Friday, March 30, 2012
Mock Tebowing In the Praetorium
# 737 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 15:16-20, “Then the soldiers led Him away into the hall called Praetorium, and they called together the whole garrison.
17 And they clothed Him with purple; and they twisted a crown of thorns, put it on His head, 18 and began to salute Him, "Hail, King of the Jews!" 19 Then they struck Him on the head with a reed and spat on Him; and bowing the knee, they worshiped Him. 20 And when they had mocked Him, they took the purple off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him out to crucify Him.”
Jesus had already been roughed up by the Jewish council and some of the guards. (See Mr 14:65) and now Pilate takes him into the Praetorium, out of sight of the Jews and calls all available Roman soldiers to participate in the sport of mocking this self-proclaimed King of the Jews.
What sport for the most powerful fighting force in the world! “Hey King of the Jews, here's a robe for you! How do you like your crown of thorns? We'll give you a reed as a symbolic scepter of power and take it from you and smack you in the head, and we'll spit in your face, and finally, we'll wrap it all up with a little mock Tebowing for You.!”
Friend, God will not be mocked, and unless these “mockers” repented, they have been paying big time in the pangs of hell.
But let us all beware. For anytime we claim Jesus as our King, but refuse to allow Him to rule, we are in effect doing the same thing! Calling Jesus Lord and then refusing to allow Him to rule in our lives is mockery. Lu 6:46 "But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do the things which I say?
Thankfully, there is a cure. Confess! Repent! Believe! Receive His forgiveness, and seek to live under the power and yoke of the Holy Spirit!
Father, forgive me for the time my thoughts, words, and deeds have mocked Your lordship in my life. Help me today, by the power of Your Holy Spirit to live joyfully as Your subject.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Deliver Us From Evil
# 736 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 15:12-15, “Pilate answered and said to them again, "What then do you want me to do with Him whom you call the King of the Jews?" 13 So they cried out again, "Crucify Him!" 14 Then Pilate said to them, "Why, what evil has He done?" But they cried out all the more, "Crucify Him!" 15 So Pilate, wanting to gratify the crowd, released Barabbas to them; and he delivered Jesus, after he had scourged Him, to be crucified.
Pilate agrees to release Barabbas as the crowd wished, but now he is stuck with this man named Jesus. Then he foolishly asks their opinion as to what kind of punishment he should inflict on Jesus. I don't believe he was prepared for their answer. “Crucify Him!”
“What? Why? What evil has He done?” Their answer? They scream even louder! “Crucify Him!” And so Pilate wanting to gratify the crowd, (read that satisfy the desires of their flesh) releases Barabbas, scourges Jesus, and orders the crucifixion.
My friends. Be thankful for God's restraint of evil. Because when He withdraws His protection, the murdering forces of the devil and his demons step in. It was this influence, allowed by God to suit His purposes, that killed the Son of God.
This turning of the crowd and their barbaric behavior can only be explained in this manner. We need to realize just how deadly the evil one is and how our only help is the protection of God.
We need to know how close each one of us is to the possibility of atrocity. Jer 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?
We would all do well to respect this truth.
Father, thank You for Your restraint of evil. Restrain it in me.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
As the Deer Rutteth
# 735 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 15:9-11, “But Pilate answered them, saying, "Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?" 10 For he knew that the chief priests had handed Him over because of envy. 11 But the chief priests stirred up the crowd, so that he should rather release Barabbas to them.
Pilate sensed a wide gap between the feelings of the people and the feelings of these “envious” religious rulers. Was not their envy due to the high regard that the general populace had for Jesus? Surely the people who outnumbered the religious rulers would demand the release of “The King of the Jews!”
He underestimated the persuasive power of the religious leaders, and as the rulers mingled in the crowd, they convinced them to demand the release of Barabbas! This befuddled Pilate. It befuddles us. Yet, emotional appeals to our flesh, often cause us to abandon clear thinking in spiritual matters as well.
We can get caught up in a moment of emotional weakness and abandon what we know to be true. Isn't that the way of sin in our lives? We get caught up in our “feelings” and like a deer in the rutting season we blindly chase after instant gratification.
Our flesh takes over, and we find ourselves desiring Barabbas over Jesus. Sin over obedience. Death over life. Are you caught up in sin? Get away from the crowd!
Instead of shouting “Barabbas!” Come to the cross and whisper the name of Jesus, for it's His release you really need.
Father, I am so prone to wander from Your Word. My emotions tend to lead me away from the Rock of Your truth. Holy Spirit, reel me in when I face this temptation, remembering that it is Your truth that sets me free.
Pilate sensed a wide gap between the feelings of the people and the feelings of these “envious” religious rulers. Was not their envy due to the high regard that the general populace had for Jesus? Surely the people who outnumbered the religious rulers would demand the release of “The King of the Jews!”
He underestimated the persuasive power of the religious leaders, and as the rulers mingled in the crowd, they convinced them to demand the release of Barabbas! This befuddled Pilate. It befuddles us. Yet, emotional appeals to our flesh, often cause us to abandon clear thinking in spiritual matters as well.
We can get caught up in a moment of emotional weakness and abandon what we know to be true. Isn't that the way of sin in our lives? We get caught up in our “feelings” and like a deer in the rutting season we blindly chase after instant gratification.
Our flesh takes over, and we find ourselves desiring Barabbas over Jesus. Sin over obedience. Death over life. Are you caught up in sin? Get away from the crowd!
Instead of shouting “Barabbas!” Come to the cross and whisper the name of Jesus, for it's His release you really need.
Father, I am so prone to wander from Your Word. My emotions tend to lead me away from the Rock of Your truth. Holy Spirit, reel me in when I face this temptation, remembering that it is Your truth that sets me free.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Envy
# 734 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 15:10 For he knew that the chief priests had handed Him over because of envy.
Pilate saw through the motives of the Jewish rulers for seeking the death penalty for Jesus. They were envious of His apparent acceptance by the people and of His increasing influence, which would spell doom for them and the cushy deal they had going for themselves.
The Bible warns us of this deadly emotion that often breaks out in a desire for the demise of the person you are envious of. Cain was envious of Abel. Joseph's brothers were envious of him. Saul was envious of David. See where unchecked envy leads? It leads to death!
Envy is a work of the flesh, the old nature yearns to be envious, and when we give in to it, and stay in it, we put our very salvation in jeopardy. Envyings are included in the list of damnable sins found in Ga 5. Ga 5:21 says, “Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”
It is vital to nip this sin in the bud! It was the sin that God warned Cain about, telling him that it was, “crouching at his door and that he should seek to rule over it.”
The way to rule over it is to remind yourself daily of your identity in Christ. As a child of the King you have no need to envy others, for you are rich beyond measure. Lu 12:32 "Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” and, Mt 6:33 "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
Father, guard my heart against envy. Godliness with contentment is great gain.
Pilate saw through the motives of the Jewish rulers for seeking the death penalty for Jesus. They were envious of His apparent acceptance by the people and of His increasing influence, which would spell doom for them and the cushy deal they had going for themselves.
The Bible warns us of this deadly emotion that often breaks out in a desire for the demise of the person you are envious of. Cain was envious of Abel. Joseph's brothers were envious of him. Saul was envious of David. See where unchecked envy leads? It leads to death!
Envy is a work of the flesh, the old nature yearns to be envious, and when we give in to it, and stay in it, we put our very salvation in jeopardy. Envyings are included in the list of damnable sins found in Ga 5. Ga 5:21 says, “Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”
It is vital to nip this sin in the bud! It was the sin that God warned Cain about, telling him that it was, “crouching at his door and that he should seek to rule over it.”
The way to rule over it is to remind yourself daily of your identity in Christ. As a child of the King you have no need to envy others, for you are rich beyond measure. Lu 12:32 "Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” and, Mt 6:33 "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
Father, guard my heart against envy. Godliness with contentment is great gain.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Don't Just Look At the Cross, Read It
# 733 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 15:9 But Pilate answered them, saying, "Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?"
Pilate, ever willing to lord it over the Jews, keeps pointing out what he viewed as their ridiculous notion that Jesus claimed to be a king. This man was certainly no king by Roman standards. So he refers to Jesus in a mocking manner here, calling Him “King of the Jews.”
It was Pilate who also ordered the inscription “King of the Jews” to be placed on the cross in three different languages, and I believe he did that so the world would know that the Romans believed that there is no king but Caesar. But even in his mockery, this pawn of God, (Pilate) would make the declaration, that this Jesus was, is, and always will be the King of the Jews!
Again a reminder, that all authorities are appointed by God and He uses them for His purposes! Furthermore, have you ever considered that those who have placed their trust in Jesus as their Lord and Savior are in effect “spiritual Jews?”
Paul addresses this in the Book of Romans and states in Rom 4:11, that Abraham (the father of the physical Jews) would be the “father of all those who believe”.
This declaration from the lips of Pilate comes from God, and we would do well to remember that, as believers, Jesus is our King!
And as our King we are subjects to Him and His Word.
