Bible Reading: Genesis 27-29
Genesis 27:41 And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him:and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob.
Hatred between brothers is a terrible thing. In the case of Jacob and Esau it was a vying for position with their father. Esau as firstborn should have received the blessing and the birthright. However, God had different plans. Jacob and Rebekah had used subtlety and deception to gain for Jacob the blessing.
What about you? Do you love your brothers and sisters? Or is there a root of bitterness over some wrong done?
Hatred among brothers goes back to the very first two brothers in history.
Genesis 4:8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother:and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.
The hatred in Cain's heart became murder in his hand.
1 John 3:11-12 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous.
Esau and Jacob like Cain and Able had a terrible sibling rivalry. Jealousy and a desire to be pleasing to parents and God drove their decisions. Be very careful in your dealings with your brothers and sisters. Jesus tells us that murder begins in the heart. If you have allowed bitterness and hatred to grow, it can manifest in all manner of sinful ways.
Instead, allow the forgiveness of God to flow to them and be loving in your dealings with your siblings.
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
A grief of mind unto Isaac and to Rebekah
Bible Reading: Genesis 25-26
Genesis 26:34-35 And Esau was forty years old when he took to wife Judith the daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Bashemath the daughter of Elon the Hittite: 35 Which were a grief of mind unto Isaac and to Rebekah.
Esau married two wives which were a grief of mind to his parents. Part of the grief must have been from the fact that Isaac had seen the results of a man having more than one wife. His own father had to send Hagar and his half-brother Ishmael away because of the strife in their home. How can a man be one flesh with more than one woman?
From the very beginning, God intended one man and one woman to be married and be one flesh. They are in a covenant together with God as a couple. Trying to have this kind of relationship with more than one is an absurdity.
Another part of the grief of Isaac and Rebekah was the fact that Esau married Hittite women. These were not followers of the one true God. They worshipped false gods. Surely their idolatrous beliefs would have an effect on Esau and especially on their grandchildren.
So many times, people marry someone that holds a very different set of beliefs and core values than themselves. They think these things do not matter, but as time goes by they begin to realize how important they truly are. Isaac and Rebekah were people in covenant with God. They knew there was only one God and all others were idols and impostors. Their grief came as they saw Esau go away from what he was taught. Their grief would continue as they saw the strife of Esau's home. Their grief would get greater as they saw the results of the Hittites upon their grandchildren.
Marriage is a wonderful thing in the sight of God. However, he warns us:
2 Corinthians 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 26:34-35 And Esau was forty years old when he took to wife Judith the daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Bashemath the daughter of Elon the Hittite: 35 Which were a grief of mind unto Isaac and to Rebekah.
Esau married two wives which were a grief of mind to his parents. Part of the grief must have been from the fact that Isaac had seen the results of a man having more than one wife. His own father had to send Hagar and his half-brother Ishmael away because of the strife in their home. How can a man be one flesh with more than one woman?
From the very beginning, God intended one man and one woman to be married and be one flesh. They are in a covenant together with God as a couple. Trying to have this kind of relationship with more than one is an absurdity.
Another part of the grief of Isaac and Rebekah was the fact that Esau married Hittite women. These were not followers of the one true God. They worshipped false gods. Surely their idolatrous beliefs would have an effect on Esau and especially on their grandchildren.
So many times, people marry someone that holds a very different set of beliefs and core values than themselves. They think these things do not matter, but as time goes by they begin to realize how important they truly are. Isaac and Rebekah were people in covenant with God. They knew there was only one God and all others were idols and impostors. Their grief came as they saw Esau go away from what he was taught. Their grief would continue as they saw the strife of Esau's home. Their grief would get greater as they saw the results of the Hittites upon their grandchildren.
Marriage is a wonderful thing in the sight of God. However, he warns us:
2 Corinthians 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Cain rose up against Abel his brother
Genesis 4-7
Genesis 4:5-8 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 6 And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him. 8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.
The first murder was one brother murdering another. Since we all are descendants of Adam and Eve, every murder is one brother killing another. God's Word tells us that the incident began with the boys bringing an offering to the Lord. God had no respect to Cain and his offering. Why? Cain did not bring the prescribed offering like Abel did. Abel simply obeyed God and brought a blood sacrifice from the firstlings of the flock. Cain however brought some of the fruit of the ground.
Many continue in the way of Cain today. They will not have faith in God and his Word. They will not come to God through Jesus Christ as he says to. Instead they try to come to God in some other way. All other ways are sin. God will not honor these fleshly attempts at righteousness.
Because God had respect to Abel and his sacrifice but not to Cain and his, Cain disputed with Abel. Because he was upset with God, he took it out on Abel. The Bible tells us:
1 John 3:11-14 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 12 Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous.
13 Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
Hatred toward others is from the wicked one. It comes because man's deeds are evil. The answer to this evil way of life is to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved. When we come to God through his one and only Son, we will find the love that he has for us. That same love will be shown in us and through us toward others.
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 4:5-8 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 6 And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him. 8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.
The first murder was one brother murdering another. Since we all are descendants of Adam and Eve, every murder is one brother killing another. God's Word tells us that the incident began with the boys bringing an offering to the Lord. God had no respect to Cain and his offering. Why? Cain did not bring the prescribed offering like Abel did. Abel simply obeyed God and brought a blood sacrifice from the firstlings of the flock. Cain however brought some of the fruit of the ground.
Many continue in the way of Cain today. They will not have faith in God and his Word. They will not come to God through Jesus Christ as he says to. Instead they try to come to God in some other way. All other ways are sin. God will not honor these fleshly attempts at righteousness.
Because God had respect to Abel and his sacrifice but not to Cain and his, Cain disputed with Abel. Because he was upset with God, he took it out on Abel. The Bible tells us:
1 John 3:11-14 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 12 Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous.
13 Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. 14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
Hatred toward others is from the wicked one. It comes because man's deeds are evil. The answer to this evil way of life is to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved. When we come to God through his one and only Son, we will find the love that he has for us. That same love will be shown in us and through us toward others.
