Bible Reading: Revelation 16
Revelation 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
Thieves can't break into houses where someone is prepared and watching for them. They break into houses where no one is watching. They come and go quickly. Most of the time they have done all their damage before anyone even knows it. The evidence of their coming is only recognized later.
Jesus says here that the one who watches for him will be blessed. This warning comes right before the seventh angel pours out his vial upon the earth and the great battle of Armageddon happens. The demon spirits have already gone forth to gather the kings of the earth to battle against Jesus.
What does Jesus say to every people in every age? He says to watch for his coming. The Jews were to be watching for the coming of Messiah. He came as a baby in a manger and most of them missed him. He says to the church to watch for his rapture. He will come as a theif.
1 Thessalonians 5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
1 Thessalonians 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
Jesus tells the Israelites before the great battle of Armageddon to watch for his coming. They are to be ready because he could come at any time.
Even though this warning is given to Israel during the Great Tribulation, the church is given the same warning. We are to watch and be sober. Are you watching for the coming of Jesus? Do you live in light of his imminent return? He promised to come and get us (John 14:1-3). Are you ready? Have you given up?
Whatever you do, don't give up.
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us- ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Keep watching. Jesus is coming again!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Victory over the beast
Bible Reading: Revelation 15
Revelation 15:2-4 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. 3 And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. 4 Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.
John saw those who had victory over the beast singing the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb. They were praising God standing on the sea of glass before the throne of God.
How did they have victory over the beast? You remember that the Bible says the beast will require people to worship him and receive his mark. Anyone who will not do this will be killed. These however had gotten victory over him.
Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
These overcomers had victory over the beast through their faith. They had the blood of the Lamb that cleansed them of all sin. They had the word of their testimony. When asked to compromise their faith, they would not. They were not ashamed of the name of Jesus Christ and continued to give testimony and be witnesses to the truth of Jesus Christ. And they loved not their lives unto death. In other words, they were willing to die for the truth. They would not live a lie. They would not worship the beast and so he killed them. However, their deaths sent them straight to the throne of the King!
They believed what the Bible says:
Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
You and I can over the world, the flesh and the devil right now the same way these saints will have victory over the beast in the future. The blood of the Lamb, the word of our testimony and a realization that to live is Christ and to die is gain!
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 15:2-4 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. 3 And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. 4 Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.
John saw those who had victory over the beast singing the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb. They were praising God standing on the sea of glass before the throne of God.
How did they have victory over the beast? You remember that the Bible says the beast will require people to worship him and receive his mark. Anyone who will not do this will be killed. These however had gotten victory over him.
Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
These overcomers had victory over the beast through their faith. They had the blood of the Lamb that cleansed them of all sin. They had the word of their testimony. When asked to compromise their faith, they would not. They were not ashamed of the name of Jesus Christ and continued to give testimony and be witnesses to the truth of Jesus Christ. And they loved not their lives unto death. In other words, they were willing to die for the truth. They would not live a lie. They would not worship the beast and so he killed them. However, their deaths sent them straight to the throne of the King!
They believed what the Bible says:
Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
You and I can over the world, the flesh and the devil right now the same way these saints will have victory over the beast in the future. The blood of the Lamb, the word of our testimony and a realization that to live is Christ and to die is gain!
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, November 28, 2011
The patience of the saints
Bible Reading: Revelation 18
Revelation 14:12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.
Patience is a necessary virtue for a follower of Jesus Christ. Patience is needed for enduring trials.
James 1:2-4 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
Patience is necessary for waiting upon the Lord.
James 5:7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.
Romans 8:25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
Patience is necessary for finishing the race that is set before us.
Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Patience is necessary for dealing with people.
1 Thessalonians 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
So how do we cultivate patience in our lives? We obey and believe. We keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus Christ. Patience is a calm determination that God is right and he is in control. We can trust his Word and so we believe and we walk in obedience.
1 John 3:23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
Love and believe. That is patience. Saints walk in patience.
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 14:12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.
Patience is a necessary virtue for a follower of Jesus Christ. Patience is needed for enduring trials.
James 1:2-4 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
Patience is necessary for waiting upon the Lord.
James 5:7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.
Romans 8:25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
Patience is necessary for finishing the race that is set before us.
Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Patience is necessary for dealing with people.
1 Thessalonians 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
So how do we cultivate patience in our lives? We obey and believe. We keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus Christ. Patience is a calm determination that God is right and he is in control. We can trust his Word and so we believe and we walk in obedience.
1 John 3:23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
Love and believe. That is patience. Saints walk in patience.
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, November 25, 2011
The Lamb slain from the foundation of the world
Bible Reading: Revelation 13
Revelation 13:8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
People want to worship. We know that there is something greater and more powerful than us. Pagan ideas have influenced many, many people with notions of a multitude of gods. If we do not worship the one true and living God, we will worship something else.
The Bible tells us that during the time of the Great Tribulation, the beast will be worshipped. All those who do not believe in Jesus will worship the beast. This is fascinating considering the fact that there are literally millions of gods and goddesses worshipped all over the world. There is coming a time when Satan will do such a good job marketing his man that the whole world will worship him.
But the worship of the true God is the only true worship. From the foundation of the world, God's lamb was slain. His plan has always been to redeem men by the blood of Jesus. In every age, there is only one God!