Think about that, the next time you find yourself at the foot of the cross. He not only paid a horrific price to save you from your sins, but look up and read what was written about Him by the very finger of God through His pawn, Pilate!. “Jesus King of the Jews.”
Let's live our lives as if He were both Savior and King!
Pilate, ever willing to lord it over the Jews, keeps pointing out what he viewed as their ridiculous notion that Jesus claimed to be a king. This man was certainly no king by Roman standards. So he refers to Jesus in a mocking manner here, calling Him “King of the Jews.”
It was Pilate who also ordered the inscription “King of the Jews” to be placed on the cross in three different languages, and I believe he did that so the world would know that the Romans believed that there is no king but Caesar. But even in his mockery, this pawn of God, (Pilate) would make the declaration, that this Jesus was, is, and always will be the King of the Jews!
Again a reminder, that all authorities are appointed by God and He uses them for His purposes! Furthermore, have you ever considered that those who have placed their trust in Jesus as their Lord and Savior are in effect “spiritual Jews?”
Paul addresses this in the Book of Romans and states in Rom 4:11, that Abraham (the father of the physical Jews) would be the “father of all those who believe”.
This declaration from the lips of Pilate comes from God, and we would do well to remember that, as believers, Jesus is our King!
And as our King we are subjects to Him and His Word.
Think about that, the next time you find yourself at the foot of the cross. He not only paid a horrific price to save you from your sins, but look up and read what was written about Him by the very finger of God through His pawn, Pilate!. “Jesus King of the Jews.”
Let's live our lives as if He were both Savior and King!
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Who Would YOU Choose
# 732 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 15:6-8, “Now at the feast he was accustomed to releasing one prisoner to them, whomever they requested.
7 And there was one named Barabbas, who was chained with his fellow rebels; they had committed murder in the rebellion. 8 Then the multitude, crying aloud, began to ask him to do just as he had always done for them.
Reading from the other three gospels helps to get the full picture of what's going on here. Pilate has finished his interrogation of Jesus and finds no fault with Him and was willing to simply scourge Him and let Him go.
His wife was putting pressure on him to release Jesus because of a terrifying dream she had concerning Jesus. Pilate was looking for a graceful way out of this situation, and the annual custom of releasing a prisoner to the Jews on Passover seemed the best way to go.
And so he calls the people together and gives them a choice. Barabbas or Jesus. In his mind that was like saying, “Osama Bin Laden or Mother Theresa.”
Barabbas was a convicted murderer and robber, surely the crowd would choose Jesus over him. If you were these religious leaders, who would you choose? Someone who shared your own political views, (a hatred of Rome) or someone who has spent the past three years pointing out your hypocrisy?
To be honest, I'm afraid of my answer to that question.
I think rather, I need to learn from it. I think I need to always be on guard against hypocrisy of any form. I think I constantly need to be open to the correction of the Holy Spirit concerning any and all hypocrisy on my part.
Let's pray from Ps 139:24, Father, “see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.”
7 And there was one named Barabbas, who was chained with his fellow rebels; they had committed murder in the rebellion. 8 Then the multitude, crying aloud, began to ask him to do just as he had always done for them.
Reading from the other three gospels helps to get the full picture of what's going on here. Pilate has finished his interrogation of Jesus and finds no fault with Him and was willing to simply scourge Him and let Him go.
His wife was putting pressure on him to release Jesus because of a terrifying dream she had concerning Jesus. Pilate was looking for a graceful way out of this situation, and the annual custom of releasing a prisoner to the Jews on Passover seemed the best way to go.
And so he calls the people together and gives them a choice. Barabbas or Jesus. In his mind that was like saying, “Osama Bin Laden or Mother Theresa.”
Barabbas was a convicted murderer and robber, surely the crowd would choose Jesus over him. If you were these religious leaders, who would you choose? Someone who shared your own political views, (a hatred of Rome) or someone who has spent the past three years pointing out your hypocrisy?
To be honest, I'm afraid of my answer to that question.
I think rather, I need to learn from it. I think I need to always be on guard against hypocrisy of any form. I think I constantly need to be open to the correction of the Holy Spirit concerning any and all hypocrisy on my part.
Let's pray from Ps 139:24, Father, “see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.”
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Hold Your Peace
# 731 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 15:2 Then Pilate asked Him, "Are You the King of the Jews?" He answered and said to him, "It is as you say." 3 And the chief priests accused Him of many things, but He answered nothing. 4 Then Pilate asked Him again, saying, "Do You answer nothing? See how many things they testify against You!" 5 But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate marveled.
According to Luke 23:2, one of the charges the religious leaders mentioned to Pilate was that Jesus claimed to be the Christ, a king. This of course would get Pilates attention. (Can't have any king but Caesar you know.) So he takes Him inside the Praetorium and asks Him privately, “Are You the King of the Jews?” Jesus replied in the affirmative.
John provides further details of this conversation with Pilate, with the end result that Pilate took Jesus out to face the people again and to tell them that he found no guilt on Jesus' part.
In Pilate's opinion there was nothing kingly about this man, certainly nothing about the man that Rome needed to be concerned about!
The Jews then replied with one accusation after another concerning Jesus, and Jesus clammed up, fulfilling the prophecy of Isa 53:7, “so he openeth not his mouth.”
Look at the effect this had on Pilate! He “marveled.” The word means he “admired.” Maybe more people would admire Christ followers if we would learn to measure our responses to accusations against us more carefully. Maybe there is something to that passage in Ex 14:14 "The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace."
Sometimes I think we put a little too much emphasis on defending the faith and not enough on displaying it.
Father, grant us the wisdom to know when to speak and to know when to be silent.
According to Luke 23:2, one of the charges the religious leaders mentioned to Pilate was that Jesus claimed to be the Christ, a king. This of course would get Pilates attention. (Can't have any king but Caesar you know.) So he takes Him inside the Praetorium and asks Him privately, “Are You the King of the Jews?” Jesus replied in the affirmative.
John provides further details of this conversation with Pilate, with the end result that Pilate took Jesus out to face the people again and to tell them that he found no guilt on Jesus' part.
In Pilate's opinion there was nothing kingly about this man, certainly nothing about the man that Rome needed to be concerned about!
The Jews then replied with one accusation after another concerning Jesus, and Jesus clammed up, fulfilling the prophecy of Isa 53:7, “so he openeth not his mouth.”
Look at the effect this had on Pilate! He “marveled.” The word means he “admired.” Maybe more people would admire Christ followers if we would learn to measure our responses to accusations against us more carefully. Maybe there is something to that passage in Ex 14:14 "The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace."
Sometimes I think we put a little too much emphasis on defending the faith and not enough on displaying it.
Father, grant us the wisdom to know when to speak and to know when to be silent.
Friday, March 23, 2012
His Word Will Never Fail
# 730 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 15:1 Immediately, in the morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council; and they bound Jesus, led Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate.
The hurried proceedings of the night before, continue with a new sense of urgency in the morning. The rulers seem to be acting out of a sense of expediency, lest there be a riot, but let us not forget who is really in charge of the timing of this event. God's Lamb would die at the hour He chooses.
Joh 10:18 says, "No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father."
Make no mistake about it, these rulers are being pushed along by the Ruler of the Universe, who had prophesied this very event in Mr 10:33 "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death and deliver Him to the Gentiles;
Betrayed by Judas, turned over to the rulers, who in turn would turn Him over to the Gentiles. (Pilate). May these prophecies strengthen our trust in the infallible Word of God.
May they come to mind if we should ever doubt the sovereignty of God. He is perfectly faithful, and all powerful.........and so is His Word. He will never fail, and neither will His Word. Trust it! Believe it! Stake your eternal well-being on it!
Father, there is none like You, and nothing as faithful and trustworthy as Your Word.
The hurried proceedings of the night before, continue with a new sense of urgency in the morning. The rulers seem to be acting out of a sense of expediency, lest there be a riot, but let us not forget who is really in charge of the timing of this event. God's Lamb would die at the hour He chooses.
Joh 10:18 says, "No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father."
Make no mistake about it, these rulers are being pushed along by the Ruler of the Universe, who had prophesied this very event in Mr 10:33 "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death and deliver Him to the Gentiles;
Betrayed by Judas, turned over to the rulers, who in turn would turn Him over to the Gentiles. (Pilate). May these prophecies strengthen our trust in the infallible Word of God.
May they come to mind if we should ever doubt the sovereignty of God. He is perfectly faithful, and all powerful.........and so is His Word. He will never fail, and neither will His Word. Trust it! Believe it! Stake your eternal well-being on it!
Father, there is none like You, and nothing as faithful and trustworthy as Your Word.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
There Has Never Been A More Loving Glance
# 728 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:72 A second time the rooster crowed. Then Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, "Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times." And when he thought about it, he wept.
It wasn't just the rooster crowing that called the words of Jesus to mind. Luke tells us that at this very moment Jesus caught his eye. Most likely Jesus was being led out of the courtroom through the courtyard (where Peter was hanging out) to another place for safekeeping until further proceedings.
