Hey got’a love those enemies
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
Matthew 5:43-48
It’s easy to love lovable people, family friends even acquaintances, particularly if they have never wronged you.
But it takes something else to love an enemy. Someone who has wronged you. When I was a young Christian we use to say to those who did wrong to us, “Lord love them with a brick.” WE WERE WRONG!
Back when I was a young Christian, back in the 1970's (yes I’m that ancient), there was two people that use to drive me crazy at work.
Both hated the fact that I was a Christian. One was the son of a Baptist minister that was in a state of total rebellion against everything his parents believed.
The other was a mean character who was into the martial arts and simply didn’t like Christians.
I suffered a fair bit of abuse from them for several years. I thought of leaving the job because of it. It was only the good pay and benefits that kept me there.
But God told me to pray about those two men.
I didn’t know what to say so I simply said Lord please change them. It was a prayer I said often over the period of some months.
One day the son of the Baptist preacher went on vacation. He hitchhiked down to the southern states and back.
On his way back he was mugged and it almost cost him his life.
The incident became a turning point in his life and he gave himself to the Lord accepting Jesus as his saviour.
I could tell the moment he returned to work he was changed. He came over to me and apologised for what he’d done to me.
The other person met a girl he liked. She introduced him to Christ and he accepted Jesus as his saviour.
The change was instantaneous and he came to me and apologised to me for what he’d done.
Both these men went on to bible school and to pastor churches.
It was quite a lesson for me as a young Christian one I have never forgot.
Question when was the last time you prayed for your enemies?
Think about it.
Saturday, 22 February 2014
Friday, 21 February 2014
On Telling the Truth
Truth
“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.’
But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne;
or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King.
And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
Matthew 5:33-37
Simply put Jesus is saying here. You have no need to take an oath. You must always speak the truth.
It’s interesting to note that early Christians practised this.
Piliny the Younger Roman governor of Bithynia in Asia minor writing to Emperor Trajan wrote,
"They were in the habit of meeting on a certain fixed day before it was light, when they sang in alternate verses a hymn to Christ, as to a god, and bound themselves by a solemn oath, not to do any wicked deeds, but never to commit any fraud, theft or adultery, never to falsify their word, nor deny a trust when they should be called upon to deliver it up; after which it was their custom to separate, and then reassemble to partake of food--but food of an ordinary and innocent kind..."
Although Piliny uses the term solemn oath Piliny is speaking in Roman terms, it simply means they promise never to do wicked deeds, commit fraud, theft, adultery or falsify their word.
This is what it should be like for Christians today.
When we stand before magistrates we should not sware an oath but our words should be one hundred percent truthful.
Believe it or not it works.
A young man I know took his fathers car out to of all things a youth meeting at the church. After it ended he and another friend decided to race each other down a main street.
It was raining and at the last minute he decided that he wanted to turn into a hamburger place.
The car slipped and ended up wrapping itself around a light pole.
No one was hurt but the car was a right off.
When the police came he told the truth. The officer was amazed.
He was charged with careless driving and had to face his father about the car.
His father much to his relief didn’t lecture him but made him pay for the car.
Incredibly there was a car for sale for five hundred dollars just a few houses down from where he lived. He bought it and it required no work to become road worthy. The person was simply selling it because of it’s age.
On top of all of this he received a letter from the crown prosecutor, stating that due to lack of evidence the police were dropping the charge.
Some say the young man should have had to face the judge. But I know this boy he’d learned his lesson and has never done anything like that in the fifteen years since it happened.
You see he was my son. Only sixteen at the time.
We had always taught him to tell the truth even if it was to his detriment. And I believe God honoured him that day.
The five hundred dollars he paid for the car was all his savings at the time and he did learn his lesson.
Him losing his driving licence, paying a fine or having to pay higher insurance rates would not have achieved any better of a result.
Additionally the police officer said to me that he was amazed at the boy’s honesty. That he could have simply said he lost control in the rain and it would have been believable and most likely no charges would have been laid.
Still he chose to tell the truth and as a result was a witness to the officer.
Do you tell even when it’s to your detriment?
Think about it.
“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.’
But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne;
or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King.
And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
Matthew 5:33-37
Simply put Jesus is saying here. You have no need to take an oath. You must always speak the truth.
It’s interesting to note that early Christians practised this.
