Hebrews 11 In chapter 10 the writer has encouraged us to ".. not throw away our confidence..", to
have "endurance" and to "..not shrink back to destruction". We need to have faith "to the preserving of the soul." Now, he reminds us that faith is "the assurance of things hope for, the conviction of things not seen.."
This is how "men of old gained approval". They believed God and they acted accordingly. This "great cloud of witnesses".. have gone before us, examples of what it means to live by faith.
Abel is an example of living by faith, for he listened to God's voice and offered an acceptable sacrifice. For this God considered him righteous and even though he was murdered by his own brother, his testimony still encourages us.
Enoch walked by faith.. pleasing God, so much so that God took him straight to heaven!
Noah walked by faith, building an" ark for the salvation of his household". He left behind all that would not believe to follow the Lord.
Abraham also left behind all that he knew.. to go where God would send him. He lived by faith in a land that was foreign, believing the promises of God.
On and on the list goes. Men and women who simply obeyed God because they believed He is and that He is "a rewarder of those who seek Him." Their faith in God was not just for the promise of this world... for "they desire a better country, that is a heavenly one."
Some received much for their faith.. kingdoms and miracles and healing.. but some did not. Some were mocked, scourged, and martyred. Even our Savior, who endured the cross.. But, they are all a witness to us.. giving us the sure and certain testimony that it is worth it!
".. let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us..." ( 12:1) Let us not "shrink back to destruction" but let us "who have faith" persevere... no matter what. Jesus, our great High Priest is at the right hand of our God.. and we fix our eyes on Him, " the author and perfecter of faith." He is our primary example and our only hope.
Jesus, you are the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.. You are the beginning of faith and the completer.. the finisher also. It is all in You... through You and for You. As we consider Your great example and sacrifice, may we "not grow weary and lose heart".. Strengthen us with the power of Your might by Your Spirit, to the honor and glory of the Majesty on high.. our Great God and King forever. Amen.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
Hebrews 10:26-39 After showing how the second covenant is so much greater than the first.. and that the sacrifice that Jesus provided ( Himself) is so much greater than the sacrifices of bulls and goats, etc... the writer takes us into a very difficult truth, with eternal consequences.
"For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain terrifying expectation of judgement... "
Those who violated the covenant of Law were judged accordingly and the result was death.
How much worse are the consequences of trampling "underfoot the Son of God.."
To regard His precious blood as "unclean" is to insult "the Spirit of grace".
It is not enough to say you are a believer.. even to suffer.. or to do good works.. if you don't persevere in faith. "Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward".
The promises of God are worth everything!
Living by faith, continually, is vital.
He is coming again.. and we must remain faithful and confident until that day.
Let us not "shrink back to destruction"... the writer tells us, for "those who have faith" preserve their souls.
Father in heaven, You are our shelter and salvation. It is in You that we find truth and life. Help us to walk in faith, the only way that is worthy of Your great grace and mercy. Our hope is in Christ alone, the eternal King, the High Priest, and the heir of every thing in heaven and on the earth. We want to walk in faith, to persevere until the coming of our Lord. Fill us Spirit of God, with Your power to keep learning and growing and loving our Lord. Help us in our doubts and fears, in our weaknesses and failures, that we might remain faithful until the end.. never falling back into destruction . You are our only Helper and our wonderful, living Hope. How wonderful that we have a Savior who does not forsake us! Amen!
"For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain terrifying expectation of judgement... "
Those who violated the covenant of Law were judged accordingly and the result was death.
How much worse are the consequences of trampling "underfoot the Son of God.."
To regard His precious blood as "unclean" is to insult "the Spirit of grace".
It is not enough to say you are a believer.. even to suffer.. or to do good works.. if you don't persevere in faith. "Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward".
The promises of God are worth everything!
Living by faith, continually, is vital.
He is coming again.. and we must remain faithful and confident until that day.
Let us not "shrink back to destruction"... the writer tells us, for "those who have faith" preserve their souls.
Father in heaven, You are our shelter and salvation. It is in You that we find truth and life. Help us to walk in faith, the only way that is worthy of Your great grace and mercy. Our hope is in Christ alone, the eternal King, the High Priest, and the heir of every thing in heaven and on the earth. We want to walk in faith, to persevere until the coming of our Lord. Fill us Spirit of God, with Your power to keep learning and growing and loving our Lord. Help us in our doubts and fears, in our weaknesses and failures, that we might remain faithful until the end.. never falling back into destruction . You are our only Helper and our wonderful, living Hope. How wonderful that we have a Savior who does not forsake us! Amen!
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Hebrews 10
The Law was only a shadow of something greater that was to come. It was unable to make anything perfect. It only allowed temporary solutions to the problem of sin. The sacrifices offered only covered the sins but did not cure the sinfulness of the heart. But when Christ came and offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin.. it was for all sin .. and for all time. "For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified."
He has made this new covenant with us.
His law is in our hearts.
They are written in our minds.
Our sins are no longer remembered or held against us by the Lord.
We can enter the Holy place with confidence.. " by the blood of Jesus".
This is a "new and living way".
Because of Jesus, our great High Priest we can "draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water,"
Hold fast to this! ".. for He who promised is faithful."
And because of this "let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another and all the more, as you see the day drawing near." ( v24-25)
Here is what the church is meant to be.. a place where followers of Jesus come with sincere hearts to encourage one another in our faith and in love, to rejoice in the salvation that He purchased for us with His blood, and to be united with one another in Christ, for His glory! We are meant to do this together!
Father, help us once again to hear Your voice and to do Your will. May we be like Jesus.
Amen.
The Law was only a shadow of something greater that was to come. It was unable to make anything perfect. It only allowed temporary solutions to the problem of sin. The sacrifices offered only covered the sins but did not cure the sinfulness of the heart. But when Christ came and offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin.. it was for all sin .. and for all time. "For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified."
He has made this new covenant with us.
His law is in our hearts.
They are written in our minds.
Our sins are no longer remembered or held against us by the Lord.
We can enter the Holy place with confidence.. " by the blood of Jesus".
This is a "new and living way".
Because of Jesus, our great High Priest we can "draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water,"
Hold fast to this! ".. for He who promised is faithful."
And because of this "let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another and all the more, as you see the day drawing near." ( v24-25)
Here is what the church is meant to be.. a place where followers of Jesus come with sincere hearts to encourage one another in our faith and in love, to rejoice in the salvation that He purchased for us with His blood, and to be united with one another in Christ, for His glory! We are meant to do this together!
Father, help us once again to hear Your voice and to do Your will. May we be like Jesus.
Amen.
Monday, February 25, 2019
Hebrews 9 Again, pressing on to maturity... going beyond the elementary teachings.. the writer gives us a contrast between the earthly tabernacle and the True tabernacle...
The pattern given to Moses included the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies. In the Holy place there was the lamp stand and the table of the Presence. The priests could enter there every day and do the work assigned to them. But, the Holy of Holies was behind a second veil. There is where the ark of the covenant and the altar of incense stayed. Only once a year.. and only the high priest entered the Holy of Holies. And, when he entered he had to bring the blood which was offered for "himself and for the sins of the people".
"But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things to come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation..."
He entered "through His own blood.."
He entered " once for all, having obtained eternal redemption"
His sacrifice.. His blood.. did more than any animal's blood could ever do, ".. how much more with the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?"
" And for this reason He is the mediator of a new covenant in order that since a death has taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance." v15
Just as the earthly tabernacle had to be dedicated.. cleansed with the blood of sacrifices .. and they were just copies "of all the things in heaven".. "the heavenly things themselves" were cleansed by something greater... the blood of Jesus. He came into heaven itself.. not a manmade building...
