MEMORY VERSE - Matthew 27:24-25 - When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. 25 Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
OBSERVATION: What is happening in the text? What are the summary points?
* Jesus is in front of Caiaphas, the Jewish high priest. The Jewish religious leaders are looking for a false witness, so they can bring an accusation against Jesus. (59-60) Finally they use Jesus words saying that he was God as a means to accuse him.
* Peter denies Jesus. 26:69-75
* In the morning, Jesus is brought before Pilate, the Roman governor of Jerusalem. 27:1-2
* Judas realizes his error and repents. 27:3-10
* Pilate tries to persuade the people to release Jesus. The Crowd cries out to crucify Jesus. 27:11-26
INTERPRETATION:
* The Jewish rulers held a secretive, illegal trial against Jesus. At this trial they tried to get people to make falls accusations against Jesus that were worthy of death. One by one they came but nothing worthy of death could be found. They found their "reason" when Jesus answered Caiaphas' question. "Tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God." Jesus answered the question in the affirmative. This was tantamount to committing blasphemy if they statement were said by you or I. But if the statement were actually true, as it was in Jesus case, then it would simply be the truth. We know that Jesus can not tell a lie and that his words are truth and life. Jesus is the Son of God and right now He is seated at the right hand of the Father, and He will return again soon. All True! But the religious elite did not believe, nor could they see past their own prejudice (envy) to accept this as true. So they accused him of blasphemy.
* Meanwhile, Peter is outside the warming his hands by the fire. The man who was eager to fight for Jesus freedom a few verses earlier, and who had forsaken Jesus, is now being questioned himself. Three times he was asked is he was a Christ follower. And the times he denies. He even slipped back into his old flesh pattern to persuade those present that he was not with Jesus. After the third denial, the cock crew, and Peter immediately remembered the words of Christ. These words that he bitterly rejected earlier now hung in the air over his actions like a ton of pricks. Regret and shame filled his being. The left and mourned his actions.
* In the morning (probably around 6:00-7:00 AM) Jesus was brought before Pilate to be accused and sentenced by the Roman Governor.
* While Jesus was brought before Pilate, another of Jesus disciples is regretting their actions. Judas, comes to grip with the full weight of his actions as well. The Bible uses specific words and phrases to show the regret of Judas. The first is "repent". This word means to change. Judas had a change of mind. It is interesting to note that this is the exact word Jesus was calling everyone to do at his first coming. Jesus says, "Repent for the kingdom of God is at hand". But Judas actually has action to prove his repentance. Judas returns the money and openly declares his wrong doing. The second is the phrase, "innocent blood". This is a reference to one who is killed without reason. Certainly this applies to Jesus, who is innocent and is being killed. We are not to assume that this shows a genuine conversion of the betrayer, but it does cause one to wonder.
* Pilate brings Jesus before the people. He does not want to condemn Jesus. He wants to release Him. But the religious elite move the crowd against Jesus. They ask for Barabbas, a convicted criminal, to be released instead of Jesus. Pilate knows that Jesus is innocent, but he succumbs to the crowds wishes and sentences Jesus to be crucified. Notice again Pilate calls Jesus "innocent Blood".
APPLICATION:
* Often times we don't even realize that we are in the midst of temptation. We must be yielded to the total control of the Spirit every moment of every day.
* We can not let our fear control our actions.
* In moments of weakness we are most vulnerable to the attacks of the evil one.
* If we follow Close to Jesus we may have less temptation. Meaning, we can sometimes put ourselves is the places where temptation is great, instead of avoiding these places by the side of Jesus.
Next Week:
* Matthew 27:27-66
* Matthew 27:39-40 - 39 And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, 40 And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.
These are just some of my thoughts as you consider your own on these scriptures.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Only Jesus Can fill the HOPE in your Heart
Life holds its fair amount of disappointments. I know over the 40+ years of my life I have experienced disappointments and setbacks. They come in all manners. I have been jobless having bills to pay. I have been confused in life needing direction. I have suffered loss and needed comfort. I have endured mental stress and needed relief. I have felt like the Prophet Jeremiah as he recount his affliction in Lamentations 3:1-11
I am the man that hath seen affliction by the rod of his wrath.
There are some that would profess that becoming a christian would make life easier. But that's just not the case. Being a Christians does not mean that life will become automatically easier, it just means that we now know where to go for relief.
In fact, there are people here this AM that would say that life has not always been easy. And perhaps there are some here today that would say that they are tin he middle of a struggle as we speak.
Maybe you are confused about Gods direction for you life
Or Perhaps you are in grief over the loss of a loved on
Or perhaps you are troubled by a decision that you need to make
Or perhaps you are out of work and need to find work.
Or perhaps nothing in life if working for you.
Well, I want you to know that God understands the normal struggles in life. He understands that every person has fears and struggles that need to be resolved. Not only does God know about our struggles, but he cares about us in the struggles that we endure. He offers himself to us in these times. Because Only God can fill the hope that is in our hearts.