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
The Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters
Bible Reading: Genesis 1-3
Genesis 1:2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
The Spirit of God took the dark and void and brought light and life! That is what he does. Have you seen the pictures from the Mars rover? Apparently it is sending pictures back so scientists can determine a place where it can drill a hole and better analyze the rock. There is no water on Mars. There is no life on Mars. It is however, void! It is a barren waste land. There are no trees. There are no animals. There is no junk! On Mars there is only rock and sand.
In the first week of our earth's existence it was similar. However, it was covered with water. No land showing. No islands. No ships. No whales. No dolphins. No gulls. No insects. No people. Just void water and God...
And he began to speak. Light. Firmament. Land. Plants. Planets. Animals that swim and fly. Then animals that live on land. Then man, made in the image of God. God brought light out of the darkness. God brought life to the void. He created a world and a universe that could support the life that he created.
The same is true in our lives. The Spirit of God brings light and life. Man without the Spirit is in darkness. Man without the Spirit is dead. Our sin blinds us from the light. Our sin brings death. God's Spirit brings life.
Jesus is the light of the world.
John 1:9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
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.
Let this new year be one filled with the light and life of the Spirit of God. Let Jesus light your way and be your life.
Happy New Year.
In Christ,
Rody
Genesis 1:2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
The Spirit of God took the dark and void and brought light and life! That is what he does. Have you seen the pictures from the Mars rover? Apparently it is sending pictures back so scientists can determine a place where it can drill a hole and better analyze the rock. There is no water on Mars. There is no life on Mars. It is however, void! It is a barren waste land. There are no trees. There are no animals. There is no junk! On Mars there is only rock and sand.
In the first week of our earth's existence it was similar. However, it was covered with water. No land showing. No islands. No ships. No whales. No dolphins. No gulls. No insects. No people. Just void water and God...
And he began to speak. Light. Firmament. Land. Plants. Planets. Animals that swim and fly. Then animals that live on land. Then man, made in the image of God. God brought light out of the darkness. God brought life to the void. He created a world and a universe that could support the life that he created.
The same is true in our lives. The Spirit of God brings light and life. Man without the Spirit is in darkness. Man without the Spirit is dead. Our sin blinds us from the light. Our sin brings death. God's Spirit brings life.
Jesus is the light of the world.
John 1:9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
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.
Let this new year be one filled with the light and life of the Spirit of God. Let Jesus light your way and be your life.
Happy New Year.
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Thanksgiving to God
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 5-9
2 Corinthians 9:10-11 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) 11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
God gives seed to the sower. He can multiply your seed sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness. God gives us the ability to gain wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18). It is a great mistake to think that you or I have gained what we have on our own. We have been given what we have by God.
Someone might say they worked hard for their living. But who gave the ability to work? Who gave the intelligence to think? Who providentially placed you in the family you grew up in? Who placed the people in your life that trained you? God did!
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?
Instead of glorying, we should be thankful to God. If it rains so our crops grow, give thanks to God. If the market is up and our calves bring more than they used to, thank God! If you get a raise at work, thank God! If you get a Christmas bonus, thank God!
God takes care of us! It is amazing to think of how he does this, but he does. He loves us and makes sure that we have what we need. Yes, we are to pray and ask for them, but he knows what we need before we even ask.
Our response to God should be thanksgiving. He is the Great Giver of gifts. He gives us life and breath and all things. He gave us his Son, Jesus Christ. He gives us the gift of salvation and eternal life.
2 Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.
In Christ,
Rody
2 Corinthians 9:10-11 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) 11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
God gives seed to the sower. He can multiply your seed sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness. God gives us the ability to gain wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18). It is a great mistake to think that you or I have gained what we have on our own. We have been given what we have by God.
Someone might say they worked hard for their living. But who gave the ability to work? Who gave the intelligence to think? Who providentially placed you in the family you grew up in? Who placed the people in your life that trained you? God did!
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?
Instead of glorying, we should be thankful to God. If it rains so our crops grow, give thanks to God. If the market is up and our calves bring more than they used to, thank God! If you get a raise at work, thank God! If you get a Christmas bonus, thank God!
God takes care of us! It is amazing to think of how he does this, but he does. He loves us and makes sure that we have what we need. Yes, we are to pray and ask for them, but he knows what we need before we even ask.
Our response to God should be thanksgiving. He is the Great Giver of gifts. He gives us life and breath and all things. He gave us his Son, Jesus Christ. He gives us the gift of salvation and eternal life.
2 Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
He which raised up the Lord Jesus
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 1-4
2 Corinthians 4:13-14 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; 14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
Do you believe that Jesus died for sins and was raised from the dead? Paul did and the only thing he could do because he believed was to speak. The truth of faith in Jesus Christ compels us to speak!
The spirit of faith within the believer gives them a boldness and confidence in Christ. The boldness is a bravery of witness whereby we speak the truth of Christ openly.
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.
Not only do we know that we are saved because we trust in Jesus Christ. But we also know that no matter what happens to us here in this life, we will be raised up along with other believers. The resurrection of Jesus Christ teaches us that God will also raise us up!
Death is not the end. It is only a door way. When Jesus presents his pure, spotless bride to himself, Paul knew that he would be there! All those who trust in Christ will be there!
Do you have that kind of confidence in Christ? Do you trust him for your salvation? If so, then the spirit of faith in you will compel you to witness for him and give you the confidence that one day you too will be raised up to live forever with the Lord!
In Christ,
Rody
2 Corinthians 4:13-14 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; 14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
Do you believe that Jesus died for sins and was raised from the dead? Paul did and the only thing he could do because he believed was to speak. The truth of faith in Jesus Christ compels us to speak!
The spirit of faith within the believer gives them a boldness and confidence in Christ. The boldness is a bravery of witness whereby we speak the truth of Christ openly.
