands, to go to hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched--
First of all know that Jesus is NOT advocating maiming our bodies to keep us from sinning. It's our hearts that are the problem, not our members.
The word “sin” here is the same word used for “stumble” in the preceding verse, and it means deadly trap. There is only one deadly trap and that is disbelief. (Rejection of Jesus as the Son of God and the only way to heaven) It is unbelief alone that condemns one to hell.
But, Jesus is warning us here about the dangers of habitual sin, because habitual sin CAN lead to the hardened heart which commits the deadly sin of rejecting God.
No wonder the writer of Hebrews tells us to “exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be HARDENED THROUGH THE DECEITFULNESS OF SIN (Heb 3:!3)
What are we to be exhorting one another to? Dealing with our sin! I exhort you today, DEAL WITH YOUR SIN! Receive God's gift of repentance. Allow the Holy Spirit to produce godly sorrow in your heart because you have sinned against a holy God. Then confess your sin to Him, receive His promised forgiveness, and allow your sins of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, to be cast alongside the others in God's Sea of forgetfulness.
Father, repentance, confession of sin, and receiving Your promised forgiveness is the rhythm of life for Your children. Help me to never get lax in this regard. Help me to humbly come before You every day with godly sorrow over my sins, and grant me the peace of knowing I am forgiven.
First of all know that Jesus is NOT advocating maiming our bodies to keep us from sinning. It's our hearts that are the problem, not our members.
The word “sin” here is the same word used for “stumble” in the preceding verse, and it means deadly trap. There is only one deadly trap and that is disbelief. (Rejection of Jesus as the Son of God and the only way to heaven) It is unbelief alone that condemns one to hell.
But, Jesus is warning us here about the dangers of habitual sin, because habitual sin CAN lead to the hardened heart which commits the deadly sin of rejecting God.
No wonder the writer of Hebrews tells us to “exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be HARDENED THROUGH THE DECEITFULNESS OF SIN (Heb 3:!3)
What are we to be exhorting one another to? Dealing with our sin! I exhort you today, DEAL WITH YOUR SIN! Receive God's gift of repentance. Allow the Holy Spirit to produce godly sorrow in your heart because you have sinned against a holy God. Then confess your sin to Him, receive His promised forgiveness, and allow your sins of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, to be cast alongside the others in God's Sea of forgetfulness.
Father, repentance, confession of sin, and receiving Your promised forgiveness is the rhythm of life for Your children. Help me to never get lax in this regard. Help me to humbly come before You every day with godly sorrow over my sins, and grant me the peace of knowing I am forgiven.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Protecting and Nurturing the Faith of Children
# 557 - Today's Du-Votional comes from: Mr 9:42 "But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea.”
The “little ones” Jesus refers to are like this toddler that He had called into their midst. This is a charge that He has given to His church to guard the faith of little children.
To “cause to stumble” is not strong enough in the English language here. The Greek phrase speaks of a deadly trap. This is a very serious charge given to the church! We must do all we can to nurture and strengthen the faith of little children and new believers.
If we, or anyone else would lead children and other believers into the deadly trap of unbelief through false teachings or hypocritical conduct, it would be better if someone had put a millstone around our neck and tossed us into the sea, before we had the opportunity to play a role in the ruination of their faith.
I shudder at the thought of careless parents who keep their children away from church so they can “make up their own minds ” about Jesus later on. I shudder for those who have a position of authority over a child and breach that trust and ruin faith through any form of spiritual apathy or hypocrisy.
Make the strengthening of the faith of the children in your family and in your congregation, and in your community a high priority. And remember, if you have failed in this regard, that no sin is unforgivable. Confess it, receive His forgiveness, and rededicate yourself to this task.
Father, we all have a role to play in nurturing the faith of children, help us to seek out that role and fulfill it in Your strength, and according to Your will.
The “little ones” Jesus refers to are like this toddler that He had called into their midst. This is a charge that He has given to His church to guard the faith of little children.
To “cause to stumble” is not strong enough in the English language here. The Greek phrase speaks of a deadly trap. This is a very serious charge given to the church! We must do all we can to nurture and strengthen the faith of little children and new believers.
If we, or anyone else would lead children and other believers into the deadly trap of unbelief through false teachings or hypocritical conduct, it would be better if someone had put a millstone around our neck and tossed us into the sea, before we had the opportunity to play a role in the ruination of their faith.
I shudder at the thought of careless parents who keep their children away from church so they can “make up their own minds ” about Jesus later on. I shudder for those who have a position of authority over a child and breach that trust and ruin faith through any form of spiritual apathy or hypocrisy.