Will you worship king Jesus? Will you place your trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ? The only ones who will not worship the beast are those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life.
Is your name written in the book? Trust Jesus and it will be.
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 13:8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
People want to worship. We know that there is something greater and more powerful than us. Pagan ideas have influenced many, many people with notions of a multitude of gods. If we do not worship the one true and living God, we will worship something else.
The Bible tells us that during the time of the Great Tribulation, the beast will be worshipped. All those who do not believe in Jesus will worship the beast. This is fascinating considering the fact that there are literally millions of gods and goddesses worshipped all over the world. There is coming a time when Satan will do such a good job marketing his man that the whole world will worship him.
But the worship of the true God is the only true worship. From the foundation of the world, God's lamb was slain. His plan has always been to redeem men by the blood of Jesus. In every age, there is only one God!
Will you worship king Jesus? Will you place your trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ? The only ones who will not worship the beast are those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life.
Is your name written in the book? Trust Jesus and it will be.
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
When they shall have finished their testimony
Bible Reading: Revelation 11
Revelation 11:7 And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
The two witnesses have a specific task and it lasts for a specific period of time. They cannot be hurt until they have accomplished their task. When their task is over, the beast is able to kill them.
The apostle Paul was also conscience of a specific purpose that he was to accomplish. At one point, he was ready to depart and be with Christ, but it was not time yet.
Philippians 1:21-25 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. 23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: 24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith.
Jesus told Paul he had a mission before him. He had to complete his mission before he could depart and be with Christ.
If you are a follower of Christ, he has a specific purpose for your life. He wants to glorify himself in you. He wants to transform your character and he wants to bring others to faith through your witness.
Do you live with that sense of purpose? Do you know that God has you here for a reason?
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.
God has good works that he has before ordained that we walk in them. So many people go through life with no sense of purpose. They have little direction and are simply living for themselves. To live with purpose is to live being led by the Holy Spirit.
Both Paul and the two witnesses had a purpose and that purpose was to give testimony to the truth of Jesus Christ. Paul said in his last days:
2 Timothy 4:6-7 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
He fought the good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith. Let's focus on God's purpose for our lives. We are invincible until it is our time to depart and be with Christ!
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 11:7 And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
The two witnesses have a specific task and it lasts for a specific period of time. They cannot be hurt until they have accomplished their task. When their task is over, the beast is able to kill them.
The apostle Paul was also conscience of a specific purpose that he was to accomplish. At one point, he was ready to depart and be with Christ, but it was not time yet.
Philippians 1:21-25 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. 23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: 24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith.
Jesus told Paul he had a mission before him. He had to complete his mission before he could depart and be with Christ.
If you are a follower of Christ, he has a specific purpose for your life. He wants to glorify himself in you. He wants to transform your character and he wants to bring others to faith through your witness.
Do you live with that sense of purpose? Do you know that God has you here for a reason?
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.
God has good works that he has before ordained that we walk in them. So many people go through life with no sense of purpose. They have little direction and are simply living for themselves. To live with purpose is to live being led by the Holy Spirit.
Both Paul and the two witnesses had a purpose and that purpose was to give testimony to the truth of Jesus Christ. Paul said in his last days:
2 Timothy 4:6-7 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
He fought the good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith. Let's focus on God's purpose for our lives. We are invincible until it is our time to depart and be with Christ!
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Eat it up
Bible Reading: Revelation 10
Revelation 10:9-11 And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.
10 And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter. 11 And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings.
The little book that was in the angel's hand was something John was to eat. It would taste like honey on his lips but be bitter in his stomach. This is truly a reference to the Word of God. It does a person this way. It gives you Heart Burn!
That is what happened to the two men on the road to Emmaus who walked and heard the Word of the Lord from Jesus.
Luke 24:32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?
When you eat up God's book it tastes good! There are "Great and precious promises " (2 Peter 1:4). Jeremiah discovered this bitter-sweet nature of the Word of God:
Jeremiah 15:16 Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O Lord God of hosts.
Later when he did not want to preach anymore he experienced the heart burn!
Jeremiah 20:9 Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.
Once we take in the wonderful word of God, we discover the heart-burn. We cannot keep it to ourselves, but we must preach the gospel! The heart burn comes when we read of the sin of man and the judgment outside of faith in Jesus Christ. Then like John we are commissioned to go and preach to people's, nations, tongues and kings.
Have you experienced the bitter-sweetness of the Bible? Do you know the wonderful comfort and patience that comes from feeding on the Word of God?
Job 23:12 Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.
Have you felt the heart-burn that comes when you realize that not everyone has the same promises?
What will you do about it?
Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 10:9-11 And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.
10 And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter. 11 And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings.
The little book that was in the angel's hand was something John was to eat. It would taste like honey on his lips but be bitter in his stomach. This is truly a reference to the Word of God. It does a person this way. It gives you Heart Burn!
That is what happened to the two men on the road to Emmaus who walked and heard the Word of the Lord from Jesus.
Luke 24:32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?
When you eat up God's book it tastes good! There are "Great and precious promises " (2 Peter 1:4). Jeremiah discovered this bitter-sweet nature of the Word of God:
Jeremiah 15:16 Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O Lord God of hosts.
Later when he did not want to preach anymore he experienced the heart burn!
