Bring It Into Focus

Today I wanted to share something with you that I had recently learned. In my spare time, I am searching scripture for Messianic prophecies. These prophecies give a glimpse into the coming Son of God, Jesus Christ. One interesting lesson I learned recently comes from the prophecy regarding Jesus Christ’s “zeal.” Now before we go into anything else, we need to understand that there are several passages in the Old Testemant prophesying this and New Testament passages describing the fulfillments. Today I am not going to do a compare and contrast, but more of a study on understanding the word “Zeal.” This is not intended to be a word study but rather something more, I wish to delve in deeper within the context so that we can better appreciate the reasoning behind the word and the Old and New Testamanet verses regarding it.

We must first come to grips that in the Bible zeal does not mean what many of us have been brought up to picture. In fact in Jesus’s day, it had a dual meaning. The first meaning was very much what we picture now, someone who is crazy, nonsensical or irrational individual focused on something equally as consuming as what they have devoted to it. Historically speaking, you can probably think of the Jews who were inspired by Judas the Galilean. Judas fought the Romans and was considered the founding father of the patriotic party. This was during Cyrenius rule as the Roman governor. When this party failed they became a group of assassins, thus the term Zealot is influenced much by what we think today.

Now I must admit that when I first read Luke 6:15 “and Matthew and Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon who was called the Zealot” I pictured Simon being this rough, jerk style person always screaming to people to accept Jesus. You can probably picture it in your head now. We see the types today, screaming with their microphones demanding to be heard. People stand and argue with them and yet none are saved. This is what I thought. However, I couldn’t have been more wrong.

The term prior to Judas the Galilean carried a quite different meaning. The term was much more favorable. In Herbert Lockyer’s book All The Messianic Prophecies of the Bible he states the following, “the word zeal is from a root meaning ‘to boil se the,’ and in a wrong sense covers any vehement passion, especially jealousy. In a right sense it implies enthusiasm, fervor, warmth in endeavor.” When we see this, we get a completely different look at Simon. Simon now seems as someone who is the warm joy in the group, always wanting to help others smile and be encouraged.

Nevertheless, as stated before the term does carry both ideas, and we can see both in Jesus. Look at Psalm 69:9 “For zeal for Your house has consumed me, And the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me.” Here we have a direct prophecy of what Jesus Christ will do in the temple.

John 2:13-22 “13 The Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 14 And He found in the temple those who were selling oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers seated at their tables. 15 And He made a scourge of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen; and He poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables; 16 and to those who were selling the doves He said, “Take these things away; stop making My Father’s house a place of business.” 17 His disciples remembered that it was written, “ZEAL FOR YOUR HOUSE WILL CONSUME ME.” 18 The Jews then said to Him, “What sign do You show us as your authority for doing these things?” 19 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” 20 The Jews then said, “It took forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?” 21 But He was speaking of the temple of His body. 22 So when He was raised from the dead, His disciples remembered that He said this; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had spoken.”

But we also see the other side of the word zeal in Jesus, even at a young age He was eager to be in His Father’s house and being about His business.

Luke 2:41-52  “41 Now His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when He became twelve, they went up there according to the custom of the Feast; 43 and as they were returning, after spending the full number of days, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. But His parents were unaware of it, 44 but supposed Him to be in the caravan, and went a day’s journey; and they began looking for Him among their relatives and acquaintances. 45 When they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem looking for Him. 46 Then, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers. 48 When they saw Him, they were astonished; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You treated us this way? Behold, Your father and I have been anxiously looking for You.” 49 And He said to them, “Why is it that you were looking for Me? Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” 50 But they did not understand the statement which He had made to them. 51 And He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and He continued in subjection to them; and His mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”

Here we see Him not being impatient or annoyed when His mother and stepfather find Him in the Temple, but rather is friendly and honest with them. Yet, we learn more of Jesus’s zeal as He is humbly asking questions and listening to the teachers of the law. Jesus at a young age has a zeal that wants to learn more of God, His Father.

Oh how I wish you and I could always have this zeal! If only the Christians would have the zeal of Christ continuously in our walk and actions. While there are other scripture verses and passages discussing “zeal” in the Bible, I thought it was important to share something I learned recently regarding the contextual understanding of the word zeal. The more we know, the more we will understand and be able to apply what God is teaching us.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

All The Messianic Prophecies of the Bible Pg. 92

Re-Post Friday

An update from 2021! Read it HERE!

The Importance of Testimony

Have you ever wondered how there are people who regularly go to church and claim to be Christians can still spout off nonsense about the Bible? How can someone who regularly states that they study the Bible often take the Scriptures out of context or force it to fit what they want? Mark 14:55-59 offers some insight into this topic.