Let's see what kind of hope God offers. Let's look back at the life of Peter. Join me if the scripture today in Matthew 8:1-17
When we last left Peter, He decided to leave a boat load of fish and follow Jesus. It has been a world wind week in the Life of Peter. In fact, it has been a world-wind week in the Life of Jesus. In a short span of time, perhaps only a few days, Peter has witnessed some of the most amazing miracles.
Jesus preforms miracle after miracle after miracle. In fact, preforming miracle was something that Jesus did all throughout out his earthly ministry. There are some 33 specific miracles mentioned in the gospel account. And these aren't the only ones. Look what John tells us in John 21:25.
25 And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.
From healing a manner of diseases, to casting out demons, to curing common and not some common health issues, to raising the dead. Each of these individuals had a hope and their heart…A hope to be healed, and hope to see again, a hope to be comforted, and hope to be delivered. They all had a hope in their heart. And Jesus filled the hope that was in their hearts. Let's look at a few of those encounters that happen in our text this morning.
Matthew 8:1-4 - The Man with Leprosy hoped to be made whole.
When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him. 2 And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. 3 And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. 4 And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.
Matthew 8:5-13 - The Centurion hoped that Jesus would heal his daughter
5 And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, 6 And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. 7 And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. 8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. 9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. 10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. 11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. 12 But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 13 And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.
Matthew 8:14-17 - Peter comes home to find his own mother in law sick with a great fever.
14 And when Jesus was come into Peter’s house, he saw his wife’s mother laid, and sick of a fever. 15 And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them. 16 When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: 17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.
These scriptures each record a supernatural meeting with Jesus that ended up with a miracle. All the while, Peter is watching. how will Jesus respond. Peter was amazed when Jesus caught a multitude of fish after he had toiled all night and caught nothing. Can you image Peter's amazement at each of these encounters. Peter is astonished, once, twice…over and over again. Who is this Jesus? Peter must have asked himself. But while Peter watches Jesus, Jesus is teaching Peter some amazing truths. The truths are revealed as we learn the true meaning of the miracles.
The fame of Jesus actions spread through the region and people would come to him for help. It was this fame that caused the leper to cry out. It was this fame that caused the centurion to travel to request jesus' help They would come to him because they had a hope in their heart that only he could fill. And He did. Countless people were healed by Jesus, but it also gave Jesus the opportunity to speak about their greater need. A hope that they did not even know about.
Jesus message was to repent and turn from their sins. He knew that it was of no value to heal the physical hurt, without healing the spiritual need. People needed to see the depth of their sinfulness and the fact that that sinfulness has kept mankind away from God. But Jesus was here to take care of that need as well.
So he Jesus draws people to himself so that he can fill the hope of their heart. Why is it that we so often run away from Jesus when we have a hope in our heart. instead of running away, we should run to Him. Why? Well, let;s look at the second lesson Peter learns
Mark 1:41 - And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.
Jesus was moved with compassion for people. Over and over in scripture he sees the hope in people heart and is moved with compassion. He loves us. Remember john 3:16. And much more than that, god cares about the individual trials and struggles of life. He was moved with compassion over the leper. He was moved with compassion over the centurion's daughter. And he was moved with compassion over Peter's mother in law.
Do you see Jesus compassion for her? Look again ate the scripture....Jesus took her hand. This is something you do to offer comfort to those who are in affliction. It says...I'm here fore you...I want to identify with your suffering...I have compassion on you.
I want you to know today, whatever your struggle is - Whatever the hope of your heart is...Jesus knows and he cares. And he has the power to fill the hope I your heart.
This verse ties the miracles of Jesus with Isaiah 53. Isaiah 53 is a Messianic passage. It was a direct reference to that fact that the Messiah would bear man sorrows. This is bold proclamation that Jesus is the Messiah...the promised one.
And to a greater degree, it proclaims that Jesus is the only one who can fill the hope in your heart. This church, Pond Hill Baptist church, can not fill the hope that is in your heart. In fact no church can. This pastor can not fill the hope that is in your heart. in fact not pastor can. The person setting next to you can not fill the hope in your heart. A new job can not fill the hope in your heart. A new spouse can not fell the hope in your hearth. A boyfriend or girlfriend can not fill the hope in your heart. Only Jesus can fill the hope that is in your heart.
That is why he came. We read of Jesus walking around filling the hope in the lepers heart, and filling the hope in the centurion's heart, and even the hope of Peter's own mother in law. And many more who met Jesus had their hope filled.
What must we do. We much cry out to Jesus with the hope of our heart. Cry out to him! Believe that he will fill the hope in our heart
What would it look like, If we took our struggles straight to Jesus/ What would it look like if we took our emptiness straight to Jesus? What would it look like if we went to Jesus to fill the hope in our heart? I say that if would make a world of difference in our life. So why not give it a try. Cry out to Jesus with the hope in your heart? Believe on him today, and let him fill the hope in your heart.