Piliny the Younger Roman governor of Bithynia in Asia minor writing to Emperor Trajan wrote,
"They were in the habit of meeting on a certain fixed day before it was light, when they sang in alternate verses a hymn to Christ, as to a god, and bound themselves by a solemn oath, not to do any wicked deeds, but never to commit any fraud, theft or adultery, never to falsify their word, nor deny a trust when they should be called upon to deliver it up; after which it was their custom to separate, and then reassemble to partake of food--but food of an ordinary and innocent kind..."
Although Piliny uses the term solemn oath Piliny is speaking in Roman terms, it simply means they promise never to do wicked deeds, commit fraud, theft, adultery or falsify their word.
This is what it should be like for Christians today.
When we stand before magistrates we should not sware an oath but our words should be one hundred percent truthful.
Believe it or not it works.
A young man I know took his fathers car out to of all things a youth meeting at the church. After it ended he and another friend decided to race each other down a main street.
It was raining and at the last minute he decided that he wanted to turn into a hamburger place.
The car slipped and ended up wrapping itself around a light pole.
No one was hurt but the car was a right off.
When the police came he told the truth. The officer was amazed.
He was charged with careless driving and had to face his father about the car.
His father much to his relief didn’t lecture him but made him pay for the car.
Incredibly there was a car for sale for five hundred dollars just a few houses down from where he lived. He bought it and it required no work to become road worthy. The person was simply selling it because of it’s age.
On top of all of this he received a letter from the crown prosecutor, stating that due to lack of evidence the police were dropping the charge.
Some say the young man should have had to face the judge. But I know this boy he’d learned his lesson and has never done anything like that in the fifteen years since it happened.
You see he was my son. Only sixteen at the time.
We had always taught him to tell the truth even if it was to his detriment. And I believe God honoured him that day.
The five hundred dollars he paid for the car was all his savings at the time and he did learn his lesson.
Him losing his driving licence, paying a fine or having to pay higher insurance rates would not have achieved any better of a result.
Additionally the police officer said to me that he was amazed at the boy’s honesty. That he could have simply said he lost control in the rain and it would have been believable and most likely no charges would have been laid.
Still he chose to tell the truth and as a result was a witness to the officer.
Do you tell even when it’s to your detriment?
Think about it.
Thursday, 20 February 2014
Divorce
Divorce
“It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’
But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery”
Matthew 5:31,32.
Here is a scripture that some people point to and say no divorce in any situation.
Jesus uses this it is believed to point out that the practices of the teachers of the law were wrong.
They would allow a man to divorce his wife if she displeased him even for something as simple as burning his food. This is not what God intended.
Paul writing to the Ephesians states,
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
Ephesians 5:25.
Husbands are called to love and cherish their wives.
I’ve heard some ministers say a wife should stay with her husband even in an abusive situation this is totally wrong.
Look again at what Paul told husbands to do
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Ephesians 5:25.
A husband should give his entire life for his wife. Not abuse her.
Abuse in my opinion is violation of the marriage covenant. She is not his servant but his help mate. His equal partner under God.
Any man that abuses a woman is not a Christian. He is not living in accordance to scripture.
It is the place of a man to love his wife. The apostle Paul giving us a description of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.”
1Corinthians 13:4-8a.
Corinthians 13:4-8 needs to be everyone’s definition of love. It should be the bench mark that we use when measuring if we truly love.
Think about it.
Post script
The above is as relevant in a same sex marriage as it is in a heterosexual marriage. Spouses are to love and honour one another unconditionally.
“It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’
But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery”
Matthew 5:31,32.
Here is a scripture that some people point to and say no divorce in any situation.
Jesus uses this it is believed to point out that the practices of the teachers of the law were wrong.
They would allow a man to divorce his wife if she displeased him even for something as simple as burning his food. This is not what God intended.
Paul writing to the Ephesians states,
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
Ephesians 5:25.
Husbands are called to love and cherish their wives.
I’ve heard some ministers say a wife should stay with her husband even in an abusive situation this is totally wrong.
Look again at what Paul told husbands to do
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Ephesians 5:25.
A husband should give his entire life for his wife. Not abuse her.
Abuse in my opinion is violation of the marriage covenant. She is not his servant but his help mate. His equal partner under God.
Any man that abuses a woman is not a Christian. He is not living in accordance to scripture.
It is the place of a man to love his wife. The apostle Paul giving us a description of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.”
1Corinthians 13:4-8a.
Corinthians 13:4-8 needs to be everyone’s definition of love. It should be the bench mark that we use when measuring if we truly love.
Think about it.