What was this moment like? Jesus not only caught Peter's eye, but Peter could also see Jesus and what his captors had done to His face with their closed fists of rage. Through the swollen face of Jesus His eyes still speak saying to Peter, “I know what you just did Peter. I told you it would happen and it did. You denied Me even while I was being mocked, punched in the face and spit upon. But even though I am hurting from the beating I took, I care enough to still take the time to look you in the eye.”
It is rightly understood that this look was not one of condemnation, but of love and forgiveness. In fact, I would venture to say that there has never been a more love filled glance recorded in all of history.
Friend, this look for Peter was meant just as much for you and I. How many times have we let Jesus down? How many times have we lived like we never heard of Him?
Let this moment for Peter be forever burned into our memory. And when we are reminded of our failures, yes, let us weep, but in our weeping, allow Him to gaze upon us with love and forgiveness. Let your tears be transformed from tears of sorrow to tears of joy! Jesus loves you. He forgives you!
Father, in the busyness of my life, help me to learn to slow down. Help me to pause and allow the gaze of Jesus to meet me where I am.
It wasn't just the rooster crowing that called the words of Jesus to mind. Luke tells us that at this very moment Jesus caught his eye. Most likely Jesus was being led out of the courtroom through the courtyard (where Peter was hanging out) to another place for safekeeping until further proceedings.
What was this moment like? Jesus not only caught Peter's eye, but Peter could also see Jesus and what his captors had done to His face with their closed fists of rage. Through the swollen face of Jesus His eyes still speak saying to Peter, “I know what you just did Peter. I told you it would happen and it did. You denied Me even while I was being mocked, punched in the face and spit upon. But even though I am hurting from the beating I took, I care enough to still take the time to look you in the eye.”
It is rightly understood that this look was not one of condemnation, but of love and forgiveness. In fact, I would venture to say that there has never been a more love filled glance recorded in all of history.
Friend, this look for Peter was meant just as much for you and I. How many times have we let Jesus down? How many times have we lived like we never heard of Him?
Let this moment for Peter be forever burned into our memory. And when we are reminded of our failures, yes, let us weep, but in our weeping, allow Him to gaze upon us with love and forgiveness. Let your tears be transformed from tears of sorrow to tears of joy! Jesus loves you. He forgives you!
Father, in the busyness of my life, help me to learn to slow down. Help me to pause and allow the gaze of Jesus to meet me where I am.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Fighting Besetting Sins
# 728 Today's Du-votional comes from Mr 14:69-71, “And the servant girl saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by, "This is one of them." 70 But he denied it again. And a little later those who stood by said to Peter again, "Surely you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, and your speech shows it." 71 Then he began to curse and swear, "I do not know this Man of whom you speak!"
Remember, Jesus had prophesied that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed twice. Peter had ducked away into the shadows, but the servant girl finds him and calls him out again. This time in his denial, he stoops as low as he can possibly go with a solemn oath to God that he does not know this Jesus or anything about Him.
Can there be any more grievous sin than this solemn oath? When I pause and consider what's going on here, I am reminded of the relentlessness of God.
Why was Peter put into these situations that caused him to sin repeatedly and grievously?
Because God was going to keep working on Peter until Peter got it.
Further, these situations were all an answer to the prayer of Jesus. Remember what He had told Peter? Lu 22:31 And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 "But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren."
Jesus was praying for the faith of Peter, and it was these denials that were ultimately going to culminate in the strengthening of his faith.
Do you find yourself mired down in besetting sins? Repeatedly disobeying God? There is hope for you as there was hope for Peter. Jesus is interceding for you. People are praying for you. They are praying that God will relentlessly pursue you as He pursued Peter. Peter eventually “got it” and so will you, if like Peter, you persevere. Don't give up! Keep your heart open to the possible restoration of Jesus.
Remember, Jesus had prophesied that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed twice. Peter had ducked away into the shadows, but the servant girl finds him and calls him out again. This time in his denial, he stoops as low as he can possibly go with a solemn oath to God that he does not know this Jesus or anything about Him.
Can there be any more grievous sin than this solemn oath? When I pause and consider what's going on here, I am reminded of the relentlessness of God.
Why was Peter put into these situations that caused him to sin repeatedly and grievously?
Because God was going to keep working on Peter until Peter got it.
Further, these situations were all an answer to the prayer of Jesus. Remember what He had told Peter? Lu 22:31 And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 "But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren."
Jesus was praying for the faith of Peter, and it was these denials that were ultimately going to culminate in the strengthening of his faith.
Do you find yourself mired down in besetting sins? Repeatedly disobeying God? There is hope for you as there was hope for Peter. Jesus is interceding for you. People are praying for you. They are praying that God will relentlessly pursue you as He pursued Peter. Peter eventually “got it” and so will you, if like Peter, you persevere. Don't give up! Keep your heart open to the possible restoration of Jesus.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Under the Watchful Eye of God
# 727 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:67 And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, "You also were with Jesus of Nazareth." 68 But he denied it, saying, "I neither know nor understand what you are saying." And he went out on the porch, and a rooster crowed.
Mr 14:67,68) It must've been very cold for Peter to stand near a warming fire. He was just asking to be identified by the light of the fire! Sure enough, a servant girl takes the time to look at him closely and identifies him as one of Jesus' disciples.
His response is interesting. He could've said, “I don't know what you're talking about,” that would be enough, but he says, “I don't know what you are talking about and I don't understand what you are talking about!”
This statement is Peter's way of saying, “ Who in the world is Jesus? I'm out of the loop, what are you talking about? This is all new to me!” He paints himself as the most apathetic person in Palestine, for most people have at least heard of Jesus! “I don't have time for this nonsense,” and he slinks away from the fire to the porch, it will be safer there away from inquisitive eyes.
Then the rooster crows!
I guess it's not so safe after all.
And again we're back to the folly of trying to hide a lie.
God sees, God knows, and wouldn't it be great if every time we heard a rooster crow, we would be reminded of that truth! The next time you hear the sound of rooster, don't think in terms of sunrise. Rather think in terms of another day under the watchful eye of an all-knowing God.
Mr 14:67,68) It must've been very cold for Peter to stand near a warming fire. He was just asking to be identified by the light of the fire! Sure enough, a servant girl takes the time to look at him closely and identifies him as one of Jesus' disciples.
His response is interesting. He could've said, “I don't know what you're talking about,” that would be enough, but he says, “I don't know what you are talking about and I don't understand what you are talking about!”
This statement is Peter's way of saying, “ Who in the world is Jesus? I'm out of the loop, what are you talking about? This is all new to me!” He paints himself as the most apathetic person in Palestine, for most people have at least heard of Jesus! “I don't have time for this nonsense,” and he slinks away from the fire to the porch, it will be safer there away from inquisitive eyes.
Then the rooster crows!
I guess it's not so safe after all.
And again we're back to the folly of trying to hide a lie.
God sees, God knows, and wouldn't it be great if every time we heard a rooster crow, we would be reminded of that truth! The next time you hear the sound of rooster, don't think in terms of sunrise. Rather think in terms of another day under the watchful eye of an all-knowing God.
Monday, March 19, 2012
The Vicious Circle of Lying
# 726 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:66 Now as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came. 67 And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, "You also were with Jesus of Nazareth." 68 But he denied it, saying, "I neither know nor understand what you are saying." And he went out on the porch, and a rooster crowed.
As we read the other gospel accounts of this incident, we know that Peter and John had managed to crash the proceedings. John apparently had higher connections and was allowed into the actual trial.
Peter had to stay outside, but John went out to the servant girl who was watching the gate and convinced the servant girl to let Peter into the courtyard.
His first denial actually took place as he entered the courtyard because the servant girl asked him at the door, “You also are not one of the man's disciples, are you?” And Peter replied, “I am not.” (Jn 18:17) With this simple denial, Peter was allowed in. (Not only into the courtyard, but into the circle of lying.)
As he warmed himself by the fire with other servants and the officers of the arresting party, another servant girl accuses him of being one of Jesus' disciples. He wasn't prepared for this challenge, and out of fear, denied the charge.
Quick lesson for all of us: Peter lied to get in, and now he would have to continue to lie to stay in. Isn't that the way of all lying?
No wonder Scripture tells us: Ps 120:2 Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips And from a deceitful tongue.
Pr 12:22 ¶ Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.
Mt 5:37 "But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.
There is no freedom in hiding under a lie, eventually you will have to lie again, and again, and again. Speak the truth, it sets you free.
As we read the other gospel accounts of this incident, we know that Peter and John had managed to crash the proceedings. John apparently had higher connections and was allowed into the actual trial.
Peter had to stay outside, but John went out to the servant girl who was watching the gate and convinced the servant girl to let Peter into the courtyard.
His first denial actually took place as he entered the courtyard because the servant girl asked him at the door, “You also are not one of the man's disciples, are you?” And Peter replied, “I am not.” (Jn 18:17) With this simple denial, Peter was allowed in. (Not only into the courtyard, but into the circle of lying.)
As he warmed himself by the fire with other servants and the officers of the arresting party, another servant girl accuses him of being one of Jesus' disciples. He wasn't prepared for this challenge, and out of fear, denied the charge.