I am the man that hath seen affliction by the rod of his wrath.
2 He hath led me, and brought me into darkness, but not into light.
3 Surely against me is he turned; he turneth his hand against me all the day.
4 My flesh and my skin hath he made old; he hath broken my bones.
5 He hath builded against me, and compassed me with gall and travail.
6 He hath set me in dark places, as they that be dead of old.
7 He hath hedged me about, that I cannot get out: he hath made my chain heavy.
8 Also when I cry and shout, he shutteth out my prayer.
9 He hath inclosed my ways with hewn stone, he hath made my paths crooked.
10 He was unto me as a bear lying in wait, and as a lion in secret places.
11 He hath turned aside my ways, and pulled me in pieces: he hath made me desolate.
There are some that would profess that becoming a christian would make life easier. But that's just not the case. Being a Christians does not mean that life will become automatically easier, it just means that we now know where to go for relief.
In fact, there are people here this AM that would say that life has not always been easy. And perhaps there are some here today that would say that they are tin he middle of a struggle as we speak.
Maybe you are confused about Gods direction for you life
Or Perhaps you are in grief over the loss of a loved on
Or perhaps you are troubled by a decision that you need to make
Or perhaps you are out of work and need to find work.
Or perhaps nothing in life if working for you.
Well, I want you to know that God understands the normal struggles in life. He understands that every person has fears and struggles that need to be resolved. Not only does God know about our struggles, but he cares about us in the struggles that we endure. He offers himself to us in these times. Because Only God can fill the hope that is in our hearts.
Let's see what kind of hope God offers. Let's look back at the life of Peter. Join me if the scripture today in Matthew 8:1-17
When we last left Peter, He decided to leave a boat load of fish and follow Jesus. It has been a world wind week in the Life of Peter. In fact, it has been a world-wind week in the Life of Jesus. In a short span of time, perhaps only a few days, Peter has witnessed some of the most amazing miracles.
Jesus preforms miracle after miracle after miracle. In fact, preforming miracle was something that Jesus did all throughout out his earthly ministry. There are some 33 specific miracles mentioned in the gospel account. And these aren't the only ones. Look what John tells us in John 21:25.
25 And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.
From healing a manner of diseases, to casting out demons, to curing common and not some common health issues, to raising the dead. Each of these individuals had a hope and their heart…A hope to be healed, and hope to see again, a hope to be comforted, and hope to be delivered. They all had a hope in their heart. And Jesus filled the hope that was in their hearts. Let's look at a few of those encounters that happen in our text this morning.
Matthew 8:1-4 - The Man with Leprosy hoped to be made whole.
When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him. 2 And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. 3 And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. 4 And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.
Matthew 8:5-13 - The Centurion hoped that Jesus would heal his daughter
5 And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, 6 And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. 7 And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. 8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. 9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. 10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. 11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. 12 But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 13 And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.
Matthew 8:14-17 - Peter comes home to find his own mother in law sick with a great fever.
14 And when Jesus was come into Peter’s house, he saw his wife’s mother laid, and sick of a fever. 15 And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them. 16 When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: 17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.
These scriptures each record a supernatural meeting with Jesus that ended up with a miracle. All the while, Peter is watching. how will Jesus respond. Peter was amazed when Jesus caught a multitude of fish after he had toiled all night and caught nothing. Can you image Peter's amazement at each of these encounters. Peter is astonished, once, twice…over and over again. Who is this Jesus? Peter must have asked himself. But while Peter watches Jesus, Jesus is teaching Peter some amazing truths. The truths are revealed as we learn the true meaning of the miracles.
- Jesus used the miracles to draw people to himself so he could preach to them Matthew 4:23-25
The fame of Jesus actions spread through the region and people would come to him for help. It was this fame that caused the leper to cry out. It was this fame that caused the centurion to travel to request jesus' help They would come to him because they had a hope in their heart that only he could fill. And He did. Countless people were healed by Jesus, but it also gave Jesus the opportunity to speak about their greater need. A hope that they did not even know about.
Jesus message was to repent and turn from their sins. He knew that it was of no value to heal the physical hurt, without healing the spiritual need. People needed to see the depth of their sinfulness and the fact that that sinfulness has kept mankind away from God. But Jesus was here to take care of that need as well.
So he Jesus draws people to himself so that he can fill the hope of their heart. Why is it that we so often run away from Jesus when we have a hope in our heart. instead of running away, we should run to Him. Why? Well, let;s look at the second lesson Peter learns
- Jesus used the miracles to show his compassion so that people would accept his love.
Mark 1:41 - And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.
Jesus was moved with compassion for people. Over and over in scripture he sees the hope in people heart and is moved with compassion. He loves us. Remember john 3:16. And much more than that, god cares about the individual trials and struggles of life. He was moved with compassion over the leper. He was moved with compassion over the centurion's daughter. And he was moved with compassion over Peter's mother in law.