Post script
The above is as relevant in a same sex marriage as it is in a heterosexual marriage. Spouses are to love and honour one another unconditionally.
Wednesday, 19 February 2014
Helping the poor
“Be careful not to do your ‘acts of righteousness’ before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.
But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Matthew 6:1-4
There are some Christian ideals that whether or not you are a Christian are just the right thing to do.
Giving to the needy is one of them.
I’ve heard people in the secular world and preachers say that people on welfare are simply “lazy bums”. That they should just get out there and get a job.
I admit there are people that play the system. But I know a lot of people on social assistance that would love to get off it. It’s subsistence living at best.
The trouble is many don’t have the skills or education to get a good paying job. And for the most part there are few programs to help get educated or get a skill.
As compassionate human beings we should be asking our government to put more training programs at the disposal of those on welfare.
After all isn’t the government suppose to be of the people, and for the people? What better way to spend our taxes than helping another human being get out of poverty.
The Talmud tells a story that goes like this,
“Rabbi Akiba was asked by a Roman general, “Why does your God who loves the needy not provide for their support Himself?” He answered, “God the Father of both the rich and poor, wants the one to help the other so as to make the world a household of love.”
I believe, we need to look at how we see those in need. We need to reach out to them and help them in any way that we can.
Businessmen and women need to look at what kind of wages and benefits they are paying their employees. Asking themselves could I live on the wages I pay those who work for me.
I believe Christians should be leading the way in benevolence. The Jews have a word for it its called Tzedakah.
Philip Bernstein explains it this way,
“If there is one area that identifies and unites Jews, no matter what their personal beliefs and practices, it is Tzedakah. Tzedakah is more that charity or philanthropy, noble as they are, more than man’s humanity to man, exalted as that is, more truly it is righteousness and justice. Without these qualities civilization would perish.
It is the highest ideal in Jewish teaching—for it is the highest application of Jewish ethical values. It is Judaism in action—and Judaism is inherently and deeply a religion of action, a way of life, a way of living.”
Jews are encouraged to give ten percent of their income to helping the poor. Even someone who is poor themselves is asked to give although they may give less than ten precent.
And there is an admonishing not to give so much as for you to become a burden on society yourself.
One Jewish teacher gave the levels of Tzedakah
1.Giving begrudgingly
2.Giving less that you should, but giving it cheerfully.
3.Giving after being asked
4.Giving before being asked
5.Giving when you do not know the recipient's identity, but the recipient knows your identity
6.Giving when you know the recipient's identity, but the recipient doesn't know your identity
7.Giving when neither party knows the other's identity
8.Enabling the recipient to become self-reliant
I think the above list is something Christians and non-Christians need to look at carefully. Asking ourselves what can I do to make even one needy persons life better.
Think about it.
Tuesday, 18 February 2014
Settle out of court
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’
But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.
“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.
I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.”
Matthew 5:21-26
Here is a truth that can even be applied in non-Christians life.
What Jesus is saying here is reconcile yourself to your adversary quickly before going to court.
Take time to discuss the problem. Don’t let pride or self-righteousness take over. Don’t call your adversary a fool. It’s only common sense. Wouldn’t you get hot under the collar if someone called you a fool.
Settle you differences with your adversary before you leave him or her. Don’t let the disagreement simmer and boil over night it can only make things worse.
Do your best to at least come to a compromise.
Think about it.
But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.
“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.
I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.”
Matthew 5:21-26
Here is a truth that can even be applied in non-Christians life.
What Jesus is saying here is reconcile yourself to your adversary quickly before going to court.
Take time to discuss the problem. Don’t let pride or self-righteousness take over. Don’t call your adversary a fool. It’s only common sense. Wouldn’t you get hot under the collar if someone called you a fool.
Settle you differences with your adversary before you leave him or her. Don’t let the disagreement simmer and boil over night it can only make things worse.
Do your best to at least come to a compromise.
Think about it.
Monday, 17 February 2014
Why I write
Why I write
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.
The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.
We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
We write this to make our joy complete.”
1John 1:1-4
Someone asked me why I right these blogs. I found the answer in 1John 1:1-4.
I as a Christian truly believe that I have the most important thing in the world to share with all people, whoever they are, whatever their lifestyle.
God wants all people everywhere to come and know him on a personal level. He wants to have fellowship with the individual.
This is why I write the blogs.
I have no wish to force my beliefs on anyone. I simply place what I believe out there for people to read. The decision they make is entirely between them and God.
