John 3
16 “For God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. 17 God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him. 18 “There is no judgment against anyone who believes in Him. But anyone who does not believe in Him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son. 19 And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil. 20 All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. 21 But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants."
When I was a kid growing up on a farm in Southern Michigan we had chickens. A lot of chickens. Every spring my dad would buy a bunch of chicks and we would raise them for food. During the summer we would have eggs and in the fall he would slaughter them for the freezer. We had fun playing with the chicks, hated having to collect the eggs and ran around the yard screaming when dad lopped off their heads. He would swing the ax, drop them and grab the next. They ran around the yard with no head until their reflexes gave out. Looking back, it sounds cruel but we found it hilarious.
Back to the eggs. When we got too many eggs for our family of eight to consume, my mom would sell them. We would wash the eggs and check them for blood spots. We did this by holding them up to a light. Blood spots showed up as dark spots inside. The eggs all looked the same on the outside. The light exposed the flaws inside the egg.
Light exposes our flaws too. Those flaws are sin. People may not see them when they look at us. We look like everyone else in the light of day but Jesus sees what's inside. He sees our sin. We may be able to hide our sin from others but when we are held up the the Light, when we are held up to Jesus, our sin is exposed.
Blessings, Cecilia
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Acts 23:1-11 Take Courage
Acts 23:1-11 Take Courage
Paul before the Council
1Paul, looking intently at the Council, said, “Brethren, I have lived my life with a perfectly good conscience before God up to this day.” 2The high priest Ananias commanded those standing beside him to strike him on the mouth. 3Then Paul said to him, “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you sit to try me according to the Law, and in violation of the Law order me to be struck?” 4But the bystanders said, “Do you revile God’s high priest?” 5And Paul said, “I was not aware, brethren, that he was high priest; for it is written, ‘YOU SHALL NOT SPEAK EVIL OF A RULER OF YOUR PEOPLE.’”
6But perceiving that one group were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, Paul began crying out in the Council, “Brethren, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees; I am on trial for the hope and resurrection of the dead!” 7As he said this, there occurred a dissension between the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the assembly was divided. 8For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor an angel, nor a spirit, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all. 9And there occurred a great uproar; and some of the scribes of the Pharisaic party stood up and began to argue heatedly, saying, “We find nothing wrong with this man; suppose a spirit or an angel has spoken to him?” 10And as a great dissension was developing, the commander was afraid Paul would be torn to pieces by them and ordered the troops to go down and take him away from them by force, and bring him into the barracks.
11But on the night immediately following, the Lord stood at his side and said, “Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also.”
‘YOU SHALL NOT SPEAK EVIL OF A RULER OF YOUR PEOPLE.’”
Gills Exposition says;
nor curse the ruler of thy people whether civil or ecclesiastic; the last mentioned Jewish writer intend of the king, who is the supreme ruler in things civil, and ought to be honoured and loved, served and obeyed, and not hated and cursed, no, not secretly, not in the bedchamber, nor in the thought of the heart, since not only the thing is criminal but dangerous; it is much if it is not discovered, and then ruin follows upon it, Ecclesiastes 10:20.
How many of us have said unkind things about our president?
Ecclesiastes 10:20 Do not revile the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich in your bedroom, because a bird in the sky may carry your words, and a bird on the wing may report what you say.
God sees and hears all. He knows what is in your heart. God uses everything for His purpose be it evil or good.
Paul was using scripture to make his case before the consul and made a wise choice of words that brought dissension between the Sadducees and Pharisees dividing the two groups.
We also should use scripture as the basis for our lives in everything we say and do. God gave us the bible to read, study and to guide us through life. Do you use it for guidance?
The Lord tells Paul to take courage; "for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause".
Are you witnessing for His cause? Then take courage for He is with you no matter what the circumstances are.
Was God with Joseph in the pit? Are you in a pit? Take courage!
Was God with Job when Satan was testing him? Are you being tested? Take courage!
Was God with Joseph when he was falsely accused? Are you falsely accused? Take courage?
Was God with David when he battled Goliath? Are you battling Goliath? Take courage!
In everything you do, take courage!