He appeared before the throne of God.. once for all.. "He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself."
Father in heaven, thank You for the salvation that has been provided by Your Son, the perfect Lamb of God. Jesus, You are our Savior and King. We bow before the throne of the Most High God, because we have such a great High Priest.. Increase our understanding. Just thinking about the fact that there is a place outside of "this creation".. brings awe and wonder to me.. I bow in worship before You, the Holy, Mighty, and Eternal God. Then to think of the fact that Jesus Christ came to put away sin.. forever by laying down His own life... what amazing love and grace..
How can I say thanks? To God be the glory!
Amen.
The pattern given to Moses included the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies. In the Holy place there was the lamp stand and the table of the Presence. The priests could enter there every day and do the work assigned to them. But, the Holy of Holies was behind a second veil. There is where the ark of the covenant and the altar of incense stayed. Only once a year.. and only the high priest entered the Holy of Holies. And, when he entered he had to bring the blood which was offered for "himself and for the sins of the people".
"But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things to come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation..."
He entered "through His own blood.."
He entered " once for all, having obtained eternal redemption"
His sacrifice.. His blood.. did more than any animal's blood could ever do, ".. how much more with the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?"
" And for this reason He is the mediator of a new covenant in order that since a death has taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance." v15
Just as the earthly tabernacle had to be dedicated.. cleansed with the blood of sacrifices .. and they were just copies "of all the things in heaven".. "the heavenly things themselves" were cleansed by something greater... the blood of Jesus. He came into heaven itself.. not a manmade building...
He appeared before the throne of God.. once for all.. "He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself."
Father in heaven, thank You for the salvation that has been provided by Your Son, the perfect Lamb of God. Jesus, You are our Savior and King. We bow before the throne of the Most High God, because we have such a great High Priest.. Increase our understanding. Just thinking about the fact that there is a place outside of "this creation".. brings awe and wonder to me.. I bow in worship before You, the Holy, Mighty, and Eternal God. Then to think of the fact that Jesus Christ came to put away sin.. forever by laying down His own life... what amazing love and grace..
How can I say thanks? To God be the glory!
Amen.
Friday, February 22, 2019
Hebrews 8 "Now the main point in what has been said is this: we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the the throne of the Majesty in the heavens... "
Jesus, the perfect and permanent High Priest, appointed by the Father, sits at the right hand of God.
He dwells in the "true tabernacle".... The heavenly realm from which the design of the earthly tabernacle was patterned.
"But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry by as much as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises. " (v6)
The rest of this chapter includes much of Jeremiah 31. This prophecy was recorded as Nebuchadnezzar's army besieged the gates of Jerusalem. Israel is about to be taken into captivity.
God's judgement has come upon them because of their great sins - fueled by their rebellion against Him, their worship of idols, and their absolute failure to keep the covenant of the Law. Here, the Lord reveals to Jeremiah, that He is not done with Israel.. for "days are coming".. and a new covenant is promised!
This new covenant has been established. Jesus said, " This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood." ( Luke 22:20) Matthew recorded it this way, " .. this is My blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins " ( 26:28)
This new covenant, established by the blood of Jesus, is a solemn promise from God:
Jesus, the perfect and permanent High Priest, appointed by the Father, sits at the right hand of God.
He dwells in the "true tabernacle".... The heavenly realm from which the design of the earthly tabernacle was patterned.
"But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry by as much as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises. " (v6)
The rest of this chapter includes much of Jeremiah 31. This prophecy was recorded as Nebuchadnezzar's army besieged the gates of Jerusalem. Israel is about to be taken into captivity.
God's judgement has come upon them because of their great sins - fueled by their rebellion against Him, their worship of idols, and their absolute failure to keep the covenant of the Law. Here, the Lord reveals to Jeremiah, that He is not done with Israel.. for "days are coming".. and a new covenant is promised!
This new covenant has been established. Jesus said, " This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood." ( Luke 22:20) Matthew recorded it this way, " .. this is My blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins " ( 26:28)
This new covenant, established by the blood of Jesus, is a solemn promise from God:
"For this is the covenant that I will make
with the house of Israel
After those days, says the Lord;
I will put My Laws into their minds,
And I will write them upon their hearts.
And I will be their God,
And they shall be My people.
And they shall not teach everyone his fellow citizen,
and everyone his brother,
saying, 'Know the Lord'
For all shall know Me
From the least to the greatest of them.
For I will be merciful to their iniquities,
and I will remember their sins no more."
Father in heaven, You are the Majesty on High, the Lord of hosts.. the One who has given us "the sun for light by day, and the fixed order of the moon and the stars for light by night." ( Jer. 31:35)
You have promised this better covenant, ministered by the Lord Jesus, our perfect and permanent High Priest. Your Laws are written on our hearts and minds. We are Your people and You are our God. We need no other mediator than the Lord Jesus Christ, who has called us to follow Him. It is in His love and grace that we boldly enter the throne room of heaven to receive help in times of need. We acknowledge freely that we need You every hour of every day. You are Life and we find it in You. Thank You for every good and perfect gift that is ours in Jesus, through whom and for who all things are made. We are Yours.. thank You !
Amen.
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Hebrews 7 So, here we are... Melchizedek... the mysterious "priest of the Most High God"..
He was the "king of righteousness" and the "king of peace".
He had no genealogy, no parents, and no beginning or end.
He was "made like the Son of God"
He "abides a priest perpetually."
He did not descend from Abraham.
He was greater than Abraham, having received tithes from Abraham.
There is no one else that is from this "order" except Jesus.
Jesus did not come into His priesthood through the Levitical line or according to the Law.
He came into His priesthood "according to the power of an indestructible life"
As a priest according to the order of Melchizedek, Jesus does what no priest who was according to the flesh or the Law was able to do.
The Law could not make anything perfect. It was weak and useless to save.
The priests, according to the Law, were "prevented by death" from continuing to minister.
But, Jesus became our great High Priest through the "oath" of God.
He brings a better hope.
He guarantees a better covenant .
He abides forever and "holds His priesthood permanently".
He can save forever.
He "always lives to make intercession " for us.
He is "holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens."
He does not have to offer daily sacrifices for Himself and "then for the sins of the people".
Because, "this He did once for all when He offered up Himself."
The Priesthood of Jesus is perfect.. "the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, made perfect forever."
Hallelujah! What a Savior!
Father in heaven, how perfect are Your ways and how great are Your works.
Keep us near to You.. as we seek to draw near in Christ Jesus, our forever Priest.
Amen.
He was the "king of righteousness" and the "king of peace".
He had no genealogy, no parents, and no beginning or end.
He was "made like the Son of God"
He "abides a priest perpetually."
He did not descend from Abraham.
He was greater than Abraham, having received tithes from Abraham.
There is no one else that is from this "order" except Jesus.
Jesus did not come into His priesthood through the Levitical line or according to the Law.
He came into His priesthood "according to the power of an indestructible life"
As a priest according to the order of Melchizedek, Jesus does what no priest who was according to the flesh or the Law was able to do.
The Law could not make anything perfect. It was weak and useless to save.
The priests, according to the Law, were "prevented by death" from continuing to minister.
But, Jesus became our great High Priest through the "oath" of God.
He brings a better hope.
He guarantees a better covenant .
He abides forever and "holds His priesthood permanently".
He can save forever.
He "always lives to make intercession " for us.
He is "holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens."
He does not have to offer daily sacrifices for Himself and "then for the sins of the people".
Because, "this He did once for all when He offered up Himself."
The Priesthood of Jesus is perfect.. "the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, made perfect forever."
Hallelujah! What a Savior!