I am not their judge. I am simply a person who truly loves God and wants others to share in that same love.
A personal relationship that offers peace that passes all understanding. That lasts for eternity.
Jesus said,“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6.
I firmly believe that Jesus is the only way to heaven. That is why I write and talk to anyone who will listen and tell them about Jesus.
There is one certainty in this life. That being we will never get out of it alive.
I cannot believe that this life is all there is. That when we die we simply pass into oblivion.
It seems to be that all cultures from it seems the beginning of time believe in an after life. It just seems to be to be in our very make up that we know there is something after death. An eternity that we will pass into.
The question is where will you spend eternity. Will it be in heaven.
The apostle Paul wrote
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9.
In order to possess the gift one must first accept it. Will you accept the free gift of Salvation Jesus offers you?
Think about it?
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.
The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us.
We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
We write this to make our joy complete.”
1John 1:1-4
Someone asked me why I right these blogs. I found the answer in 1John 1:1-4.
I as a Christian truly believe that I have the most important thing in the world to share with all people, whoever they are, whatever their lifestyle.
God wants all people everywhere to come and know him on a personal level. He wants to have fellowship with the individual.
This is why I write the blogs.
I have no wish to force my beliefs on anyone. I simply place what I believe out there for people to read. The decision they make is entirely between them and God.
I am not their judge. I am simply a person who truly loves God and wants others to share in that same love.
A personal relationship that offers peace that passes all understanding. That lasts for eternity.
Jesus said,“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6.
I firmly believe that Jesus is the only way to heaven. That is why I write and talk to anyone who will listen and tell them about Jesus.
There is one certainty in this life. That being we will never get out of it alive.
I cannot believe that this life is all there is. That when we die we simply pass into oblivion.
It seems to be that all cultures from it seems the beginning of time believe in an after life. It just seems to be to be in our very make up that we know there is something after death. An eternity that we will pass into.
The question is where will you spend eternity. Will it be in heaven.
The apostle Paul wrote
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9.
In order to possess the gift one must first accept it. Will you accept the free gift of Salvation Jesus offers you?
Think about it?
Sunday, 16 February 2014
A slap
A Slap
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’
But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.
And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.
If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.”
5:38-41.
Here Jesus is talking about forgiveness in a way.
He talks about turning the other cheek. From what I understand the slap here is the slap with the back of the hand as in an insult not as an act of violence.
The meaning being its better to get insulted more than once than take things to court.
The same is true when Jesus says “And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.”
Under the law it was forbidden to take a persons outer cloak as it was used for sleeping.
But here Jesus says let the person have it again to avoid going unnecessarily to court.
Likewise with the going the extra mile. All of this is a show of humility and away to avoid unnecessary fights in the legal system.
There are a lot of petty fights in the legal system today.
I heard one statistic that says eighty percent of all the lawyers in the world are in the United States.
People I’ve noticed sue others over the most ridiculous things.
A person orders a coffee at a drive through, Coffee that is expected to be hot. But they spill it hurting themselves and they sue the company from which they bought the coffee.
Someone threatened to sue me one time over the fact that she didn’t like the performance I did (I’m a professional clown and magician). The only person ever to say that to me in thirty years.
I gave her, her money back it was a stupid thing not worth the fight.
This is how we are to be as Christians. We should not get into petty fights that lead us to enter the legal system. It’s not worth it and we sleep better not having to worry what some judge will say.
Think about it.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’
But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.
And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.
If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.”
5:38-41.
Here Jesus is talking about forgiveness in a way.
He talks about turning the other cheek. From what I understand the slap here is the slap with the back of the hand as in an insult not as an act of violence.
The meaning being its better to get insulted more than once than take things to court.
The same is true when Jesus says “And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.”
Under the law it was forbidden to take a persons outer cloak as it was used for sleeping.
But here Jesus says let the person have it again to avoid going unnecessarily to court.
Likewise with the going the extra mile. All of this is a show of humility and away to avoid unnecessary fights in the legal system.
There are a lot of petty fights in the legal system today.
I heard one statistic that says eighty percent of all the lawyers in the world are in the United States.
People I’ve noticed sue others over the most ridiculous things.
A person orders a coffee at a drive through, Coffee that is expected to be hot. But they spill it hurting themselves and they sue the company from which they bought the coffee.
Someone threatened to sue me one time over the fact that she didn’t like the performance I did (I’m a professional clown and magician). The only person ever to say that to me in thirty years.