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.
Not only do we know that we are saved because we trust in Jesus Christ. But we also know that no matter what happens to us here in this life, we will be raised up along with other believers. The resurrection of Jesus Christ teaches us that God will also raise us up!
Death is not the end. It is only a door way. When Jesus presents his pure, spotless bride to himself, Paul knew that he would be there! All those who trust in Christ will be there!
Do you have that kind of confidence in Christ? Do you trust him for your salvation? If so, then the spirit of faith in you will compel you to witness for him and give you the confidence that one day you too will be raised up to live forever with the Lord!
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, December 3, 2012
All flesh is not the same
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15 - 16
1 Corinthians 15:39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds.
Animals and humans are not the same. This is not a surprise to someone who has been raised knowing the Bible and being around animals. However, it seems that many today want to put animals on par with humans. Here the Bible is teaching about the resurrection body and how it will be 'changed' from the current terrestrial body that we now have. We can learn something about mankind and animals here as well.
God made man and animals distinct and different. We are not highly evolved animals and we did not come from cave men. When God created Adam, he did it separately from the animals he had already created.
Genesis 1:26-27 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Man is made in the image of God. He is not evolved from the animals. God created the animals on the sixth day and then he created man. We may have some similarities but not many. We have bones, muscles, fat and blood. Our children drink milk from their mothers like some animals, but we are made in the image of God. Our flesh is different from that of animals. The Bible tells us so. Just take a look for yourself. The next time you have a fish fillet, observe the difference between it and the chicken drumstick that you ate. Look at a steak and see how it is different from the others as well. The Bible tells us that beasts, fish and birds have different kinds of flesh. They did not all come from a common ancestor. They were intentionally designed different by Jesus!
We are not highly evolved animals. We are created in the image of God and he wants to restore that original glory within us by coming into us himself.
Colossians 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
God does not live in animals. He does live in believers in Jesus!
In Christ,
Rody
1 Corinthians 15:39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds.
Animals and humans are not the same. This is not a surprise to someone who has been raised knowing the Bible and being around animals. However, it seems that many today want to put animals on par with humans. Here the Bible is teaching about the resurrection body and how it will be 'changed' from the current terrestrial body that we now have. We can learn something about mankind and animals here as well.
God made man and animals distinct and different. We are not highly evolved animals and we did not come from cave men. When God created Adam, he did it separately from the animals he had already created.
Genesis 1:26-27 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Man is made in the image of God. He is not evolved from the animals. God created the animals on the sixth day and then he created man. We may have some similarities but not many. We have bones, muscles, fat and blood. Our children drink milk from their mothers like some animals, but we are made in the image of God. Our flesh is different from that of animals. The Bible tells us so. Just take a look for yourself. The next time you have a fish fillet, observe the difference between it and the chicken drumstick that you ate. Look at a steak and see how it is different from the others as well. The Bible tells us that beasts, fish and birds have different kinds of flesh. They did not all come from a common ancestor. They were intentionally designed different by Jesus!
We are not highly evolved animals. We are created in the image of God and he wants to restore that original glory within us by coming into us himself.
Colossians 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
God does not live in animals. He does live in believers in Jesus!
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, November 29, 2012
The natural man
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 1-4
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.
Do you know why people are 'pro choice' and for so called 'gay marriage'? The answer is here before us. The Bible tells us that life begins at conception. It tells us that children are an heritage of the Lord and the fruit of the womb is his reward (Psalm 127). It tells us that marriage is a holy covenant between a man and a woman for life. However, these things are RECEIVED from God's Word. They are not learned from science or from sociology.
Lost people do not understand God's Word. They cannot know the spiritual things of the Word of God because they are received.
Christians need to understand this reality. It is not our first priority to get people to to 'conservative' or hold 'traditional family values'. It is our first priority to preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15). When people are saved by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, then and only then can we teach them all things whatsoever Christ has commanded us (Matthew 28:18-20).
We need to get back to the preaching of the gospel. We need to help people understand the truth of sin and salvation. They cannot receive the things of God until they receive the Son of God - Jesus Christ!
We must do what Paul did when he went to Corinth to preach. He did not try to get them to embrace a particular set of values. Instead the Bible says:
1 Corinthians 2:1-5 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Determine not to know anything among the lost save Jesus Christ and him crucified. Then disciple to saved to learn the Word of God and obey.
In Christ,
Rody
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.
Do you know why people are 'pro choice' and for so called 'gay marriage'? The answer is here before us. The Bible tells us that life begins at conception. It tells us that children are an heritage of the Lord and the fruit of the womb is his reward (Psalm 127). It tells us that marriage is a holy covenant between a man and a woman for life. However, these things are RECEIVED from God's Word. They are not learned from science or from sociology.
Lost people do not understand God's Word. They cannot know the spiritual things of the Word of God because they are received.
Christians need to understand this reality. It is not our first priority to get people to to 'conservative' or hold 'traditional family values'. It is our first priority to preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15). When people are saved by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, then and only then can we teach them all things whatsoever Christ has commanded us (Matthew 28:18-20).
We need to get back to the preaching of the gospel. We need to help people understand the truth of sin and salvation. They cannot receive the things of God until they receive the Son of God - Jesus Christ!
We must do what Paul did when he went to Corinth to preach. He did not try to get them to embrace a particular set of values. Instead the Bible says:
1 Corinthians 2:1-5 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Determine not to know anything among the lost save Jesus Christ and him crucified. Then disciple to saved to learn the Word of God and obey.
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Many that believed
Bible Reading: Acts 18:19-19:41
Acts 19:18-20 And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds. 19 Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver. 20 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.
The Word of God had a mighty effect in Ephesus. Magic and sorcery were very popular in that day. The worship of false gods was everywhere. The Ephesians had a special affinity to the false goddess Diana. When the apostles preached the gospel there, many believed. The Bible tells us that they were open about their faith. It was not some secret decision that they made and no one knew about. They confessed Christ openly and they showed their deeds.