“The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any. 56 Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree. 57 Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him:58 “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with human hands and in three days will build another, not made with hands.’”59 Yet even then their testimony did not agree.”

This passage occurs after Jesus had been betrayed but before He was taken to Pilate. Many came forward and offered their “testimony” regarding Jesus Christ and yet the testimonies were not consistent. If you have ever spent even a small amount of time in the current legal field or even watching legal based television shows; you would understand how important a testimony is to a trial. Testimony of the events are the turning point in almost every court case resulting in a decision being made for the individuals involved. The scriptures also offer how important a testimony is. Consider Deuteronomy 19:15, “A single witness shall not suffice against a person for any crime or for any wrong in connection with any offense that he has committed. Only on the evidence of two witnesses or of three witnesses shall a charge be established.” Or 1 Timothy 5:19, “Do not accept an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses.”

Now that we have established that the Scriptures clearly state how important it is for testimony to be consistent, I want to point out something from the passage in Mark 14. Look again at verses 57-58, 57 Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him:58 “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with human hands and in three days will build another, not made with hands.’” Here we have individuals who stood up and stated that they heard Christ state that He will destroy the temple and build another without hands in three days. The prophecy that they are discussing can be found in John 2:18-19, 18 The Jews then responded to him, “What sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” 19 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” Now of course we know that Christ wasn’t talking about a physical temple. Instead, He was discussing the fact that His body would be crucified and that He would rise in three days after it occurred.

  So then these individuals were there when Christ stated that the temple (His body) would be destroyed and then raised again in three days (the resurrection). They heard it first hand and yet they not only missed the point that Jesus was stating; but they also added to what they claimed He said, that the temple would be built again but not by the work of man. They were physically around Jesus Christ and yet they twisted His words to fit their own narrative.

I wish I could say that this is something that we no longer see, but that is simply not the truth. There are many who claim to walk with Christ, to be around Him, and yet they twist and add to what His word says. When this is done, the result is the same as we see here; they claim to know what God says and yet they truly never understood. This is dangerous because it can lead many astray. The good news is, we have God’s word to fact check what is brought forth, the sad news is many fail to do this. So today, I want to ask you that whenever someone presents scripture to you; I ask that you fact check it to ensure that you understand the context and are not being misled by someone who claims to walk with Christ but does not really hear Him.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

Characteristics of Love III

We come to the final part of this love discussion. I must admit when I started studying this topic I did not believe it was going to go this long, however God had other plans. You might have been wondering when we would get to the most iconic and quoted section of scripture regarding love, which is 1 Corinthians chapter 13. But we couldn’t talk about love being attributed within other actions until we had a solid foundation. Neverthless, we are now able to recognize that love can be found in all actions we take. A wise friend told me that love is the flavor that makes our actions towards others enjoyable to God. Without love, our actions are bland or even disgusting and negatively attributable. So what does love do? Let’s take a look at what Paul says to the Corinth church.

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 “If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part; 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. 13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

Paul first argues in the most basic function, that of communication. If we do not have love in our talk, we are a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. “If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.” Our communication needs to be filled with love. What do we not see here however? The words “acceptance”, “non argumentantive”, nor “silent.” Christians are to be representatives of Christ, 2 Corinthians 5:20a “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” Pointedly this means we are to stand for what God wants, and that at times might mean we are against the popular belief of those around us.

Paul continues, “If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” If we study His word and are committed to endless hours of scripture review and memorization but do not apply it; we are failing to love. On the other end of the spectrum, when we focus so much on helping people with their worldly needs such as shelter, clothing, and food but forget to help them spiritually; we are failing to love them, “And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.”

It might be speculation on my own part, but here I wonder if Paul knew he needed to simply define and bring to light characteristics of love that can be found within other actions as we apply God’s love to others. This is why he makes such a 90 degree turn with the following verses.

“Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” Oh how this section of verses has been taken out of context! So much pain, misery, and shame has been brought on victims and innocence all in the name of “loving one another.” Yet, we can see from God’s listing of love that this does not mean we are to accept one’s sin as ok; but rather that this sin does not hold you back from the Lord when Christ is brought into the life of the sinner. God understands that we fail to love as love was originally designed, this is why one day He will do this.

“8 Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part; 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known.”

God understands that the person saved today, is still in this sinful body. This means we are destined 100% for God and to be with Him in Heaven, however at this moment we are still struggling with the old self. The sinful desires that cause us to have the issues we do. Practically speaking this makes loving others harder because at times our actions might not have love. But we who are waiting to see the Lord and are eager for Him to finish in us a good work, will have a burning desire for Him to finish this process and shed us of the sin that causes us to not fully practice love. Believers today see Christ dimly in our reflection, but one day when when we are taken home and given a new perfect body free from sin, we will see the Holiness bestowed on us and be righteous in all our actions and freely able to love as love was defined.