I gave her, her money back it was a stupid thing not worth the fight.
This is how we are to be as Christians. We should not get into petty fights that lead us to enter the legal system. It’s not worth it and we sleep better not having to worry what some judge will say.
Think about it.
Saturday, 15 February 2014
The Beatitudes
The Beatitudes
One commentator said this is King Jesus’s inaugural address. What he expects of his people.
I know its longer than I normally write but please read it and see what you think of it.
The word blessed here means far more than simply happy. It means a distinctive spiritual happiness that comes from knowing Christ and God on a personal level.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
These are people who know their deficiencies when it comes to living up to the ideals of God. As apposed to those who are proud they are spiritually self sufficient.
One must remember that salvation is a gift offered to us by God it is not earned as many would have us believe.
It is only by admitting our spiritual poverty that we recognize our need of Christ.
Witness the thief on the cross. He admitted he was a thief deserving of his punishment. He turned to Christ admitted his wrong whereupon.
Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Here he refers those who mourn over their sin and the sins of others. A true Christian wants everyone everywhere to admit they are a sinner before God and accept the salvation only Jesus gives.
I also believe a true believer will be concerned by sins committed in the name of the church or believers.
It I believe is part of being poor in spirit. We realize we are inadequate before God and can at times be brought to tears.
In our grief Jesus is there to comfort us.
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”
A reference to Psalm 37:11
“But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.”
This is not so much and attitude toward man but toward God again dealing with humility. Which was a great part of Jesus teaching.
Jesus said
“The greatest among you will be your servant.
For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:11,12
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
This is exactly what it says. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness both for personal righteousness and the justice of others will see righteousness fulfilled.
One day even the worst criminals, political leaders and others will stand before God. They may have avoided justice here on earth but they will not avoid justice when they stand before God.
And those who hunger after such justice will see this and be satisfied.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
If we show mercy we will be shown mercy. Its that simple. You will be treated in kind. Even here on earth.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”
The heart is the center of our being our mind, will and emotions. Those of pure heart will see God.
Again it goes back to humility.
We need to daily confess to God how far short we fall from what He expects of us. And we need to do it privately without fan fair. When only God is listening.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
To quote Romans
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18
We should never be contentious. We should not be stirring up trouble. We have the Gospel of Peace to present to the world and we should be doing so in word and in deed.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
How we handle persecution shows our fitness for heaven. But we should be very careful when it comes to persecution.
We live in a secular democratic society here in Canada and the United States. We have no right according to Matthew 7:1 to judge anyone. Further more Romans 13:1 tells us “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1
They set the laws and as long as they don’t restrict our rights we have no right to try and restrict the rights of others.
All to many Christian’s try to restrict the rights of others because they feel what they are doing is morally reprehensible. Or simply not in line with Christian teaching.
When they try to do this there is a backlash that they call persecution.
It is not. It is Christians being judged the way they are judging.
True persecution come on us when we do everything right. When we simply present the gospel in love and humility to the people around us and they object to the point even of threatening jail or death.
Think about it.
“Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him,
and he began to teach them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,for they will be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Matthew 5:1-12One commentator said this is King Jesus’s inaugural address. What he expects of his people.
I know its longer than I normally write but please read it and see what you think of it.
The word blessed here means far more than simply happy. It means a distinctive spiritual happiness that comes from knowing Christ and God on a personal level.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
These are people who know their deficiencies when it comes to living up to the ideals of God. As apposed to those who are proud they are spiritually self sufficient.
One must remember that salvation is a gift offered to us by God it is not earned as many would have us believe.
It is only by admitting our spiritual poverty that we recognize our need of Christ.
Witness the thief on the cross. He admitted he was a thief deserving of his punishment. He turned to Christ admitted his wrong whereupon.
Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Here he refers those who mourn over their sin and the sins of others. A true Christian wants everyone everywhere to admit they are a sinner before God and accept the salvation only Jesus gives.
I also believe a true believer will be concerned by sins committed in the name of the church or believers.
It I believe is part of being poor in spirit. We realize we are inadequate before God and can at times be brought to tears.
In our grief Jesus is there to comfort us.
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”
A reference to Psalm 37:11
“But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.”
This is not so much and attitude toward man but toward God again dealing with humility. Which was a great part of Jesus teaching.
Jesus said
“The greatest among you will be your servant.
For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:11,12
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
This is exactly what it says. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness both for personal righteousness and the justice of others will see righteousness fulfilled.