The Word of God brought with it change. When the Holy Spirit moves in, he begins to clean house of all things that do not bring glory to the name of Jesus Christ.
There were people who were involved with 'curious arts'. They were practitioners of magic and they had grim-ores or magic books that contained spells and enchantments. These they brought out and burned openly.
The Bible tells us:
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
1 Corinthians 10:21 Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.
When a person believes on Jesus, they have a new nature, a new life, a new master, a new love and a new purpose. The old has passed away and all things have become new. We must learn the lesson from these ex-witches. When they trusted in Jesus, they parted with the old life of practicing 'curious arts'. They were new and they cleaned house with the old.
Thank you Jesus, for the new life that does not need magic, ritual or idolatry! We know the Creator! We know the redeemer! We know Jesus!
In Christ,
Rody
Acts 19:18-20 And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds. 19 Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver. 20 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.
The Word of God had a mighty effect in Ephesus. Magic and sorcery were very popular in that day. The worship of false gods was everywhere. The Ephesians had a special affinity to the false goddess Diana. When the apostles preached the gospel there, many believed. The Bible tells us that they were open about their faith. It was not some secret decision that they made and no one knew about. They confessed Christ openly and they showed their deeds.
The Word of God brought with it change. When the Holy Spirit moves in, he begins to clean house of all things that do not bring glory to the name of Jesus Christ.
There were people who were involved with 'curious arts'. They were practitioners of magic and they had grim-ores or magic books that contained spells and enchantments. These they brought out and burned openly.
The Bible tells us:
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
1 Corinthians 10:21 Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.
When a person believes on Jesus, they have a new nature, a new life, a new master, a new love and a new purpose. The old has passed away and all things have become new. We must learn the lesson from these ex-witches. When they trusted in Jesus, they parted with the old life of practicing 'curious arts'. They were new and they cleaned house with the old.
Thank you Jesus, for the new life that does not need magic, ritual or idolatry! We know the Creator! We know the redeemer! We know Jesus!
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Unto holiness
Bible Reading: 1 & 2 Thessalonians
1 Thessalonians 4:7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.
Many times people ask if something is sin. Should I do this or not? Is it a sin to do so and so? These are the wrong questions for the Christian.
The question for the follower of Jesus is not, "How close to the line of sin can I get?" The calling of the follower of Jesus is to holiness. Religion gives man a set of rules to follow. This always leads to looking for loop holes and searching for ways to bend the rules.
A true walk with Jesus is to walk in the Spirit. That is the answer the Bible gives to sin.
Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
The true follower of Christ does not focus on what is sin and what is not sin anymore. They focus on following Jesus. A walk in the Spirit is a walk of holiness. He is the HOLY SPIRIT. He will not lead you into sin. He will lead you into holiness.
Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
A son of God through faith in Jesus Christ is led by the Spirit. He leads us into holiness. He will not lead us into uncleanness. The call of God is to follow him. He is working in the world today. His work is one of love and mercy. He does not lead a person to walk a sinful lifestyle. He leads us to be light in a dark world and to show the love of Christ.
Stop asking about what is sin and start following Jesus!
In Christ,
Rody
1 Thessalonians 4:7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.
Many times people ask if something is sin. Should I do this or not? Is it a sin to do so and so? These are the wrong questions for the Christian.
The question for the follower of Jesus is not, "How close to the line of sin can I get?" The calling of the follower of Jesus is to holiness. Religion gives man a set of rules to follow. This always leads to looking for loop holes and searching for ways to bend the rules.
A true walk with Jesus is to walk in the Spirit. That is the answer the Bible gives to sin.
Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
The true follower of Christ does not focus on what is sin and what is not sin anymore. They focus on following Jesus. A walk in the Spirit is a walk of holiness. He is the HOLY SPIRIT. He will not lead you into sin. He will lead you into holiness.
Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
A son of God through faith in Jesus Christ is led by the Spirit. He leads us into holiness. He will not lead us into uncleanness. The call of God is to follow him. He is working in the world today. His work is one of love and mercy. He does not lead a person to walk a sinful lifestyle. He leads us to be light in a dark world and to show the love of Christ.
Stop asking about what is sin and start following Jesus!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Go ye
Bible Reading: Matthew 28 & Mark 16
Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
Jesus commissioned the disciples to go. There is a difference between go and stay. Think about the commands that a man might give to a cowdog or bird dog. "Stay", means don't move; remain where you are. No action is required in the command to stay. It simply means wait for further orders. However, "go" is very different. It means to advance. It means to proceed. It means that you must immediately begin making decisions because even in your going, you must make the first step and choose a direction.
Even if you were given the destination that you were to "go" to, you would still have to determine the path that would get you there. Each step that you take is really up to you. You can take the direct path or you can take a more circuitous route. The command "go" involves movement. In physics terms it includes velocity and momentum. You must accelerate and decelerate in order to "go".
Jesus gave the disciples the command, "Go". He also gave them the destination - into all the world. He told them the mission. They were to "preach the gospel to every creature." They had a lot of choices to make. They had to gain momentum. They had to accelerate. They had to go from being stationary to being in motion. And they did!
Now, the question is this: does this command apply to us today? Some would say, "No, that was for the apostles." However, when we look to the epistles which were given to the churches, we see the gospel mission still being emphasized.
1 Thessalonians 1:8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God- ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.
The churches were planted by the apostles but the mission did not end. It continues. The Lord's command still applies. We have a mission!
What - Go! Preach the gospel.
Where - into all the world.
To whom - To EVERY creature
How - In the power of Jesus. (Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Matthew 28:20)
The Word is a call to action. It tells us, "Believe" and it tells us, "Go and preach." So what are you waiting for? The command is not to stay, but to go. Let's go!