Quick lesson for all of us: Peter lied to get in, and now he would have to continue to lie to stay in. Isn't that the way of all lying?
No wonder Scripture tells us: Ps 120:2 Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips And from a deceitful tongue.
Pr 12:22 ¶ Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.
Mt 5:37 "But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.
There is no freedom in hiding under a lie, eventually you will have to lie again, and again, and again. Speak the truth, it sets you free.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Taunting God
# 724 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:65 Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, "Prophesy!" And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands.
It wasn't enough that these religious leaders spit on the Son of God, next they begin to savagely . mock Him. They blindfold Jesus and taunt Him while beating Him with clenched fists.
The biblical commentator Lenski says, the taunting went even further, suggesting that they were in effect saying, “Who hit You Christ, and what are you gonna do about it!”
Can you imagine, God sitting there and taking that kind of abuse from those whom He created? Well He did. These people have absolutely denied that Jesus is God, and here's what we need to consider.
What are we doing every time we willfully sin against God? Aren't we doing the same thing? Aren't we taunting Him? Aren't we denying His lordship? Knowing something is wrong and willfully pushing on to do it is in effect saying, “What are you going to do bout it? And aren't we asking for a trip to the woodshed?
Ps 89:30 "If his sons forsake My law And do not walk in My judgments, 31 If they break My statutes And do not keep My commandments, 32 Then I will punish their transgression with the rod, And their iniquity with stripes. 33 Nevertheless My lovingkindness I will not utterly take from him, Nor allow My faithfulness to fail.
We offend our holy God with sin every single day! Nonetheless, He says, “nevertheless!” Here's what He says He will do about it, when we come to Him with a contrite heart. It may involve a trip to the woodshed but He says, “Just as I was willing to forgive these people, I am willing to forgive you. I love you so much I will even forgive your willful sins, if you turn to Me.
Father forgive my willful sins, have mercy on me. For Jesus sake. Amen
It wasn't enough that these religious leaders spit on the Son of God, next they begin to savagely . mock Him. They blindfold Jesus and taunt Him while beating Him with clenched fists.
The biblical commentator Lenski says, the taunting went even further, suggesting that they were in effect saying, “Who hit You Christ, and what are you gonna do about it!”
Can you imagine, God sitting there and taking that kind of abuse from those whom He created? Well He did. These people have absolutely denied that Jesus is God, and here's what we need to consider.
What are we doing every time we willfully sin against God? Aren't we doing the same thing? Aren't we taunting Him? Aren't we denying His lordship? Knowing something is wrong and willfully pushing on to do it is in effect saying, “What are you going to do bout it? And aren't we asking for a trip to the woodshed?
Ps 89:30 "If his sons forsake My law And do not walk in My judgments, 31 If they break My statutes And do not keep My commandments, 32 Then I will punish their transgression with the rod, And their iniquity with stripes. 33 Nevertheless My lovingkindness I will not utterly take from him, Nor allow My faithfulness to fail.
We offend our holy God with sin every single day! Nonetheless, He says, “nevertheless!” Here's what He says He will do about it, when we come to Him with a contrite heart. It may involve a trip to the woodshed but He says, “Just as I was willing to forgive these people, I am willing to forgive you. I love you so much I will even forgive your willful sins, if you turn to Me.
Father forgive my willful sins, have mercy on me. For Jesus sake. Amen
Taunting God
# 724 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:65 Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, "Prophesy!" And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands.
It wasn't enough that these religious leaders spit on the Son of God, next they begin to savagely . mock Him. They blindfold Jesus and taunt Him while beating Him with clenched fists.
The biblical commentator Lenski says, the taunting went even further, suggesting that they were in effect saying, “Who hit You Christ, and what are you gonna do about it!”
Can you imagine, God sitting there and taking that kind of abuse from those whom He created? Well He did. These people have absolutely denied that Jesus is God, and here's what we need to consider.
What are we doing every time we willfully sin against God? Aren't we doing the same thing? Aren't we taunting Him? Aren't we denying His lordship? Knowing something is wrong and willfully pushing on to do it is in effect saying, “What are you going to do bout it? And aren't we asking for a trip to the woodshed?
Ps 89:30 "If his sons forsake My law And do not walk in My judgments, 31 If they break My statutes And do not keep My commandments, 32 Then I will punish their transgression with the rod, And their iniquity with stripes. 33 Nevertheless My lovingkindness I will not utterly take from him, Nor allow My faithfulness to fail.
We offend our holy God with sin every single day! Nonetheless, He says, “nevertheless!” Here's what He says He will do about it, when we come to Him with a contrite heart. It may involve a trip to the woodshed but He says, “Just as I was willing to forgive these people, I am willing to forgive you. I love you so much I will even forgive your willful sins, if you turn to Me.
Father forgive my willful sins, have mercy on me. For Jesus sake. Amen
It wasn't enough that these religious leaders spit on the Son of God, next they begin to savagely . mock Him. They blindfold Jesus and taunt Him while beating Him with clenched fists.
The biblical commentator Lenski says, the taunting went even further, suggesting that they were in effect saying, “Who hit You Christ, and what are you gonna do about it!”
Can you imagine, God sitting there and taking that kind of abuse from those whom He created? Well He did. These people have absolutely denied that Jesus is God, and here's what we need to consider.
What are we doing every time we willfully sin against God? Aren't we doing the same thing? Aren't we taunting Him? Aren't we denying His lordship? Knowing something is wrong and willfully pushing on to do it is in effect saying, “What are you going to do bout it? And aren't we asking for a trip to the woodshed?
Ps 89:30 "If his sons forsake My law And do not walk in My judgments, 31 If they break My statutes And do not keep My commandments, 32 Then I will punish their transgression with the rod, And their iniquity with stripes. 33 Nevertheless My lovingkindness I will not utterly take from him, Nor allow My faithfulness to fail.
We offend our holy God with sin every single day! Nonetheless, He says, “nevertheless!” Here's what He says He will do about it, when we come to Him with a contrite heart. It may involve a trip to the woodshed but He says, “Just as I was willing to forgive these people, I am willing to forgive you. I love you so much I will even forgive your willful sins, if you turn to Me.
Father forgive my willful sins, have mercy on me. For Jesus sake. Amen
Saturday, March 17, 2012
An Extremely High Level of Contempt
# 724 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:65 Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, "Prophesy!" And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands.
Lest we forget, let's spend a little more time looking at this Scripture in order to understand more fully what the Son of God experienced on our behalf. Understand that at any time He could've put a stop to this maltreatment, but He didn't, because He loves you with an unfathomable love!
First of all these people purposefully strode up to Jesus, looked Him in the eye and in the greatest act of contempt, spit in His face.
Now if you know anything about the act of spitting, you know spit is a worthless discharge from your body that you must purposely work up in order to expel. This action shows an extremely high level of contempt for the person you spit on.
In 1996, in a moment of contempt for a bad call made by an umpire, Sandy Alomar spit in the umpire's face. He was subsequently suspended for five games for this act of contempt on an AUTHORITY figure. We don't put up with such behavior in our society, and here these religious rulers purposely spit on the FINAL AUTHORITY of the entire universe! The Son of God!
As a follower of Christ, contempt will come your way, it comes with the territory, “and you shall be hated for My sake,” (Mt 24:9) but in this passage we see once again that Jesus has been there, done that, and has given us an example to follow.
Father, forgive them, they do not realize whom they are spitting on.
Lest we forget, let's spend a little more time looking at this Scripture in order to understand more fully what the Son of God experienced on our behalf. Understand that at any time He could've put a stop to this maltreatment, but He didn't, because He loves you with an unfathomable love!
First of all these people purposefully strode up to Jesus, looked Him in the eye and in the greatest act of contempt, spit in His face.
Now if you know anything about the act of spitting, you know spit is a worthless discharge from your body that you must purposely work up in order to expel. This action shows an extremely high level of contempt for the person you spit on.
In 1996, in a moment of contempt for a bad call made by an umpire, Sandy Alomar spit in the umpire's face. He was subsequently suspended for five games for this act of contempt on an AUTHORITY figure. We don't put up with such behavior in our society, and here these religious rulers purposely spit on the FINAL AUTHORITY of the entire universe! The Son of God!
As a follower of Christ, contempt will come your way, it comes with the territory, “and you shall be hated for My sake,” (Mt 24:9) but in this passage we see once again that Jesus has been there, done that, and has given us an example to follow.
Father, forgive them, they do not realize whom they are spitting on.
Friday, March 16, 2012
The Depravity of Man
# 723 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:65 Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, "Prophesy!" And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands.
These were religious men! Men who professed a belief in God! They were highly esteemed and held positions of respect, and in a matter of mere seconds, they turn into savages. Do you understand how near this kind of savagery is to you and I? Do you really understand what we are capable of without the restraint of God?
We read the paper and see it on the news all the time, and we ask, “How can someone do these things to another human being?” Well, without the restraint of God, we are just as capable of such savagery.
Jer 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?”