Jeremiah 20:9 Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.
Once we take in the wonderful word of God, we discover the heart-burn. We cannot keep it to ourselves, but we must preach the gospel! The heart burn comes when we read of the sin of man and the judgment outside of faith in Jesus Christ. Then like John we are commissioned to go and preach to people's, nations, tongues and kings.
Have you experienced the bitter-sweetness of the Bible? Do you know the wonderful comfort and patience that comes from feeding on the Word of God?
Job 23:12 Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.
Have you felt the heart-burn that comes when you realize that not everyone has the same promises?
What will you do about it?
Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, November 21, 2011
Repented not of the works of their hands
Bible Reading: Revelation 9
Revelation 9:20-21 And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: 21 Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.
One third of the people who are alive on earth have just been killed by the terrible creatures that are unleashed from the bottomless pit. And yet, they continue in their rebellious lifestyle. Many men hate God and will continue to do so.
They worship devils and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone and wood. The Bible makes it clear that idolatry is the worship of devils.
1 Corinthians 10:20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
These idols cannot see, hear or walk. People have done this for centuries. Why would someone worship an image? Why would someone bow before an engraved thing? God is not represented by images made by men. When men refuse to worship God, they will worship idols.
These men would not repent of their idolatry nor of their murders, sorceries, fornication or thefts. God has called us to love him above all else, but if you will not worship the true God, you will worship idols and serve them. This is what the service of idols brings - sin.
As we approach Thanksgiving on Thursday, let's remember our worship of the true God. A mark of idolatry and sin is not being thankful.
Romans 1:20-21 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
Let's thank God for his goodness to us in Jesus Christ!
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 9:20-21 And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: 21 Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.
One third of the people who are alive on earth have just been killed by the terrible creatures that are unleashed from the bottomless pit. And yet, they continue in their rebellious lifestyle. Many men hate God and will continue to do so.
They worship devils and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone and wood. The Bible makes it clear that idolatry is the worship of devils.
1 Corinthians 10:20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
These idols cannot see, hear or walk. People have done this for centuries. Why would someone worship an image? Why would someone bow before an engraved thing? God is not represented by images made by men. When men refuse to worship God, they will worship idols.
These men would not repent of their idolatry nor of their murders, sorceries, fornication or thefts. God has called us to love him above all else, but if you will not worship the true God, you will worship idols and serve them. This is what the service of idols brings - sin.
As we approach Thanksgiving on Thursday, let's remember our worship of the true God. A mark of idolatry and sin is not being thankful.
Romans 1:20-21 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
Let's thank God for his goodness to us in Jesus Christ!
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, November 18, 2011
Silence in heaven
Bible Reading: Revelation 8
Revelation 8:1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.
We read of all the noise in heaven in Revelation 4 and 5.
Revelation 4:8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.
Now before the angels begin to sound their trumpets it is silent for about a half hour. Why the silence? Because all the host of heaven are contemplating the devastation that is about to be unleashed upon the earth. This is a judgment that is coming.
Does God take pleasure in this judgment?
Ezekiel 33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
God does not want any to perish.
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us- ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Can you imagine how horrible this judgment will be that the very thought of it would silence the continual praise of heaven? This judgment can be avoided. Anyone who will turn to Jesus now and trust in him can be spared this judgment. Maybe you need to repent and trust in Jesus. Maybe you need to share the gospel with someone who needs to hear the good news today.
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 8:1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.
We read of all the noise in heaven in Revelation 4 and 5.
Revelation 4:8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.
Now before the angels begin to sound their trumpets it is silent for about a half hour. Why the silence? Because all the host of heaven are contemplating the devastation that is about to be unleashed upon the earth. This is a judgment that is coming.
Does God take pleasure in this judgment?
Ezekiel 33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
God does not want any to perish.
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us- ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Can you imagine how horrible this judgment will be that the very thought of it would silence the continual praise of heaven? This judgment can be avoided. Anyone who will turn to Jesus now and trust in him can be spared this judgment. Maybe you need to repent and trust in Jesus. Maybe you need to share the gospel with someone who needs to hear the good news today.
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, November 17, 2011
The Lamb which is in the midst of the throne
Bible Reading: Revelation 7
Revelation 7:17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
The leadership of the Lamb is the destiny of the saints. Here in Revelation 7, we meet a 'great multitude' who are praising the Lamb. When John sees these people, he is informed by one of the elders that they are those who have come out of great tribulation.
Revelation 7:14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
These are people who are saved during the time of the Great Tribulation. They were not raptured with the church, but were saved after the church went to heaven. They have been persecuted and martyred by the antichrist and now stand before the throne.
If you are saved now, you already know the Lamb. Isn't it wonderful to know that the Lamb will feed you? You can trust him. He will lead you to fountains of waters. It is interesting that the Shepherd of Psalm 23 is also the Lamb of Revelation. Our God is also our Sacrifice. He took our place and we can be clean from sin because of his blood.
Do you have tears? Of course, this life has much pain and sorrow. Don't worry, God will one day wipe away all those tears. He will lead us. Let's follow the Lamb!
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 7:17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
The leadership of the Lamb is the destiny of the saints. Here in Revelation 7, we meet a 'great multitude' who are praising the Lamb. When John sees these people, he is informed by one of the elders that they are those who have come out of great tribulation.