Make the strengthening of the faith of the children in your family and in your congregation, and in your community a high priority. And remember, if you have failed in this regard, that no sin is unforgivable. Confess it, receive His forgiveness, and rededicate yourself to this task.
Father, we all have a role to play in nurturing the faith of children, help us to seek out that role and fulfill it in Your strength, and according to Your will.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Babies Can Have Faith
# 556 - Today's Living Word comes from: Mr 9:42a "But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble,
Whoa! Wait a minute! An infant or a toddler can believe in Jesus? A baby can have faith? How is that possible? Sometimes we fall into the trap of thinking that faith is dependent upon a conscious decision on our part. This is not a good place to be, because that kind of thinking leads to a salvation by works mentality.
No, we must always remember that faith is a gift from God, and He brings it to us and helps sustain it in us through His means of grace. Eph 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,”
The means of grace that He uses to impart faith through His church, are, (1) the Word of God, ( Ro 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.) and (2) the Sacrament of baptism. ( Col 2:12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.) Please note the phrase “with Him,” used twice in this passage. Faith is what connects us with Him, and baptism is a means of making the connection!
The point here is that Jesus made it clear that this toddler that had been brought to him, and all infants and toddlers for that matter CAN have faith. They can have it because it is given by God not by our own mental exertion. And one of the ways He brings that faith to infants and others who are incapable of mental exertion is through baptism.
You don't have to “feel” that an infant or mentally challenged individual has saving faith. You can KNOW it on the strength of God's promises found in baptism in His Word..
Father, thank You for the peace offered to us through baptism. Thank You that faith is not based on mental exertion, but simple trust in Your promises.
Whoa! Wait a minute! An infant or a toddler can believe in Jesus? A baby can have faith? How is that possible? Sometimes we fall into the trap of thinking that faith is dependent upon a conscious decision on our part. This is not a good place to be, because that kind of thinking leads to a salvation by works mentality.
No, we must always remember that faith is a gift from God, and He brings it to us and helps sustain it in us through His means of grace. Eph 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,”
The means of grace that He uses to impart faith through His church, are, (1) the Word of God, ( Ro 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.) and (2) the Sacrament of baptism. ( Col 2:12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.) Please note the phrase “with Him,” used twice in this passage. Faith is what connects us with Him, and baptism is a means of making the connection!
The point here is that Jesus made it clear that this toddler that had been brought to him, and all infants and toddlers for that matter CAN have faith. They can have it because it is given by God not by our own mental exertion. And one of the ways He brings that faith to infants and others who are incapable of mental exertion is through baptism.
You don't have to “feel” that an infant or mentally challenged individual has saving faith. You can KNOW it on the strength of God's promises found in baptism in His Word..
Father, thank You for the peace offered to us through baptism. Thank You that faith is not based on mental exertion, but simple trust in Your promises.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Swallowed Up In the Purity and Goodness of Christ
# 555 - Today's Du-Votional comes from: Mr 9:41 "For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”
This verse reminds me of that part of Matthew where Jesus talks about separating the sheep and the goats on the Final Judgment Day. (Mt 25:31-46. On this Day, the books will be opened for all to see, and all will be judged. Jesus commends the sheep (the believers) for all the good that they had done, but when the books are opened the pages of believers are all blank! And they all say, “When did we do these things Lord? They're not listed in the book!
Of course not! The believer is in Christ and all that will be seen that day on the believers record is the purity and goodness of Jesus. Not so for the goats, (unbelievers) Jesus tells them that their deeds are worthless, and they scramble to the book and say, “look, we did all these good things, they're right here in black and white!”
And the very fact that they are in the book is a testimony against them, because they were done without Christ. And so Jesus says here in Mark, "For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”
The key then is to be found in Christ. His goodness becomes Your goodness, and His goodness will flow through you like a refreshing drink of water. Give your life to Him, surrender today, and let the living water flow!
Father, remove any obstacles that may hinder the flow of the Holy Spirit in my life.
This verse reminds me of that part of Matthew where Jesus talks about separating the sheep and the goats on the Final Judgment Day. (Mt 25:31-46. On this Day, the books will be opened for all to see, and all will be judged. Jesus commends the sheep (the believers) for all the good that they had done, but when the books are opened the pages of believers are all blank! And they all say, “When did we do these things Lord? They're not listed in the book!
Of course not! The believer is in Christ and all that will be seen that day on the believers record is the purity and goodness of Jesus. Not so for the goats, (unbelievers) Jesus tells them that their deeds are worthless, and they scramble to the book and say, “look, we did all these good things, they're right here in black and white!”