Do you see Jesus compassion for her? Look again ate the scripture....Jesus took her hand. This is something you do to offer comfort to those who are in affliction. It says...I'm here fore you...I want to identify with your suffering...I have compassion on you.
I want you to know today, whatever your struggle is - Whatever the hope of your heart is...Jesus knows and he cares. And he has the power to fill the hope I your heart.
- Jesus used miracles to prove that he was the Messiah.
This verse ties the miracles of Jesus with Isaiah 53. Isaiah 53 is a Messianic passage. It was a direct reference to that fact that the Messiah would bear man sorrows. This is bold proclamation that Jesus is the Messiah...the promised one.
And to a greater degree, it proclaims that Jesus is the only one who can fill the hope in your heart. This church, Pond Hill Baptist church, can not fill the hope that is in your heart. In fact no church can. This pastor can not fill the hope that is in your heart. in fact not pastor can. The person setting next to you can not fill the hope in your heart. A new job can not fill the hope in your heart. A new spouse can not fell the hope in your hearth. A boyfriend or girlfriend can not fill the hope in your heart. Only Jesus can fill the hope that is in your heart.
That is why he came. We read of Jesus walking around filling the hope in the lepers heart, and filling the hope in the centurion's heart, and even the hope of Peter's own mother in law. And many more who met Jesus had their hope filled.
What must we do. We much cry out to Jesus with the hope of our heart. Cry out to him! Believe that he will fill the hope in our heart
What would it look like, If we took our struggles straight to Jesus/ What would it look like if we took our emptiness straight to Jesus? What would it look like if we went to Jesus to fill the hope in our heart? I say that if would make a world of difference in our life. So why not give it a try. Cry out to Jesus with the hope in your heart? Believe on him today, and let him fill the hope in your heart.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Bible Study Thoughts - Matthew 23
Hey everyone:
I though I would share my thoughts on the Bible Study this week. If your Bible study has not met yet, then this may be a quick start for some of you own ideas. These are just some simple thoughts as I read through the scriptures this week. Please fell free to share you own thought in the comments.
Matthew 23:12 - And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. This is our memory verse for this week. It really demonstrates the idea Jesus is trying to convey and we as followers need to emulate.
OBSERVATION:
* In the previous chapter the Pharisees and Sadducee's tried to trick Jesus by asking m a series of questions. Jesus then asks them a question about the identity of the messiah. This question silences them.
* Then Jesus gives a stern warning to his followers cautioning them about the problems the Pharisees and Sadducee's were causing
* The problems of the pharisees as Jesus saw them:
1. They made heavy religious laws that others were to follow, but it themselves. 4
2. They made a show of their religious apparel to appear more righteous. 5
3. They looked for a place of prominence when gathered with other people. 6
4. They loved the chief seats in the temple. 6
5. They loved to be called rabbi. 7
6. They made it difficult for people to genuinely know how to enter God's kingdom. 13
7. They made merchandise of the Lord's work. 14
8. They bound people to religious traditions that keep them tied to hell. 15
9. They were blind themselves and should not be leading others. 16
10. They gave false regulations that are ridiculous in contrast. 16-22
11. They gave all the show of religion, but lacked the weightier matters of the heart. 23-27
12. They talked about how they would have received and honored all the prophets of old, but instead they rejected the prophets sent to them. 29-37
* Jesus leaves Jerusalem until the palm Sunday events
INTERPRETATION:
* Jesus warned his Disciples about the activity of the religious elite. He does this so that they would see through all the show into the heart of the matter. He also wanted his followers to know what they are up against. Ultimately, the followers of Jesus will have to stand against this.
* Jesus also warns his disciples because he does not want them to become modern day Pharisees themselves. The tendency is there to make any of God's laws into a religious system. For-instance, It is easy to say that a church that does not use the KJV is not as good a church that does. This is modern day religious elitism. It's easy to condemns others for some of their actions, but we must look closer than condemning others. Each and every one of us can exhibit some of these characteristics. So Jesus warns his disciples to be humble and learn to love others even though they may be different.
* Jesus gives specific instruction to combat Pharisaical attitudes in those we follow him:
1. Do not want other to call you master. 8
2. Understand the relationship between all Christians...there is no hierarchy, only brothers and sisters. We may have differing gifts, responsibilities, roles, etc; but no one is of greater value than the other. All are to work together to accomplish the mission of Christ. 8
3. Do not be called father, because God is our Father. 9
4. Learn to serve others. 11-13
* Then there are some implied behaviors that need to be heeded:
1. Do not make it more difficult for people to come to Christ. 4, 13
2. Do it use your religious activity as a show of righteousness. 5, 6, 14,
3. Attend to inner Christ likeness, over an outer show of righteousness. 23-28
APPLICATION:
* My most important job is to make sure that I am following the Lord appropriately, giving all attention to the heart issues, and not the outer issues. If the heart is right, then the outer issues will follow the heart.
* Be cautious of those who would try to add a lot of extra thing to the simplicity that is in Christ.