In Christ,
Rody
Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
Jesus commissioned the disciples to go. There is a difference between go and stay. Think about the commands that a man might give to a cowdog or bird dog. "Stay", means don't move; remain where you are. No action is required in the command to stay. It simply means wait for further orders. However, "go" is very different. It means to advance. It means to proceed. It means that you must immediately begin making decisions because even in your going, you must make the first step and choose a direction.
Even if you were given the destination that you were to "go" to, you would still have to determine the path that would get you there. Each step that you take is really up to you. You can take the direct path or you can take a more circuitous route. The command "go" involves movement. In physics terms it includes velocity and momentum. You must accelerate and decelerate in order to "go".
Jesus gave the disciples the command, "Go". He also gave them the destination - into all the world. He told them the mission. They were to "preach the gospel to every creature." They had a lot of choices to make. They had to gain momentum. They had to accelerate. They had to go from being stationary to being in motion. And they did!
Now, the question is this: does this command apply to us today? Some would say, "No, that was for the apostles." However, when we look to the epistles which were given to the churches, we see the gospel mission still being emphasized.
1 Thessalonians 1:8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God- ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.
The churches were planted by the apostles but the mission did not end. It continues. The Lord's command still applies. We have a mission!
What - Go! Preach the gospel.
Where - into all the world.
To whom - To EVERY creature
How - In the power of Jesus. (Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Matthew 28:20)
The Word is a call to action. It tells us, "Believe" and it tells us, "Go and preach." So what are you waiting for? The command is not to stay, but to go. Let's go!
In Christ,
Rody
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
The truth
Bible Reading: Luke 23; John 18-19
John 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
Pilate wanted to know if Jesus was a king. Yes, this is why he was born and this is why he came into this world. Everything that Jesus said and did was the truth. The world was, and is, so influenced by the father of the lie, Satan, that many in it did not recognize the truth.
Do you know the truth? You do if you know Jesus. He is the truth. If you hear his voice, you hear truth. If not, you are still believing a lie. Just think of how many people in the world are believing a lie. There are millions who do not know Jesus. They don't know the One who is the truth. Thier faith is based on a lie.
It could be the lie of evolution. It could be the lie that life on earth was planted here by some alien race. It could be the lie of Islam or the lie of buddhism. It could be the lie of just plain ole' American good-ole'-boyism. If you don't hear Jesus' voice, you are listening to a lie.
Get out your Bible and hear the voice of Jesus. He is the truth!
In Christ,
Rody
John 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
Pilate wanted to know if Jesus was a king. Yes, this is why he was born and this is why he came into this world. Everything that Jesus said and did was the truth. The world was, and is, so influenced by the father of the lie, Satan, that many in it did not recognize the truth.
Do you know the truth? You do if you know Jesus. He is the truth. If you hear his voice, you hear truth. If not, you are still believing a lie. Just think of how many people in the world are believing a lie. There are millions who do not know Jesus. They don't know the One who is the truth. Thier faith is based on a lie.
It could be the lie of evolution. It could be the lie that life on earth was planted here by some alien race. It could be the lie of Islam or the lie of buddhism. It could be the lie of just plain ole' American good-ole'-boyism. If you don't hear Jesus' voice, you are listening to a lie.
Get out your Bible and hear the voice of Jesus. He is the truth!
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, November 12, 2012
Willing to content the people
Bible Reading: Matthew 27 & Mark 15
Mark 15:15 And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.
This truly sounds like a politician. He was willing to content the people. What was right and wrong was hard to determine. Maybe he cared about right and wrong or not - I can't tell. Pilate made his decision based on the squeaking wheel. He listened to the yelling of the crowd. He did not listen to God.
Making decisions needs to be based on hearing and obeying God's Word. Just going along with the crowd is almost always the wrong way to decide.
Let's contrast Pilate's decision with the decision of the disciples.
Acts 4:16-20 Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. 17 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. 18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Peter and John did not listen to the crowd or even the threatening of the leaders of Jerusalem. They said they would make their decisions based on what was right in the sight of God.
If Pilate had listened to the wisdom from his wife, he would have reconsidered. Pilate had a problem. He did not know what the truth was. He had lived that long and become a powerful man and still did not know what truth was or where to find it.
As Christians, we know the One who is truth - Jesus Christ. We must feed upon his Word daily and be led by his Spirit. Our decision making is more that just listening to the crowd. We must listen to the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit who leads those who are the sons of God.
Pray for our politicians. The crowd is usually wrong. Pray for men and women who will seek the Lord with all their heart and trust in Jesus.
In Christ,
Rody
Mark 15:15 And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.
This truly sounds like a politician. He was willing to content the people. What was right and wrong was hard to determine. Maybe he cared about right and wrong or not - I can't tell. Pilate made his decision based on the squeaking wheel. He listened to the yelling of the crowd. He did not listen to God.
Making decisions needs to be based on hearing and obeying God's Word. Just going along with the crowd is almost always the wrong way to decide.
Let's contrast Pilate's decision with the decision of the disciples.
Acts 4:16-20 Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. 17 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. 18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Peter and John did not listen to the crowd or even the threatening of the leaders of Jerusalem. They said they would make their decisions based on what was right in the sight of God.
If Pilate had listened to the wisdom from his wife, he would have reconsidered. Pilate had a problem. He did not know what the truth was. He had lived that long and become a powerful man and still did not know what truth was or where to find it.
As Christians, we know the One who is truth - Jesus Christ. We must feed upon his Word daily and be led by his Spirit. Our decision making is more that just listening to the crowd. We must listen to the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit who leads those who are the sons of God.
Pray for our politicians. The crowd is usually wrong. Pray for men and women who will seek the Lord with all their heart and trust in Jesus.
In Christ,
Rody
Friday, November 9, 2012
The flesh is weak
Bible Reading: Matthew 26 & Mark 14
Mark 14:37-38 And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? 38 Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
To watch for one hour seems like a small thing to do. But sleep overtook the disciples. They were asked to pray for Jesus. He knew what was coming, but they did not. It was the most important hour as he prepared for the suffering that was to come. It was their last hours with him on this earth before the resurrection.