Father in heaven, how perfect are Your ways and how great are Your works.
Keep us near to You.. as we seek to draw near in Christ Jesus, our forever Priest.
Amen.
Wednesday, February 20, 2019
Hebrews 6 In order to "press on to maturity" in Christ we must have the firm foundation or elementary principles of salvation.
We must be "enlightened" v4 - made to see the truth of the gospel
We must have "tasted of the heavenly gift and made partakers of the Holy Spirit" v4 - experienced and made a sharer of the Holy Spirit.
We must have "tasted the good word of God" -
We must have experienced the "powers of the age to come". - the miracle of new birth into a supernatural spiritual life.
This firm foundation is established with "repentance from dead works and of faith toward God."
There is teaching that enables us to understand baptism, laying on of hands, the resurrection, and eternal judgement..v1-2 We should know and stand firm in sound doctrine.
We have a firm foundation because God has done the work of enlightening us.. offering us His salvation. If we receive His offer.. with genuine repentance and faith.. He gives to us His Spirit.
We "taste" or experience the Word and the Spirit of God.. We are a new creation.. a child of God.
To have this supernatural transformation and then "fall away" would leave one without any other way to be saved. It would require a new crucifixion for a new salvation.. and that is not going to happen.
We don't need to keep going back to the basics of salvation.. if we are truly saved.
Have we genuinely repented?
Have we put our faith in God alone?
Have we tasted the Word of God?
Have we experienced the power of God's Spirit?
Have we been made new?
Do we love His name?
Do we minister, or serve one another?
Do we have the "full assurance of hope"?
If yes, then hallelujah.. we are ready to move on to "maturity" in Christ...
If not, then we need to go back to the basics.. the gospel of salvation through faith in Christ alone.
If we are truly God's redeemed children, then God's promises are for us.
This hope is ours - for we "inherit the promises" spoken to Abraham... " I will surely bess you and I will surely multiply you" ( v14)
God, Himself gave an oath to fulfill this promise. He is unchangeable and His purpose remains unchanged.
Lay hold of this promise, the writer tells us... may it be "an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek." ( v19-20)
Father, once again we call upon You to fill us with Your Spirit, that we might grasp all that You want us to understand from Your Word. Thank You for the great gift of salvation! Thank You for enlightening us to understand the basic truths and for leading us on to full assurance and maturity in Christ Jesus our Lord and High Priest. It is in His name that we come boldly to the throne of grace to ask for help in every need. Amen.
We must be "enlightened" v4 - made to see the truth of the gospel
We must have "tasted of the heavenly gift and made partakers of the Holy Spirit" v4 - experienced and made a sharer of the Holy Spirit.
We must have "tasted the good word of God" -
We must have experienced the "powers of the age to come". - the miracle of new birth into a supernatural spiritual life.
This firm foundation is established with "repentance from dead works and of faith toward God."
There is teaching that enables us to understand baptism, laying on of hands, the resurrection, and eternal judgement..v1-2 We should know and stand firm in sound doctrine.
We have a firm foundation because God has done the work of enlightening us.. offering us His salvation. If we receive His offer.. with genuine repentance and faith.. He gives to us His Spirit.
We "taste" or experience the Word and the Spirit of God.. We are a new creation.. a child of God.
To have this supernatural transformation and then "fall away" would leave one without any other way to be saved. It would require a new crucifixion for a new salvation.. and that is not going to happen.
We don't need to keep going back to the basics of salvation.. if we are truly saved.
Have we genuinely repented?
Have we put our faith in God alone?
Have we tasted the Word of God?
Have we experienced the power of God's Spirit?
Have we been made new?
Do we love His name?
Do we minister, or serve one another?
Do we have the "full assurance of hope"?
If yes, then hallelujah.. we are ready to move on to "maturity" in Christ...
If not, then we need to go back to the basics.. the gospel of salvation through faith in Christ alone.
If we are truly God's redeemed children, then God's promises are for us.
This hope is ours - for we "inherit the promises" spoken to Abraham... " I will surely bess you and I will surely multiply you" ( v14)
God, Himself gave an oath to fulfill this promise. He is unchangeable and His purpose remains unchanged.
Lay hold of this promise, the writer tells us... may it be "an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek." ( v19-20)
Father, once again we call upon You to fill us with Your Spirit, that we might grasp all that You want us to understand from Your Word. Thank You for the great gift of salvation! Thank You for enlightening us to understand the basic truths and for leading us on to full assurance and maturity in Christ Jesus our Lord and High Priest. It is in His name that we come boldly to the throne of grace to ask for help in every need. Amen.
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
Hebrews 5 Aaron was the first man called by God to be a "high priest". In Exodus 28 we read how Aaron and his sons were set apart to "minister as priest to " God. Special garments were made for them. Aaron was given a robe, a breastplate, and ephod, a tunic, a turban, and a sash. The materials used were the finest linen, dyed blue, purple, and scarlet. Gold and gems adorned breastplate and ephod. Everything had meaning... everything was consecrated and holy.. "for glory and beauty".
Yet, we know that Aaron and every priest and high priest after him were sinners. They had to offer sacrifices for their own sins as well as for the sins of the people. They were supposed to be able to "deal gently with the ignorant and misguided" since they had the same weaknesses. They were not chosen because they were perfect, but because of God's grace and wisdom. They failed miserably.
Jesus Christ "did not glorify Himself so as to become a high priest..." but was called by the same One who called Him "Son"... saying, " Thou art a priest forever according to the order of Mechizedek".
He did not have special garments.. but was clothed in humility and grace.
He had no gems or gold, but was completely righteous.
He came to offer up one sacrifice... Himself.
Christ offered up prayers and supplications.
He learned obedience from His suffering.
He was made perfect so that to "all those who obey Him" He has become the "source of eternal salvation".
There is much more to come about this priesthood in chapter 7, but like the readers of this letter, we must be ready for "solid food". We need to go beyond the basics of our faith and ready to go deeper, pressing on to "maturity." The writer of Hebrews takes a moment to speak about this in what we call chapter 6...
Father, Your perfect plans for humanity have been and will continue to be worked out through Christ, the Eternal High Priest and only Begotten Son. He is the heir of all things. He is the radiance of Your glory . He is the exact representation of Your nature. He is the One who upholds all things by the word of His power. He is the One who sits at Your right hand.. and the One who mediates for us..Hallelujah! Help us, Lord God, to keep pressing on to maturity, to know You more and to love You with all of our heart, mind, soul, and strength. In Jesus' name we draw near to Your throne of grace to ask this. Amen.
Yet, we know that Aaron and every priest and high priest after him were sinners. They had to offer sacrifices for their own sins as well as for the sins of the people. They were supposed to be able to "deal gently with the ignorant and misguided" since they had the same weaknesses. They were not chosen because they were perfect, but because of God's grace and wisdom. They failed miserably.
Jesus Christ "did not glorify Himself so as to become a high priest..." but was called by the same One who called Him "Son"... saying, " Thou art a priest forever according to the order of Mechizedek".
He did not have special garments.. but was clothed in humility and grace.
He had no gems or gold, but was completely righteous.
He came to offer up one sacrifice... Himself.
Christ offered up prayers and supplications.
He learned obedience from His suffering.
He was made perfect so that to "all those who obey Him" He has become the "source of eternal salvation".
There is much more to come about this priesthood in chapter 7, but like the readers of this letter, we must be ready for "solid food". We need to go beyond the basics of our faith and ready to go deeper, pressing on to "maturity." The writer of Hebrews takes a moment to speak about this in what we call chapter 6...