One day even the worst criminals, political leaders and others will stand before God. They may have avoided justice here on earth but they will not avoid justice when they stand before God.
And those who hunger after such justice will see this and be satisfied.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
If we show mercy we will be shown mercy. Its that simple. You will be treated in kind. Even here on earth.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”
The heart is the center of our being our mind, will and emotions. Those of pure heart will see God.
Again it goes back to humility.
We need to daily confess to God how far short we fall from what He expects of us. And we need to do it privately without fan fair. When only God is listening.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
To quote Romans
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18
We should never be contentious. We should not be stirring up trouble. We have the Gospel of Peace to present to the world and we should be doing so in word and in deed.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
How we handle persecution shows our fitness for heaven. But we should be very careful when it comes to persecution.
We live in a secular democratic society here in Canada and the United States. We have no right according to Matthew 7:1 to judge anyone. Further more Romans 13:1 tells us “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1
They set the laws and as long as they don’t restrict our rights we have no right to try and restrict the rights of others.
All to many Christian’s try to restrict the rights of others because they feel what they are doing is morally reprehensible. Or simply not in line with Christian teaching.
When they try to do this there is a backlash that they call persecution.
It is not. It is Christians being judged the way they are judging.
True persecution come on us when we do everything right. When we simply present the gospel in love and humility to the people around us and they object to the point even of threatening jail or death.
Think about it.
Friday, 14 February 2014
A Thought for Valentines Day
A Thought for Valentines Day
“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.”
1 Corinthians 13:1-8a
Today is Valentines day. The day we here in North America celebrate love. But just what is love? It can’t really be quantified in terms of a mathematical notation. It can’t be seen or heard. Then what is love?
The apostle Paul writing to the Corinthians wrote what has to be the most eloquent and most accurate description of love ever written,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails."
All too many people say they love but and a “but”. They make their love conditional what the recipient of that love does.
Jesus when replying to a question from the Sadducee's and Pharisees about what was the most important law said,
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40.
Earlier in Matthew Jesus says,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
Matthew 5:43-48
To love is the highest ideal of Christianity. As a result we cannot put any restrictions on it.
Be it God, our spouse, our family members, friends, or even our enemies Jesus calls us to love them unconditionally.
The Apostle Paul tells us,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18.
Paul wrote those words because he knew that unless we live at peace with our fellow man the gospel cannot be preached effectively.
In order to live at peace with our fellow man we must first and foremost love all those around us and,
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails."
Think about it.
“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.”
1 Corinthians 13:1-8a
Today is Valentines day. The day we here in North America celebrate love. But just what is love? It can’t really be quantified in terms of a mathematical notation. It can’t be seen or heard. Then what is love?
The apostle Paul writing to the Corinthians wrote what has to be the most eloquent and most accurate description of love ever written,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails."
All too many people say they love but and a “but”. They make their love conditional what the recipient of that love does.
Jesus when replying to a question from the Sadducee's and Pharisees about what was the most important law said,
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40.
Earlier in Matthew Jesus says,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
Matthew 5:43-48
To love is the highest ideal of Christianity. As a result we cannot put any restrictions on it.
Be it God, our spouse, our family members, friends, or even our enemies Jesus calls us to love them unconditionally.
The Apostle Paul tells us,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18.
Paul wrote those words because he knew that unless we live at peace with our fellow man the gospel cannot be preached effectively.
In order to live at peace with our fellow man we must first and foremost love all those around us and,
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails."
Think about it.
Thursday, 13 February 2014
Jesus
Jesus
“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.
News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them.
Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.”
Matthew 4:23-25
Here is something that sceptics of the Jesus can’t to my satisfaction explain.
Jesus had a three fold ministry. He taught, he preached and he healed the sick. The bible writers do not hide the fact that Jesus was someone described as teaching with authority.
His ministry took place in the synagogues on the Sabbath and in the open air during the rest of the week. He never hid for his opponents what he was saying. And meany people came to believe in him during his life time on this earth.
As for the miraculous the healing of the sick and casting out demons. If these things were untrue then the writers of the gospels are potentially the biggest liars in history.
Such lies were they exposed would most definitely have harmed the cause of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
It therefore stands to reason that they were real. That the men relaying the information had hard and fast facts that they were true.