Thank God for His grace in your life, for without His divine influence, we would all be living like the children in Lord of the Flies.
'Read Romans 1:18-32, and see what happens when God pulls back on His mercy and grace. Three times in these passages from Romans, we read that “God gave them up,” In other words He backed off with His mercy and grace and let them reap the fruit of living without it.
What a chilling thought! What a scary scenario! One that appears to be playing out more and more in our land today. Like I said, just read the newspaper. It isn't very pretty is it? Well, neither was this savage treatment of Jesus.
But we are all capable of it! Know this. Respect this. And at all costs, guard your relationship with Jesus. Ever thankful for His presence and grace in your life.
Father, than You for Your protection, thank You for Your restraint of evil.
These were religious men! Men who professed a belief in God! They were highly esteemed and held positions of respect, and in a matter of mere seconds, they turn into savages. Do you understand how near this kind of savagery is to you and I? Do you really understand what we are capable of without the restraint of God?
We read the paper and see it on the news all the time, and we ask, “How can someone do these things to another human being?” Well, without the restraint of God, we are just as capable of such savagery.
Jer 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?”
Thank God for His grace in your life, for without His divine influence, we would all be living like the children in Lord of the Flies.
'Read Romans 1:18-32, and see what happens when God pulls back on His mercy and grace. Three times in these passages from Romans, we read that “God gave them up,” In other words He backed off with His mercy and grace and let them reap the fruit of living without it.
What a chilling thought! What a scary scenario! One that appears to be playing out more and more in our land today. Like I said, just read the newspaper. It isn't very pretty is it? Well, neither was this savage treatment of Jesus.
But we are all capable of it! Know this. Respect this. And at all costs, guard your relationship with Jesus. Ever thankful for His presence and grace in your life.
Father, than You for Your protection, thank You for Your restraint of evil.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
An Affront To God
# 722 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:63 Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, "What further need do we have of witnesses? 64 "You have heard the blasphemy! What do you think?" And they all condemned Him to be deserving of death.
In dramatic fashion, Caiaphas tears his clothing. This was an outward sign of someone who has been greatly affronted. In the Old Testament, when Ezra was told that the people had not separated themselves from the abominations of the heathen, it was an affront to him and he tore his clothing.
When Jesus swore that He was the Christ, this was an affront to Caiaphas and the rest of the council, so he tore his clothing, and they unanimously agreed that Jesus was deserving of death. Le 24:16 says, 'And whoever blasphemes the name of the LORD shall surely be put to death. All the congregation shall certainly stone him, the stranger as well as him who is born in the land. When he blasphemes the name of the LORD, he shall be put to death”
If Jesus was not the Christ, then He deserved to die.
But He is!
It's interesting to note that when Jesus died, the Temple curtain was torn in two. In a sense, that temple curtain was like an outer garment of God and in tearing it we receive a double message.
First of all, because of the death of Jesus, we now have access to the holy of holies. We have access to God. Secondly this access came at great price to the Son of God, and for us to seek peace with God through any other way than Jesus is an affront to Him.
He is the way, the truth , and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Him (Jn 14:6)
In dramatic fashion, Caiaphas tears his clothing. This was an outward sign of someone who has been greatly affronted. In the Old Testament, when Ezra was told that the people had not separated themselves from the abominations of the heathen, it was an affront to him and he tore his clothing.
When Jesus swore that He was the Christ, this was an affront to Caiaphas and the rest of the council, so he tore his clothing, and they unanimously agreed that Jesus was deserving of death. Le 24:16 says, 'And whoever blasphemes the name of the LORD shall surely be put to death. All the congregation shall certainly stone him, the stranger as well as him who is born in the land. When he blasphemes the name of the LORD, he shall be put to death”
If Jesus was not the Christ, then He deserved to die.
But He is!
It's interesting to note that when Jesus died, the Temple curtain was torn in two. In a sense, that temple curtain was like an outer garment of God and in tearing it we receive a double message.
First of all, because of the death of Jesus, we now have access to the holy of holies. We have access to God. Secondly this access came at great price to the Son of God, and for us to seek peace with God through any other way than Jesus is an affront to Him.
He is the way, the truth , and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Him (Jn 14:6)
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
It Won't Be On the Soft Clouds of Charmin Tissue
# 721 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:62 Jesus said, "I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven."
God need not swear to anybody, but Jesus in His humanity does take an oath before the high priest. When we take an oath in court, we typically raise our right hand and swear to tell the truth. Jesus doesn't raise His right hand to take this oath, but He brings it into His oath.
He first of all swears to Caiaphas that He is indeed the Christ, and then He swears that HIS right hand will be the hand of the Power of God, that Caiaphas and the others in this council will witness in the days ahead.
Think of the displays of power that would occur in the next 72 hours! Darkness, earthquakes, the temple curtain torn in two (try to explain that one Caiaphas!) the dead walking around Jerusalem, and of course the greatest display of power....namely the empty tomb, and Jesus Himself walking around Jerusalem!)
This same, unrepentant Jerusalem, would taste firsthand of the power of God in the clouds. (Clouds are associated with God's Judgment) and the cloud fell upon Jerusalem in 70 A.D. when it was utterly destroyed.
This destruction should ever serve as a warning to all unrepentant, for on still another Day Jesus will return “with the clouds” “and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of Him” Rev 1:7
They will wail because they, like Caiaphas, rejected the Son of God. “ Lu 9:26 "For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels.
When Jesus comes again it won't be on the soft clouds of Charmin Tissue, it'll be clouds of Judgment. Lord, have mercy that we might be found ready.
God need not swear to anybody, but Jesus in His humanity does take an oath before the high priest. When we take an oath in court, we typically raise our right hand and swear to tell the truth. Jesus doesn't raise His right hand to take this oath, but He brings it into His oath.
He first of all swears to Caiaphas that He is indeed the Christ, and then He swears that HIS right hand will be the hand of the Power of God, that Caiaphas and the others in this council will witness in the days ahead.
Think of the displays of power that would occur in the next 72 hours! Darkness, earthquakes, the temple curtain torn in two (try to explain that one Caiaphas!) the dead walking around Jerusalem, and of course the greatest display of power....namely the empty tomb, and Jesus Himself walking around Jerusalem!)
This same, unrepentant Jerusalem, would taste firsthand of the power of God in the clouds. (Clouds are associated with God's Judgment) and the cloud fell upon Jerusalem in 70 A.D. when it was utterly destroyed.
This destruction should ever serve as a warning to all unrepentant, for on still another Day Jesus will return “with the clouds” “and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of Him” Rev 1:7
They will wail because they, like Caiaphas, rejected the Son of God. “ Lu 9:26 "For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels.
When Jesus comes again it won't be on the soft clouds of Charmin Tissue, it'll be clouds of Judgment. Lord, have mercy that we might be found ready.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
A Message For the Electorate and the Elected
# 720 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:62 Jesus said, "I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven."
In Matthew's account of this incident we learn that Jesus was put under oath. To quote Caiaphas, “I adjure You by the living God, tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God.”
First of all note that Jesus in His humanness, submits to these authorities. Even though they were abusing their authority, He submits! Now there's and example we could all learn from!
Ro 13:1 says, “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.”
That means that Governor Scott Walker was appointed by God. President Obama. also, appointed by God! Both men in position of authority. Both men appointed by God!
In our form of government in the United States, God has given us means to deal with any form of unjust government, and we certainly should use them, just as Paul used legal channels for his appeal, but open rebellion is out of the question, unless the government makes us choose between obeying them rather than God.
It is equally important for those in office to remember that any abuse of their God-given authority will be dealt with by the One who put them in office in the first place.
To constituents I say, submit. To office holders I say, stop fearing the electorate, stop pandering to the lobbyists, rather fear God, and pander to Him. Govern justly!
Just imagine if every officeholder in the land would grasp this and start to govern as if having to answer to God rather than men!
Father, let us learn to be submissive and grant us rulers who rule justly.
In Matthew's account of this incident we learn that Jesus was put under oath. To quote Caiaphas, “I adjure You by the living God, tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God.”
First of all note that Jesus in His humanness, submits to these authorities. Even though they were abusing their authority, He submits! Now there's and example we could all learn from!
Ro 13:1 says, “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.”
That means that Governor Scott Walker was appointed by God. President Obama. also, appointed by God! Both men in position of authority. Both men appointed by God!
In our form of government in the United States, God has given us means to deal with any form of unjust government, and we certainly should use them, just as Paul used legal channels for his appeal, but open rebellion is out of the question, unless the government makes us choose between obeying them rather than God.
It is equally important for those in office to remember that any abuse of their God-given authority will be dealt with by the One who put them in office in the first place.
To constituents I say, submit. To office holders I say, stop fearing the electorate, stop pandering to the lobbyists, rather fear God, and pander to Him. Govern justly!
Just imagine if every officeholder in the land would grasp this and start to govern as if having to answer to God rather than men!
Father, let us learn to be submissive and grant us rulers who rule justly.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Placing Jesus Before Them
# 719 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:60,61, “And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, saying, "Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?" 61 But He kept silent and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked Him, saying to Him, "Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?"