This does not mean we can quit now, in fact we need to stay even more focused. Paul closes the final part of the chapter with helping us understand where love is stationed in importance to God. “13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.” God is such an amazing God but also a friend, wanting us to know what we need to work on so that we can better “love” those around us. How awesome is God to bring such a marvelous idea of “love” that is an action, a definitive capability that allows us to freely with our own personalities look for ways to “love” on those around us. We must be alert to keep sin from polluting the word and its actions in our life but be readily available to extend love even where we do not want to. For Christ loved us that while we, yes you and I were still sinners, He died for you and me. He has shown the ultimate action of love by dying for us and has now come back to life to be our representative to call us “innocent.” No matter what you have done, Christ wants to demonstrate the proper usage of love to you. Remember this, before you can ever truly love someone else you need to accept Christ’s love for you. So remember, if you truly want to understand love, you need not look any farther than in the Man and God, Jesus Christ. What a marvelous and exciting example we have of love! I hope you have enjoyed this series and I personally would love to hear how God has loved you in your personal life and in how you have been able to love others as Christ wants us to love. Feel free to reach out on our contact page.

Until next time.

Jl

Re-Post Friday

It is important to understand why the Messiah needed to be born of a virgin! Read it HERE!

Differing Perspectives

While reading through the Gospels, there recently has been something that has caught my attention. You see it is important to read through all of the Gospels, even though at times they present the same situation you get a different persons perspective on the event. In doing so, you are able to pick up on lessons that otherwise would have been missed.  For me, this occurred while reading about the hemorrhaging woman. The account of this woman occurs in Matthew 9:20-22; Mark 5:23-34; and Luke 8:43-48.

20 And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, 21 for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.” 22 Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well.

Matthew 9:20-22

 So Jesus went with him. A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” 29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. 30 At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” 31 “You see the people crowding against you,” his disciples answered, “and yet you can ask, ‘Who touched me?’ ” 32 But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34 He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”

Mark 5:24-34

“And a man named Jairus came, and he was an official of the synagogue; and he fell at Jesus’ feet, and began urging Him to come to his house; 42 for he had an only daughter, about twelve years old, and she was dying. But as He went, the crowds were pressing against Him. 43 And a woman who had suffered a chronic flow of blood for twelve years, and could not be healed by anyone, 44 came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped. 45 And Jesus said, “Who is the one who touched Me?” And while they were all denying it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing in on You.” 46 But Jesus said, “Someone did touch Me, for I was aware that power had left Me.” 47 Now when the woman saw that she had not escaped notice, she came trembling and fell down before Him, and admitted in the presence of all the people the reason why she had touched Him, and how she had been immediately healed. 48 And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.”

Luke 8:41-48

If you only ever read Matthew’s description, you wouldn’t think beyond how once again Jesus was able to heal someone who was suffering. However, through Mark and Luke’s description we are able to see that there is more to this situation. What Mark and Luke provide is that there was a large crowd and they were all pressing in on Jesus, meaning that He was being touched by multiple people. And yet, from these accounts it is only the woman who believed that simply touching His clothes would heal her. No other is mentioned as being healed from amongst this crowd and Jesus makes a point to state that it is her faith that has made her well.

I do want to state here that this post is not meant to say that with enough faith we can be healed from any disease. After all, the woman suffered for twelve years in her condition. We do know that God is a physician and can heal according to His plan. What I am wanting to point out here is that we must not overlook repetitive situations that are described in the word of God. In each situation, there is something to be learned. Think of it this way: a car accident is witnessed by several different people. Each person would have a slightly different account based on their perspective, but the result would be the same; I.e. car A ran into car B. Or in this case, a woman who was suffering was healed. Only through reading each account, do we find out more to the situation. A woman who was suffering was healed amongst a crowd of people who all were attempting to get the attention of the Messiah. This woman had the faith that He would heal her and so it was her faith that made her well. I hope now that when you come across a situation in the Bible that is repetitive to somewhere else, you will take the time to go and look at all accounts. If you do this, I am sure that you will see that there is much to be discovered.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

Characteristics of Love II

Last week we discussed how “actions speak louder than words” and Christ wants us to love others. We learned that Christ made the commandement in Leviticus broader and with more purpose. This week, I want to dive into part of the characteristics of what love is defined. Christ understood that actions spoke louder than words and it is why He describes love as an identifiable characteristic of those who are His disciples John 13:35 “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” If we love and it points back to Jesus then there must be a characteristic found in love that will point to Him. The world today has many ideas of what love is and what love is not. But let us examine scripture and see what love is.

