Bible Reading: John 20
John 20:27-29 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
Thomas would not believe until he saw. Thomas is not the norm! As one of the twelve, he had a very privileged position. He got to see and hear all that Jesus did and taught. He would be a necessary soldier of the Lord's in preaching the gospel. Thomas heard the stories from the other disciples and yet he would not believe. When Jesus appeared again eight days later, he invited Thomas to touch him and he told him to be not faithless but believing. However, the blessing of Jesus is pronounced upon those who have NOT seen and believe. The Bible says:
1 Peter 1:8-9 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
How can you love someone you have not seen? How can you believe in someone you have not seen? The answer is by faith. We receive the message of Jesus by faith. We also know him because of the Holy Spirit's work within us. Jesus does not produce faith in us by seeing. He produces faith in us by hearing:
Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
When Mary Magdalene saw Jesus that Sunday morning, she mistook him for the gardner (20:14-15). It was not until she heard him speak her name that she realized it was Jesus!
Have you heard his word? Do you place yourself in a position to regularly hear his word? How do you do that? Read the Bible prayerfully every day. Gather together with the church and hear gifted Bible teachers preach and teach the Word. Jesus wants you to have ears to hear. Be not faithless but believing!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Given thee from above
Bible Reading: John 19
John 19:10-11 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Jesus told Pilate something that John the Baptist fully understood. We all need to understand this. It is a fact that applies whether a person believes in Jesus or not. There is no power here on earth that was not given to men from God above. John said it like this:
John 3:27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.
Pilate thought he had power and authority over Jesus. Jesus reminded him that his power and authority came from God. The apostle Paul inspired by the Holy Spirit told the Corinthian church:
1 Corinthians 4:7 For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?
What do you have that you did not receive? Your health, your mind, your strength, your spouse, your home, your children... Really, what do you have that you did not receive? Nothing...
Then where would glorying in ourselves ever come from? It comes from pride and God opposes the proud. We need to be humble before God and grateful to him for his gifts. What we have and where we are comes from God.
Why not just sit down today and think of all you have and be grateful to God? Maybe it will help you to refocus on being a steward of God's things instead of worrying about being an owner. Even a man in Pilate's position did not get there by himself. He was placed there by God. Pilate found himself at a strategic place of power at a critical moment of history.
What about you? Where does God have you? This is a very important position. This is a very critical time. Realize that God placed you there and live for Jesus.
In Christ,
Rody
John 19:10-11 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Jesus told Pilate something that John the Baptist fully understood. We all need to understand this. It is a fact that applies whether a person believes in Jesus or not. There is no power here on earth that was not given to men from God above. John said it like this:
John 3:27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.
Pilate thought he had power and authority over Jesus. Jesus reminded him that his power and authority came from God. The apostle Paul inspired by the Holy Spirit told the Corinthian church:
1 Corinthians 4:7 For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?
What do you have that you did not receive? Your health, your mind, your strength, your spouse, your home, your children... Really, what do you have that you did not receive? Nothing...
Then where would glorying in ourselves ever come from? It comes from pride and God opposes the proud. We need to be humble before God and grateful to him for his gifts. What we have and where we are comes from God.
Why not just sit down today and think of all you have and be grateful to God? Maybe it will help you to refocus on being a steward of God's things instead of worrying about being an owner. Even a man in Pilate's position did not get there by himself. He was placed there by God. Pilate found himself at a strategic place of power at a critical moment of history.
What about you? Where does God have you? This is a very important position. This is a very critical time. Realize that God placed you there and live for Jesus.
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, August 26, 2011
Them also which shall believe
Bible Reading: John 17
John 17:20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.
Jesus prayed for the sanctification of the twelve. He prayed that they would be sanctified by the Father's truth.
John 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
They needed the transformation of the Word and the Spirit in their lives. He also prayed this for you and me! Isn't it amazing that Jesus prayed that those of us who believe because of the word preached by the apostles would be sanctified too. This is High Priestly work that Jesus was and still it performing. He is in heaven making intercession for us right now. We are not on our own! He is at work on our behalf bringing transformation into our lives.
He also prayed for the mission that the apostles were sent on:
John 17:18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.
Jesus sent his apostles into the world with the same mission he had! They went to seek and to save that which was lost. Luke 19:10 He also prayed this for us! The mighty work of Jesus is to be carried on by his followers.
Have you ever thought about what Jesus prayed for you? He prayed for two things for your life:
1. Sanctification - He wants your life to be one that is consecrated to him. He wants you to live a holy life.
2. Mission - He is sending you with the same mission he had.
You have to be set apart for his work in order to do his work. Transformation and Telling the Truth.
Consecration and Conversation. Maturity and Mission. Sanctification and Sending. This is Jesus' prayer for you.
In Christ,
Rody
John 17:20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.
Jesus prayed for the sanctification of the twelve. He prayed that they would be sanctified by the Father's truth.
John 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
They needed the transformation of the Word and the Spirit in their lives. He also prayed this for you and me! Isn't it amazing that Jesus prayed that those of us who believe because of the word preached by the apostles would be sanctified too. This is High Priestly work that Jesus was and still it performing. He is in heaven making intercession for us right now. We are not on our own! He is at work on our behalf bringing transformation into our lives.
He also prayed for the mission that the apostles were sent on:
John 17:18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.
Jesus sent his apostles into the world with the same mission he had! They went to seek and to save that which was lost. Luke 19:10 He also prayed this for us! The mighty work of Jesus is to be carried on by his followers.
Have you ever thought about what Jesus prayed for you? He prayed for two things for your life:
1. Sanctification - He wants your life to be one that is consecrated to him. He wants you to live a holy life.
2. Mission - He is sending you with the same mission he had.
You have to be set apart for his work in order to do his work. Transformation and Telling the Truth.
Consecration and Conversation. Maturity and Mission. Sanctification and Sending. This is Jesus' prayer for you.
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Ye should not be offended
Bible Reading: John 16
John 16:1-2 These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. 2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.
Jesus was preparing the twelve. He did not want to give them any false ideas about what it meant to be a follower of his and to be a witness. This world hates Jesus and it will hate his followers. His disciples would be kicked out of the synagogues and they would be killed. The people who did this would think they were actually serving God. The truth is however, that the twelve know God because they know Jesus. Those who persecuted them don't know God at all.