Revelation 7:14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
These are people who are saved during the time of the Great Tribulation. They were not raptured with the church, but were saved after the church went to heaven. They have been persecuted and martyred by the antichrist and now stand before the throne.
If you are saved now, you already know the Lamb. Isn't it wonderful to know that the Lamb will feed you? You can trust him. He will lead you to fountains of waters. It is interesting that the Shepherd of Psalm 23 is also the Lamb of Revelation. Our God is also our Sacrifice. He took our place and we can be clean from sin because of his blood.
Do you have tears? Of course, this life has much pain and sorrow. Don't worry, God will one day wipe away all those tears. He will lead us. Let's follow the Lamb!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Fall on us and hide us
Bible Reading: Revelation 6
Revelation 6:15-16 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; 16 And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:
What could cause all these men to be so afraid? Why would anyone want mountains and rocks to fall on them and hide them? What could they have just seen that caused such fear?
Revelation 6:12-14 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.
An earthquake, stars falling from heaven, the sun black as sackcloth and the moon as read as blood combined with the heaven being rolled up like a scroll. When this happens, they can see the Lamb! A lamb is not a scary creature by any means, but these men are terrified! Why? Because the time of judgment has come.
This will affect all men. The wealthy and elite and the poor. All who do not worship King Jesus will be looking into the face of the Lamb who was slain and will know that their time of judgment has come.
What a difference between these men and the fact that beleivers are encouraged to comfort one another with the reminder that Jesus is coming for us (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). The last words of the Bible are:
Revelation 22:20-21 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. 21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
What a difference! Do you look forward to the Jesus that you trust and love returning or will you be one who is begging the mountains to fall on you and hide you? I pray that you will trust him now!
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 6:15-16 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; 16 And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:
What could cause all these men to be so afraid? Why would anyone want mountains and rocks to fall on them and hide them? What could they have just seen that caused such fear?
Revelation 6:12-14 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.
An earthquake, stars falling from heaven, the sun black as sackcloth and the moon as read as blood combined with the heaven being rolled up like a scroll. When this happens, they can see the Lamb! A lamb is not a scary creature by any means, but these men are terrified! Why? Because the time of judgment has come.
This will affect all men. The wealthy and elite and the poor. All who do not worship King Jesus will be looking into the face of the Lamb who was slain and will know that their time of judgment has come.
What a difference between these men and the fact that beleivers are encouraged to comfort one another with the reminder that Jesus is coming for us (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). The last words of the Bible are:
Revelation 22:20-21 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. 21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
What a difference! Do you look forward to the Jesus that you trust and love returning or will you be one who is begging the mountains to fall on you and hide you? I pray that you will trust him now!
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
By thy blood
Bible Reading: Revelation 5
Revelation 5:9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
Worthy. Most men and women know they are not perfect, but think that somehow they can do something to prove themselves worthy of God's acceptance. It is interesting that when John was invited to the throne of God that a search was made throughout all of creation for a man worthy to open the book and loose the seals that God had.
Revelation 5:3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
This caused John great sorrow as he wept because there was not a worthy man found. The Bible declares:
Romans 3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
Ecclesiastes 7:20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.
For this reason when the Lamb stepped forward to open the book and break the seals the twenty four elders and the beasts before the throne broke out into a new song of worship. They declared Jesus Christ to be the worthy one. He is the only worthy one. Why? Because he has redeemed us by his blood!
We must stop trying to prove ourselves worthy and fall on our knees and worship the One who is worthy! Jesus! He is the Redeemer. There would be no righteousness without his righteousness. There would be no salvation without him. He is worthy of worship.
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 5:9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
Worthy. Most men and women know they are not perfect, but think that somehow they can do something to prove themselves worthy of God's acceptance. It is interesting that when John was invited to the throne of God that a search was made throughout all of creation for a man worthy to open the book and loose the seals that God had.
Revelation 5:3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
This caused John great sorrow as he wept because there was not a worthy man found. The Bible declares:
Romans 3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
Ecclesiastes 7:20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.
For this reason when the Lamb stepped forward to open the book and break the seals the twenty four elders and the beasts before the throne broke out into a new song of worship. They declared Jesus Christ to be the worthy one. He is the only worthy one. Why? Because he has redeemed us by his blood!
We must stop trying to prove ourselves worthy and fall on our knees and worship the One who is worthy! Jesus! He is the Redeemer. There would be no righteousness without his righteousness. There would be no salvation without him. He is worthy of worship.
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, November 14, 2011
Holy, holy, holy
Bible Reading: Revelation 4
Revelation 4:7-8 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. 8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.
The Lord God Almighty is worthy of all praise, honor and glory. He has created creatures that live solely to surround his throne with praise. These beasts are similar to the cherubim that Ezekiel saw. If they are the same or similar, I do not know.
It is interesting to think of their significance. Apparently, they all had similar bodies but their faces were different. My thoughts are that ancient Assyrian, Egyptian and other mythologies were corruptions and attempted copies of these creatures because they all depict in idolatry half-man, half-animal 'gods'. It is sad because they missed the true worship of God and worshipped that which he created instead of worshipping him!