Jesus has stood and listened to one ridiculous accusation after another, not one of them even worthy of a response. The high priest was completely exasperated, and probably embarrassed by the whole proceedings. So he blurts out a very damning question, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?”
The word “blessed” here means the one worthy of praise. Since there is only One worthy of praise. He is asking Jesus if He is the Son of God! The damning aspect of this question is that in asking it, these religious leaders admit that such a person would come.
Though they used the question to damn Jesus, they were in effect damning themselves, because this very Son of the Blessed was standing before them, but they refused to believe it.
How many today have done the same thing. God is placed before them in Creation: as is stated in Ro 1:20, “Ever since the creation of the world his invisible nature, namely, his eternal power and deity, has been clearly perceived in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse;”
And Jesus (the only way to God) is placed before them by His church, through the proclamation of His Word, the administering of the Sacraments, and the evidence of changed lives that shows up in love for one another.
Joh 13:35 "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
Yet, He is denied, we can't do much about nature, but maybe we could do a better job of placing Jesus before the eyes of a dying world. It starts with genuine love for Him, His Word, and for one another.
Jesus has stood and listened to one ridiculous accusation after another, not one of them even worthy of a response. The high priest was completely exasperated, and probably embarrassed by the whole proceedings. So he blurts out a very damning question, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?”
The word “blessed” here means the one worthy of praise. Since there is only One worthy of praise. He is asking Jesus if He is the Son of God! The damning aspect of this question is that in asking it, these religious leaders admit that such a person would come.
Though they used the question to damn Jesus, they were in effect damning themselves, because this very Son of the Blessed was standing before them, but they refused to believe it.
How many today have done the same thing. God is placed before them in Creation: as is stated in Ro 1:20, “Ever since the creation of the world his invisible nature, namely, his eternal power and deity, has been clearly perceived in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse;”
And Jesus (the only way to God) is placed before them by His church, through the proclamation of His Word, the administering of the Sacraments, and the evidence of changed lives that shows up in love for one another.
Joh 13:35 "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
Yet, He is denied, we can't do much about nature, but maybe we could do a better job of placing Jesus before the eyes of a dying world. It starts with genuine love for Him, His Word, and for one another.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Further Proof of the Reliability of God's Word
# 718 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:55-59) Now the chief priests and all the council sought testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none.
56 For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies did not agree.
57 Then some rose up and bore false witness against Him, saying, 58 "We heard Him say, 'I will destroy this temple made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.'" 59 But not even then did their testimony agree.
What a sham trial. It's the middle of the night, but even so, you'd think they knew the arrest was going down and they would've been a little more prepared.
Witnesses should have been briefed beforehand to make sure their stories corroborated, but they couldn't find two witnesses who agreed on anything! And when they do find two, even their stories were not aligned closely enough to produce a charge against Jesus.
But why all this to do about false witnesses? Because once again we see the sure prophetic word being borne out. These false witnesses were accurately predicted by the Psalmist years before the actual event. Ps 35:11 says, “False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things that I knew not.”
These events are still another example of fulfilled prophecy that prove the truthfulness of God's Word, and this proof will strengthen the faith of those willing to receive it.
Father, thank You for this reminder of the trustworthiness of Your Word. May it strengthen the faith of all who hear it today.
56 For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies did not agree.
57 Then some rose up and bore false witness against Him, saying, 58 "We heard Him say, 'I will destroy this temple made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.'" 59 But not even then did their testimony agree.
What a sham trial. It's the middle of the night, but even so, you'd think they knew the arrest was going down and they would've been a little more prepared.
Witnesses should have been briefed beforehand to make sure their stories corroborated, but they couldn't find two witnesses who agreed on anything! And when they do find two, even their stories were not aligned closely enough to produce a charge against Jesus.
But why all this to do about false witnesses? Because once again we see the sure prophetic word being borne out. These false witnesses were accurately predicted by the Psalmist years before the actual event. Ps 35:11 says, “False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things that I knew not.”
These events are still another example of fulfilled prophecy that prove the truthfulness of God's Word, and this proof will strengthen the faith of those willing to receive it.
Father, thank You for this reminder of the trustworthiness of Your Word. May it strengthen the faith of all who hear it today.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
God Is In Control
# 714 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:53,54, “And they led Jesus away to the high priest; and with him were assembled all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes. 54 But Peter followed Him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he sat with the servants and warmed himself at the fire..
Both Mark and Matthew skip the preliminary judicial examination by Annas and pick up the action with the main trial before the Sanhedrin. By the way, it was illegal for such a trial to be held in this hour, but by now this group was not going to be stopped by mere legal complications. This was the opportunity that they have been waiting for and this matter would be better dealt with in the middle of the night.
All the disciples had fled after the incident in the Garden, but Peter and John had second thoughts and turned around and followed Jesus. According to John's Gospel, John was actually allowed into the proceedings because of his connections with the high priest, Peter, on the other hand had to wait outside with the servants.
All of this is recorded for us that we might know that God is in control of the situation. Think about it. An unheard of night-time trial, and the presence of Peter in the courtyard, (giving him the opportunity to deny Jesus) all unfolding in response to God's prophetic Word. The timing of Jesus death, and even the denial, by Peter is happening just as God said it would.
Thank You again Father, for Your sure prophetic Word, and the reminder again of Your Sovereignty.
Both Mark and Matthew skip the preliminary judicial examination by Annas and pick up the action with the main trial before the Sanhedrin. By the way, it was illegal for such a trial to be held in this hour, but by now this group was not going to be stopped by mere legal complications. This was the opportunity that they have been waiting for and this matter would be better dealt with in the middle of the night.
All the disciples had fled after the incident in the Garden, but Peter and John had second thoughts and turned around and followed Jesus. According to John's Gospel, John was actually allowed into the proceedings because of his connections with the high priest, Peter, on the other hand had to wait outside with the servants.
All of this is recorded for us that we might know that God is in control of the situation. Think about it. An unheard of night-time trial, and the presence of Peter in the courtyard, (giving him the opportunity to deny Jesus) all unfolding in response to God's prophetic Word. The timing of Jesus death, and even the denial, by Peter is happening just as God said it would.
Thank You again Father, for Your sure prophetic Word, and the reminder again of Your Sovereignty.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Who's the Streaker?
# 716 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:50-52, “Then they all forsook Him and fled. 51 Now a certain young man followed Him, having a linen cloth thrown around his naked body. And the young men laid hold of him, 52 and he left the linen cloth and fled from them naked.”
Who was this “certain” young man, and why is this incident only included in the Gospel of Mark? First of all, when you see the phrase “certain man” in Scripture, know that this is not a chance happening, and the happening is included in Scripture for a reason.
Scripture never clearly identifies who this “certain man” was, but I am inclined to agree with those who say it was the author of this gospel....Mark.
The Holy Spirit wants to bring Mark into the story here for a reason. I believe that reason is to clear Marks name concerning events that occurred in the Book of Acts that many used to question the courage of Mark.
More importantly, I believe this incident is included in Mark as a fulfillment of prophecy found in Am 2:16 “The most courageous men of might Shall flee naked in that day," Says the LORD.” This was “that day,” and this was “courageous” Mark.
Yes he would later depart from Saul and Barnabas on a missionary journey, but we aren't told why. He had an untold reason to go back to Jerusalem and it doesn't seem that it could be blamed on a lack of courage. He proved his courage on this night in Gethsemane! He proved it again when he hit the missionary trail with Barnabas, and later on when he reconnected with Paul..
Father, would that we all had the courage and dedication of Mark, and may we also learn again of Your unfailing Word through the detailed fulfillment of this prophecy.
Who was this “certain” young man, and why is this incident only included in the Gospel of Mark? First of all, when you see the phrase “certain man” in Scripture, know that this is not a chance happening, and the happening is included in Scripture for a reason.
Scripture never clearly identifies who this “certain man” was, but I am inclined to agree with those who say it was the author of this gospel....Mark.
The Holy Spirit wants to bring Mark into the story here for a reason. I believe that reason is to clear Marks name concerning events that occurred in the Book of Acts that many used to question the courage of Mark.
More importantly, I believe this incident is included in Mark as a fulfillment of prophecy found in Am 2:16 “The most courageous men of might Shall flee naked in that day," Says the LORD.” This was “that day,” and this was “courageous” Mark.
Yes he would later depart from Saul and Barnabas on a missionary journey, but we aren't told why. He had an untold reason to go back to Jerusalem and it doesn't seem that it could be blamed on a lack of courage. He proved his courage on this night in Gethsemane! He proved it again when he hit the missionary trail with Barnabas, and later on when he reconnected with Paul..
Father, would that we all had the courage and dedication of Mark, and may we also learn again of Your unfailing Word through the detailed fulfillment of this prophecy.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
His Relentless Pursuit
# 714 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:48-50, “Then Jesus answered and said to them, "Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? 49 "I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize Me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled." 50 Then they all forsook Him and fled.