John 16:3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.
Is it possible to think you know God when you really don't? Is it possible to think you are serving God when you are actually doing evil? Yes, it is. Here is a little history about the twelve.
Andrew was crucified at Patrea in Greece.
Bartholomew preached the gospel in India. He took the gospel of Matthew there and left copies. He was crucified in Armenia.
James the son of Alphaeus was stoned to death by the Jews in Jerusalem.
James the son of Zebedee had his head cut off by Herod the tetrarch.
Peter was supposedly crucified upside down.
Philip was crucified at Hierapolis.
Thomas was thrust through with spears in Calamene, India.
Of the eleven faithful apostles, seven were put to death for preaching the gospel. The others suffered but died of an old age.
Is this what it means to follow Jesus? Yes.
John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Many people have made a mess of their lives and come to Jesus wanting him to 'fix it'. He says come to him because he is the Creator, King and Savior. He died to save you from your sins and to make you into a new person. He is worthy of all worship and praise. Follow him because he is the truth. He is the only way to the Father. He is Alpha and Omega. He is coming again. He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.
Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
It is worth it to follow Jesus. The suffering of this world is small compared to the glory of the one to come!
In Christ,
Rody
John 16:1-2 These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. 2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.
Jesus was preparing the twelve. He did not want to give them any false ideas about what it meant to be a follower of his and to be a witness. This world hates Jesus and it will hate his followers. His disciples would be kicked out of the synagogues and they would be killed. The people who did this would think they were actually serving God. The truth is however, that the twelve know God because they know Jesus. Those who persecuted them don't know God at all.
John 16:3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.
Is it possible to think you know God when you really don't? Is it possible to think you are serving God when you are actually doing evil? Yes, it is. Here is a little history about the twelve.
Andrew was crucified at Patrea in Greece.
Bartholomew preached the gospel in India. He took the gospel of Matthew there and left copies. He was crucified in Armenia.
James the son of Alphaeus was stoned to death by the Jews in Jerusalem.
James the son of Zebedee had his head cut off by Herod the tetrarch.
Peter was supposedly crucified upside down.
Philip was crucified at Hierapolis.
Thomas was thrust through with spears in Calamene, India.
Of the eleven faithful apostles, seven were put to death for preaching the gospel. The others suffered but died of an old age.
Is this what it means to follow Jesus? Yes.
John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Many people have made a mess of their lives and come to Jesus wanting him to 'fix it'. He says come to him because he is the Creator, King and Savior. He died to save you from your sins and to make you into a new person. He is worthy of all worship and praise. Follow him because he is the truth. He is the only way to the Father. He is Alpha and Omega. He is coming again. He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.
Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
It is worth it to follow Jesus. The suffering of this world is small compared to the glory of the one to come!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Bringeth forth much fruit
Bible Reading: John 15
John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
What an incredible illustration! I am so glad that Jesus gave this to us because I can understand this. A branch must have a connection to the vine in order to have the life giving sap flow through it. The vine goes down into the ground and draws up the water and nutrients from the soil that is vital to the life of the plant. Branches do not just hang around by themselves. They will dry up and wither unless they are connected to the vine.
There are so many dried up Christians! Since they are out trying to do their own thing. They are not ABIDING in the TRUE VINE. Jesus tells us that without HIM we can do nothing. That makes sense when we see the vital connection to him is necessary to the Christian life just as a branch must be connected to the vine.
John 15:6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
Branches not abiding in the vine are worthless. They have no life in them and are good for nothing except firewood. This is not saying a person who used to be saved will be lost and go to hell. Jesus is using this as an illustration to say that branches are supposed to bear fruit. If you are not abiding in the vine you will not only bear no fruit, but you will wither. It is very similar to this saying of Jesus:
Luke 14:34-35 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? 35 It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Salt with no savor is not good for preserving and flavoring. Branches not connected to the vine are no good for bearing fruit. These things are both worthless!
A Christian who does not bear fruit does not bring glory to the Father (verse 8). But this is our purpose for existence! So the question is, "How do we abide in Christ?"
John 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.
The Word of God must abide in you.
Prayer must be a constant conversation between you and God.
You must do what Jesus commands us to do.
That is how we abide in Christ.
In Christ,
Rody
John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
What an incredible illustration! I am so glad that Jesus gave this to us because I can understand this. A branch must have a connection to the vine in order to have the life giving sap flow through it. The vine goes down into the ground and draws up the water and nutrients from the soil that is vital to the life of the plant. Branches do not just hang around by themselves. They will dry up and wither unless they are connected to the vine.
There are so many dried up Christians! Since they are out trying to do their own thing. They are not ABIDING in the TRUE VINE. Jesus tells us that without HIM we can do nothing. That makes sense when we see the vital connection to him is necessary to the Christian life just as a branch must be connected to the vine.
John 15:6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
Branches not abiding in the vine are worthless. They have no life in them and are good for nothing except firewood. This is not saying a person who used to be saved will be lost and go to hell. Jesus is using this as an illustration to say that branches are supposed to bear fruit. If you are not abiding in the vine you will not only bear no fruit, but you will wither. It is very similar to this saying of Jesus:
Luke 14:34-35 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? 35 It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Salt with no savor is not good for preserving and flavoring. Branches not connected to the vine are no good for bearing fruit. These things are both worthless!
A Christian who does not bear fruit does not bring glory to the Father (verse 8). But this is our purpose for existence! So the question is, "How do we abide in Christ?"
John 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.
The Word of God must abide in you.
Prayer must be a constant conversation between you and God.
You must do what Jesus commands us to do.
That is how we abide in Christ.
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, August 22, 2011
To whom I shall give a sop
John 13:26-27 Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. 27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.
The customs of the Orient are much different than those here. During a meal like the Passover, there would likely be one dish of gravy or olive oil on the table. Each person would tear off pieces of bread and dip into this liquid during the meal. The meal was eaten with the hands and each person was reclining on a cushion on the floor. To show special favor and to give a blessing the host would pick a choice piece of bread and dip it and then feed it to a person at the meal. This 'sop' was given to show special friendship.
Jesus went to great lengths to show his friendship to Judas. What a tragedy! How sad! Judas was not ill-treated by the Lord. The Lord was trying to show his love to him. Judas would not receive it. The betrayal of Judas was something that was prophesied a thousand years before Jesus came.