Father, Your perfect plans for humanity have been and will continue to be worked out through Christ, the Eternal High Priest and only Begotten Son. He is the heir of all things. He is the radiance of Your glory . He is the exact representation of Your nature. He is the One who upholds all things by the word of His power. He is the One who sits at Your right hand.. and the One who mediates for us..Hallelujah! Help us, Lord God, to keep pressing on to maturity, to know You more and to love You with all of our heart, mind, soul, and strength. In Jesus' name we draw near to Your throne of grace to ask this. Amen.
Monday, February 18, 2019
Hebrews 4 The unbelieving and disobedient Israelites were not able to enter God's rest. This chapter explains that God's rest is not the promised land of Israel. Those who finally entered the promised land with Joshua were not entering His Rest... they were only entering the land. There is only one "rest" and that is reserved for those who believe... to those who hear His voice and do not harden their hearts.
What do we know about this "rest"?
The Greek word is "katapausis" - to settle down, to colonize, an abode. "Kata" means down.. or among, against.. touching; The second part of the word "pauo" is a verb that means to stop, quit, cease.. come to an end. The Hebrew word is "shabath" - to repose, to desist from exertion, to cease, to put away.. or down.
In Genesis 2:2 we are told that " God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made." It wasn't God taking a nap because He was tired.. it was God saying.. "I'm done! "
Because of this, God commanded His people to observe the Sabbath, the seventh day, as a day of rest.. a day to cease working. It was meant to be a gift for them and a reminder of Who He is.
There is a "Sabbath rest for the people of God" ( 4:9). "...the one who has entered His rest".. is the one who has "rested from his works, as God did from His." ( v10)
Those who are unable to enter this rest are those who do not receive the Word with faith. ( v2) They heard the "good news", but "failed to enter because of disobedience." (v6)
Those who believe.. "enter that rest".(v3)
Yet there are 2 warnings given here..
v1 ".. let us fear lest .. any one of you should seem to have come short of it."
v11 "Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall through following the example of disobedience. "
Disbelief.. failure to believe God's word.. is disobedience that will bar anyone from entering God's rest.. His abode... where all work is done.
Verse 12 tells us that God's Word is "living and active".. it judges "the thoughts and intentions of the heart." V13 tells us that nothing is "hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." God knows those who are receiving His word by faith and those who are living in disobedience and unbelief. In order to enter His rest, we need to take heed of His word and be diligent to believe and obey.
We cannot do this on our own.. but we have a "great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God.... " He knows our weaknesses. He understands the temptations. He calls us His brothers and sisters.. and because of Who He is and what He has done, we have this wonderful truth and we can.. " ..therefore draw near with confidence to the throne of grace that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need."
Thank You Jesus! We rest.. cease working.. from self-righteous and rebellious attitudes that are disobedient to the Truth and we place our full trust in You, our Great High Priest, who alone can save us, sanctify us and heal us. O, Lord help us as we draw near to Your Throne.. that by Your mercy and grace we will enter fully into Your rest.. for eternity. Praise to our God and Father, for You have blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus.. amen.
What do we know about this "rest"?
The Greek word is "katapausis" - to settle down, to colonize, an abode. "Kata" means down.. or among, against.. touching; The second part of the word "pauo" is a verb that means to stop, quit, cease.. come to an end. The Hebrew word is "shabath" - to repose, to desist from exertion, to cease, to put away.. or down.
In Genesis 2:2 we are told that " God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made." It wasn't God taking a nap because He was tired.. it was God saying.. "I'm done! "
Because of this, God commanded His people to observe the Sabbath, the seventh day, as a day of rest.. a day to cease working. It was meant to be a gift for them and a reminder of Who He is.
There is a "Sabbath rest for the people of God" ( 4:9). "...the one who has entered His rest".. is the one who has "rested from his works, as God did from His." ( v10)
Those who are unable to enter this rest are those who do not receive the Word with faith. ( v2) They heard the "good news", but "failed to enter because of disobedience." (v6)
Those who believe.. "enter that rest".(v3)
Yet there are 2 warnings given here..
v1 ".. let us fear lest .. any one of you should seem to have come short of it."
v11 "Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall through following the example of disobedience. "
Disbelief.. failure to believe God's word.. is disobedience that will bar anyone from entering God's rest.. His abode... where all work is done.
Verse 12 tells us that God's Word is "living and active".. it judges "the thoughts and intentions of the heart." V13 tells us that nothing is "hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." God knows those who are receiving His word by faith and those who are living in disobedience and unbelief. In order to enter His rest, we need to take heed of His word and be diligent to believe and obey.
We cannot do this on our own.. but we have a "great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God.... " He knows our weaknesses. He understands the temptations. He calls us His brothers and sisters.. and because of Who He is and what He has done, we have this wonderful truth and we can.. " ..therefore draw near with confidence to the throne of grace that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need."
Thank You Jesus! We rest.. cease working.. from self-righteous and rebellious attitudes that are disobedient to the Truth and we place our full trust in You, our Great High Priest, who alone can save us, sanctify us and heal us. O, Lord help us as we draw near to Your Throne.. that by Your mercy and grace we will enter fully into Your rest.. for eternity. Praise to our God and Father, for You have blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus.. amen.
Friday, February 15, 2019
Hebrews 3 "Therefore... consider Jesus.. " Because - He is the Heir of all things, the radiance of God's glory, the exact representation of God's nature, and the One for whom and through whom all things were created.. and because He became flesh and blood in order share in our humanity.. to suffer and to die.. in order to "make propitiation for the sins" of mankind and to "come to the aid of those who are tempted".. Because He is not ashamed to call us His brothers and sisters...
Because we have become "partakers of Christ"... let us:
"Take care.. lest there should be in any one of you and evil unbelieving heart, in falling away from the living God".
".. encourage one another day after day.. lest any one of [us] be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin."
".. hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end."
The writer compares Christ to Moses ( v2-6)
Moses was faithful to God's calling. Christ is also faithful to God the Father.
Moses was a servant in God's house. Christ is the Son "over His house... "
Moses is like a house.. built by God.. while Christ IS the builder.
Like Moses.. we are His house.. "if we hold fast our confidence and the boast of our hope firm until the end."
Unfortunately, the people who first followed Moses and the Law of God, failed to remain faithful.
They "provoked" the Lord by hardening their hearts.
They sinned by being disobedient and unbelieving.
They tested the Lord, they did not "know [His] ways,"
And because of these things they incurred His wrath and were barred from entering "His rest".
The Lord's call to us is "Today if you hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts.. "
This is not a one time event.. this is every day that is called "Today".
Don't harden your heart.. so you don't fall away from the "living God. "
Don't harden your heart.. so you aren't deceived by sin.
Don't harden your heart.. so you lose the assurance of salvation.
We are "partakers of a heavenly calling" ... we share in.. participate in the house that Christ owns.
Jesus is the "Apostle and High Priest of our calling". He is the "author of" our salvation.
He leads us onward into deliverance as the Prince, the Captain, the Chief and we who believe must stay in "firm" - steadfast, stable, sure - "assurance" - support and confidence - as partakers with Him.
Father in heaven, blessed and holy is Your name. You are God, the Maker of heaven and earth and there is no other. I thank You for Christ, my High Priest, who even now, mediates for me at Your right hand. Let me never harden my heart again, Lord.. but to stay near to the Living God. Help me to stay pure and blameless from all sin and to remain firm and steadfast in my confession of faith.
May Your Name be proclaimed in our homes, in our churches, and in all of the world. Soften hearts of those who have yet to believe, that they might hear Your voice and be saved. I ask this, Lord Jesus, in Your name. Amen.
Because we have become "partakers of Christ"... let us:
"Take care.. lest there should be in any one of you and evil unbelieving heart, in falling away from the living God".