Have you ever faced this kind of temptation? You know that you need to pray but sleep overtakes you. We all know that we should pray more than we do. It is so hard to stay alert and watchful when the physical body is exhausted.
Here Jesus tells us of this constant battle that rages in the life of the believer. The flesh versus the spirit. The Word says:
Galatians 5:16-18 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
The flesh loathes prayer. It wants to accomplish. Prayer is spiritual and dependent. The flesh likes to do and be rewarded for what it has done. The spiritual life of prayer trusts in God and asks him to do what we cannot. The man or woman of prayer admits their desperate need. The flesh is prideful and selfish. Our flesh wants to think we have no need. Our flesh is spiritually lazy.
To win the war of the flesh versus the spirit we must feed the spirit on the Word of God and keep our eyes set on the Lord Jesus Christ. We must discipline ourselves to make time for prayer so we can find that quiet time alone with the Lord that feeds the spirit and nourishes our soul.
In Christ,
Rody
Mark 14:37-38 And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? 38 Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
To watch for one hour seems like a small thing to do. But sleep overtook the disciples. They were asked to pray for Jesus. He knew what was coming, but they did not. It was the most important hour as he prepared for the suffering that was to come. It was their last hours with him on this earth before the resurrection.
Have you ever faced this kind of temptation? You know that you need to pray but sleep overtakes you. We all know that we should pray more than we do. It is so hard to stay alert and watchful when the physical body is exhausted.
Here Jesus tells us of this constant battle that rages in the life of the believer. The flesh versus the spirit. The Word says:
Galatians 5:16-18 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
The flesh loathes prayer. It wants to accomplish. Prayer is spiritual and dependent. The flesh likes to do and be rewarded for what it has done. The spiritual life of prayer trusts in God and asks him to do what we cannot. The man or woman of prayer admits their desperate need. The flesh is prideful and selfish. Our flesh wants to think we have no need. Our flesh is spiritually lazy.
To win the war of the flesh versus the spirit we must feed the spirit on the Word of God and keep our eyes set on the Lord Jesus Christ. We must discipline ourselves to make time for prayer so we can find that quiet time alone with the Lord that feeds the spirit and nourishes our soul.
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, November 8, 2012
The Son of man cometh
Bible Reading: Matthew 25
Matthew 25:13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
Jesus expects us to be expecting him. He told his followers the parable of the wise and foolish virgins to help us understand that he will come, but it might take a little longer than we think. We are to be watching and prepared when he comes. The wise virgins took oil and were ready with burning lamps. The foolish were not prepared.
What does it mean to watch for the Lord? How do we watch? What are we watching for? Jesus told another parable to help us understand what he means.
Mark 13:28-29 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near: 29 So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors.
You will not know exactly when, but you can see the changing seasons like the leaves on a fig tree. You know summer is near. Part of watching is looking at the signs of the times all around us. Famines, earthquakes and wars were some of the signs he told us to look for. He also told us to look for an attitude among men about his coming.
2 Peter 3:3-4 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.
Men scoff at the idea of Jesus returning. It has been two thousand years since he made this promise and they have given up watching.
1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Our watching must also include a vigilance about Satan and his hunt. We must not get caught in his trap. We must not be lulled to sleep by the spirit of the age. We must always be watching for the coming of the Lord because he expects us to expect him!
In Christ,
Rody
Matthew 25:13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
Jesus expects us to be expecting him. He told his followers the parable of the wise and foolish virgins to help us understand that he will come, but it might take a little longer than we think. We are to be watching and prepared when he comes. The wise virgins took oil and were ready with burning lamps. The foolish were not prepared.
What does it mean to watch for the Lord? How do we watch? What are we watching for? Jesus told another parable to help us understand what he means.
Mark 13:28-29 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near: 29 So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors.
You will not know exactly when, but you can see the changing seasons like the leaves on a fig tree. You know summer is near. Part of watching is looking at the signs of the times all around us. Famines, earthquakes and wars were some of the signs he told us to look for. He also told us to look for an attitude among men about his coming.
2 Peter 3:3-4 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.
Men scoff at the idea of Jesus returning. It has been two thousand years since he made this promise and they have given up watching.
1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Our watching must also include a vigilance about Satan and his hunt. We must not get caught in his trap. We must not be lulled to sleep by the spirit of the age. We must always be watching for the coming of the Lord because he expects us to expect him!
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
All the tribes of the earth
Bible Reading: Matthew 24
Matthew 24:30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
Isn't it interesting that God's Word told us 2000 years ago that when Jesus returns that the tribes of the earth shall mourn? After 2000 years you would think that 'tribalism' would be a thing of the past. But no, we are not more united, we are just as fragmented as we were 200 years ago.
For Americans, we might say that we are not a tribal people. At least not like those who live in Africa or South America.
However, when you really look at it, we are. There are gangs. There are loyalties to particular sports teams that are tribal. There are Democrats. There are Republicans. There are racial divisions. And on and on...
Not only does the Word of God tell us that people will be associated with tribes when Jesus comes, but it also says these tribes will mourn. How sad.
The Creator and King is going to return to this earth to receive those who have faith in him to himself and the tribes of the earth will mourn. It would seem that the tribes of the earth would praise him and shout for joy because the true King is going to rule and reign! No, the tribes do not celebrate the return of Jesus. They mourn. This tells you where their real identity lies - in this world.
As followers of Christ, we need to understand what the Bible says.
Galatians 3:26-28 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
All tribal affiliations are dissolved in Christ. Those fleshly identities are now gone. We are his children. We are all one in Christ Jesus. The tribes are not one. Only those who are in Christ Jesus are all one.
Let us live this oneness with Christ and his children now and realize that whatever tribe we used to be a part of we are not identified that way any longer!
In Christ,
Rody
Matthew 24:30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
Isn't it interesting that God's Word told us 2000 years ago that when Jesus returns that the tribes of the earth shall mourn? After 2000 years you would think that 'tribalism' would be a thing of the past. But no, we are not more united, we are just as fragmented as we were 200 years ago.