John 13:18 I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.
The betrayal of Jesus by Judas was something he knew would happen. It must still have been very hard for Jesus in his humanity. In fact, just as he had shown special favor to Judas at the Passover meal, Judas used a sign of friendship to betray him!
Matthew 26:48-50 Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. 49 And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. 50 And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.
When Judas kissed Jesus it should have meant that he was a friend and was loyal to him. Instead it was the sign he used to betray him in the dark. How sad! The lesson we learn from Judas is that you can be so close to Jesus and yet not know him. He shows his love and friendship to some who never receive him. Don't let that be you! Receive Jesus, he is the Friend of Sinners!
In Christ,
Rody
The customs of the Orient are much different than those here. During a meal like the Passover, there would likely be one dish of gravy or olive oil on the table. Each person would tear off pieces of bread and dip into this liquid during the meal. The meal was eaten with the hands and each person was reclining on a cushion on the floor. To show special favor and to give a blessing the host would pick a choice piece of bread and dip it and then feed it to a person at the meal. This 'sop' was given to show special friendship.
Jesus went to great lengths to show his friendship to Judas. What a tragedy! How sad! Judas was not ill-treated by the Lord. The Lord was trying to show his love to him. Judas would not receive it. The betrayal of Judas was something that was prophesied a thousand years before Jesus came.
John 13:18 I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.
The betrayal of Jesus by Judas was something he knew would happen. It must still have been very hard for Jesus in his humanity. In fact, just as he had shown special favor to Judas at the Passover meal, Judas used a sign of friendship to betray him!
Matthew 26:48-50 Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. 49 And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. 50 And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.
When Judas kissed Jesus it should have meant that he was a friend and was loyal to him. Instead it was the sign he used to betray him in the dark. How sad! The lesson we learn from Judas is that you can be so close to Jesus and yet not know him. He shows his love and friendship to some who never receive him. Don't let that be you! Receive Jesus, he is the Friend of Sinners!
In Christ,
Rody
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Fruit that may abound to your account
Philippians 4:15-17 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. 16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. 17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.
Not much has changed in two thousand years. Some churches support missions and some do not! The Philippians got it! They understood the importance of helping missionaries to fulfill their part in the Great Commission. They understood Biblical Fellowship. When the Bible here says that no church 'communicated' with Paul in giving and receiving, the Greek word is koinonia. That word is translated 'fellowship' in other places in Scripture. It means partnership in the gospel. Does your church partner with missionaries in the work of proclaiming the gospel to every creature?
The apostle here commends this church for their fellowship with him. He commends them not because he was looking for a gift. As a matter of fact, since they are the only church that was supporting him financially, he was prepared to pay his own way. He commends them for the 'fruit that will abound to their account'. In other words, they will be blessed as a church because they have given to the cause of the Great Commission.
Not only are all Christians responsible for 'preaching the gospel to every creature' (Mark 16:15), but all churches should also be partnering with others to preach the gospel beyond the realm of their city.
Many believers see fellowship as a social time to visit and get to know one another better. The Bible sees fellowship as partnership in the gospel mission. How do you see fellowship? How does your church view it? Will you prayerfully consider how involved you are personally with the gospel mission? We have a very clear word from our Lord Jesus Christ about what we are to be about:
Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
In Christ,
Rody
Not much has changed in two thousand years. Some churches support missions and some do not! The Philippians got it! They understood the importance of helping missionaries to fulfill their part in the Great Commission. They understood Biblical Fellowship. When the Bible here says that no church 'communicated' with Paul in giving and receiving, the Greek word is koinonia. That word is translated 'fellowship' in other places in Scripture. It means partnership in the gospel. Does your church partner with missionaries in the work of proclaiming the gospel to every creature?
The apostle here commends this church for their fellowship with him. He commends them not because he was looking for a gift. As a matter of fact, since they are the only church that was supporting him financially, he was prepared to pay his own way. He commends them for the 'fruit that will abound to their account'. In other words, they will be blessed as a church because they have given to the cause of the Great Commission.
Not only are all Christians responsible for 'preaching the gospel to every creature' (Mark 16:15), but all churches should also be partnering with others to preach the gospel beyond the realm of their city.
Many believers see fellowship as a social time to visit and get to know one another better. The Bible sees fellowship as partnership in the gospel mission. How do you see fellowship? How does your church view it? Will you prayerfully consider how involved you are personally with the gospel mission? We have a very clear word from our Lord Jesus Christ about what we are to be about:
Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, August 19, 2011
Let him follow me
Bible Reading: John 12
John 12:26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
What does it mean to serve Jesus? By his words, it means to follow him. This is the invitation that a Jewish teacher would offer to his students. They would follow him and learn from him. They would work with him and help him. They would listen as he taught in any and all circumstances.
This reminds me of growing up. I went with my Dad anytime I had a chance. My Dad farmed and ranched. We drove tractors and rode horses. We welded and shoveled. We chopped weeds and baled hay. In all these circumstances, I followed him and learned. Sometimes I learned through his instruction. Sometimes I learned through his example. Always I learned from him.
Jesus invites us into a relationship where we follow him and learn from him. Are you a follower of Jesus? Are you with him? Do you read your Bible listening for his voice? Do you walk through your day talking with him in prayer?
For a follower, if you find the teacher, you find the disciple. Where are you? Are you with Jesus? He is inviting us into a walk with him. Not only that, but the Father honors those who serve Christ. Do you want to receive honor from God? Do you want to please the Father? Then follow Jesus.
Religion is not what pleases God. A relationship pleases him!
In Christ,
Rody
John 12:26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
What does it mean to serve Jesus? By his words, it means to follow him. This is the invitation that a Jewish teacher would offer to his students. They would follow him and learn from him. They would work with him and help him. They would listen as he taught in any and all circumstances.
This reminds me of growing up. I went with my Dad anytime I had a chance. My Dad farmed and ranched. We drove tractors and rode horses. We welded and shoveled. We chopped weeds and baled hay. In all these circumstances, I followed him and learned. Sometimes I learned through his instruction. Sometimes I learned through his example. Always I learned from him.
Jesus invites us into a relationship where we follow him and learn from him. Are you a follower of Jesus? Are you with him? Do you read your Bible listening for his voice? Do you walk through your day talking with him in prayer?