Christ actions declare His love, Ephesians 1:3-4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love” We can see from verses 3-4 that God puts love into action.

He blesses us and gives to us, “who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ”

He spent the time to know us, “just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world”

He gave His life for our salvation “that we would be holy and blameless before Him.”

All of this was done “in love” all of this was action being brought together to paint a picture of what love is.

In Christ we see the ultimate picture of love, but let us not forget that the Trinity in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit bring to light love on a grand scale. This propels the believer to want to do what Jesus commanded us to and love one another. This is why Paul in Ephesians 1 states he knew the audience of the Ephesians letter were believers because of their love for one another! Ephesians 1:15 “For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints,” Our actions will dictate who we belong to. How ironic that the Lord declares love identifies the person as being His. This is why the world is doing everything in its power to alter, destroy, twist, pervert, and minimize what love truly is. Next week we will discuss a systematic listing of what love is and how to address those who would claim it is something else.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

Jl

Re-Post Friday

Come see the difference in responses between Zachariah and Mary when in front of an angel! Read it HERE!

The Smallest Muscle

I don’t believe there is a person out there who hasn’t said something and immediately regretted it, and it has always struck me how one of the smallest muscles in the human body can both be a salve but also cause so much harm. In fact, I think James description of the tongue is probable the best there is.

“Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.”

James 3:5-12 

If you remember from last week, I had mentioned that James chapter three is a double edged blade. In review of the first four verses, we saw that James was talking directly to those who wish to become leaders. He wanted it to be clear that they would be held to a higher standard and so should not take these positions lightly. We saw clearly that those who are in leadership roles direct the path of the church body, which is why it is important that the individuals be Biblically based. Now in the passage above, James is continuing his thought to the would-be leaders. However, this is something that can and must be applied to the church body and anyone who claims to be a follower of Christ.

“Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” 

In the true nature of James, he certainly doesn’t leave any room for argument. The tongue is indeed a small part of the body and often seems inconsequential. However, Luke 6:45 describes our speech this way: “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” How we speak reveals our nature, this also means that how we speak to others about God reveals how we see Him. For the would-be leader that James is warning against at the beginning of the chapter, the one who seeks a leadership role for their own glory, their words will lead those around them astray. For the Christian who speaks carelessly, their words reflect to nonbelievers who God is. I once had a Christian tell me a story, she was frustrated with her teenage daughter and told her to shut up. The young girl’s coach was there and asked the mother not to speak that way to her daughter even commenting that he thought she was a Christian. The mother replied that she was just being real and in telling this story to the woman’s ministry was not ashamed to be called out by a nonbeliever but instead frustrated that he didn’t understand that this was how a Christian believed. Now the ramifications of that scenario are two-fold. This woman left a nonbeliever with the impression that God is someone who is easily frustrated and will lash out in anger and she also lead a group of women who were in various ages of childrearing that this was a biblical thing to do. This is why James describes the tongue as a fire. A small comment has great consequences. 

9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.”

Our speech reveals where our walk with God is. A person who is not following God will not be able to produce the fruit of the Spirit, 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23. Someone who claims to follow God will speak in terms that is Biblical. For the individual in a leadership role, that is to teach that the Bible is the ultimate authority, they will not impose their own ideas upon the word of God. In short, they will not teach heresy and will be able to back up their words with scripture. For those who claim to follow God who are not in leadership roles, we should be able to be set apart from the nonbeliever by our words. We should keep our speech in a way that is honoring God so as to leave the individual with a clear image of who God is. If you are someone who is being asked if you are a Christian based off of your words, I would ask that you reflect on how you speak. We should not be people who during church sing songs praising God but then go out and have road rage leaving the parking lot. We should not be people who claim to love God but then rant about how much we hate our coworkers. We are all made in the image of God and as such, we need to remember that God loves all of us. Jesus died on the cross for you just as much as He did for the neighbor who keeps you up at night with loud music. I challenge you to take some time over the next couple of days and truly reflect upon your words, are they fresh water which offers healing? Or are they salt water that is undrinkable?

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

Characteristics of Love 1

As the old saying goes, “Actions speak louder than words.” It is a simple but paramount statement that identifies required action of the person to prove their desire, mere words will not suffice. Jesus recognized this truth and made sure that it was not only talked, about but further expanded upon by His apostles. Jesus first gives the new commandment while in the upper room right before the crucifixion.