".. encourage one another day after day.. lest any one of [us] be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin."
".. hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end."
The writer compares Christ to Moses ( v2-6)
Moses was faithful to God's calling. Christ is also faithful to God the Father.
Moses was a servant in God's house. Christ is the Son "over His house... "
Moses is like a house.. built by God.. while Christ IS the builder.
Like Moses.. we are His house.. "if we hold fast our confidence and the boast of our hope firm until the end."
Unfortunately, the people who first followed Moses and the Law of God, failed to remain faithful.
They "provoked" the Lord by hardening their hearts.
They sinned by being disobedient and unbelieving.
They tested the Lord, they did not "know [His] ways,"
And because of these things they incurred His wrath and were barred from entering "His rest".
The Lord's call to us is "Today if you hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts.. "
This is not a one time event.. this is every day that is called "Today".
Don't harden your heart.. so you don't fall away from the "living God. "
Don't harden your heart.. so you aren't deceived by sin.
Don't harden your heart.. so you lose the assurance of salvation.
We are "partakers of a heavenly calling" ... we share in.. participate in the house that Christ owns.
Jesus is the "Apostle and High Priest of our calling". He is the "author of" our salvation.
He leads us onward into deliverance as the Prince, the Captain, the Chief and we who believe must stay in "firm" - steadfast, stable, sure - "assurance" - support and confidence - as partakers with Him.
Father in heaven, blessed and holy is Your name. You are God, the Maker of heaven and earth and there is no other. I thank You for Christ, my High Priest, who even now, mediates for me at Your right hand. Let me never harden my heart again, Lord.. but to stay near to the Living God. Help me to stay pure and blameless from all sin and to remain firm and steadfast in my confession of faith.
May Your Name be proclaimed in our homes, in our churches, and in all of the world. Soften hearts of those who have yet to believe, that they might hear Your voice and be saved. I ask this, Lord Jesus, in Your name. Amen.
Thursday, February 14, 2019
Hebrews 2 :5-18 The writer continues to describe the wonder of Jesus.. He speaks to us and we listen, for He is worthy of our complete attention.
God, the Father, has "put all things in subjection under His feet."
God did not choose to subject "the world to come" to angels. Instead, He chose to put it under the authority of the Son of man, Jesus. He did this is an amazing way... by first making Him "for a little while lower that the angels.... " and allowing Him to experience ... "suffering and death".
In this way:
He tasted death for everyone.. v9
He authored/ led us to salvation through His sufferings. v10
He sanctifies all of us who are His "brethren". v11
The One "through whom are all things" and "for whom are all things" , became "flesh and blood" like us, so that He "through death.. might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil." v14
He delivers us from "fear of death".
He frees us from being slaves to that fear.
He came to help man.. not angels.
"Therefore He had to be made like His brethren in all things that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. " v17
He was tempted, like us, so He is able to "come to the aid of those who are tempted." v18
Perhaps, some day in our eternal dwelling place, we will be able to understand why God chose to save us.. and to do it in this way. But, until that day, we give thanks for Jesus, our Brother, the Begotten Son of God, who willingly suffered and died to pay the penalty for our sins. That "He is not ashamed to call us brethren"... is an amazing thing, isn't it? We who are so weak, so powerless, so easily distracted... He came for us!
Father in heaven, once again I am in awe of this truth, that You sent Your Son to die for my sin. You call me Your child. You give me Your Spirit. You not only know me.. but You love me with a deeper love than I can even imagine. Help me to really know the height and the depth and the width and the length of this great love. Lead us on into the Kingdom where once and for all.. everything will be subjected forever to the rule of King Jesus. Amen!
God, the Father, has "put all things in subjection under His feet."
God did not choose to subject "the world to come" to angels. Instead, He chose to put it under the authority of the Son of man, Jesus. He did this is an amazing way... by first making Him "for a little while lower that the angels.... " and allowing Him to experience ... "suffering and death".
In this way:
He tasted death for everyone.. v9
He authored/ led us to salvation through His sufferings. v10
He sanctifies all of us who are His "brethren". v11
The One "through whom are all things" and "for whom are all things" , became "flesh and blood" like us, so that He "through death.. might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil." v14
He delivers us from "fear of death".
He frees us from being slaves to that fear.
He came to help man.. not angels.
"Therefore He had to be made like His brethren in all things that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. " v17
He was tempted, like us, so He is able to "come to the aid of those who are tempted." v18
Perhaps, some day in our eternal dwelling place, we will be able to understand why God chose to save us.. and to do it in this way. But, until that day, we give thanks for Jesus, our Brother, the Begotten Son of God, who willingly suffered and died to pay the penalty for our sins. That "He is not ashamed to call us brethren"... is an amazing thing, isn't it? We who are so weak, so powerless, so easily distracted... He came for us!
Father in heaven, once again I am in awe of this truth, that You sent Your Son to die for my sin. You call me Your child. You give me Your Spirit. You not only know me.. but You love me with a deeper love than I can even imagine. Help me to really know the height and the depth and the width and the length of this great love. Lead us on into the Kingdom where once and for all.. everything will be subjected forever to the rule of King Jesus. Amen!
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Hebrews 2:1-4
"For this reason we must pay closer attention to what we have heard.. " For what reason?
Because Jesus is:
The Heir of Everything;
The One through whom and for whom all creation was made;
The Radiance of God's glory;
The exact representation of God's nature;
The upholder of all things;
The One who has made purification of sins;
The One who sits at the right hand of the Majesty on high:
The One who has the more Excellent Name - SON
The One who is begotten - not created - by God
The One who fulfills the covenant of David - to reign on the throne forever;
The One who has a righteous scepter in His hand;
The One who loves righteousness and hates lawlessness;
The One who has been anointed by God;
The One who laid the foundation of earth and heaven;
and The One who will roll it up like a mantle and change it like a garment;
The One who never changes and whose years will never end;
The One whose enemies will be made a footstool for His feet..
Because of Who Jesus is.. we must pay closer attention to what He says..
2: 2-4 " If the word spoken through angels", the Law given to Moses, "proved unalterable, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense.."
then... " how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at first spoken through the Lord.." Every word that Jesus spoke was an offering of good news:
Matthew 4: 17 " From that time Jesus began to preach and say, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand'"
Mark 1:15 "... the time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."
Luke 4: 18-19 " The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are downtrodden, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord."
John 3:16 " For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life."
His words were "confirmed to us by those who heard..." and God Himself bore witness with them, "both by signs and wonders and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will. "
His Words... of the arrival of the Kingdom of God, the kingdom received by faith, the kingdom offered to all who would repent and believe.. let us not "neglect so great a salvation."
Father in heaven, Majesty on high, how great are You, our God and Father of the Lord, Jesus Christ who has brought good news.. even to us. Open our eyes to see and our ears to hear.. all that our Lord desires to speak to us.. May our love grow deeper and our faith be greater, for we come in His excellent name, Jesus, the Beloved Son, amen.
"For this reason we must pay closer attention to what we have heard.. " For what reason?
Because Jesus is:
The Heir of Everything;
The One through whom and for whom all creation was made;
The Radiance of God's glory;
The exact representation of God's nature;
The upholder of all things;
The One who has made purification of sins;
The One who sits at the right hand of the Majesty on high:
The One who has the more Excellent Name - SON
The One who is begotten - not created - by God
The One who fulfills the covenant of David - to reign on the throne forever;
The One who has a righteous scepter in His hand;
The One who loves righteousness and hates lawlessness;
The One who has been anointed by God;
The One who laid the foundation of earth and heaven;
and The One who will roll it up like a mantle and change it like a garment;
The One who never changes and whose years will never end;
The One whose enemies will be made a footstool for His feet..