These creatures worship him day and night. I think they depict for us the characteristics of true service to God. The lion reminds us of strength and boldness. He is the king of the beasts. The calf or ox reminds us of the strength of steadiness and toiling work. The man reminds us of the strength of intelligence and thinking work. The eagle reminds us of the strength of swiftness and endurance work.
This is the way we should worship God.
Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.
Proverbs 14:4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.
1 Corinthians 2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
Isaiah 40:29-31 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
This is how we should worship the Lord. With boldness, strength, intelligence and endurance.
1 Corinthians 10:31Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
This is God's purpose for our lives. This is why he created us.
Revelation 4:11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 4:7-8 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. 8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.
The Lord God Almighty is worthy of all praise, honor and glory. He has created creatures that live solely to surround his throne with praise. These beasts are similar to the cherubim that Ezekiel saw. If they are the same or similar, I do not know.
It is interesting to think of their significance. Apparently, they all had similar bodies but their faces were different. My thoughts are that ancient Assyrian, Egyptian and other mythologies were corruptions and attempted copies of these creatures because they all depict in idolatry half-man, half-animal 'gods'. It is sad because they missed the true worship of God and worshipped that which he created instead of worshipping him!
These creatures worship him day and night. I think they depict for us the characteristics of true service to God. The lion reminds us of strength and boldness. He is the king of the beasts. The calf or ox reminds us of the strength of steadiness and toiling work. The man reminds us of the strength of intelligence and thinking work. The eagle reminds us of the strength of swiftness and endurance work.
This is the way we should worship God.
Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.
Proverbs 14:4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.
1 Corinthians 2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
Isaiah 40:29-31 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
This is how we should worship the Lord. With boldness, strength, intelligence and endurance.
1 Corinthians 10:31Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
This is God's purpose for our lives. This is why he created us.
Revelation 4:11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, November 11, 2011
An Open Door
Bible Reading: Revelation 3
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.
You want to be a church like the one at Philadelphia. They did not receive receive any rebuke from the Lord but received an open door of opportunity for ministry and evangelism. Here is what I find interesting about this church.
1. They had a little strength. This was not a mighty and powerful Mega-church. It was a small group that was not strong outwardly. But they realized that their strength was in the Lord. We must also realize that it is not earthly strength that makes kingdom progress.
Zechariah 4:6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
1 Corinthians 1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.
2. They kept the Word of Jesus. This church believed the Bible and kept it. They preached it and taught it to others. They did what the Bible says a follower of Jesus ought to do. They knew this:
2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
3. They had not denied his name. This church proclaimed the name of Jesus. They loved the Lord and knew he was their king and their only hope.
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
They were not ashamed of the name of Jesus.
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
This is what a good church is like. They pray to God knowing:
Matthew 6:13b ...For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
It is Jesus' kingdom - we will not deny his name.
It is Jesus' power - we will keep his word.
It is Jesus' glory - we have a little strength.
In Christ,
Rody
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.
You want to be a church like the one at Philadelphia. They did not receive receive any rebuke from the Lord but received an open door of opportunity for ministry and evangelism. Here is what I find interesting about this church.
1. They had a little strength. This was not a mighty and powerful Mega-church. It was a small group that was not strong outwardly. But they realized that their strength was in the Lord. We must also realize that it is not earthly strength that makes kingdom progress.
Zechariah 4:6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
1 Corinthians 1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.
2. They kept the Word of Jesus. This church believed the Bible and kept it. They preached it and taught it to others. They did what the Bible says a follower of Jesus ought to do. They knew this:
2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
3. They had not denied his name. This church proclaimed the name of Jesus. They loved the Lord and knew he was their king and their only hope.
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
They were not ashamed of the name of Jesus.
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
This is what a good church is like. They pray to God knowing:
Matthew 6:13b ...For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
It is Jesus' kingdom - we will not deny his name.
It is Jesus' power - we will keep his word.
It is Jesus' glory - we have a little strength.
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Thou hast left thy first love
Bible Reading: Revelation 2
Revelation 2:4-5 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
Can you love right doctrine more than Jesus? Can you love the idea of church more than Jesus? Can you love service more than Jesus?
Apparently so, because that is the charge he brought against the Ephesian church. Don't get me wrong, right doctrine is essential. Paul had warned this church that savage wolves would come among them:
Acts 20:28-30 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
They had listened and so Jesus said they had tried them which said they were apostles and found them liars.
How can a church with this kind of watching and discernment leave their first love? I suggest that it is a kind of legalism. It is a focus on doctrine that forgets the fact that all doctrine is just a great love, worship and understanding of our Lord. It becomes a religion and we forget that Jesus is to have all our devotion.
Beware and don't let this happen to you! It is happening in our day and I think many churches are so focused on teaching that they have forgotten where that teaching is to lead. If it is happening to you, here is the way back - remember from whence thou art fallen. Repent and do the first works. Remember those early days of your relationship with Jesus Christ and the love you had for him. Remember the focus on evangelism you had when you wanted everyone to experience the grace and forgiveness you had received. Remember those days when gathering with the church was a joy and you could not wait to worship and to be encouraged by your fellow believers. Go back to that! Keep good doctrine and allow that inspired Scripture to cause you to love the Lord more!
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 2:4-5 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
Can you love right doctrine more than Jesus? Can you love the idea of church more than Jesus? Can you love service more than Jesus?