John 13:34-35 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Jesus wants His children to know that we are to not only to love our neighbor as Leviticus 19:18b “you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD” describes but so much more. We are now told to love one another. This means we are to cross oceans and borders and rivers and streets and still love the people we meet. It is easy to say to love a person, but what does it mean? Jesus gives a hint to upcoming teaching through His apostles by identifying the actions associated with loving on another. Examine what He says at the end, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” If we love we will be known as His! This means love is not something for each person to make up their own definition of, rather love has already been defined! Love has characteristics that point to Jesus Christ. How ironic the world today has taken the meaning of love and translated it into something it is not. Sin always perverts what God has made. Actions speak louder than words, so to true love will identify us appropriately. Next week we will dive into the characteristics of love and see how Christ had a plan all along. But never forget, the greatest reflection of love came from Jesus Christ in His own actions for us.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

Re-Post Friday

A look back at the meaning behind some of the titles given to Jesus Christ! Read it HERE!

True Wisdom

There are many books and individuals out there who all claim to know what true wisdom is and if you only buy into their way of thinking then you can be truly wise as well. Most of the time, when these so called experts actually start speaking, it becomes clear that their brand of wisdom is simply foolishness. The Bible offers a clear description of what wisdom is, “10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10 wisdom comes when we have knowledge of God and what His word says. In fact, the Bible is filled with many wise topics; from finance, relationships, to how to deal with bosses and coworkers. Every situation that we face day by day is a topic that is discussed within God’s word. This is why James offers a test to see if the advice that we are given is truly wise.

13 Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

James 3:13-18

As we have already stated, true wisdom comes from the knowledge of God. Of knowing that we are sinners and can only be reconciled to Him through the free saving grace of salvation through Jesus Christ. So for those who claim to have wisdom, it will be seen by their actions. They will possess the fruits of the Spirit, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23.

It is interesting to note that James states that those with wisdom will be gentle, and he immediately points out that those who are bitter, jealous, with selfish ambition have a form of “wisdom” that is earthly. That is lowly, not true wisdom, and demonic. If true wisdom is the knowledge of God, then false wisdom denies Him. Therefore, anything and anyone claiming to be wisdom but denies the power of God is false and will have the characteristics that God hates. “16 There are six things that the Lord hates, Seven that are an abomination to Him: 17 Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, 18 A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil,19 A false witness who declares lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers.” Proverbs 6:16-19.

As James closes his third chapter, he compares and contrasts the differences between true and false wisdom. False wisdom causes disorder. It is the lie that Satan told Eve, “He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” Genesis 3:1b. False wisdom is the belief that your sins won’t catch up to you. “10 You felt secure in your wickedness and said, ‘No one sees me,’ Your wisdom and your knowledge, they have led you astray; For you have said in your heart, ‘I am, and there is no one besides me.’” Isaiah 47:10. This world today pushes a lot of false wisdom, and when we follow this advice we often find ourselves in situations that are more difficult then where we were before.

  However, if we take the time to study what God’s word says about wisdom we can see that true wisdom allows us to look at the troubles of the world with a peaceful mind. We can respond to tough situations with the full knowledge of God and be able to give mercy to those who would wish to cause us trouble. In doing so, we plant seeds in those around us who are wishing to seek wisdom. When we respond to situations as God wishes us to, then we accurately show the world the free gift of salvation that comes from knowing what true wisdom is. True wisdom only comes when we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

Difficult Scripture

Two weeks ago we discussed how to help someone who is wanting to know what book of the Bible they should read, last week we discussed topics and how to have a topical study. Today, I am wanting to bring to light a challenge that you will discover no matter if you choose a book study or topical study. This challenge is the dreaded “Difficult Scripture.” This is a term that has been tossed around by some when the scripture is discussing something that is convicting for us, goes against the culture, is unpopular, and even at times just outside of our cultural understanding. Unfortunately weak scholars, teachers, and others will skip these verses or read them so quickly that you might think you are at an auction. Others will say things like, “We really don’t know what this means, so I would tell each of you to look inside and come to your own conclusion.” Well scripture helps us deal with this challenge and it is why today I thought I would bring this up. No matter if you choose a book or a topic, sooner or later you will come across scripture that will be difficult to understand or apply in our life. But what do we do when we come across this scripture? We need to go to 2 Peter.

2 Peter 3:11-18 “Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! 13 But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. 14 Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless, 15 and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, 16 as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. 17 You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, 18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.”

Peter brings us to a point of recognizing the difficult scripture. However, there is a process on how we should handle such scripture.

First, Peter reminds us we need to have our heavenly view point. “Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,” Peter reminds us we need to be reflective of God in our thoughts and our actions. Not thinking of this world, but on Him. When we do this, we look at scripture in its proper place. Instead of interpreting scripture in the eyes of this world, we examine it as it was designed.

When we do this, we naturally want more of God thus verse 12 is our second principle. “looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat!” Some might say this is morbid or grave thinking, but we should look at sin’s corruption and see that the world needs saving which can only come in God’s actions. Jesus, not man, will heal and cleanse the world. These two principles must be recognized if we are ever to understand God’s scripture let alone the difficult passages in the Bible.