Claims of who Jesus was can also be found in some secular documents people who were not necessarily friendly to the cause of Christianity
The earliest non-Christian reports were made by the Jews. Flavius Josephus, who lived until 98 A.D., was a romanized Jewish historian. He wrote books on Jewish history for the Roman people. In his book, Jewish Antiquities, he made references to Jesus. In one reference he wrote:
“About this time arose Jesus, a wise man, who did good deeds and whose virtues were recognized. And many Jews and people of other nations became his disciples.
Pilate condemned him to be crucified and to die. However, those who became his disciples preached his doctrine. They related that he had appeared to them three days after his crucifixion and that he was alive. Perhaps he was the Messiah in connection with whom the prophets foretold wonders. [Josephus, Jewish Antiquities, XVIII 3.2]
I believe we can only make one conclusion as to who Jesus is.
Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus came to this earth to show all people everywhere that God loves them.
He showed this love by giving the ultimate price in human terms and going to the cross. Not only that but he did in fact raise from the dead and ascended to heaven where he sits at the right hand of God.
A place we will all one day meet him either as Saviour or Judge.
Think about it.
“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.
News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them.
Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.”
Matthew 4:23-25
Here is something that sceptics of the Jesus can’t to my satisfaction explain.
Jesus had a three fold ministry. He taught, he preached and he healed the sick. The bible writers do not hide the fact that Jesus was someone described as teaching with authority.
His ministry took place in the synagogues on the Sabbath and in the open air during the rest of the week. He never hid for his opponents what he was saying. And meany people came to believe in him during his life time on this earth.
As for the miraculous the healing of the sick and casting out demons. If these things were untrue then the writers of the gospels are potentially the biggest liars in history.
Such lies were they exposed would most definitely have harmed the cause of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
It therefore stands to reason that they were real. That the men relaying the information had hard and fast facts that they were true.
Claims of who Jesus was can also be found in some secular documents people who were not necessarily friendly to the cause of Christianity
The earliest non-Christian reports were made by the Jews. Flavius Josephus, who lived until 98 A.D., was a romanized Jewish historian. He wrote books on Jewish history for the Roman people. In his book, Jewish Antiquities, he made references to Jesus. In one reference he wrote:
“About this time arose Jesus, a wise man, who did good deeds and whose virtues were recognized. And many Jews and people of other nations became his disciples.
Pilate condemned him to be crucified and to die. However, those who became his disciples preached his doctrine. They related that he had appeared to them three days after his crucifixion and that he was alive. Perhaps he was the Messiah in connection with whom the prophets foretold wonders. [Josephus, Jewish Antiquities, XVIII 3.2]
I believe we can only make one conclusion as to who Jesus is.
Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus came to this earth to show all people everywhere that God loves them.
He showed this love by giving the ultimate price in human terms and going to the cross. Not only that but he did in fact raise from the dead and ascended to heaven where he sits at the right hand of God.
A place we will all one day meet him either as Saviour or Judge.
Think about it.
Wednesday, 12 February 2014
Jesus calls his first disciples
The first disciples
“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
At once they left their nets and followed him.
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.”
Matthew 4:18-22
Jesus here calls his first disciples. It should be noted here that they were Jewish men and thus believers in the one true God. Jesus was not calling non-believers to be part of his ministry.
Today Jesus does the same thing to those who truly believe in him.
Our churches are filled with believers. Men and women who have given their lives over to Jesus. People who worship God in spirit and in truth.
But I wonder how many of them would when called by God to do His work, do as Peter, Andrew, James and John did?
How many people who profess to be true followers of Christ would simply lay down their nets so to speak and go into full time ministry?
There’s an older couple at our church who to me exemplify what we should be willing to do.
In their youth Gerry and Virginia felt called to be missionaries in Mexico. They left the comforts of Canada to minister down there.
To support themselves in Mexico they even had to take on jobs in Mexico. Yet they ministered faithfully for years.
God blessed them as a result and many souls were won for Christ.
I believe Christ calls us all to minister in whatever way we can, be that simply witnessing to those next door, our family and friends or on mission fields around the world. Even on the internet.
There are always places we can minister for our Lord. All we have to do is pray about it. Asking God to direct our paths. Then get off our knees and do what God wants us to do.
Remembering always that God will not ask you to do what you are not capable of doing.
Are you dear Christian willing to do your best for God.
To the none-believer I would ask this.
Why would men like Peter, Andrew, and James, men that were earning a good living give it all up and follow Jesus?
Not only did that happen but they stayed true to him after his death.
They witnessed the resurrection of Jesus and his ascension to heaven proclaiming it to the world around them.