Apparently so, because that is the charge he brought against the Ephesian church. Don't get me wrong, right doctrine is essential. Paul had warned this church that savage wolves would come among them:
Acts 20:28-30 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
They had listened and so Jesus said they had tried them which said they were apostles and found them liars.
How can a church with this kind of watching and discernment leave their first love? I suggest that it is a kind of legalism. It is a focus on doctrine that forgets the fact that all doctrine is just a great love, worship and understanding of our Lord. It becomes a religion and we forget that Jesus is to have all our devotion.
Beware and don't let this happen to you! It is happening in our day and I think many churches are so focused on teaching that they have forgotten where that teaching is to lead. If it is happening to you, here is the way back - remember from whence thou art fallen. Repent and do the first works. Remember those early days of your relationship with Jesus Christ and the love you had for him. Remember the focus on evangelism you had when you wanted everyone to experience the grace and forgiveness you had received. Remember those days when gathering with the church was a joy and you could not wait to worship and to be encouraged by your fellow believers. Go back to that! Keep good doctrine and allow that inspired Scripture to cause you to love the Lord more!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
In the Spirit
Bible Reading: Revelation 1
Revelation 1:10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,
John was the man who was chosen by God to signify the revelation of Jesus Christ and to show God's servants the things which must shortly come to pass. He tells us where he was when he received this revelation. He was in the isle called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. He was exiled to a prison island for preaching Christ.
He also tells us what he was doing when he received this revelation of Jesus Christ - he was in the Spirit. What does that mean? It means that he was praying in the Holy Spirit and worshipping God.
John 4:23-24 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
John was in an intimate time of worship and prayer when the Lord appeared to him.
Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
We are told to pray in the Sprit and to watch and pray for all saints. As a godly pastor, John was separated from his flock and was no doubt interceding for them.
Jude 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
He was also building himself up in the faith by spending time in prayer. This is essential to all believers. We must seek God through prayer and commune with him.
Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Because John did not know what to pray for specifically, he was also experiencing the intercession of the Holy Spirit who knows perfectly the will of God. We need to spend this kind of time alone with Jesus in prayer. We need to pray in the Holy Spirit.
John also tells us this was on the Lord's day. In his exile and estranged from his flock, John spent the Lord's day in prayer since he could not gather together with his church.
I want to encourage you and challenge you today. Jesus invites us into prayer. The Holy Spirit within will help us with our prayer. Let us get alone with God today!
In Christ,
Rody
Revelation 1:10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,
John was the man who was chosen by God to signify the revelation of Jesus Christ and to show God's servants the things which must shortly come to pass. He tells us where he was when he received this revelation. He was in the isle called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. He was exiled to a prison island for preaching Christ.
He also tells us what he was doing when he received this revelation of Jesus Christ - he was in the Spirit. What does that mean? It means that he was praying in the Holy Spirit and worshipping God.
John 4:23-24 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
John was in an intimate time of worship and prayer when the Lord appeared to him.
Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
We are told to pray in the Sprit and to watch and pray for all saints. As a godly pastor, John was separated from his flock and was no doubt interceding for them.
Jude 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
He was also building himself up in the faith by spending time in prayer. This is essential to all believers. We must seek God through prayer and commune with him.
Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Because John did not know what to pray for specifically, he was also experiencing the intercession of the Holy Spirit who knows perfectly the will of God. We need to spend this kind of time alone with Jesus in prayer. We need to pray in the Holy Spirit.
John also tells us this was on the Lord's day. In his exile and estranged from his flock, John spent the Lord's day in prayer since he could not gather together with his church.
I want to encourage you and challenge you today. Jesus invites us into prayer. The Holy Spirit within will help us with our prayer. Let us get alone with God today!
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Keep yourselves in the love of God
Bible Reading: Jude
Jude 1:20-21 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
Jude wrote for a very specific purpose to the church of his day. He was adamant - certain ungodly men had crept into the church unaware and were trying to denying the Lord Jesus Christ. He reminded the believers of his day that God judged those of Israel that did not believe, the wicked angels who left their own habitation and the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha.
He is telling us that ungodly men of every age will be judged. When the Lord returns. He quotes a prophecy by Enoch that tells of the second coming of Jesus Christ. Then he points out the true nature of these 'filthy dreamers'.
Jude 1:19 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.
They are 'sensual'. The Greek word is psuchikos and is translated as 'natural' in other places.
1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Here is the definition of the 'natural' or 'sensual' man. He does not have the Spirit. The Bible says:
Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
The difference between these men and believers is the Holy Spirit living in them. These men are not saved so they are at work trying to destroy the church.
Jude admonishes the believers of every age by telling us to build ourselves up on our most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost. We have the Holy Spirit living in us. We are to pray in him. This is how we keep ourselves in the love of God. This is how we stay focused on our hope of the Lord Jesus returning for us. We have the Spirit! He lives in us. He comforts us, helps us and teaches us.
Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Keep yourselves in the love of God!
In Christ,
Rody
Jude 1:20-21 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
Jude wrote for a very specific purpose to the church of his day. He was adamant - certain ungodly men had crept into the church unaware and were trying to denying the Lord Jesus Christ. He reminded the believers of his day that God judged those of Israel that did not believe, the wicked angels who left their own habitation and the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha.