For a follower, if you find the teacher, you find the disciple. Where are you? Are you with Jesus? He is inviting us into a walk with him. Not only that, but the Father honors those who serve Christ. Do you want to receive honor from God? Do you want to please the Father? Then follow Jesus.
Religion is not what pleases God. A relationship pleases him!
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, August 18, 2011
The Resurrection and the Life
Bible Reading: John 11
John 11:25-26 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
I am the resurrection. What did Jesus mean by this? He explains by saying he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. Those who believe in Jesus will live again even though they die. The Bible tells us this:
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
To die as a believer is to sleep in Jesus. This is a term the Bible uses. It does not mean soul sleep. It refers to the body that looks as if the person is asleep. The soul of a believer goes instantly to be with Jesus.
2 Corinthians 5:8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
This is a promise of a future resurrection. The Lord Jesus also said that whoso liveth and believeth in him should never die. He is the life. When you trust in Christ, he seals you with his Holy Spirit and gives you life. That life is eternal life and you will never die. Your body might die, but you will never die.
Here we have a wonderful promise of eternal life and a future resurrection from Jesus himself. How do we have this resurrection life? We must believe on him. He is the resurrection. Jesus is the life.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Do you believe this?
In Christ,
Rody
John 11:25-26 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
I am the resurrection. What did Jesus mean by this? He explains by saying he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. Those who believe in Jesus will live again even though they die. The Bible tells us this:
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
To die as a believer is to sleep in Jesus. This is a term the Bible uses. It does not mean soul sleep. It refers to the body that looks as if the person is asleep. The soul of a believer goes instantly to be with Jesus.
2 Corinthians 5:8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
This is a promise of a future resurrection. The Lord Jesus also said that whoso liveth and believeth in him should never die. He is the life. When you trust in Christ, he seals you with his Holy Spirit and gives you life. That life is eternal life and you will never die. Your body might die, but you will never die.
Here we have a wonderful promise of eternal life and a future resurrection from Jesus himself. How do we have this resurrection life? We must believe on him. He is the resurrection. Jesus is the life.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Do you believe this?
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The Good Shepherd
Bible Reading: John 10
John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
Jesus spoke seven 'I am' statements about himself in the book of John. This is one of them as he declared that he is the good shepherd. What is a good shepherd? A good shepherd leads his flock and spends enough time with them that they know his voice.
John 10:3-4 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. 4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
Poor shepherds tell others where to go, but do not go themselves. Poor shepherds drive their flock somewhere the flock does not want to go. The good shepherd leads and the sheep follow. We can follow our Shepherd because we know him and he is leading us to the still waters and green pastures.
The good shepherd has pasture and abundance that he is leading his sheep to:
John 10:9-10 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
The good shepherd loves his sheep enough to give his life for them. When a hireling sees the wolf coming, he runs away, but the good shepherd gives his life so that the sheep can be saved. Jesus has willingly given his life so that you and I could be saved.
John 10:17-18 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
No one took Jesus' life from him. He willingly gave his life for the sheep. Wow! Our Shepherd loves us so much that he gave his life for our sins. You can trust him! Listen to his voice and follow the good shepherd.
In Christ,
Rody
John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
Jesus spoke seven 'I am' statements about himself in the book of John. This is one of them as he declared that he is the good shepherd. What is a good shepherd? A good shepherd leads his flock and spends enough time with them that they know his voice.
John 10:3-4 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. 4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
Poor shepherds tell others where to go, but do not go themselves. Poor shepherds drive their flock somewhere the flock does not want to go. The good shepherd leads and the sheep follow. We can follow our Shepherd because we know him and he is leading us to the still waters and green pastures.
The good shepherd has pasture and abundance that he is leading his sheep to:
John 10:9-10 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
The good shepherd loves his sheep enough to give his life for them. When a hireling sees the wolf coming, he runs away, but the good shepherd gives his life so that the sheep can be saved. Jesus has willingly given his life so that you and I could be saved.
John 10:17-18 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
No one took Jesus' life from him. He willingly gave his life for the sheep. Wow! Our Shepherd loves us so much that he gave his life for our sins. You can trust him! Listen to his voice and follow the good shepherd.
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
They Which See Not Might See
Bible Reading: John 9
John 9:39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
Jesus used a miracle to get the Pharisees ready for this teaching. His sixth miracle in the book of John was when he healed the man born blind. This was done on the Sabbath day and the religious leaders were quite upset. They did not want to believe that he was the man who used to sit and beg. When the religious leaders questioned him about how he came to see he said that a man healed his eyes. He told them a man made clay and put on his eyes and healed him. This according to the religious authorities was a violation of the Sabbath! They cast the man out.
Later Jesus found him and introduced himself as the Son of God. The man worshipped him and then Jesus said he had come for judgment. Those who don't see will. And those who do will be made blind. He used the incidence of healing this blind man to draw a line in the sand. Some of the religious leaders heard what he said. And asked if they were blind also vs. 40.
John 9:41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.
He did not mean they would be sinless and perfectly righteous. He meant that if they were like this man and willing to see the revelation of the Son of God they would be forgiven. However, these men said they could see. They claimed to be religious authorities and had the light of revelation. However the light of the world was standing right in front of them and they rejected him. They were blind but they thought they could see.
So many in our world are like that. They think they can see because of their religion, yet they cannot see the truth of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the light of the world. When his light shines it gives light to the blind and it blinds the one who thinks he can see. Let us walk in the light of Christ!
In Christ,
Rody
John 9:39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
Jesus used a miracle to get the Pharisees ready for this teaching. His sixth miracle in the book of John was when he healed the man born blind. This was done on the Sabbath day and the religious leaders were quite upset. They did not want to believe that he was the man who used to sit and beg. When the religious leaders questioned him about how he came to see he said that a man healed his eyes. He told them a man made clay and put on his eyes and healed him. This according to the religious authorities was a violation of the Sabbath! They cast the man out.
Later Jesus found him and introduced himself as the Son of God. The man worshipped him and then Jesus said he had come for judgment. Those who don't see will. And those who do will be made blind. He used the incidence of healing this blind man to draw a line in the sand. Some of the religious leaders heard what he said. And asked if they were blind also vs. 40.
John 9:41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.