The third principle we need to recognize is to understand God’s work is not done. Many people mistaken God’s work for only salvation but that is only the foundation. God wants to do more! He is going to create again! “But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.” When we understand this, we can evaluate our own perception to what He is doing. This is important when we read scripture and it feels like it is out of place, unless we are willing to look at the big picture and understand that God is not done. When we do this we finally are able to come to grips with tackling the difficult scripture.

“Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless, 15 and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, 16 as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand. which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction.”

We need to break this section of scripture down. Examine the words used, “look for these things” what things? The principles we talked about above. Peter uses “diligent” we need to be continually in the word. Acting on the word being peace, spotless and blameless which naturally results in patience from our Lord. Peter identifies Paul as one of the key instruments of God bringing diffficult scripture, but does not leave out the opportunity for the rest of God’s Word to be found difficult based on the location and time of the reader. Peter helps us further understand by making a comparison. Those who are untaught, unstable, and distorted identifies what we need to be doing, we need to be taught, stable, and not distorting the word. For those that remain untaught and unstable are headed for destruction.

We must educate ourselves through the scripture and with God the Holy Spirit as our guide. We need to be stable in carefully taking apart God’s Word and handling it with proper principles of study. Finally we are to allow the scripture to be the scripture and not distort it for our own ideas and agenda. If something in God’s Word is uncomfortable to you, it might be because it is speaking to you about sin in your life. This is why when Pastors and others skip difficult scripture, we are hurting the body of Christ. God’s Word is usable from Genesis to Revelation each and every day.

So no matter what season you are in your life, whether you are reading a book or are doing a topic study; when you come across difficult scripture take a moment and recognize the 2 Peter approach; and make sure your heart and mind are in the right place before you examine God’s Word.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming

JL

Re-Post Friday

A reminder that God loves the forgotten and lost! Read it HERE!

A Lesson For Mothers

Today, we are going to take a quick break on our study of James chapter 3 to honor those who have found themselves in the role of a mother. The older that I get, the more that I see that Mother’s Day is a day filled with mixed emotions. When I was younger it was a day that I was able to celebrate my own mother as well as women who stepped in that role as well. Now that I am a mother myself, I find that the role of being a mother is a difficult and rewarding one. To be responsible for molding the children that God has placed into mine and my husband’s care is a role that I do not take lightly. However, I am encouraged by the fact that the scriptures offers great insight into how a mother should be; and today I wish to discuss four scenarios that a woman can be placed in regarding Mother’s Day.

The first, to the new mothers. It was not all that long ago that I was in these shoes. I remember feeling uneasy and unsure when I found myself stepping into this newfound role. This may be some of you now, you may be holding a newborn or even still pregnant and find yourself feeling that there is no possible way that you can handle this responsibility. For you I offer this scripture,

“13 For You created my innermost parts;
You wove me in my mother’s womb.
14 I will give thanks to You, because I am awesomely and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from You
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully formed in the depths of the earth;
16 Your eyes have seen my formless substance;
And in Your book were written
All the days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them.”

Psalm 139:13-16

  The beginning of this passage is often quoted, however, the last verse is often glossed over. To those who are experiencing their first Mother’s Day, I hope you see that God has given you this child with a plan and a purpose, precisely for this time. Some new mothers may have tried for years to conceive, while for others it may have come as a surprise. I hope you take encouragement in knowing that God has given you this child and while the baby has not yet lived a day outside of the womb, God already has a plan for the baby.

For the mothers who are currently raising their child or children. This group is the most widely celebrated group during this time. So I wish to offer you some advice. Do not take for granted the opportunity that you have when it comes to raising the child(ren) that God has given you. It is in the home that children first receive an impression of God and His characteristics. So for the mothers who have been around the block a time or two, I offer you this scripture.

And she said, “Oh, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who was standing here in your presence, praying to the Lord. 27 For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition that I made to him. 28 Therefore I have lent him to the Lord. As long as he lives, he is lent to the Lord.”

1 Samuel 1:26-28

For our experienced mothers, I ask that you be like Hannah. Raise the little ones that God has blessed you with with such a dedication to the Lord. Pray over them daily, encourage them to seek the Lord, and above all else show your children how Christ loves us through your love to them.

The last two scenarios that a woman can find herself in often is overlooked, but this does not mean that you are forgotten!