Okay, what's happened so far? When the arresting party came, and Jesus asked, “Who do you seek?” and they replied, “Jesus of Nazareth,” He said “I am He.” and immediately they were all knocked on their butts.
Then Peter slices off Malchus' ear with his sword, and Jesus immediately heals it. Now Jesus asks them to consider again whom they are dealing with. I find it amazing that the arresting party didn't fill their Roman armor and flee after these incidents!
“Do you guys really know who you are dealing with? “Does what you have just witnessed put Me in the category of an ordinary robber? Why didn't you arrest me when I was in the temple?” “You tried but you couldn't because I Am He!”
Oh, listen to Jesus as He keeps trying to reach these people.
He says, “can't you see? God is behind all this!” And I am only allowing this, indeed, I am orchestrating it! It's the only reason, My disciples beat feet and you (the mob) didn't! The Scriptures must be fulfilled!”
God was orchestrating it all.
Learn from this beloved, and turn to Jesus, and the Scriptures, because He is trying to reach you as well. He orchestrated everything about His life, death, and resurrection, that you and I might live.
Father, thank You for supplying more evidence of Your heart for the lost. Thank You for Your relentless love and pursuit of sinners like me.
Okay, what's happened so far? When the arresting party came, and Jesus asked, “Who do you seek?” and they replied, “Jesus of Nazareth,” He said “I am He.” and immediately they were all knocked on their butts.
Then Peter slices off Malchus' ear with his sword, and Jesus immediately heals it. Now Jesus asks them to consider again whom they are dealing with. I find it amazing that the arresting party didn't fill their Roman armor and flee after these incidents!
“Do you guys really know who you are dealing with? “Does what you have just witnessed put Me in the category of an ordinary robber? Why didn't you arrest me when I was in the temple?” “You tried but you couldn't because I Am He!”
Oh, listen to Jesus as He keeps trying to reach these people.
He says, “can't you see? God is behind all this!” And I am only allowing this, indeed, I am orchestrating it! It's the only reason, My disciples beat feet and you (the mob) didn't! The Scriptures must be fulfilled!”
God was orchestrating it all.
Learn from this beloved, and turn to Jesus, and the Scriptures, because He is trying to reach you as well. He orchestrated everything about His life, death, and resurrection, that you and I might live.
Father, thank You for supplying more evidence of Your heart for the lost. Thank You for Your relentless love and pursuit of sinners like me.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Conquering With Sheer Holiness
# 714 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:46,47 Then they laid their hands on Him and took Him. And one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.
Mark affirms this incident of the use of the sword, but he chooses to leave out all the details. Let's fill you in with some of those details. We know from Luke 22:38. that the eleven disciples had taken two swords from the upper room with them.
Luke also tells us that when the disciples figured out what was going down, they asked Jesus if they should defend Him with their swords, “Lord shall we strike with the sword?” (Lu 22:49) but one of them didn't wait for an answer, he pulled out his sword and aiming for the skull of the servant of the high priest, he missed and cut off his ear.
John tells us that it was Peter who started swinging and even identifies the servant as Malchus. Luke also informs us that Jesus miraculously and immediately touched the ear of Malcus and healed Him, then sternly told His disciples, “No more of this.”
You know what? These eleven were braver than we give them credit for. Two swords against these Roman soldiers, and the rest of the mob? Are you kidding me?
Yes they were brave, but a little slow in understanding. For John also tells that before the swords came out Jesus had knocked the entire arresting party on their keesters, by simply saying, “I Am He.”. . “When Jesus said to them, I am He, they drew back and fell to the ground.” (Jn 18:6)
The disciples didn't understand yet that Jesus conquers with His sheer holiness and the sword of the Spirit, (the Word) not the swords of men.
Father, teach us to wield the sword of Your Word, that souls may be conquered for Christ.
Mark affirms this incident of the use of the sword, but he chooses to leave out all the details. Let's fill you in with some of those details. We know from Luke 22:38. that the eleven disciples had taken two swords from the upper room with them.
Luke also tells us that when the disciples figured out what was going down, they asked Jesus if they should defend Him with their swords, “Lord shall we strike with the sword?” (Lu 22:49) but one of them didn't wait for an answer, he pulled out his sword and aiming for the skull of the servant of the high priest, he missed and cut off his ear.
John tells us that it was Peter who started swinging and even identifies the servant as Malchus. Luke also informs us that Jesus miraculously and immediately touched the ear of Malcus and healed Him, then sternly told His disciples, “No more of this.”
You know what? These eleven were braver than we give them credit for. Two swords against these Roman soldiers, and the rest of the mob? Are you kidding me?
Yes they were brave, but a little slow in understanding. For John also tells that before the swords came out Jesus had knocked the entire arresting party on their keesters, by simply saying, “I Am He.”. . “When Jesus said to them, I am He, they drew back and fell to the ground.” (Jn 18:6)
The disciples didn't understand yet that Jesus conquers with His sheer holiness and the sword of the Spirit, (the Word) not the swords of men.
Father, teach us to wield the sword of Your Word, that souls may be conquered for Christ.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Is He Just A Great Teacher?
# 713 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:45 As soon as He had come, immediately he went up to Him and said to Him, "Rabbi, Rabbi!" and kissed Him.
“Rabbi, Rabbi” The conversion of Judas to the camp of the devil is complete. One “Rabbi” would be enough here, but the repeating of the term is included for emphasis. The word “Rabbi” means teacher, and in saying, “teacher, teacher, Judas has not only betrayed Jesus, but he has also betrayed his true faith. Judas no longer considers Jesus as God, but merely a great teacher.
Remember when Jesus asked His disciples who they believed He was, and Peter replied, “the Christ, the Son of the Living God?” Well Judas' response to that question has become, “You are a great teacher and nothing more.”
In this day and age of easy believism and that “all roads lead to heaven” mindset, we would do well to pay attention to this passage. Do you believe that you and others are saved simply because you try to adhere to the teachings of Jesus? Then you are in trouble my friend. You are seeing Jesus as only Rabbi, Rabbi. Pray that God will give you a change of heart.
Joh 14:6 says, “ Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” It's not what you do, it's what Jesus has done
And Ro 10:9 says. “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
He must be confessed (agreed upon) as Lord of your life and Savior of your soul, not just Teacher!
Father, let me ever lean upon Jesus alone, grace alone, for my salvation.
“Rabbi, Rabbi” The conversion of Judas to the camp of the devil is complete. One “Rabbi” would be enough here, but the repeating of the term is included for emphasis. The word “Rabbi” means teacher, and in saying, “teacher, teacher, Judas has not only betrayed Jesus, but he has also betrayed his true faith. Judas no longer considers Jesus as God, but merely a great teacher.
Remember when Jesus asked His disciples who they believed He was, and Peter replied, “the Christ, the Son of the Living God?” Well Judas' response to that question has become, “You are a great teacher and nothing more.”
In this day and age of easy believism and that “all roads lead to heaven” mindset, we would do well to pay attention to this passage. Do you believe that you and others are saved simply because you try to adhere to the teachings of Jesus? Then you are in trouble my friend. You are seeing Jesus as only Rabbi, Rabbi. Pray that God will give you a change of heart.
Joh 14:6 says, “ Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” It's not what you do, it's what Jesus has done
And Ro 10:9 says. “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
He must be confessed (agreed upon) as Lord of your life and Savior of your soul, not just Teacher!
Father, let me ever lean upon Jesus alone, grace alone, for my salvation.
Monday, March 5, 2012
The Most Painful Smiting Ever
# 712 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:43 And immediately, while He was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44 Now His betrayer had given them a signal, saying, "Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him and lead Him away safely."
Judas arrives with the sword carrying soldiers, and the billy club carrying temple police, and a throng of ambulance chasers. John adds the fact that they were also carrying torches. Sounds like a lynch mob to me, and if we put ourselves in the shoes of the disciples, it must've been a fairly frightening experience.
Judas is necessary here for the fulfillment of prophecy, and he knew the likely location of Jesus and His disciples. He is the paid leader, the informant if you will and naturally would be in the lead as they approached Christ. The Roman police wouldn't necessarily know who Jesus was and so it was necessary for Judas to identify Him, and he does so with a most unusual gesture. He kisses Him.
Let the words, “whomever I kiss,” sink in for a while. Think of the years that Judas spent with Jesus, and consider that exact moment of time when He kissed Jesus on the cheek.
I am reminded of the words of Jesus found in Mt 5:39, “But I say unto you, not to resist evil; but whoever shall strike thee on thy right cheek, turn to him also the other;” Has there ever been a more painful smiting of the cheek, than this kiss of betrayal?
Yet Jesus offered His cheek, He received the most painful of all smitings. The betrayal of a close loved one. Yet, He did not retaliate, let us learn to do the same. And when we struggle with forgiveness, ask for Jesus' help. He has been there and done that and can help you through your struggles as well.
Judas arrives with the sword carrying soldiers, and the billy club carrying temple police, and a throng of ambulance chasers. John adds the fact that they were also carrying torches. Sounds like a lynch mob to me, and if we put ourselves in the shoes of the disciples, it must've been a fairly frightening experience.