Because of Who Jesus is.. we must pay closer attention to what He says..
2: 2-4 " If the word spoken through angels", the Law given to Moses, "proved unalterable, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense.."
then... " how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at first spoken through the Lord.." Every word that Jesus spoke was an offering of good news:
Matthew 4: 17 " From that time Jesus began to preach and say, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand'"
Mark 1:15 "... the time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."
Luke 4: 18-19 " The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are downtrodden, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord."
John 3:16 " For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life."
His words were "confirmed to us by those who heard..." and God Himself bore witness with them, "both by signs and wonders and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will. "
His Words... of the arrival of the Kingdom of God, the kingdom received by faith, the kingdom offered to all who would repent and believe.. let us not "neglect so great a salvation."
Father in heaven, Majesty on high, how great are You, our God and Father of the Lord, Jesus Christ who has brought good news.. even to us. Open our eyes to see and our ears to hear.. all that our Lord desires to speak to us.. May our love grow deeper and our faith be greater, for we come in His excellent name, Jesus, the Beloved Son, amen.
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
Hebrews 1 If our goal is to know and love Jesus more and more.. here is the book that will help us tremendously ! The writer may be Paul or Apollos or someone else entirely.. but whoever it was, they wrote this masterpiece that takes us deep into the Truth of exactly Who Jesus is!
It is Jesus.. God's Son who now speaks, the writer tells us... better, more important than all the prophets... Because:
It is Jesus Who is the "appointed heir of all things."
It is Jesus, "through whom also He made the world."
It is Jesus who is the "radiance of His glory".
It is Jesus who is the "exact representation of His nature."
It is Jesus who "upholds all things by the word of His power."
It is Jesus.. who has "made purification of sins" .. for us;
It is Jesus who has "sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high".
It is Jesus who is "much better than the angels as He has inherited a more excellent name than they."
That excellent name is "My Son".
Verse 5a is a quotation from Psalm 2:7 and 5b is from God's covenant with David found in II Samuel 7. The first establishes the truth that God has "begotten" His Son. No angel could claim that title or that status. The second quote establishes that God is fulfilling His covenant with David.. providing a descendant of his who will reign forever on His throne.
Verses 5-14 use a series of quotations from the Psalms to establish the uniqueness and supremacy of Christ the Son.
He is the "first-born" who is to be worshiped by "all the angels".
He is the Master who sends the angels as "winds" and "flames of fire" .
He is the Ruler whose throne is forever.
He is the One who holds the "righteous scepter" of God's Kingdom.
He is the "anointed" One of God for He "loved righteousness and hated lawlessness"
He laid "the foundation of the earth".
He established the heavens.
He will remain... even when all of creation becomes old.
He will change the earth and heavens.. like a man changes his old clothes.
He has no end and He never changes!
He sits at the right hand of God the Father.
God will bring His enemies under His feet.
The angels are His servants, sent to serve the redeemed.
Jesus is the Begotten Son who has come to bring us this great salvation!
Father in heaven, Majesty on high, we exalt in Your great wisdom and understand.. in Your power and great glory! You are the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the anointed One, who has become our Redeemer. All praise and thanksgiving we offer to You and to the Son who reigns forevermore.
Fill us with these great truths.. that we might know and love You more! Help us to grasp the height and depth and width and length of Your greatness, Your power, and Your love for us.
In the name of the Son, we pray.
amen.
It is Jesus.. God's Son who now speaks, the writer tells us... better, more important than all the prophets... Because:
It is Jesus Who is the "appointed heir of all things."
It is Jesus, "through whom also He made the world."
It is Jesus who is the "radiance of His glory".
It is Jesus who is the "exact representation of His nature."
It is Jesus who "upholds all things by the word of His power."
It is Jesus.. who has "made purification of sins" .. for us;
It is Jesus who has "sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high".
It is Jesus who is "much better than the angels as He has inherited a more excellent name than they."
That excellent name is "My Son".
Verse 5a is a quotation from Psalm 2:7 and 5b is from God's covenant with David found in II Samuel 7. The first establishes the truth that God has "begotten" His Son. No angel could claim that title or that status. The second quote establishes that God is fulfilling His covenant with David.. providing a descendant of his who will reign forever on His throne.
Verses 5-14 use a series of quotations from the Psalms to establish the uniqueness and supremacy of Christ the Son.
He is the "first-born" who is to be worshiped by "all the angels".
He is the Master who sends the angels as "winds" and "flames of fire" .
He is the Ruler whose throne is forever.
He is the One who holds the "righteous scepter" of God's Kingdom.
He is the "anointed" One of God for He "loved righteousness and hated lawlessness"
He laid "the foundation of the earth".
He established the heavens.
He will remain... even when all of creation becomes old.
He will change the earth and heavens.. like a man changes his old clothes.
He has no end and He never changes!
He sits at the right hand of God the Father.
God will bring His enemies under His feet.
The angels are His servants, sent to serve the redeemed.
Jesus is the Begotten Son who has come to bring us this great salvation!
Father in heaven, Majesty on high, we exalt in Your great wisdom and understand.. in Your power and great glory! You are the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the anointed One, who has become our Redeemer. All praise and thanksgiving we offer to You and to the Son who reigns forevermore.
Fill us with these great truths.. that we might know and love You more! Help us to grasp the height and depth and width and length of Your greatness, Your power, and Your love for us.
In the name of the Son, we pray.
amen.
Monday, February 11, 2019
Philemon This short letter is a personal appeal from Paul for the sake of a slave named Onesimus.
This man belonged to Philemon, but had come to Paul while he was a Roman prisoner. Onesimus had become a believer and Paul sent him back to Philemon to make things right.
Paul had great respect and love for both Philemon and Onesimus. He considered them both brothers in Christ. In reconciliation there would be a benefit to all three of these men. Paul was willing to take upon himself any debts that Onesimus owed to Philemon. He even considers this a benefit that would "refresh my heart in Christ".
Philemon had a reputation as a man of love and faith. He had ministered to others who came through his town. He offered a "fellowship of faith" to other believers. Because of this, Paul was confident that sending Onesimus back to Philemon would result in a wonderful reconciliation .
What are we willing to do to help others to make things right?
Do we offer a fellowship of faith.. an unconditional love to those who serve us.. or to the ones we serve?
Father, in heaven, help us to walk in ways that glorify You and honor Your name always. May we act with patience and love, with gentleness and consideration for all men.. just as Your Word has directed us. Remind us again of the kindness of our Savior, who loved us and died for us that we might become the children of God.. Oh thank You for this great salvation! We desire to walk in a manner worthy of such amazing grace.. Help us we pray.. Amen.
This man belonged to Philemon, but had come to Paul while he was a Roman prisoner. Onesimus had become a believer and Paul sent him back to Philemon to make things right.
Paul had great respect and love for both Philemon and Onesimus. He considered them both brothers in Christ. In reconciliation there would be a benefit to all three of these men. Paul was willing to take upon himself any debts that Onesimus owed to Philemon. He even considers this a benefit that would "refresh my heart in Christ".
Philemon had a reputation as a man of love and faith. He had ministered to others who came through his town. He offered a "fellowship of faith" to other believers. Because of this, Paul was confident that sending Onesimus back to Philemon would result in a wonderful reconciliation .
What are we willing to do to help others to make things right?
Do we offer a fellowship of faith.. an unconditional love to those who serve us.. or to the ones we serve?
Father, in heaven, help us to walk in ways that glorify You and honor Your name always. May we act with patience and love, with gentleness and consideration for all men.. just as Your Word has directed us. Remind us again of the kindness of our Savior, who loved us and died for us that we might become the children of God.. Oh thank You for this great salvation! We desire to walk in a manner worthy of such amazing grace.. Help us we pray.. Amen.