First, to the stepmothers and adoptive mothers. I found myself searching the scriptures trying to find a situation that described this role or a woman in the Bible who became a stepmother; and I could not find one. However, there is a saying that I have been told that I wish to tell you. “Where there is no intelligence, there is intelligence” sometimes a glaring gap means something all on its own. What I am trying to state, is that since there is no definitive mention of a stepmother in the scripture it means that God sees no difference between the woman who is raising children who are not biologically her own and the woman who is raising children that are biologically her own. So for the the women who find themselves in this situation, I ask that you look at the verses already described and place them in your own life. You have come into the child’s or children’s life at this time. Show them what it means to be a woman who follows the Lord. You were placed in this role for such a time as this.

Finally, to the mothers who have lost children. It is unfortunate that this occurs, and as someone who has experienced this loss herself, I sympathize with you. Mother’s Day is difficult for those who simply wish to hold their child or children that have gone. For you, I offer this verse of encouragement,

“32 For if He causes grief,
Then He will have compassion
In proportion to His abundant mercy.”

Lamentations 3:32

While the world celebrates the groups mentioned above, you have not been forgotten by the Heavenly Father. For the mothers who have lost children, I ask that you turn to Him. God also lost a Child and He understands the grief that goes with it. But through His abundant mercy, He will show compassion. Use your situation to help those around who are struggling. God cares for each and every one of His children, and that includes those who are struggling with the loss of a child. Cast your fears and all other emotional turmoil to Him and watch as He shows you how deeply He does care for you.

So Happy Mother’s Day and remember that God has placed us in this special role. We are more than mothers but children of God given a custodial role to help the next generation come to know Jesus Christ as we know Him. What an amazing opportunity to serve the Lord.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

Topical Study 101

Last week we discussed giving advice on helping people pick their first book in the Bible to read, today I thought we should look at topical studies. Topical studies help us understand and build on connecting the whole of the Bible. Each book of the Bible points to Jesus, and each topic helps us understand the applicability of Jesus in our own life, John 5:39 “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me.” Topical studies can help us better understand specific challenges and also expound on comprehending how God has not changed. Malachi 3:6 “For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed.” When we examine what topical studies do, we can better understand the applicable nature of God’s Word. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”

This doesn’t mean that a book of the Bible is not applicable, but rather a topical study gives us the liberty to have our curiosity. I will use myself as an example. I have just finished Ecclesiastes in my personal Bible study, but I read each of the gospels continuously. While in the first chapter of Luke I thought it was interesting regarding verse 66 “All who heard them kept them in mind, saying, “What then will this child turn out to be?” For the hand of the Lord was certainly with him.” I wanted to know any other times the Bible said “For the hand of the Lord was certainly with him.” So now I am examining any of the times in the Old and New Testament that God was with a person and if there is a difference based on the examples given. While I do not have an answer yet, this topical study should help me better understand God’s providence.

So now why do I bring this up? Last week we discussed giving Bible study advice regarding a book. At times we need to recognize that God has given us the entire Bible connected and perfect. Thus we can cross examine with as much scrutiny as we can to further build our understanding of God and also His will in our life. So please take some time and see that every now and then we should allow our God given curiosity to see what scripture tells us. When someone asks you what they should study in the Bible, take a moment to understand what is interesting to them and point them towards that. In the end it will all lead back to a better understanding of Jesus. The scripture points to Him no matter if you are doing a book study or topical.

So lets get studying!

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

Re-Post Friday

A reminder that God is still at work! Read it HERE!

A Warning to Leaders

Have you ever come across a section of scripture that at first glance you believe you understand what it means? However, upon further study and growth in the faith, when you come back to this section you find out that what you believed is not what the scripture is saying. For me, this scenario played out when I was preparing for our study on James chapter three. If you have studied this chapter before, you would most likely have been told or believed that this powerful chapter is a warning to simply keep your tongue in check. There is no doubt that this is true, however, James chapter three is a double sided blade. It has application for the born-again believer this is true, however, it is a chapter that I believe is to be directed towards those who wish and currently are in pastor/teacher roles within the body of Christ. Allow me to show you what I mean.

“Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. 2 For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. 3 If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. 4 Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs.”

James 3:1-4

  At the very beginning of this chapter, James the half-brother to Jesus Christ, offers a warning. This warning is for those who wish to step into a role in which they will be teaching the scripture. It is not a desire that one should take lightly, as James will go on to express by stating that those who teach will be held and judge to a higher standard. This is because of the outcome that their teachings will bring.

  For example, let us consider a pastor at a church. Now imagine that a pastor goes up to preach and either intentionally or unintentionally fumbles in their understanding of the word of God. For those believers who are weaker in the faith, they will take what the pastor teaches without question. They simply believe that the pastor has the knowledge and years of study to back up their claim so why should they search the scriptures further. Now imagine that same body of Christ going out and declaring what their pastor taught them to nonbelievers. For the sake of the argument let us imagine that what was taught was that Jesus was not eternal and existed before being born through the Holy Spirit by Marry. Unfortunately there are some cults who believe this heresy. If a pastor teaches false ideas, the people who listen to him go out and share it with others. This creates stumbling blocks for nonbelievers. False ideals being shared can cause some to turn away from God believing that He does not care, or even giving them a false sense of salvation without recognizing that in order to be saved they need to repent of their sins.