Judas is necessary here for the fulfillment of prophecy, and he knew the likely location of Jesus and His disciples. He is the paid leader, the informant if you will and naturally would be in the lead as they approached Christ. The Roman police wouldn't necessarily know who Jesus was and so it was necessary for Judas to identify Him, and he does so with a most unusual gesture. He kisses Him.
Let the words, “whomever I kiss,” sink in for a while. Think of the years that Judas spent with Jesus, and consider that exact moment of time when He kissed Jesus on the cheek.
I am reminded of the words of Jesus found in Mt 5:39, “But I say unto you, not to resist evil; but whoever shall strike thee on thy right cheek, turn to him also the other;” Has there ever been a more painful smiting of the cheek, than this kiss of betrayal?
Yet Jesus offered His cheek, He received the most painful of all smitings. The betrayal of a close loved one. Yet, He did not retaliate, let us learn to do the same. And when we struggle with forgiveness, ask for Jesus' help. He has been there and done that and can help you through your struggles as well.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
God's Perfect Timing
# 711 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:41b-43, “The hour has come; behold, the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 "Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand." 43 And immediately, while He was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders.
This was not the first time these leaders had sought the arrest of Jesus. In Jn 7:30 we read, “Then they sought to take him: but no man laid hands on him, because his hour was not yet come.”
Well, guess what, now, here in the garden, His hour had come. It was God's timing that mattered, not the timing of the religious leaders of the day. And as the arresting party comes to the entrance of the Garden Jesus singles out Judas as His betrayer.
Why single out Judas here? Because it was going to be necessary for the disciples to remember this incident later on. It was this incident that the Holy Spirit would use to trigger the action of the Apostles to find a replacement for Judas.
In Ac 1:16 we read, "Men and brethren, this Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus;”
What was going on here? Peter recalled that Judas had become the guide to those who arrested Jesus. The Holy Spirit brought the incident to Peter's mind and this caused the disciples to see the necessity of choosing a replacement according to the OT prophecies. “ may another take his office “ (Ps 109:8)
Why was this replacement important? Because twelve is the number of the church, and it wouldn't do to have a partial Pentecost on eleven. The Holy Spirit was to be given to the whole church. Look what happened!
Once the twelfth Apostle was in place, the NT church was ready for the gifting of the Holy Spirit, and that's exactly what occurred on Pentecost. Once again we see God's sovereignty, in action through His perfect timing.
This was not the first time these leaders had sought the arrest of Jesus. In Jn 7:30 we read, “Then they sought to take him: but no man laid hands on him, because his hour was not yet come.”
Well, guess what, now, here in the garden, His hour had come. It was God's timing that mattered, not the timing of the religious leaders of the day. And as the arresting party comes to the entrance of the Garden Jesus singles out Judas as His betrayer.
Why single out Judas here? Because it was going to be necessary for the disciples to remember this incident later on. It was this incident that the Holy Spirit would use to trigger the action of the Apostles to find a replacement for Judas.
In Ac 1:16 we read, "Men and brethren, this Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus;”
What was going on here? Peter recalled that Judas had become the guide to those who arrested Jesus. The Holy Spirit brought the incident to Peter's mind and this caused the disciples to see the necessity of choosing a replacement according to the OT prophecies. “ may another take his office “ (Ps 109:8)
Why was this replacement important? Because twelve is the number of the church, and it wouldn't do to have a partial Pentecost on eleven. The Holy Spirit was to be given to the whole church. Look what happened!
Once the twelfth Apostle was in place, the NT church was ready for the gifting of the Holy Spirit, and that's exactly what occurred on Pentecost. Once again we see God's sovereignty, in action through His perfect timing.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Spiritual Slumber
# 711 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:40-41, “And when He returned, He found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy; and they did not know what to answer Him. 41 Then He came the third time and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? It is enough! The hour has come; behold, the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners.”
Have you ever fallen asleep while someone is speaking to you? I know I have, and as a pastor, I know I have put a few people to sleep in my time as well. Sleep happens! And sometimes, important words from the pulpit or from a loved one are missed because a kind of stupor takes over our mind and eyes, and we nod off.
Don't beat yourself up about it. Sleep happens and sometimes it happens at inopportune times. Remember Eutychus? He dropped off to sleep as the Apostle Paul preached, literally dropping three stories to his death, only to be miraculously raised by Paul.(Acts 20:8-10)
No amount of “want to” can stave off sleep, but it can be dangerous, like falling off a balcony, or the modern day problem of dozing off and driving into a ditch, or worse! A word of caution here, whenever you feel drowsy behind the wheel, pull over somewhere and catch a nap, get reinvigorated before hitting the road again.
But let's talk about spiritual drowsiness! Spiritual sleep is also very dangerous. Pr 6:10, 11 says, “A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to sleep-
11 So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, And your need like an armed man.”
Sometimes we doze off in our spiritual lives and find ourselves in a spiritual ditch where we get “roughed up” by the enemy. Stay alert! Keep in the Word! Seek to live in the promises of God and according to His Word.
1Pe 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
Have you ever fallen asleep while someone is speaking to you? I know I have, and as a pastor, I know I have put a few people to sleep in my time as well. Sleep happens! And sometimes, important words from the pulpit or from a loved one are missed because a kind of stupor takes over our mind and eyes, and we nod off.
Don't beat yourself up about it. Sleep happens and sometimes it happens at inopportune times. Remember Eutychus? He dropped off to sleep as the Apostle Paul preached, literally dropping three stories to his death, only to be miraculously raised by Paul.(Acts 20:8-10)
No amount of “want to” can stave off sleep, but it can be dangerous, like falling off a balcony, or the modern day problem of dozing off and driving into a ditch, or worse! A word of caution here, whenever you feel drowsy behind the wheel, pull over somewhere and catch a nap, get reinvigorated before hitting the road again.
But let's talk about spiritual drowsiness! Spiritual sleep is also very dangerous. Pr 6:10, 11 says, “A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to sleep-
11 So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, And your need like an armed man.”
Sometimes we doze off in our spiritual lives and find ourselves in a spiritual ditch where we get “roughed up” by the enemy. Stay alert! Keep in the Word! Seek to live in the promises of God and according to His Word.
1Pe 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Praying the Our Father
# 709 Today's Du-votional comes from: Mr 14:39 Again He went away and prayed, and spoke the same words.”
What? He prayed the same words? Isn't that a canned prayer? Isn't that praying rotely? (Actually, in Matthew's account of this event, we are told that Jesus prayed something very similar, but not exactly the same words,) but it brings up a good point. What if He did prayed the exact same words? Would that make His prayer of no effect?
I have heard rumblings of disdain sometimes against the liturgical church who use a repetitious format for worship. Among other things, this format almost always includes the recitation of the Lord's Prayer.
Many are the Christians who have prayed this prayer word for word when they have found themselves in their own personal Gethsemane.
On the other hand, I have also heard disdain from the liturgical camp who complain of those who just use the Lord's Prayer as a model, or a guide to follow as they pray. Who's right? The answer is both!
When Jesus first taught His followers this prayer He said in Mt 6:9 "In this manner, therefore, pray:” (use the Lord's prayer as a model) Still another time when he taught this prayer in Luke 11:2 He said, “"When you pray, say: (use it word for word)
When Jesus prayed in the Garden or anywhere else for that matter. His prayers were always perfectly led by the Holy Spirit, and that's the real issue isn't it? Are we praying from our flesh or are we praying from the Spirit? Pray as the Spirit leads!
Roteness is not determined by the words we speak to our Father, it is determined by the condition of our hearts. As far as the Lord's Prayer is concerned, when spoken from the heart, you will never say a better prayer, and you'll also never find a better model.
Our Father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
What? He prayed the same words? Isn't that a canned prayer? Isn't that praying rotely? (Actually, in Matthew's account of this event, we are told that Jesus prayed something very similar, but not exactly the same words,) but it brings up a good point. What if He did prayed the exact same words? Would that make His prayer of no effect?
I have heard rumblings of disdain sometimes against the liturgical church who use a repetitious format for worship. Among other things, this format almost always includes the recitation of the Lord's Prayer.
Many are the Christians who have prayed this prayer word for word when they have found themselves in their own personal Gethsemane.
On the other hand, I have also heard disdain from the liturgical camp who complain of those who just use the Lord's Prayer as a model, or a guide to follow as they pray. Who's right? The answer is both!
When Jesus first taught His followers this prayer He said in Mt 6:9 "In this manner, therefore, pray:” (use the Lord's prayer as a model) Still another time when he taught this prayer in Luke 11:2 He said, “"When you pray, say: (use it word for word)
When Jesus prayed in the Garden or anywhere else for that matter. His prayers were always perfectly led by the Holy Spirit, and that's the real issue isn't it? Are we praying from our flesh or are we praying from the Spirit? Pray as the Spirit leads!
Roteness is not determined by the words we speak to our Father, it is determined by the condition of our hearts. As far as the Lord's Prayer is concerned, when spoken from the heart, you will never say a better prayer, and you'll also never find a better model.
Our Father, who art in heaven. Hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
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