He did not mean they would be sinless and perfectly righteous. He meant that if they were like this man and willing to see the revelation of the Son of God they would be forgiven. However, these men said they could see. They claimed to be religious authorities and had the light of revelation. However the light of the world was standing right in front of them and they rejected him. They were blind but they thought they could see.
So many in our world are like that. They think they can see because of their religion, yet they cannot see the truth of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the light of the world. When his light shines it gives light to the blind and it blinds the one who thinks he can see. Let us walk in the light of Christ!
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, August 15, 2011
Before Abraham was
Bible Reading: John 8
John 8:58 Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
Jesus was talking with the Pharisees and scribes. They accused him of having a devil John 8:48.
John 8:52 Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.
When they brought up Abraham, Jesus said that Abraham rejoiced to see his day John 8:56and was glad! This brought jeers from the crowd and they declared that Jesus was under fifty years old and there was no way he could have seen Abraham. In essence they were saying that Abraham knew nothing of Jesus and could not have 'seen his day'. Then Jesus made this wonderful declaration - before Abraham was I am!
What was he saying? He was saying that before Abraham was even born, Jesus existed. Not only that, but he was using the name of God as his own! Remember how God revealed himself to Moses?
Exodus 3:13-14 And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? 14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
Jesus declared that he was God. Do you believe this? Do you believe that Jesus is God? You must if you believe on him. the Word declares it over and over.
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Colossians 1:15-16 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him
Jesus is the revelation of God to us. He is the Creator. He is the Redeemer. He loves us and we can know him! Make no mistake, Jesus claimed to be God.
In Christ,
Rody
John 8:58 Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
Jesus was talking with the Pharisees and scribes. They accused him of having a devil John 8:48.
John 8:52 Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.
When they brought up Abraham, Jesus said that Abraham rejoiced to see his day John 8:56and was glad! This brought jeers from the crowd and they declared that Jesus was under fifty years old and there was no way he could have seen Abraham. In essence they were saying that Abraham knew nothing of Jesus and could not have 'seen his day'. Then Jesus made this wonderful declaration - before Abraham was I am!
What was he saying? He was saying that before Abraham was even born, Jesus existed. Not only that, but he was using the name of God as his own! Remember how God revealed himself to Moses?
Exodus 3:13-14 And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? 14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
Jesus declared that he was God. Do you believe this? Do you believe that Jesus is God? You must if you believe on him. the Word declares it over and over.
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Colossians 1:15-16 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him
Jesus is the revelation of God to us. He is the Creator. He is the Redeemer. He loves us and we can know him! Make no mistake, Jesus claimed to be God.
In Christ,
Rody
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Christ also loved the church
Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.
Christ loved the church and gave himself up for it. The Bible is clear that Christian marriage is a reflection or a picture of the relationship between Christ and the church. What a challenging statement! Just how did Christ love the church? He died to save us! He gave his life as a sin offering and suffered the agony of the cross for the sake of the church.
Ephesians 5:26-27 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Not only did he give himself up for the church, but he is sanctifying and cleansing the church. Jesus is going to present to himself a glorious church having no spot, wrinkle or any such thing. Think of what he is doing. In the Proverbs and throughout the Bible we read of two women. There is the woman of virtue and there is the harlot. There is the faithful wife and the unfaithful one. When we think of the church, we all started out as the harlot! Paul described the church at Corinth:
1 Corinthians 6:9-11 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
And such WERE some of you! The church is made up of sinful people who have been washed, sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. We are all sinners when we come to Jesus, but he washes us and sanctifies us and presents to himself a glorious church. What a thought! Jesus is the only one who can take a harlot and turn her into a virgin. He does this for his bride, the church.
How precious is it to be a part of the church? It is the bride of Christ and he loves her. Please take the church seriously. Please be a part of the church. Please do not forsake the assembly. Christ gave himself up for her!
In Christ,
Rody
Christ loved the church and gave himself up for it. The Bible is clear that Christian marriage is a reflection or a picture of the relationship between Christ and the church. What a challenging statement! Just how did Christ love the church? He died to save us! He gave his life as a sin offering and suffered the agony of the cross for the sake of the church.
Ephesians 5:26-27 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Not only did he give himself up for the church, but he is sanctifying and cleansing the church. Jesus is going to present to himself a glorious church having no spot, wrinkle or any such thing. Think of what he is doing. In the Proverbs and throughout the Bible we read of two women. There is the woman of virtue and there is the harlot. There is the faithful wife and the unfaithful one. When we think of the church, we all started out as the harlot! Paul described the church at Corinth:
1 Corinthians 6:9-11 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
And such WERE some of you! The church is made up of sinful people who have been washed, sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. We are all sinners when we come to Jesus, but he washes us and sanctifies us and presents to himself a glorious church. What a thought! Jesus is the only one who can take a harlot and turn her into a virgin. He does this for his bride, the church.
How precious is it to be a part of the church? It is the bride of Christ and he loves her. Please take the church seriously. Please be a part of the church. Please do not forsake the assembly. Christ gave himself up for her!
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, August 12, 2011
If Any Man Thirst
Bible Reading: John 7
John 7:37-38 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
It was the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles. During this feast, the High Priest would draw water from the Pool of Siloam and bring it in a pitcher and pour it out at the base of the altar. They did this in anticipation of the day when the Messiah would reign from Jerusalem and the Old Testament prophecies would be fulfilled.
Zechariah 14:8 And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be.
Ezekiel 47:1
Chapter 47:1 Afterward he brought me again unto the door of the house; and, behold, waters issued out from under the threshold of the house eastward: for the forefront of the house stood toward the east, and the waters came down from under from the right side of the house, at the south side of the altar.
It was at this very moment that Jesus cried out. He cried out an invitation to those who heard and to all who would ever hear his word. Can you hear the invitation? Do you thirst?
Our world is a thirsty world. People try to quench that thirst with so many things. You know what a thirst is, don't you? It is a desire; a need for the life-giving water that makes up most of your body. There is a soul thirst as well. It is a longing for something more than what this life offers. Many people try to quench it with alcohol, adrenaline, and religious experiences. These will never satisfy, however the Bible says:
Psalms 34:8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
How do you drink the water of life that Jesus offers? You believe on him. That is what he says in verse 38. Not only with this drink from Jesus satisfy, but it will create in you rivers of living water. The imagery makes perfect sense. The Israelite people were awaiting their Messiah. They knew when he came, the temple would produce a river of living water. Jesus says that he is the Messiah and his people are the temple! It is out of us who are filled with the Holy Spirit that the water of life will flow.