  This is why James is using descriptions of a bit or a rudder. Both items are small in comparison to what they control. A horse out of control can lead to injuries to those around it while a ship that has a broken rudder can crash and cause mass destruction. A pastor in a church holds great responsibility and it is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. It is why we are offered examples of what a pastor should be in 1 Timothy 3:1-10.

 The key aspects that a man who is wishing to step into a pastoral role should have are:

1.     Must be above reproach; the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious (1 Timothy 3:2-3a)

2.     Must be gentle and peaceable, free from the love of money ( 1 Timothy 3:3b)

3.     Must manage his household well, keeping children under control with dignity ( 1 Timothy 3:4-5)

4.     Not a new convert ( 1 Timothy 3:6)

5.     Must have a good reputation with those outside the church ( 1 Timothy 3:7)

  While it is true that by God men are given the authority to teach and lead a church, do not be mistaken that women are free from the higher standard as well. For those women who wish to lead a woman’s study or a children’s ministry, you are stepping into a leadership role and as such will be held to a higher standard as well. It is why 1 Timothy 3:11 continues and states that a woman who follows Christ should be:

 1.     Dignified

2.     Not given to malicious gossips

3.     Temperate

4.     Faithful

If you are someone who is thinking of stepping into a leadership role, I pray that you do not do so lightly. James states that not everyone is called to this path. I ask that if you feel as if God is calling you to lead a Bible study to please take a moment and pray. Pray that He will bless your words so that you can teach His word accurately and be able to steer the group in God’s truth. I ask that you pray this for your pastor and the fellowship leaders in your church. Pray that they are always attuned to what God’s word states and do not stray from it.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex

Be Ready

Recently I was asked a simple question, “Where should a new Christian start reading in the Bible?” It was a fascinating question, mainly because it is one that no person will ever hear the same answer. In my younger years I would have said Revelation, other times I would have said Romans or 1st and 2nd Samual, and even today I would have a different answer. However, this question got me thinking, and today I wanted to have that dialogue with you.

What book of the Bible would you recommend? Simply asked, but a loaded question. I cannot find one book of the Bible that gives any argument for “READ THIS FIRST” but rather each has it’s own uniqueness and is suited differently. God’s word is clearly ready for anything the human can find themselves in, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” Yet where do we start? When we observe three attributes of Christ, we are given direction on what we should answer when confronted with this question.

As always the answer is viewable in Jesus Christ.

Rule Number One: Jesus gave unique answers to each question asked of Him, all sounded in scripture. Thus we should recognize that we should never tell someone to read a commentary or a Bible study book or some “Christian Theologian book.” I personally love C.S Lewis, but I would never give out his book to anyone who was asking how to get closer to God. If someone asked me about how to study the attributes of God, I would not take them to A.W Tozer; I would take them to scripture. I believe both men mentioned would agree. We are warned in scripture about those who would ignore the Bible but in the guise of studying God’s Word, 2 Timothy 4:3-4 “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.”

Rule Number Two: Jesus observed before answering. Look at any of His interactions within the Bible, and you will see He observes the individual first. This might be by listening to them or watching them run up to Him or even allowing them to grab Him before He does anything. We likewise need to listen to the individual who is asking the question. Why are they? Is there a specific need that they are asking God to help with?

Rule Number Three: Jesus is to the point. Jesus goes deep in many of His interactions with people, but He is always to the point. If someone asks us for advise on where to start reading we should not tell them “Let me think and pray about it and come back tomorrow” or “I am not qualified to answer that you need to go to the Pastor.” If the person felt comfortable enough to come to you, then give them an answer. Even if you are a new believer tell them the parts you have read and go from there. Proverbs 14:23 states, “In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.” We need to be ready to talk to about Christ at a moments notice, 1 Peter 3:15 “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”

If we follow Jesus’ example we will be ready to answer any question brought before us; but most importantly where to start reading. All we need to do is make sure it is the Word of God we recommend not a published book by man, identify where the person is in life, and finally be direct to the point by giving a reason. We need to be equipped with the knowledge of the Word to be ready to identify which book is needed for the moment we are to answer.

So let us be ready to answer such an amazing question at any point by following the actions demonstrated by our Heavenly Father Jesus Christ.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

Re-Post Friday

While no longer the holidays, it is important to understand who your audience is. Read it HERE!