He is telling us that ungodly men of every age will be judged. When the Lord returns. He quotes a prophecy by Enoch that tells of the second coming of Jesus Christ. Then he points out the true nature of these 'filthy dreamers'.
Jude 1:19 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.
They are 'sensual'. The Greek word is psuchikos and is translated as 'natural' in other places.
1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Here is the definition of the 'natural' or 'sensual' man. He does not have the Spirit. The Bible says:
Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
The difference between these men and believers is the Holy Spirit living in them. These men are not saved so they are at work trying to destroy the church.
Jude admonishes the believers of every age by telling us to build ourselves up on our most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost. We have the Holy Spirit living in us. We are to pray in him. This is how we keep ourselves in the love of God. This is how we stay focused on our hope of the Lord Jesus returning for us. We have the Spirit! He lives in us. He comforts us, helps us and teaches us.
Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Keep yourselves in the love of God!
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, November 7, 2011
For his name's sake they went forth
Bible Reading: 3 John
3 John 1:7-8 Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. 8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.
Missionaries have gone forth preaching the message of the gospel since the very first days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These believers have travelled extensively and stayed away from home sometimes for their entire lives. They took on this mission for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ who called them forth.
This missionary work is accomplished by the church and funded by the church. The missionary does not take anything of the Gentiles. Instead the traveler depended upon the charity of fellow believers. Gaius was one who showed kindness and charity to these traveling believers. He showed them hospitality and received them into his home.
The apostolic teaching is that we should help missionaries on their way. When we do this, we are fellow helpers to the truth. When they go in truth and preach the truth of Jesus we can help them.
Maybe the Holy Spirit is setting you apart for this kind of work. Maybe he is calling you to go and serve in some other part of the world. Maybe he is calling you to be a fellow helper to someone who will go. Either way, you and I can participate with Jesus in the work of preaching the gospel to every creature.
The missionary mandate is to be funded by the church. It is not to be taken from the Gentiles. The church should fund the work until there is a church to support itself. Then that church can begin to help others. The church must continue on and on...
In Christ,
Rody
3 John 1:7-8 Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. 8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.
Missionaries have gone forth preaching the message of the gospel since the very first days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These believers have travelled extensively and stayed away from home sometimes for their entire lives. They took on this mission for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ who called them forth.
This missionary work is accomplished by the church and funded by the church. The missionary does not take anything of the Gentiles. Instead the traveler depended upon the charity of fellow believers. Gaius was one who showed kindness and charity to these traveling believers. He showed them hospitality and received them into his home.
The apostolic teaching is that we should help missionaries on their way. When we do this, we are fellow helpers to the truth. When they go in truth and preach the truth of Jesus we can help them.
Maybe the Holy Spirit is setting you apart for this kind of work. Maybe he is calling you to go and serve in some other part of the world. Maybe he is calling you to be a fellow helper to someone who will go. Either way, you and I can participate with Jesus in the work of preaching the gospel to every creature.
The missionary mandate is to be funded by the church. It is not to be taken from the Gentiles. The church should fund the work until there is a church to support itself. Then that church can begin to help others. The church must continue on and on...
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, November 4, 2011
Children walking in truth
Bible Reading: 2 John
2 John 1:4 I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.
It is debatable as to whether John was using a metaphor and writing to a church which he calls in this epistle "the elect lady" or whether he was actually writing to a lady that he knew. It really does not change the meaning either way. The point of the letter is two fold. First, John commends her on she and her families walk in the truth. Second, he warns her to look out for false teachers that can lead her astray.
When John had been with some of her children, he found that they were walking in the truth. This was a source of great joy to him. This is what he wanted and had worked toward. This is what the Father wants.
Do your children walk in the truth? If they are still little, can I encourage you to be diligent to pray for them and teach them the truth of Jesus Christ? The Bible gives a wonderful admonition on how to do this in Deuteronomy.
Deuteronomy 6:5-7 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
The commandment we have received of the Father is to walk in the truth. When children do that it means they have been taught from the Holy Scriptures.
2 Timothy 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
If your children are not walking in the truth don't give up on them! It is never too late. If you are not directly responsible for their teaching anymore, then pray for them. Nothing is impossible with God. Continue to walk with Christ and boldly go to the throne of grace in intercession for them.
Handing down the faith to the next generation is very important. Let's be diligent to help young ones to know Jesus and walk with him!
In Christ,
Rody
2 John 1:4 I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.
It is debatable as to whether John was using a metaphor and writing to a church which he calls in this epistle "the elect lady" or whether he was actually writing to a lady that he knew. It really does not change the meaning either way. The point of the letter is two fold. First, John commends her on she and her families walk in the truth. Second, he warns her to look out for false teachers that can lead her astray.
When John had been with some of her children, he found that they were walking in the truth. This was a source of great joy to him. This is what he wanted and had worked toward. This is what the Father wants.
Do your children walk in the truth? If they are still little, can I encourage you to be diligent to pray for them and teach them the truth of Jesus Christ? The Bible gives a wonderful admonition on how to do this in Deuteronomy.
Deuteronomy 6:5-7 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
The commandment we have received of the Father is to walk in the truth. When children do that it means they have been taught from the Holy Scriptures.