And the very fact that they are in the book is a testimony against them, because they were done without Christ. And so Jesus says here in Mark, "For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”
The key then is to be found in Christ. His goodness becomes Your goodness, and His goodness will flow through you like a refreshing drink of water. Give your life to Him, surrender today, and let the living water flow!
Father, remove any obstacles that may hinder the flow of the Holy Spirit in my life.
Monday, October 3, 2011
It Doesn't Have To Be Spectacular
# 554 - Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 9:41 "For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”
This whole section is about belonging. To the Body of Christ. It began with the admonition to accept a toddler into the Body in the name of Jesus (baptism). Then Jesus uses the terms, “us” and “our” to indicate that we are in this together with Him. Being in this together requires that we seek ways to minister to our own.
Ga 6:10 says, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
This household has the common bond of God-given faith or “revelation about Jesus.” Those who act on the measure of faith given to them by God are like those stewards that Jesus spoke of in Matthew 25:14-30.
The first two stewards acted on the measure of faith given to them by the Master and were rewarded. The third steward buried it. He did not act upon it. What happened to him? He lost his reward.
Jesus is telling us here that the deed associated with exercising faith doesn't have to be spectacular. Why just giving a cup of water to a follower of Christ is all it takes to demonstrate an active and alive faith!
Know anyone in your church who needs a little help? Know anyone in your world? Don't bury your ability to help, even if it's a small thing, just do it!
Father, let us never consider any kind of need meeting too small. Help us to be eager to help others with the blessings You have bestowed on us.
This whole section is about belonging. To the Body of Christ. It began with the admonition to accept a toddler into the Body in the name of Jesus (baptism). Then Jesus uses the terms, “us” and “our” to indicate that we are in this together with Him. Being in this together requires that we seek ways to minister to our own.
Ga 6:10 says, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
This household has the common bond of God-given faith or “revelation about Jesus.” Those who act on the measure of faith given to them by God are like those stewards that Jesus spoke of in Matthew 25:14-30.
The first two stewards acted on the measure of faith given to them by the Master and were rewarded. The third steward buried it. He did not act upon it. What happened to him? He lost his reward.
Jesus is telling us here that the deed associated with exercising faith doesn't have to be spectacular. Why just giving a cup of water to a follower of Christ is all it takes to demonstrate an active and alive faith!
Know anyone in your church who needs a little help? Know anyone in your world? Don't bury your ability to help, even if it's a small thing, just do it!
Father, let us never consider any kind of need meeting too small. Help us to be eager to help others with the blessings You have bestowed on us.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
The Devil Owns the Fence
# 553 - Today's Living Word comes from: Mr 9:40 "For he who is not against us is on our side.” (Mr 9:40) I like the way Jesus uses the pronouns “us” and “our” rather than “Me” and “My” These two words speak mounds about the believers connection to Jesus! And they speak of the reality of the battle! It is indeed, “Us against them.” There is no middle ground, and there is no room for the lukewarm.
Re 3:16 "So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”
It is important to remember though that the battle lines are not between flesh and blood. This is a spiritual battle.
Eph 6:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
These spiritual forces use everything at their disposal to foster indifference and even outright animosity toward Christ and His followers, because indifference and animosity are the fruit of a total absence of faith.
Have you considered what Jesus did to pay for your sins? Indifference and animosity are not the proper responses, and they will put you in the enemy's camp.
There is a story about the day of reckoning when Jesus and the devil came to a meadow to take their followers to their eternal destination. There was a fence in the meadow, and one man thought he could skip the judgment by sitting on the fence. After everyone had departed, the devil came back and said, “Oh there you are, come with me?” “Why,” I'm on the fence.” And the devil said, “I own the fence.”
The devil owns the indifferent.
Father, let us never stop considering the price Jesus paid for us. Guard us from lukewarmness and indifference.
Re 3:16 "So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”
It is important to remember though that the battle lines are not between flesh and blood. This is a spiritual battle.
Eph 6:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
These spiritual forces use everything at their disposal to foster indifference and even outright animosity toward Christ and His followers, because indifference and animosity are the fruit of a total absence of faith.
Have you considered what Jesus did to pay for your sins? Indifference and animosity are not the proper responses, and they will put you in the enemy's camp.
There is a story about the day of reckoning when Jesus and the devil came to a meadow to take their followers to their eternal destination. There was a fence in the meadow, and one man thought he could skip the judgment by sitting on the fence. After everyone had departed, the devil came back and said, “Oh there you are, come with me?” “Why,” I'm on the fence.” And the devil said, “I own the fence.”
The devil owns the indifferent.
Father, let us never stop considering the price Jesus paid for us. Guard us from lukewarmness and indifference.
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