Friday, February 8, 2019
Titus 3 Three times in this short chapter, Paul tells Titus to "remind," teach and confidently exhort the church to "engage in good deeds."
We are to "be subject to rulers... to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed." As believers we should not "malign" any one, instead we are to " be uncontentious, gentle, showing every consideration for all men."
"For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another."
But.. now we have been changed. ".. when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us.. according to His mercy... " Not because of anything good we did, but because He had mercy on us. We, in turn, are to show mercy to others.. even those who are still walking in darkness.
In our changing culture, there is coming a tidal wave of immorality that is filling our airwaves, our towns, and our families. It is in our face... It is alarming and it causes us to want to either stand up and fight... or pray for the Lord's return so that we might escape it. But, Paul is telling us a different way. Remembering that we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of our Lord, we are to gently and kindly do good deeds... "that [we] may not be unfruitful".
Father in heaven, help us to walk in the kindness and gentleness of our Savior. May we speak the truth with love and grace. May we exhibit good deeds that reveal Your love and mercy.
Thank You for giving us salvation through grace and for pouring out Your Spirit upon us to make us new creations.. "heirs according to the hope of eternal life." We are Your children.. help us to walk just like You..and to do everything for Your glory. Amen.
We are to "be subject to rulers... to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed." As believers we should not "malign" any one, instead we are to " be uncontentious, gentle, showing every consideration for all men."
"For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another."
But.. now we have been changed. ".. when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us.. according to His mercy... " Not because of anything good we did, but because He had mercy on us. We, in turn, are to show mercy to others.. even those who are still walking in darkness.
In our changing culture, there is coming a tidal wave of immorality that is filling our airwaves, our towns, and our families. It is in our face... It is alarming and it causes us to want to either stand up and fight... or pray for the Lord's return so that we might escape it. But, Paul is telling us a different way. Remembering that we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of our Lord, we are to gently and kindly do good deeds... "that [we] may not be unfruitful".
Father in heaven, help us to walk in the kindness and gentleness of our Savior. May we speak the truth with love and grace. May we exhibit good deeds that reveal Your love and mercy.
Thank You for giving us salvation through grace and for pouring out Your Spirit upon us to make us new creations.. "heirs according to the hope of eternal life." We are Your children.. help us to walk just like You..and to do everything for Your glory. Amen.
Thursday, February 7, 2019
Titus 2 Once again, Paul emphasizes the need to teach "sound doctrine". The Truth is our firm foundation, our hope, our message... our basis for everything we do and how we live.. And the only real Truth is God's Word.. written, the Bible.. and Living.. Jesus Christ.. the Word made flesh.
The life of a believer who is devoted to the Truth.. will be a reflection to the One who is " the Way, the Truth, and the Life".. Whether we are young or old, male or female, slave or free.. we who are "looking for the blessed appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus; " will bear the fruit of the Spirit - more and more as we grow in faith and in the knowledge of God.
We will be:
"temperate, ( sober, diligent; circumspect)
dignified
sensible ,
sound in faith, in love, and in perseverance." v2
"reverent.. not malicious gossips.. nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good," v3
".. sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to [our] own husbands... " v5
".. sensible.. and example of good deeds... with purity in doctrine , dignified, sound in speech" v7-8
We will "deny ungodliness and worldly desires and... live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age."
Jesus "gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. " ( v14)
As the redeemed people of God, we must live in a way that "may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect."
Father in heaven, let Your will be done in me, in us, today.. that Your Word will be proclaimed, even if I/we do not say a thing! May my life reflect Your love, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control. May my doctrine be sound, my ways be pure, and my love overflowing. To the glory of Your Name! Amen.
The life of a believer who is devoted to the Truth.. will be a reflection to the One who is " the Way, the Truth, and the Life".. Whether we are young or old, male or female, slave or free.. we who are "looking for the blessed appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus; " will bear the fruit of the Spirit - more and more as we grow in faith and in the knowledge of God.
We will be:
"temperate, ( sober, diligent; circumspect)
dignified
sensible ,
sound in faith, in love, and in perseverance." v2
"reverent.. not malicious gossips.. nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good," v3
".. sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to [our] own husbands... " v5
".. sensible.. and example of good deeds... with purity in doctrine , dignified, sound in speech" v7-8
We will "deny ungodliness and worldly desires and... live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age."
Jesus "gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. " ( v14)
As the redeemed people of God, we must live in a way that "may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect."
Father in heaven, let Your will be done in me, in us, today.. that Your Word will be proclaimed, even if I/we do not say a thing! May my life reflect Your love, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control. May my doctrine be sound, my ways be pure, and my love overflowing. To the glory of Your Name! Amen.
Tuesday, February 5, 2019
Titus 1 Paul gives two contrasting descriptions to Titus. Those who are "above reproach" and able to lead a congregation of believers.. and those who "turn away from the truth".
Titus was based in Crete, given the task of organizing the churches started there by appointing elders and overseers. Paul tells him to look for those who:
Have only one wife.
Have believing children.
Are not rebellious or wasteful, throwing down what is good and right;
Are not self-willed.
Are not quick-tempered.
Are not drunkards.
Are not quarrelsome or belligerent.
Are not "fond of sordid gain".
But, are" hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word... able to both exhort in sound doctrine and to refute this who contradict."
"Above reproach" - unaccused; blameless;
In other words... walking the worthy walk, filled with the Holy Spirit, and being conformed to the image of Christ their Lord.
There were others who wanted the leadership positions.. but out of selfishness. They wanted to make money.."sordid gain".
They were rebellious.
They were "empty talkers".
They were deceivers.
They upset "whole families, teaching things they should not teach"
They professed "to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him."
Paul holds nothing back, calling these false teachers "detestable, disobedient and worthless for any good deed."
We have, in our country, churches of all kinds, with the freedom and opportunity to choose wherever we want to attend. We take this for granted,( I think). But, even so, we must be careful to discern the teaching of "sound doctrine" . The character of those in leadership positions must be "above reproach". Not that they should be perfect, for we know that none of us are... but that we should expect to see the fruit of the Spirit being manifested in the lives of those who are elders and overseers of our churches. All the more reason to spend time in prayer for our pastors and teachers.. and for each other in our church family.
Father in heaven, thank You for the gift of pastors, teachers, and leaders in Your church. We pray for those in our local communities, that You would give them "wisdom from above.." that which is pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering and without hypocrisy. (James 3) , We also pray that their hearts would be encouraged and that we would be knit together in love as a church family. May we attain the "unfathomable riches of Christ". Riches of kindness, forbearance, patience, grace, glory, wisdom and knowledge. ( Col. 2-3). Grant us "perseverance and encouragement... to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, that with one accord [we] may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." ( Romans 15:5-6) For it is in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and King, that we pray and ask these things. Amen.
Titus was based in Crete, given the task of organizing the churches started there by appointing elders and overseers. Paul tells him to look for those who:
Have only one wife.
Have believing children.
Are not rebellious or wasteful, throwing down what is good and right;
Are not self-willed.
Are not quick-tempered.
Are not drunkards.
Are not quarrelsome or belligerent.
Are not "fond of sordid gain".
But, are" hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word... able to both exhort in sound doctrine and to refute this who contradict."
"Above reproach" - unaccused; blameless;
In other words... walking the worthy walk, filled with the Holy Spirit, and being conformed to the image of Christ their Lord.
There were others who wanted the leadership positions.. but out of selfishness. They wanted to make money.."sordid gain".
They were rebellious.
They were "empty talkers".
They were deceivers.