John 7:39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
Have you heard his invitation? Have you responded in faith and believed on Jesus Christ? He does not expect our religious duties. He says come to Him and believe. He will put the river in you!
In Christ,
Rody
John 7:37-38 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
It was the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles. During this feast, the High Priest would draw water from the Pool of Siloam and bring it in a pitcher and pour it out at the base of the altar. They did this in anticipation of the day when the Messiah would reign from Jerusalem and the Old Testament prophecies would be fulfilled.
Zechariah 14:8 And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be.
Ezekiel 47:1
Chapter 47:1 Afterward he brought me again unto the door of the house; and, behold, waters issued out from under the threshold of the house eastward: for the forefront of the house stood toward the east, and the waters came down from under from the right side of the house, at the south side of the altar.
It was at this very moment that Jesus cried out. He cried out an invitation to those who heard and to all who would ever hear his word. Can you hear the invitation? Do you thirst?
Our world is a thirsty world. People try to quench that thirst with so many things. You know what a thirst is, don't you? It is a desire; a need for the life-giving water that makes up most of your body. There is a soul thirst as well. It is a longing for something more than what this life offers. Many people try to quench it with alcohol, adrenaline, and religious experiences. These will never satisfy, however the Bible says:
Psalms 34:8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
How do you drink the water of life that Jesus offers? You believe on him. That is what he says in verse 38. Not only with this drink from Jesus satisfy, but it will create in you rivers of living water. The imagery makes perfect sense. The Israelite people were awaiting their Messiah. They knew when he came, the temple would produce a river of living water. Jesus says that he is the Messiah and his people are the temple! It is out of us who are filled with the Holy Spirit that the water of life will flow.
John 7:39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
Have you heard his invitation? Have you responded in faith and believed on Jesus Christ? He does not expect our religious duties. He says come to Him and believe. He will put the river in you!
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, August 11, 2011
What Are They Among So Many
Bible Reading: John 6
There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?
Andrew brought people to Jesus. We first meet him bringing his brother to Jesus.
John 1:40-42 One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. 42 And he brought him to Jesus.
Now Andrew brings this little boy to Jesus who has some loaves and fishes. The disciples were looking at the multitudes and were thinking how much food it would take to feed them. Then they looked at these loaves and fishes in the boy's hands and Andrew voiced what they all must have been thinking: what are they among so many? God loves to have his people in this kind of situation. These are times where God shows himself strong on behalf of us who are weak.
Think of Gideon with his 300. Think of the widow's mite. Think of David and Goliath. Think of the Philadelphia church:
Revelation 3:8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.
"Thou hast a little strength"... "What are they among so many..."
Jesus delights in these kinds of situations. He is testing us. Will we trust him? He is able to multiply. Bring what you have to Jesus and he will multiply it for his ministry. It was his intention that day to feed the people. He wanted the disciples to be a apart of what he was doing. He used a boy's lunch to satisfy hunger and to show his disciples that with Jesus, little is much!
Have you ever been overwhelmed as you look at the task of preaching the gospel to every creature? Many people think we need millions of dollars to do what Jesus has called us to do. The reality is that Jesus wants us to go about his mission and know that he will provide. Jesus can turn water into wine and he can make something big out of a small thing. Just trust him!
What might you accomplish for the Kingdom of God if you had a million dollars? Now, take what you have and bring it to Jesus and he will multiply it for his purposes. Remember, the idea of feeding these people did not come from the disciples. Jesus was the one who said to go and buy food for them. Jesus is not telling us to dream up some ministry and then ask him to bless it. He is telling us to join him in his mission to seek and to save that which was lost and he will provide.
In Christ,
Rody
There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?
Andrew brought people to Jesus. We first meet him bringing his brother to Jesus.
John 1:40-42 One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. 42 And he brought him to Jesus.
Now Andrew brings this little boy to Jesus who has some loaves and fishes. The disciples were looking at the multitudes and were thinking how much food it would take to feed them. Then they looked at these loaves and fishes in the boy's hands and Andrew voiced what they all must have been thinking: what are they among so many? God loves to have his people in this kind of situation. These are times where God shows himself strong on behalf of us who are weak.
Think of Gideon with his 300. Think of the widow's mite. Think of David and Goliath. Think of the Philadelphia church:
Revelation 3:8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.
"Thou hast a little strength"... "What are they among so many..."
Jesus delights in these kinds of situations. He is testing us. Will we trust him? He is able to multiply. Bring what you have to Jesus and he will multiply it for his ministry. It was his intention that day to feed the people. He wanted the disciples to be a apart of what he was doing. He used a boy's lunch to satisfy hunger and to show his disciples that with Jesus, little is much!
Have you ever been overwhelmed as you look at the task of preaching the gospel to every creature? Many people think we need millions of dollars to do what Jesus has called us to do. The reality is that Jesus wants us to go about his mission and know that he will provide. Jesus can turn water into wine and he can make something big out of a small thing. Just trust him!
What might you accomplish for the Kingdom of God if you had a million dollars? Now, take what you have and bring it to Jesus and he will multiply it for his purposes. Remember, the idea of feeding these people did not come from the disciples. Jesus was the one who said to go and buy food for them. Jesus is not telling us to dream up some ministry and then ask him to bless it. He is telling us to join him in his mission to seek and to save that which was lost and he will provide.
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
He wrote of Me
Bible Reading: John 5
John 5:46-47 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. 47 But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?
Jesus pointed out the sad truth that the religious leaders of his day did not believe the Bible. Today is very similar. There are scores of pastors and seminary professors that do not believe the Bible. They think it is a good book, but do not believe it to be preserved, inspired, inerrant and infallible. As a result, they will be like the religious leaders of Jesus' day - lost.
Jesus' logic with these men is simple. First, he says to them that if they believed the writings of Moses, they would also believe him. Why? Because Moses wrote of him. The woman at the well was a Samaritan. They only read the first five books of the Old Testament. When she talked with Jesus she knew there was a Messiah coming because she believed what Moses wrote. These men did not believe Moses' words because they did not recognize Jesus.