Next Week:
* Matthew 24:1-44
* Memory - Matthew 24:36, 42
I though I would share my thoughts on the Bible Study this week. If your Bible study has not met yet, then this may be a quick start for some of you own ideas. These are just some simple thoughts as I read through the scriptures this week. Please fell free to share you own thought in the comments.
Matthew 23:12 - And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. This is our memory verse for this week. It really demonstrates the idea Jesus is trying to convey and we as followers need to emulate.
OBSERVATION:
* In the previous chapter the Pharisees and Sadducee's tried to trick Jesus by asking m a series of questions. Jesus then asks them a question about the identity of the messiah. This question silences them.
* Then Jesus gives a stern warning to his followers cautioning them about the problems the Pharisees and Sadducee's were causing
* The problems of the pharisees as Jesus saw them:
1. They made heavy religious laws that others were to follow, but it themselves. 4
2. They made a show of their religious apparel to appear more righteous. 5
3. They looked for a place of prominence when gathered with other people. 6
4. They loved the chief seats in the temple. 6
5. They loved to be called rabbi. 7
6. They made it difficult for people to genuinely know how to enter God's kingdom. 13
7. They made merchandise of the Lord's work. 14
8. They bound people to religious traditions that keep them tied to hell. 15
9. They were blind themselves and should not be leading others. 16
10. They gave false regulations that are ridiculous in contrast. 16-22
11. They gave all the show of religion, but lacked the weightier matters of the heart. 23-27
12. They talked about how they would have received and honored all the prophets of old, but instead they rejected the prophets sent to them. 29-37
* Jesus leaves Jerusalem until the palm Sunday events
INTERPRETATION:
* Jesus warned his Disciples about the activity of the religious elite. He does this so that they would see through all the show into the heart of the matter. He also wanted his followers to know what they are up against. Ultimately, the followers of Jesus will have to stand against this.
* Jesus also warns his disciples because he does not want them to become modern day Pharisees themselves. The tendency is there to make any of God's laws into a religious system. For-instance, It is easy to say that a church that does not use the KJV is not as good a church that does. This is modern day religious elitism. It's easy to condemns others for some of their actions, but we must look closer than condemning others. Each and every one of us can exhibit some of these characteristics. So Jesus warns his disciples to be humble and learn to love others even though they may be different.
* Jesus gives specific instruction to combat Pharisaical attitudes in those we follow him:
1. Do not want other to call you master. 8
2. Understand the relationship between all Christians...there is no hierarchy, only brothers and sisters. We may have differing gifts, responsibilities, roles, etc; but no one is of greater value than the other. All are to work together to accomplish the mission of Christ. 8
3. Do not be called father, because God is our Father. 9
4. Learn to serve others. 11-13
* Then there are some implied behaviors that need to be heeded:
1. Do not make it more difficult for people to come to Christ. 4, 13
2. Do it use your religious activity as a show of righteousness. 5, 6, 14,
3. Attend to inner Christ likeness, over an outer show of righteousness. 23-28
APPLICATION:
* My most important job is to make sure that I am following the Lord appropriately, giving all attention to the heart issues, and not the outer issues. If the heart is right, then the outer issues will follow the heart.
* Be cautious of those who would try to add a lot of extra thing to the simplicity that is in Christ.
Next Week:
* Matthew 24:1-44
* Memory - Matthew 24:36, 42
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Why Small Groups?
We have just entered into our third trimester of small groups this week. It has been a dramatic change in the structure of our church. The goal remains the same...teach people the Word of God so each individual can become a life long disciple of Christ. Most people I have spoken with who have joined a small group, have a similar thought... "I really enjoy my small group". But it's still new and there may be some folks out there who, for whatever reason, have not yet connected with a small group.
Each week about 35-40 people are involved in a small group. That represent about 60% of our church membership. Our stated goal is to have 75% of our church involved in a small group. But I must confess, I can't find any reason why 100% of our church would not be in a small group. So, I thought I would just talk about the main reasons I fell every person in our church should attend a small group. So, here they are in no specific order.
Small groups provide a great environment to study God's Word together. There is no greater use of our time than to study God's word. But I fear that most Christians spend a minimal amount of time seriously considering the Word of God. Well, small groups offer a great environment to study God's Word together. Each week, we read one chapter of the Bible multiple times. This allows the scriptural text to dwell in our heart and mind on a daily basis. And allows us to dwell in the scriptures each and every day. As we read we note specific thoughts that God may bring to our attention. And we mark down any applications that God may bring to light. Then when we met together we study what God has shown each individual. Now I want you to think about this. When is the last time you sat around a dinner table talking excitedly about what God has shown you from His Word? Need I say more. Small groups offer a great environment to study God's Word together.
Small groups provide a great place to pray together. As well as study God's Word together, we also get the opportunity to pray with one another. Praying with one another and for one another is a great way to demonstrate brotherly love. But it is much, much more. Praying for one another is a form of bearing one another's burdens. It also provides a great opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we are able to meet the needs that may come up in a small group. Prayer is an important part of the small groups environment.