They upset "whole families, teaching things they should not teach"
They professed "to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him."
Paul holds nothing back, calling these false teachers "detestable, disobedient and worthless for any good deed."
We have, in our country, churches of all kinds, with the freedom and opportunity to choose wherever we want to attend. We take this for granted,( I think). But, even so, we must be careful to discern the teaching of "sound doctrine" . The character of those in leadership positions must be "above reproach". Not that they should be perfect, for we know that none of us are... but that we should expect to see the fruit of the Spirit being manifested in the lives of those who are elders and overseers of our churches. All the more reason to spend time in prayer for our pastors and teachers.. and for each other in our church family.
Father in heaven, thank You for the gift of pastors, teachers, and leaders in Your church. We pray for those in our local communities, that You would give them "wisdom from above.." that which is pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering and without hypocrisy. (James 3) , We also pray that their hearts would be encouraged and that we would be knit together in love as a church family. May we attain the "unfathomable riches of Christ". Riches of kindness, forbearance, patience, grace, glory, wisdom and knowledge. ( Col. 2-3). Grant us "perseverance and encouragement... to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, that with one accord [we] may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." ( Romans 15:5-6) For it is in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and King, that we pray and ask these things. Amen.
Monday, February 4, 2019
II Timothy 4 As Paul warned Timothy we must also beware of those who "turn away their ears from the truth.." Our society does not want to hear the Truth either. They want their "ears tickled". They want their sins justified. They want their desires fulfilled. They do not want to "endure hardship.."
Are we also guilty of such thinking?
"Preach the word".. Paul tells Timothy.. "be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction." Be ready ... for Jesus is coming.. and He is the "judge of the living and the dead".
Paul has endured every kind of hardship and persecution, yet he has faithfully "fought the good fight.. finished the course.. and kept the faith.." His hope is certain, even as he is "already being poured out as a drink offering..." Paul is turning his eyes towards the future where "there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge will award to me on that day, and not only me, but also to all who have loved His appearing." ( v8)
Paul's testimony until the end is clear, " The Lord will deliver me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen." ( v18)
Here is where we must stop and examine ourselves seriously... soberly.. carefully.
Are we filling our hearts and minds and souls with the Truth of God's Word?
Or are we holding on to myths and lies that make us feel good about ourselves?
Are we ready for the coming of the Lord Jesus?
Are we standing firm.. fighting the good fight, finishing the course, and keeping the faith?
Are we confident that the Lord will deliver us into His Kingdom safely... and are we among those who "have loved His appearing." ?
These final words of Paul, written to his beloved Timothy, are so personal... we can know that this was what mattered the most to him.... and should matter to us also.
Father in heaven, all glorious and mighty, we turn our eyes to You and we bow before Your Throne. May we be full of faith and good works, abiding in Jesus, and filled with Your Holy Spirit, so that we will be ready on that day when we will stand before You. Keep us from evil. Bring us safely Home.
May our loved ones walk in the Truth of Your Word. May they know You and love You more and more every day. May they be faithful in all they do.. to honor You, to fight the good fight, to finish the course and to keep the faith. Help us, Lord.. strengthen us by the power of Your Spirit that we might keep walking in a manner worthy of our calling as Your servants, Your children, Your body, the church . Amen.
Are we also guilty of such thinking?
"Preach the word".. Paul tells Timothy.. "be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction." Be ready ... for Jesus is coming.. and He is the "judge of the living and the dead".
Paul has endured every kind of hardship and persecution, yet he has faithfully "fought the good fight.. finished the course.. and kept the faith.." His hope is certain, even as he is "already being poured out as a drink offering..." Paul is turning his eyes towards the future where "there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge will award to me on that day, and not only me, but also to all who have loved His appearing." ( v8)
Paul's testimony until the end is clear, " The Lord will deliver me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen." ( v18)
Here is where we must stop and examine ourselves seriously... soberly.. carefully.
Are we filling our hearts and minds and souls with the Truth of God's Word?
Or are we holding on to myths and lies that make us feel good about ourselves?
Are we ready for the coming of the Lord Jesus?
Are we standing firm.. fighting the good fight, finishing the course, and keeping the faith?
Are we confident that the Lord will deliver us into His Kingdom safely... and are we among those who "have loved His appearing." ?
These final words of Paul, written to his beloved Timothy, are so personal... we can know that this was what mattered the most to him.... and should matter to us also.
Father in heaven, all glorious and mighty, we turn our eyes to You and we bow before Your Throne. May we be full of faith and good works, abiding in Jesus, and filled with Your Holy Spirit, so that we will be ready on that day when we will stand before You. Keep us from evil. Bring us safely Home.
May our loved ones walk in the Truth of Your Word. May they know You and love You more and more every day. May they be faithful in all they do.. to honor You, to fight the good fight, to finish the course and to keep the faith. Help us, Lord.. strengthen us by the power of Your Spirit that we might keep walking in a manner worthy of our calling as Your servants, Your children, Your body, the church . Amen.
Friday, February 1, 2019
II Timothy 3 ".. in the last days difficult times will come... "
Yes, indeed, we live in difficult times...
Men are " lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful , unholy, unloving, irreconcilable , malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God; holding a form of godliness, although they have denied its power;.. " ( v2-5)
They are "always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." ( v7)
This is exactly what our world looks like, isn't it?
Brutal - fierce - savage...
How many mass killings have occurred in even the last few months?
How many babies have been brutally ripped from their mother's wombs?
How many homes have been destroyed through selfish, arrogant, and reckless lives?
We must always be alert... in a mall, in a school, in our own homes.. for evil abounds...
We must be aware of where are children are at all times.. they are not even safe in our own yards.. for predators seem to be everywhere..
Sex trafficking is a plague that effects every nation.
Drugs have taken over minds, hearts, and bodies.
Yes, we live in difficult times. But we are not without hope!
Like Timothy, we need to live according to the Truth.. in our conduct, in our purposes, by faith, with patience, love, and perseverance... knowing that God will deliver us as we pursue true godliness in Christ Jesus... even though we will be persecuted..
Our spiritual armor has been provided... " All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." ( v16-17)
Father in heaven, may the Spirit of Truth fill our hearts and minds with the Word of Truth.. that we might walk in the righteousness of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let Your Light shine brightly and push back the darkness that threatens... but can never overcome the world.. for Jesus will reign forever.. Praise the Lord! Amen.
Yes, indeed, we live in difficult times...
Men are " lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful , unholy, unloving, irreconcilable , malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God; holding a form of godliness, although they have denied its power;.. " ( v2-5)
They are "always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." ( v7)
This is exactly what our world looks like, isn't it?
Brutal - fierce - savage...
How many mass killings have occurred in even the last few months?
How many babies have been brutally ripped from their mother's wombs?
How many homes have been destroyed through selfish, arrogant, and reckless lives?
We must always be alert... in a mall, in a school, in our own homes.. for evil abounds...
We must be aware of where are children are at all times.. they are not even safe in our own yards.. for predators seem to be everywhere..
Sex trafficking is a plague that effects every nation.
Drugs have taken over minds, hearts, and bodies.
Yes, we live in difficult times. But we are not without hope!
Like Timothy, we need to live according to the Truth.. in our conduct, in our purposes, by faith, with patience, love, and perseverance... knowing that God will deliver us as we pursue true godliness in Christ Jesus... even though we will be persecuted..
Our spiritual armor has been provided... " All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." ( v16-17)
Father in heaven, may the Spirit of Truth fill our hearts and minds with the Word of Truth.. that we might walk in the righteousness of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let Your Light shine brightly and push back the darkness that threatens... but can never overcome the world.. for Jesus will reign forever.. Praise the Lord! Amen.
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