Second, Jesus said since they did not believe Moses' writings there was non way they could hear his words. Why? Because the Holy Spirit of Jesus had inspired Moses and the Bible is a whole. To believe Moses' words is to believe the words of God and Jesus is God!
A study of the Old Testament is very important. The Old Testament laid the groundwork for the coming of the Son of God into the world. If you do not believe all of the Bible, you are doubting the words of God. Faith in Jesus comes from hearing the Word of God and believing that he is the One that Moses wrote of.
Don't listen to anyone who disputes the Word of God. That is what Satan does. Read it, believe it and put it into practice in your life.
In Christ,
Rody
John 5:46-47 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. 47 But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?
Jesus pointed out the sad truth that the religious leaders of his day did not believe the Bible. Today is very similar. There are scores of pastors and seminary professors that do not believe the Bible. They think it is a good book, but do not believe it to be preserved, inspired, inerrant and infallible. As a result, they will be like the religious leaders of Jesus' day - lost.
Jesus' logic with these men is simple. First, he says to them that if they believed the writings of Moses, they would also believe him. Why? Because Moses wrote of him. The woman at the well was a Samaritan. They only read the first five books of the Old Testament. When she talked with Jesus she knew there was a Messiah coming because she believed what Moses wrote. These men did not believe Moses' words because they did not recognize Jesus.
Second, Jesus said since they did not believe Moses' writings there was non way they could hear his words. Why? Because the Holy Spirit of Jesus had inspired Moses and the Bible is a whole. To believe Moses' words is to believe the words of God and Jesus is God!
A study of the Old Testament is very important. The Old Testament laid the groundwork for the coming of the Son of God into the world. If you do not believe all of the Bible, you are doubting the words of God. Faith in Jesus comes from hearing the Word of God and believing that he is the One that Moses wrote of.
Don't listen to anyone who disputes the Word of God. That is what Satan does. Read it, believe it and put it into practice in your life.
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
If thou newest the gift of God
Bible Reading: John 4
John 4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
There were two thing the Samaritan woman needed to know. First, she needed to know the gift of God. Do you know the gift of God? Many people believe in God and many people know that God gives gifts, but they reason that 'God helps those who help themselves'. They think that God can help you if you merit his help. However, the Bible says that God helps those who cannot help themselves. God's Word tells us of the gift that God has given.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The gift of God is Jesus! He GAVE His only begotten Son so that those who believe could receive Him. Jesus is life, so if you receive Him, you receive eternal life. The woman at the well needed to know about God's gift.
The second thing she needed to know was who she was talking to. She was talking to Jesus and he is the Messiah. The One who was prophesied to come and be the Savior of the world was standing right in front of her. Many people think God is distant and inaccessible, but he is not. He is very close to all of us.
Romans 10:6-8. But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) 7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) 8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach
The Word is nigh thee! Jesus is close. Do you know the gift of God? Do you know who he is? Do you want the living water that he has? How do you get it? Jesus told the woman and the same goes for all of us. Ask him for the living water. How do you receive God's gift of Jesus? Ask for it. Have you asked Jesus to save you? Have you asked him for the water of life? He will give it, but you have to know who he is and what the gift of God is.
God is loving and gracious. He wants to give us the gift of Jesus if we will only ask.
In Christ,
Rody
John 4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
There were two thing the Samaritan woman needed to know. First, she needed to know the gift of God. Do you know the gift of God? Many people believe in God and many people know that God gives gifts, but they reason that 'God helps those who help themselves'. They think that God can help you if you merit his help. However, the Bible says that God helps those who cannot help themselves. God's Word tells us of the gift that God has given.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The gift of God is Jesus! He GAVE His only begotten Son so that those who believe could receive Him. Jesus is life, so if you receive Him, you receive eternal life. The woman at the well needed to know about God's gift.
The second thing she needed to know was who she was talking to. She was talking to Jesus and he is the Messiah. The One who was prophesied to come and be the Savior of the world was standing right in front of her. Many people think God is distant and inaccessible, but he is not. He is very close to all of us.
Romans 10:6-8. But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) 7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) 8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach
The Word is nigh thee! Jesus is close. Do you know the gift of God? Do you know who he is? Do you want the living water that he has? How do you get it? Jesus told the woman and the same goes for all of us. Ask him for the living water. How do you receive God's gift of Jesus? Ask for it. Have you asked Jesus to save you? Have you asked him for the water of life? He will give it, but you have to know who he is and what the gift of God is.
God is loving and gracious. He wants to give us the gift of Jesus if we will only ask.
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, August 8, 2011
He that Believeth on the Son
Bible Reading: John 3
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Everlasting life is a present possession for the one who believes on Jesus Christ. The requirement for everlasting life is faith in Jesus Christ. Tis is not a hope-so faith; it is a know-so faith! The Bible says that person has everlasting life. Please notice there is no list of to-do's here. There is no mention of any works that must be done. The Bible is clear that everlasting life comes to the one who believes on Jesus Christ as a free gift.
Romans 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
What a wonderful thought that God has given us his Son and that if we will have faith in his saving work done on the cross we can be saved! The other side of the coin is the horrible reality that those who do not believe on Christ will not see life, but God's wrath abides on them. The wrath of God is on them right now just as God's grace is on the believer right now. If they die without receiving Christ, they will experience God's wrath for all eternity.
A person who does not have Christ does not have life. They are a walking dead person and they do not know God.
Ephesians 2:1-3 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
The Bible is clear and plain. Jesus is the only way and he loves us so much that he came and died for our sins. The choice is simple. Believe and receive Jesus or reject and be rejected. Follow Jesus!
In Christ,
Rody
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Everlasting life is a present possession for the one who believes on Jesus Christ. The requirement for everlasting life is faith in Jesus Christ. Tis is not a hope-so faith; it is a know-so faith! The Bible says that person has everlasting life. Please notice there is no list of to-do's here. There is no mention of any works that must be done. The Bible is clear that everlasting life comes to the one who believes on Jesus Christ as a free gift.
Romans 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
What a wonderful thought that God has given us his Son and that if we will have faith in his saving work done on the cross we can be saved! The other side of the coin is the horrible reality that those who do not believe on Christ will not see life, but God's wrath abides on them. The wrath of God is on them right now just as God's grace is on the believer right now. If they die without receiving Christ, they will experience God's wrath for all eternity.