Small groups provide a place to hold one another accountable. This is often something people are very uncomfortable talking about. But we are called to help one another grow toward Christ likeness. I love what Ephesians 4:11-16. We have been called to "perfect the saints", "do the work of the ministry" and "edify the body of Christ", until we are fully mature in Christ. That sounds like we have a responsibility to help one another grow in Christ. Being in a small group helps us grow together. It holds us accountable because we have to be ready each week. And if someone is not ready we can encourage them be ready for the next week.
Small groups provide a great place to connect with other believers. Small groups grow closer together! It's true. When you spend 60 to 90 minutes together each week with a specific groups of people, you can't help but grow closer together with them. It is this closeness with other believers that nurtured the growing atmosphere is the early church. It was said that the early church "had all thing in common". This phrase demonstrates the unity and connection that the early church believers shared. The connection was the result of spending time together around God's Word. Small groups are an excellent place to connect with other believers.
These are four of the largest reasons why our church has small groups. One could say, "Pastor Mike, can't we accomplish all his by just coming to church on Sunday Morning?" My response would be yes, but only to a limited degree. You know what it's like on Sunday Morning. It's easy just to rush in and rush out without interacting with anyone. There is also limited time on Sunday and you can't really have a meaningful conversation with everyone. Well, small groups are a great venue to connect with one another around the Word of God.
If you are not a part of a small group yet, I want to invite you to join one this trimester and give it a try. Perhaps you will be the next one to say, "I really enjoy my small group!"
Each week about 35-40 people are involved in a small group. That represent about 60% of our church membership. Our stated goal is to have 75% of our church involved in a small group. But I must confess, I can't find any reason why 100% of our church would not be in a small group. So, I thought I would just talk about the main reasons I fell every person in our church should attend a small group. So, here they are in no specific order.
Small groups provide a great environment to study God's Word together. There is no greater use of our time than to study God's word. But I fear that most Christians spend a minimal amount of time seriously considering the Word of God. Well, small groups offer a great environment to study God's Word together. Each week, we read one chapter of the Bible multiple times. This allows the scriptural text to dwell in our heart and mind on a daily basis. And allows us to dwell in the scriptures each and every day. As we read we note specific thoughts that God may bring to our attention. And we mark down any applications that God may bring to light. Then when we met together we study what God has shown each individual. Now I want you to think about this. When is the last time you sat around a dinner table talking excitedly about what God has shown you from His Word? Need I say more. Small groups offer a great environment to study God's Word together.
Small groups provide a great place to pray together. As well as study God's Word together, we also get the opportunity to pray with one another. Praying with one another and for one another is a great way to demonstrate brotherly love. But it is much, much more. Praying for one another is a form of bearing one another's burdens. It also provides a great opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we are able to meet the needs that may come up in a small group. Prayer is an important part of the small groups environment.
Small groups provide a place to hold one another accountable. This is often something people are very uncomfortable talking about. But we are called to help one another grow toward Christ likeness. I love what Ephesians 4:11-16. We have been called to "perfect the saints", "do the work of the ministry" and "edify the body of Christ", until we are fully mature in Christ. That sounds like we have a responsibility to help one another grow in Christ. Being in a small group helps us grow together. It holds us accountable because we have to be ready each week. And if someone is not ready we can encourage them be ready for the next week.
Small groups provide a great place to connect with other believers. Small groups grow closer together! It's true. When you spend 60 to 90 minutes together each week with a specific groups of people, you can't help but grow closer together with them. It is this closeness with other believers that nurtured the growing atmosphere is the early church. It was said that the early church "had all thing in common". This phrase demonstrates the unity and connection that the early church believers shared. The connection was the result of spending time together around God's Word. Small groups are an excellent place to connect with other believers.
These are four of the largest reasons why our church has small groups. One could say, "Pastor Mike, can't we accomplish all his by just coming to church on Sunday Morning?" My response would be yes, but only to a limited degree. You know what it's like on Sunday Morning. It's easy just to rush in and rush out without interacting with anyone. There is also limited time on Sunday and you can't really have a meaningful conversation with everyone. Well, small groups are a great venue to connect with one another around the Word of God.
If you are not a part of a small group yet, I want to invite you to join one this trimester and give it a try. Perhaps you will be the next one to say, "I really enjoy my small group!"
Monday, November 28, 2011
Gettin' under my skin.
I must confess, there are many things that get under my skin. But nothing does so as quickly or as irritatingly as when people get history or science wrong. I realize that there exists in a culture today a malevolent attitude toward the Bible, and I know that this attitude is only going to get worse. But there is a real bias against anything biblical.