These men were extremely foolish because to say someone rose from the dead is if you think about it counter productive to the cause you are presenting. Or they were completely truthful.
There is no middle ground.
What do you think.
Think about it.
“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
At once they left their nets and followed him.
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.”
Matthew 4:18-22
Jesus here calls his first disciples. It should be noted here that they were Jewish men and thus believers in the one true God. Jesus was not calling non-believers to be part of his ministry.
Today Jesus does the same thing to those who truly believe in him.
Our churches are filled with believers. Men and women who have given their lives over to Jesus. People who worship God in spirit and in truth.
But I wonder how many of them would when called by God to do His work, do as Peter, Andrew, James and John did?
How many people who profess to be true followers of Christ would simply lay down their nets so to speak and go into full time ministry?
There’s an older couple at our church who to me exemplify what we should be willing to do.
In their youth Gerry and Virginia felt called to be missionaries in Mexico. They left the comforts of Canada to minister down there.
To support themselves in Mexico they even had to take on jobs in Mexico. Yet they ministered faithfully for years.
God blessed them as a result and many souls were won for Christ.
I believe Christ calls us all to minister in whatever way we can, be that simply witnessing to those next door, our family and friends or on mission fields around the world. Even on the internet.
There are always places we can minister for our Lord. All we have to do is pray about it. Asking God to direct our paths. Then get off our knees and do what God wants us to do.
Remembering always that God will not ask you to do what you are not capable of doing.
Are you dear Christian willing to do your best for God.
To the none-believer I would ask this.
Why would men like Peter, Andrew, and James, men that were earning a good living give it all up and follow Jesus?
Not only did that happen but they stayed true to him after his death.
They witnessed the resurrection of Jesus and his ascension to heaven proclaiming it to the world around them.
These men were extremely foolish because to say someone rose from the dead is if you think about it counter productive to the cause you are presenting. Or they were completely truthful.
There is no middle ground.
What do you think.
Think about it.
Tuesday, 11 February 2014
Jesus begins his ministry
Jesus begins his ministry
“When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee.
Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah:
“Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”
From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”
Matthew 4:12-17
John the Baptist has just been put in prison. So Jesus leaves Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum where he would eventually use the house of Peter as his base.
The area referred to as Zabulun ans Naphtali in the time of Jesus was seen to be an area in spiritual darkness.
The reason seems to have been because of the large number of gentiles that lived there. Although some say it was also because of the distance from Jerusalem.
The distance being so far away that the religious influence of Jerusalem had little effect.
Matthew points out that Jesus in moving into this area also fulfilled a prophesy from Isaiah who states,
“Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan—
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”
Isaiah 9:1,2.
Here we also see a prophesy about the Messiah that point to Him reaching out to the gentiles. Taking Gods light to non Jews.
Matthew here also points out that the message of Jesus is also the message John was preaching on of repentance.
This is a key theme of the Bible. The need of the individual to repent for their sins.
The Bible makes it clear when Paul writes to the Romans,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:23.
The apostle John goes on to say,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1John 1:9.
John in his gospel also quotes Jesus as saying,
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.”
John 3:14-18.
In Jesus we have a clear cut decision to make. To follow him and have eternal life or to reject him and perish.
Jesus leaves that decision up to you.
Where do you stand?
“When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee.
Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah:
“Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”
From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”
Matthew 4:12-17
John the Baptist has just been put in prison. So Jesus leaves Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum where he would eventually use the house of Peter as his base.
The area referred to as Zabulun ans Naphtali in the time of Jesus was seen to be an area in spiritual darkness.
The reason seems to have been because of the large number of gentiles that lived there. Although some say it was also because of the distance from Jerusalem.
The distance being so far away that the religious influence of Jerusalem had little effect.
Matthew points out that Jesus in moving into this area also fulfilled a prophesy from Isaiah who states,
“Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan—
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”
Isaiah 9:1,2.
Here we also see a prophesy about the Messiah that point to Him reaching out to the gentiles. Taking Gods light to non Jews.
Matthew here also points out that the message of Jesus is also the message John was preaching on of repentance.
This is a key theme of the Bible. The need of the individual to repent for their sins.
The Bible makes it clear when Paul writes to the Romans,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:23.
The apostle John goes on to say,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1John 1:9.
John in his gospel also quotes Jesus as saying,
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.”
John 3:14-18.
In Jesus we have a clear cut decision to make. To follow him and have eternal life or to reject him and perish.
Jesus leaves that decision up to you.
Where do you stand?
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