2 Timothy 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
If your children are not walking in the truth don't give up on them! It is never too late. If you are not directly responsible for their teaching anymore, then pray for them. Nothing is impossible with God. Continue to walk with Christ and boldly go to the throne of grace in intercession for them.
Handing down the faith to the next generation is very important. Let's be diligent to help young ones to know Jesus and walk with him!
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, November 3, 2011
This is the love of God
Bible Reading: 1 John 5
1 John 5:2-3 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
How do you know if you love the children of God or not? The Bible is clear that true children of God love one another. So how do we know if we are loving them?
The Bible here tells us very plainly: when we love God and keep his commandments. The love of God is to keep his commandments. For some reason, this strikes us as legalistic. However, a true follower of Jesus will desire the things that He desires. Jesus said:
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
The commandments os God are not grievous. The yoke of Jesus is easy and his burden is light. These passages are saying the same thing. To take the yoke of Jesus is to submit to him and to his leadership in your life. To obey the commandments of God is not a grievous thing because God empowers you to obey him. His commands are simple - Believe and love. When we have faith in Christ, the love of God will be in us and we can allow the Holy Spirit to bring forth fruit in our lives.
To love is to obey. To love is to fulfill the law. To love is not something we are capable of doing on our own. It is something that God does for us.
Let God's love flow through your life today!
In Christ,
Rody
1 John 5:2-3 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
How do you know if you love the children of God or not? The Bible is clear that true children of God love one another. So how do we know if we are loving them?
The Bible here tells us very plainly: when we love God and keep his commandments. The love of God is to keep his commandments. For some reason, this strikes us as legalistic. However, a true follower of Jesus will desire the things that He desires. Jesus said:
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
The commandments os God are not grievous. The yoke of Jesus is easy and his burden is light. These passages are saying the same thing. To take the yoke of Jesus is to submit to him and to his leadership in your life. To obey the commandments of God is not a grievous thing because God empowers you to obey him. His commands are simple - Believe and love. When we have faith in Christ, the love of God will be in us and we can allow the Holy Spirit to bring forth fruit in our lives.
To love is to obey. To love is to fulfill the law. To love is not something we are capable of doing on our own. It is something that God does for us.
Let God's love flow through your life today!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
His love is perfected in us
Bible Reading: 1 John 4
1 John 4:12-13 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. 13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
How do you know if God lives in you? You know because God is love and if God lives in you by his Holy Spirit, then love will come from your life.
The point that John is making is that since we cannot see God we must see his evidence in our lives. His evidence is the work of the Holy Spirit. Remember what Jesus told Nicodemus?
John 3:8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.
You cannot see the wind, but you hear the sound. You cannot see God but you can see love. This love of God is perfected in us as we love one another. Think of trying to master something. Like shooting, for instance. The more you practice on the rifle range, the better you will become. The art of shooting will be perfected in you. In the same way, we must practice loving and the church is the place for practice.
As we love one another, we get better and better at it. Love is from God. It is God's nature and God's idea. When we love others and truly find love in our hearts, we know that we dwell in him! If the One who is love dwells in you, then love will flow through your life to him and others!
The fruit of the Spirit is love...(Galatians 5:22).
In Christ,
Rody
1 John 4:12-13 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. 13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
How do you know if God lives in you? You know because God is love and if God lives in you by his Holy Spirit, then love will come from your life.
The point that John is making is that since we cannot see God we must see his evidence in our lives. His evidence is the work of the Holy Spirit. Remember what Jesus told Nicodemus?
John 3:8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.
You cannot see the wind, but you hear the sound. You cannot see God but you can see love. This love of God is perfected in us as we love one another. Think of trying to master something. Like shooting, for instance. The more you practice on the rifle range, the better you will become. The art of shooting will be perfected in you. In the same way, we must practice loving and the church is the place for practice.
As we love one another, we get better and better at it. Love is from God. It is God's nature and God's idea. When we love others and truly find love in our hearts, we know that we dwell in him! If the One who is love dwells in you, then love will flow through your life to him and others!
The fruit of the Spirit is love...(Galatians 5:22).
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
This is his commandment
Bible Reading: 1 John 3
1 John 3:23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
Here John sums up the commandments of Christ for us very simply. If we are to be obedient to the Lord, we must understand these two things. First, we must believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ. This is salvation and the beginning of a life that is pleasing to God. It is commanded!
Acts 16:30-31 And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? 31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
Acts 17:30-31 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
Mark 1:14-15 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
You must believe on Jesus to be pleasing to God. You must also love one another. This too is commanded by Jesus.
John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
When you love God, you will believe in Jesus as he says. When you love one another, you fulfill any law that there every could be from God!
Galatians 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Faith and love are the commands that we must obey.
In Christ,
Rody
1 John 3:23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
Here John sums up the commandments of Christ for us very simply. If we are to be obedient to the Lord, we must understand these two things. First, we must believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ. This is salvation and the beginning of a life that is pleasing to God. It is commanded!
Acts 16:30-31 And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? 31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
Acts 17:30-31 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
Mark 1:14-15 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
You must believe on Jesus to be pleasing to God. You must also love one another. This too is commanded by Jesus.
John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
When you love God, you will believe in Jesus as he says. When you love one another, you fulfill any law that there every could be from God!
Galatians 5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Faith and love are the commands that we must obey.
In Christ,
Rody
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