A person who does not have Christ does not have life. They are a walking dead person and they do not know God.
Ephesians 2:1-3 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
The Bible is clear and plain. Jesus is the only way and he loves us so much that he came and died for our sins. The choice is simple. Believe and receive Jesus or reject and be rejected. Follow Jesus!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
The Lord Direct Your Heart
Bible Reading: 2 Thessalonians 3
2 Thessalonians 3:5 And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.
The direction of your heart is an important thing. Your heart leads your life. Jesus teaches us that the heart is where sin comes from.
Mark 7:21-23 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: 23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.
Are you letting the Lord direct your heart? If he is not, the natural inclination of your heart is toward sin and your life will continue in the natural direction. The Bible tells us that keeping your heart is a high priority.
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
How do you keep your heart? Paul prayed that Jesus would direct their hearts into the love of God. The Lord can keep your heart and he has promised to do that if you will pray.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
What should your heart be focused on? If should be focused on the love of God. If your heart is full of the love of God, his love will flow through you. You will be a blessing to others and you will be waiting for the coming of Jesus. Will you allow the Lord to have your heart? Will you allow the Lord to direct your heart?
Do you want to have your heart fixed on Jesus? Then treasure him above all else.
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
If you treasure Jesus, that is where your heart will be. Let him keep your heart until he comes for you.
In Christ,
Rody
2 Thessalonians 3:5 And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.
The direction of your heart is an important thing. Your heart leads your life. Jesus teaches us that the heart is where sin comes from.
Mark 7:21-23 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: 23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.
Are you letting the Lord direct your heart? If he is not, the natural inclination of your heart is toward sin and your life will continue in the natural direction. The Bible tells us that keeping your heart is a high priority.
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
How do you keep your heart? Paul prayed that Jesus would direct their hearts into the love of God. The Lord can keep your heart and he has promised to do that if you will pray.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
What should your heart be focused on? If should be focused on the love of God. If your heart is full of the love of God, his love will flow through you. You will be a blessing to others and you will be waiting for the coming of Jesus. Will you allow the Lord to have your heart? Will you allow the Lord to direct your heart?
Do you want to have your heart fixed on Jesus? Then treasure him above all else.
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
If you treasure Jesus, that is where your heart will be. Let him keep your heart until he comes for you.
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
The Love of the Truth
Bible Reading: 2 Thessalonians 2
2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: 12 That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
The Man of Sin or the Antichrist will be a deceiver. Since he is given his power by the dragon, he will do as that old serpent has done since the garden.
Revelation 13:4 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?
John 8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
People listen the lies of Satan because they do not love the truth. As time goes on, people will listen to the beast for the same reason. The difference between those who have life and those who are perishing is Jesus in their life. Jesus is the truth (John 14:6). The perishing are slaves to sin and have pleasure in unrighteousness. The saved love the truth. Are you a truth-lover?
What does a truth-lover look like? They are disciples of Jesus.
John 8:31-32 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Have a love of the truth and having pleasure in unrighteousness are mutually exclusive. They are polar opposites. If you love the truth, it means you love Jesus and his Word. The Word of God is truth (John 17:7), and is the true food of the Christian. Do you love the truth? If you do, you will not be deceived by the lies of Satan and his man, the Antichrist. Sadly, many will believe this Satanic superman and his lies. Actually, the Bible says if people will not receive the truth now, they will be sent strong delusion when he comes.
Believe Jesus and believe on Jesus. Love the truth because that is where freedom comes from!
In Christ,
Rody
2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: 12 That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
The Man of Sin or the Antichrist will be a deceiver. Since he is given his power by the dragon, he will do as that old serpent has done since the garden.
Revelation 13:4 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?
John 8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
People listen the lies of Satan because they do not love the truth. As time goes on, people will listen to the beast for the same reason. The difference between those who have life and those who are perishing is Jesus in their life. Jesus is the truth (John 14:6). The perishing are slaves to sin and have pleasure in unrighteousness. The saved love the truth. Are you a truth-lover?
What does a truth-lover look like? They are disciples of Jesus.
John 8:31-32 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Have a love of the truth and having pleasure in unrighteousness are mutually exclusive. They are polar opposites. If you love the truth, it means you love Jesus and his Word. The Word of God is truth (John 17:7), and is the true food of the Christian. Do you love the truth? If you do, you will not be deceived by the lies of Satan and his man, the Antichrist. Sadly, many will believe this Satanic superman and his lies. Actually, the Bible says if people will not receive the truth now, they will be sent strong delusion when he comes.
Believe Jesus and believe on Jesus. Love the truth because that is where freedom comes from!
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, August 1, 2011
The Good Pleasure of His Goodness
Bible Reading: 2 Thessalonians 1
2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: 12 That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Here is a prayer for believers. I want this prayer prayed for me, don't you? To be counted worthy of the calling of God is only going to happen because of the infinite merit of Jesus Christ. Do you live the life that Jesus has given to you? Wouldn't it be wonderful to walk in the calling of God and fulfill the good pleasure of his goodness all the time? That was Paul's desire for the church.
There is work that God has for us. That work is a work of faith. Now that is not working toward salvation, but is a result of salvation. This prayer is a prayer that the Holy Spirit would empower believers to do the good works that God has for them. The power for ministry comes from God.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
When God works through us, the works bring glory to him. This is the goal of the Christian life! Bringing glory to God is why we were created! Who are you praying a prayer like this for? Who is praying something like this for you?
In Christ,
Rody
2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: 12 That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Here is a prayer for believers. I want this prayer prayed for me, don't you? To be counted worthy of the calling of God is only going to happen because of the infinite merit of Jesus Christ. Do you live the life that Jesus has given to you? Wouldn't it be wonderful to walk in the calling of God and fulfill the good pleasure of his goodness all the time? That was Paul's desire for the church.
There is work that God has for us. That work is a work of faith. Now that is not working toward salvation, but is a result of salvation. This prayer is a prayer that the Holy Spirit would empower believers to do the good works that God has for them. The power for ministry comes from God.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
When God works through us, the works bring glory to him. This is the goal of the Christian life! Bringing glory to God is why we were created! Who are you praying a prayer like this for? Who is praying something like this for you?
In Christ,
Rody
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