Consider the theory of evolution. Have you been to the zoo lately? Or perhaps you took a trip to the natural history museum. The theory evolution is all on their placards. It usually reads like this..."over 100 million years ago..." They must spend a fortune on this placards since the dates change every 5-10 years. When I was a kid, it was only millions of years. But I digress... Are there no scientists who believe in a young earth - sure there are! In fact, there is a growing pool of scientists who believe in a young earth. Do you think they will ever be asked by the Discovery Channel about the evidence to support a young earth? I doubt it. And Bible believing people are intolerant?
But today, it was taken to an entire new level. My family and I went to NYC to see the Dead Sea Scrolls. The "scholars" told me that the Bible was written many years after the date accepted by most scholars...that the Jewish religion was a "folk" religion, but most Jews were pagan idolaters...and that Jews were of Canaanite descent. This was given by a leading "scholar" and was "backed up" by the archeology found in the area. This news came right after the map on the wall showed the cultural significance and diversity of Judea throughout the ages.
Here is my problem. Just because you find some Canaanite idols in Israel does not mean that the Jews were of Canaanite descent who who had some kind of spiritual reformation, nor does it mean that the real religion of the Jews was idolatry, in particular feminist idolatry (worshipping the divine female). It could simply means that there was a Canaanite influence in the land and many people left Judaism to follow after false gods.
Deuteronomy 7:1 states, God wanted Israel to drive the Canaanites out of the land with many others occupants. Why? Because God knew that if Israel did not drive the Canaanites out, they would subvert the people from following God. Did Israel follow God's instruction? Look at Judges 16:10. "And they drave not out the Canaanites that dwelt in Gezer: but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites unto this day, and serve under tribute." So what do we find in the archeological evidence today? We see a Canaanites presence and their pagan idols. But the existence of this evidence does not prove that the religion on the Bible was a "folk" religion and idolatry was the real religion of the land. What is does prove is that God knew what he was talking about when he told Israel to drive the Canaanites out of the Land. And that's just a quick look at the word "Canaanites" in the Bible.
I guess what really makes me so mad is that people will go through the exhibit and say. "Yea, that must be right, because an 'scholar' said it." And many of those people will say that they are christian. Warning believer...We are at war! The enemy will do anything to lead people away from God. Be diligent. Study God's word, so that you will not be deceived by the lies of the Evil One.
Oh, and by the way...it was awesome to see the six fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls that were on display.
Consider the theory of evolution. Have you been to the zoo lately? Or perhaps you took a trip to the natural history museum. The theory evolution is all on their placards. It usually reads like this..."over 100 million years ago..." They must spend a fortune on this placards since the dates change every 5-10 years. When I was a kid, it was only millions of years. But I digress... Are there no scientists who believe in a young earth - sure there are! In fact, there is a growing pool of scientists who believe in a young earth. Do you think they will ever be asked by the Discovery Channel about the evidence to support a young earth? I doubt it. And Bible believing people are intolerant?
But today, it was taken to an entire new level. My family and I went to NYC to see the Dead Sea Scrolls. The "scholars" told me that the Bible was written many years after the date accepted by most scholars...that the Jewish religion was a "folk" religion, but most Jews were pagan idolaters...and that Jews were of Canaanite descent. This was given by a leading "scholar" and was "backed up" by the archeology found in the area. This news came right after the map on the wall showed the cultural significance and diversity of Judea throughout the ages.
Here is my problem. Just because you find some Canaanite idols in Israel does not mean that the Jews were of Canaanite descent who who had some kind of spiritual reformation, nor does it mean that the real religion of the Jews was idolatry, in particular feminist idolatry (worshipping the divine female). It could simply means that there was a Canaanite influence in the land and many people left Judaism to follow after false gods.
Deuteronomy 7:1 states, God wanted Israel to drive the Canaanites out of the land with many others occupants. Why? Because God knew that if Israel did not drive the Canaanites out, they would subvert the people from following God. Did Israel follow God's instruction? Look at Judges 16:10. "And they drave not out the Canaanites that dwelt in Gezer: but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites unto this day, and serve under tribute." So what do we find in the archeological evidence today? We see a Canaanites presence and their pagan idols. But the existence of this evidence does not prove that the religion on the Bible was a "folk" religion and idolatry was the real religion of the land. What is does prove is that God knew what he was talking about when he told Israel to drive the Canaanites out of the Land. And that's just a quick look at the word "Canaanites" in the Bible.
I guess what really makes me so mad is that people will go through the exhibit and say. "Yea, that must be right, because an 'scholar' said it." And many of those people will say that they are christian. Warning believer...We are at war! The enemy will do anything to lead people away from God. Be diligent. Study God's word, so that you will not be deceived by the lies of the Evil One.
Oh, and by the way...it was awesome to see the six fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls that were on display.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Generous Giving!
I have always considered myself a generous giver. I believe in tithing. I believe it is the place all believer should start their giving. A tithe is a tenth of my income. And not to be trite, but I believe it's on all my income, not just what gets deposited into my checking account. I believe in giving God the first fruits, so my tithe check to my local church is the first check I make out after I write my deposit in Quicken©. On top of that, there is missions through my church, missions that I support personally, and special opportunity giving. I don't say that to brag, just that you know I understand biblical giving.