For Americans, we might say that we are not a tribal people. At least not like those who live in Africa or South America.
However, when you really look at it, we are. There are gangs. There are loyalties to particular sports teams that are tribal. There are Democrats. There are Republicans. There are racial divisions. And on and on...
Not only does the Word of God tell us that people will be associated with tribes when Jesus comes, but it also says these tribes will mourn. How sad.
The Creator and King is going to return to this earth to receive those who have faith in him to himself and the tribes of the earth will mourn. It would seem that the tribes of the earth would praise him and shout for joy because the true King is going to rule and reign! No, the tribes do not celebrate the return of Jesus. They mourn. This tells you where their real identity lies - in this world.
As followers of Christ, we need to understand what the Bible says.
Galatians 3:26-28 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
All tribal affiliations are dissolved in Christ. Those fleshly identities are now gone. We are his children. We are all one in Christ Jesus. The tribes are not one. Only those who are in Christ Jesus are all one.
Let us live this oneness with Christ and his children now and realize that whatever tribe we used to be a part of we are not identified that way any longer!
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, November 1, 2012
A nation bringing forth the fruits thereof
Bible Reading: Matthew 20 & 21
Matthew 21:42-43 Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes? 43 Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.
Jesus had just told the parable of the owner of the vineyard that let it out to husbandmen. Those husbandmen beat his servants that came to check on the work and receive the landowner's portion. Then they killed the landowner's son. This parable was directed at the unbelieving leaders of the nation of Israel and showed how they had treated the Lord's prophets and his Son, Jesus Christ.
They knew he was speaking this against them. Then Jesus said their kingdom would be taken away and given to someone else. Who would it be given to? The Romans? No, it would be given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. In other words, it would be given to those who truly are believers and who honor the Son in the way he should be honored.
Jesus used the image of a stone. He said there were builders who rejected a particular stone, but it actually became the head of the corner. That reference is to him. Some men reject Jesus as Savior and Lord. Some men receive him.
The kingdom of God belongs not to particular race of people. It belongs to those who know and love Jesus.
Galatians 3:26-28 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Every person is going to have to decide truly who Jesus Christ is. Every person has a choice when it comes to the Stone that is become the head of the corner. Either fall on him and be broken by faith. Or reject him and have him fall upon you and grind you to powder.
Matthew 21:44 And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
What will you do with the Stone that the builder's rejected? Is he marvelous in your eyes?
In Christ,
Rody
Matthew 21:42-43 Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes? 43 Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.
Jesus had just told the parable of the owner of the vineyard that let it out to husbandmen. Those husbandmen beat his servants that came to check on the work and receive the landowner's portion. Then they killed the landowner's son. This parable was directed at the unbelieving leaders of the nation of Israel and showed how they had treated the Lord's prophets and his Son, Jesus Christ.
They knew he was speaking this against them. Then Jesus said their kingdom would be taken away and given to someone else. Who would it be given to? The Romans? No, it would be given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. In other words, it would be given to those who truly are believers and who honor the Son in the way he should be honored.
Jesus used the image of a stone. He said there were builders who rejected a particular stone, but it actually became the head of the corner. That reference is to him. Some men reject Jesus as Savior and Lord. Some men receive him.
The kingdom of God belongs not to particular race of people. It belongs to those who know and love Jesus.
Galatians 3:26-28 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Every person is going to have to decide truly who Jesus Christ is. Every person has a choice when it comes to the Stone that is become the head of the corner. Either fall on him and be broken by faith. Or reject him and have him fall upon you and grind you to powder.
Matthew 21:44 And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
What will you do with the Stone that the builder's rejected? Is he marvelous in your eyes?
In Christ,
Rody
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Receive the kingdom of God as a little child
Bible Reading: Matthew 19 & Mark 10
Mark 10:15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
The people had brought little children to Jesus. They wanted him to touch them and bless them. The disciples saw their job like the bouncers trying to keep people from crowding a rock star so they rebuked these parents for what they were doing.
Mark 10:14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Jesus was always looking for a way to teach about the Kingdom of God. Here he helped the disciples, the parents and us to understand a little more about faith. You receive the kingdom as a little child. What does that mean?
First, you enter by a birth. A little child enters this world by being born and you enter the kingdom by being born again.
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
John 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
You enter the Kingdom of God by being born again through faith in Jesus Christ. The second thing about a child is their dependency upon parents for everything. We are dependent upon our loving Heavenly Father.
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.
Another aspect of being like a little child is child-like faith. Little children believe the things their parents tell them to be true. We enter the Kingdom of God by faith. We believe what Jesus says and know he is the truth.
1 John 5:1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.
Those who a little child knows and trusts he/she loves. And we like a child are to love Jesus with all that is in us.
Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
Just yesterday, my two year old daughter said to me, "Daddy, I love you." She's two. She is not playing a manipulation game. She loves me. She told me so.
Be like a little child. Love and trust Jesus. He loves you!
In Christ,
Rody
Mark 10:15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
The people had brought little children to Jesus. They wanted him to touch them and bless them. The disciples saw their job like the bouncers trying to keep people from crowding a rock star so they rebuked these parents for what they were doing.
Mark 10:14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Jesus was always looking for a way to teach about the Kingdom of God. Here he helped the disciples, the parents and us to understand a little more about faith. You receive the kingdom as a little child. What does that mean?
First, you enter by a birth. A little child enters this world by being born and you enter the kingdom by being born again.
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
John 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
You enter the Kingdom of God by being born again through faith in Jesus Christ. The second thing about a child is their dependency upon parents for everything. We are dependent upon our loving Heavenly Father.
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.
Another aspect of being like a little child is child-like faith. Little children believe the things their parents tell them to be true. We enter the Kingdom of God by faith. We believe what Jesus says and know he is the truth.