But recently, my world was rocked by a simple little book called The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn. I enjoy most of the books from this author, and I find them spiritually encouraging. Our church had recently studied all about Heaven, using this authors book on heaven as a study help. So when Christmas came around I jumped at the opportunity to give our church more resources from this man of God. I hadn't read the book myself, but I was confident in the author ability to reveal scripture clearly.
I have been taking some days off to prepare for the upcoming year at our church. I picked up the little book and started reading. I must confess, I was amazed at how much the book affected me. The author uses scripture after scripture after scripture to drive home the point that we should be laying up treasure in heaven, not here on earth. That's not a new concept for any believer. Yet, most believer's I know get swallowed up into obtaining too many earthly treasures. All the while claiming to be storing up treasure only in heaven. The author was not content to let me stay in my lie any longer. this is where he hit me. He said, we buy a new TV, only to figure out we "need" a new DVD player, then our stand is too small, then we need a surround sound system, then high definition reception, etc, etc, etc.
Nothing is innately wrong with having these things, but his words hit home with me. Why? Just the other day, I was looking at a Bose surround system for my TV. Do I need a Bose surround sound system. No, I can hear my TV just fine. But there is a part of me that says, "Mike, you deserve that surround sound system." I guess you know where that little voice came form don't you. Yea, it was my flesh. I don't deserve a surround sound system. Let me tell you what I deserve...
Maybe at some other time. The author sets forth 6 Treasure Principles that should guide every believer's mind about money and possession. These principles are the foundation for a biblical worldview concerning money. They are all biblically grounded although the dot and line principle is a picture of biblical truth. I loved his antidote for materialism (principle #5).
The best part of the book was the "giving covenant". The book calls its reader not only to contemplate the truths found in scripture but to take action upon what the Bible says to be the way of financial life for every believer.
I encourage this book for all believers, young and old. It will not take a great amount of time to read the entire work, and it is easy reading. I recommend reading it slowly while looking up each passage of scripture. Maybe even take it chapter at a time so one can fully digest these treasured principles. But take warning, It may challenge your ideas about giving...It may even revolutionize your financial outlook!
But recently, my world was rocked by a simple little book called The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn. I enjoy most of the books from this author, and I find them spiritually encouraging. Our church had recently studied all about Heaven, using this authors book on heaven as a study help. So when Christmas came around I jumped at the opportunity to give our church more resources from this man of God. I hadn't read the book myself, but I was confident in the author ability to reveal scripture clearly.
I have been taking some days off to prepare for the upcoming year at our church. I picked up the little book and started reading. I must confess, I was amazed at how much the book affected me. The author uses scripture after scripture after scripture to drive home the point that we should be laying up treasure in heaven, not here on earth. That's not a new concept for any believer. Yet, most believer's I know get swallowed up into obtaining too many earthly treasures. All the while claiming to be storing up treasure only in heaven. The author was not content to let me stay in my lie any longer. this is where he hit me. He said, we buy a new TV, only to figure out we "need" a new DVD player, then our stand is too small, then we need a surround sound system, then high definition reception, etc, etc, etc. Nothing is innately wrong with having these things, but his words hit home with me. Why? Just the other day, I was looking at a Bose surround system for my TV. Do I need a Bose surround sound system. No, I can hear my TV just fine. But there is a part of me that says, "Mike, you deserve that surround sound system." I guess you know where that little voice came form don't you. Yea, it was my flesh. I don't deserve a surround sound system. Let me tell you what I deserve...
Maybe at some other time. The author sets forth 6 Treasure Principles that should guide every believer's mind about money and possession. These principles are the foundation for a biblical worldview concerning money. They are all biblically grounded although the dot and line principle is a picture of biblical truth. I loved his antidote for materialism (principle #5).
The best part of the book was the "giving covenant". The book calls its reader not only to contemplate the truths found in scripture but to take action upon what the Bible says to be the way of financial life for every believer.
I encourage this book for all believers, young and old. It will not take a great amount of time to read the entire work, and it is easy reading. I recommend reading it slowly while looking up each passage of scripture. Maybe even take it chapter at a time so one can fully digest these treasured principles. But take warning, It may challenge your ideas about giving...It may even revolutionize your financial outlook!
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Reading Update:
Sean McDowell paints a pretty realistic picture of modern spirituality. He says, "the spiritual lives of many people have become all about personal preferences and what makes them feel good about themselves and the world rather than what is really true." He references a book entitled Souls in Transition, where the author, Christian Smith, names this spiritual condition "Moralistic Therapeutic Deism" and gives it five core beliefs:
- A God exists who created and orders the world and watches over human life on earth.
- God wants people to be good, nice, and fair to each other.
- The central goal of life is to be happy and to feel good about oneself.
- God does not want to particularly involved in one's life except when God is needed to solve a problem.
- Good people go to heaven when they die.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)