1 John 5:1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.
Those who a little child knows and trusts he/she loves. And we like a child are to love Jesus with all that is in us.
Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
Just yesterday, my two year old daughter said to me, "Daddy, I love you." She's two. She is not playing a manipulation game. She loves me. She told me so.
Be like a little child. Love and trust Jesus. He loves you!
In Christ,
Rody
Monday, October 29, 2012
One man should die for the people
Bible Reading: John 11
John 11:49-50 And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, 50 Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.
Caiaphas did not mean it the way that it happened. He meant that they should kill Jesus and not allow him to influence the people of Israel. The leaders of Jerusalem were afraid that Jesus would gather so much support that they would revolt against the Roman occupation. This would mean they would send more troops. It also meant that these men would loose their power status.
Either way the revolt turned out, these men were out. If the Romans came and put down a rebellion, these men would loose their places because they would be replaced. They were supposed to handle these kinds of things and never let them come to this point. If Jesus led a successful rebellion, they would loose their powerful positions because surely he would replace them with his loyal followers. This is their reasoning.
Isn't it amazing that someone could look at Jesus and what he was doing and say he needed to die? He needed to die to maintain the status quo. According to these men it was better to be occupied by the Romans and have their puppet power positions than to trust in the Messiah of Israel.
There are many like this today. They do not want a return to righteousness or to choose for godly direction if it means change. They are happy with their little corner of the world and will actually fight against righteousness in order to keep their little kingdom. Sad.
They would kill one man - Jesus, so that the nation would not perish. They were thinking politically. Jesus came to die for that nation and the whole world. His death would pay the price for all sin. Caiaphas spoke prophetically even though he did not know what it was he was saying!
Always remember - doing what's right is more important than who is right! It is worth it to follow Jesus even if it upsets the applecart! He died to save you from hell. He deserves our worship and our whole life!
In Christ,
Rody
John 11:49-50 And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, 50 Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.
Caiaphas did not mean it the way that it happened. He meant that they should kill Jesus and not allow him to influence the people of Israel. The leaders of Jerusalem were afraid that Jesus would gather so much support that they would revolt against the Roman occupation. This would mean they would send more troops. It also meant that these men would loose their power status.
Either way the revolt turned out, these men were out. If the Romans came and put down a rebellion, these men would loose their places because they would be replaced. They were supposed to handle these kinds of things and never let them come to this point. If Jesus led a successful rebellion, they would loose their powerful positions because surely he would replace them with his loyal followers. This is their reasoning.
Isn't it amazing that someone could look at Jesus and what he was doing and say he needed to die? He needed to die to maintain the status quo. According to these men it was better to be occupied by the Romans and have their puppet power positions than to trust in the Messiah of Israel.
There are many like this today. They do not want a return to righteousness or to choose for godly direction if it means change. They are happy with their little corner of the world and will actually fight against righteousness in order to keep their little kingdom. Sad.
They would kill one man - Jesus, so that the nation would not perish. They were thinking politically. Jesus came to die for that nation and the whole world. His death would pay the price for all sin. Caiaphas spoke prophetically even though he did not know what it was he was saying!
Always remember - doing what's right is more important than who is right! It is worth it to follow Jesus even if it upsets the applecart! He died to save you from hell. He deserves our worship and our whole life!
In Christ,
Rody
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Everyone that asketh receiveth
Bible Reading: Luke 10-11 & John 10:22-42
Luke 11:9-10 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
This just sounds too good to be true! Many have tried prayer but have given up because they didn't get immediately what they asked for. Many others try to explain the promises of Jesus away by saying that prayer doesn't really change anything except you. Prayer does change you, but God also answers believing prayer and changes things because of it. The Bible says so.
What are you asking God for right now? Are you really asking for something? Many times we pray and praise God and give him thanks. That is good and we should do that. However, Jesus has invited us to ask. What should you ask for? Ask for the eternal life and salvation of the lost. Ask for health for the sick. Ask for help with your financial situation. Ask for wisdom which God gives liberally. Ask for your daily bread. Ask for godly leaders in our nation and world. The list goes on and on.
What are you seeking for right now? Are you seeking for the lost like Jesus said he came to do?
Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Are you seeking for answers to the questions you have as you studied your Bible? Are you seeking for a job? Are you seeking for a spouse? Jesus says you will find.
What door are you knocking on right now? Are you looking for an open door for the gospel? Are you looking for an open door in a relationship?
I think the problem is that we many times are not asking. We are not seeking. We are not knocking. Start asking! Start seeking! Start knocking! Be humble and realize that God wants to lead you into all righteousness. He wants to teach you to pray. He does want to change you, but he also wants to change others and the world through your prayers.
In Christ,
Rody
Luke 11:9-10 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
This just sounds too good to be true! Many have tried prayer but have given up because they didn't get immediately what they asked for. Many others try to explain the promises of Jesus away by saying that prayer doesn't really change anything except you. Prayer does change you, but God also answers believing prayer and changes things because of it. The Bible says so.
What are you asking God for right now? Are you really asking for something? Many times we pray and praise God and give him thanks. That is good and we should do that. However, Jesus has invited us to ask. What should you ask for? Ask for the eternal life and salvation of the lost. Ask for health for the sick. Ask for help with your financial situation. Ask for wisdom which God gives liberally. Ask for your daily bread. Ask for godly leaders in our nation and world. The list goes on and on.
What are you seeking for right now? Are you seeking for the lost like Jesus said he came to do?
Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Are you seeking for answers to the questions you have as you studied your Bible? Are you seeking for a job? Are you seeking for a spouse? Jesus says you will find.
What door are you knocking on right now? Are you looking for an open door for the gospel? Are you looking for an open door in a relationship?
I think the problem is that we many times are not asking. We are not seeking. We are not knocking. Start asking! Start seeking! Start knocking! Be humble and realize that God wants to lead you into all righteousness. He wants to teach you to pray. He does want to change you, but he also wants to change others and the world through your prayers.
In Christ,
Rody
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