Dear Heavenly Father I ask that You give courage to all those read this today. In everything they do, remind them You are with them. Bless their footsteps and protect them. In Jesus name I pray.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
John 3:8-15 Lifted Up
John 3 NLT
8 The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.” 9 “How are these things possible?” Nicodemus asked. 10 Jesus replied, “You are a respected Jewish teacher, and yet you don’t understand these things? 11 I assure you, we tell you what we know and have seen, and yet you won’t believe our testimony. 12 But if you don’t believe Me when I tell you about earthly things, how can you possibly believe if I tell you about heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone to heaven and returned. But the Son of Man has come down from heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life.
Numbers 21 ► NLT
But the people grew impatient with the long journey, 5 and they began to speak against God and Moses. “Why have you brought us out of Egypt to die here in the wilderness?” they complained. “There is nothing to eat here and nothing to drink. And we hate this horrible manna!” 6 So the LORD sent poisonous snakes among the people, and many were bitten and died. 7 Then the people came to Moses and cried out, “We have sinned by speaking against the LORD and against you. Pray that the LORD will take away the snakes.” So Moses prayed for the people. 8 Then the LORD told him, “Make a replica of a poisonous snake and attach it to a pole. All who are bitten will live if they simply look at it!” 9 So Moses made a snake out of bronze and attached it to a pole. Then anyone who was bitten by a snake could look at the bronze snake and be healed!
There are a lot of parallels between these two passages. In John, Jesus was prophesying His own death in verse 14. He was explaining to Nicodemus that He came from Heaven and would be crucified for man's sins on a cross. He would be lifted up above the earth and everyone who believed in Him would look up at the One who saves them from eternal life apart from God.
In Numbers, the people complained against Moses and God. They did a lot of complaining during their 40 years in the desert. God was probably getting a little tired of hearing it. Moses was, at one point he asked God to kill him and end his miserable life! So after one of the Israelites round of complaining, God had poisonous snakes come in and bite them. Moses asked God to spare the Israelites so God instructed Moses to make a bronze snake, attach it to a stick and raise it up. Here's the cool part; ALL WHO LOOKED AT IT WOULD BE SAVED!
All who look to Jesus can be saved too. As verse 15 says "so that everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life." Today, as you face the worries and concerns of this world, look to Jesus. Walk with Him and if you fall, He will lift you up and carry you through.
Blessings, Cecilia
8 The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.” 9 “How are these things possible?” Nicodemus asked. 10 Jesus replied, “You are a respected Jewish teacher, and yet you don’t understand these things? 11 I assure you, we tell you what we know and have seen, and yet you won’t believe our testimony. 12 But if you don’t believe Me when I tell you about earthly things, how can you possibly believe if I tell you about heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone to heaven and returned. But the Son of Man has come down from heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life.
Numbers 21 ► NLT
But the people grew impatient with the long journey, 5 and they began to speak against God and Moses. “Why have you brought us out of Egypt to die here in the wilderness?” they complained. “There is nothing to eat here and nothing to drink. And we hate this horrible manna!” 6 So the LORD sent poisonous snakes among the people, and many were bitten and died. 7 Then the people came to Moses and cried out, “We have sinned by speaking against the LORD and against you. Pray that the LORD will take away the snakes.” So Moses prayed for the people. 8 Then the LORD told him, “Make a replica of a poisonous snake and attach it to a pole. All who are bitten will live if they simply look at it!” 9 So Moses made a snake out of bronze and attached it to a pole. Then anyone who was bitten by a snake could look at the bronze snake and be healed!
There are a lot of parallels between these two passages. In John, Jesus was prophesying His own death in verse 14. He was explaining to Nicodemus that He came from Heaven and would be crucified for man's sins on a cross. He would be lifted up above the earth and everyone who believed in Him would look up at the One who saves them from eternal life apart from God.
In Numbers, the people complained against Moses and God. They did a lot of complaining during their 40 years in the desert. God was probably getting a little tired of hearing it. Moses was, at one point he asked God to kill him and end his miserable life! So after one of the Israelites round of complaining, God had poisonous snakes come in and bite them. Moses asked God to spare the Israelites so God instructed Moses to make a bronze snake, attach it to a stick and raise it up. Here's the cool part; ALL WHO LOOKED AT IT WOULD BE SAVED!
All who look to Jesus can be saved too. As verse 15 says "so that everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life." Today, as you face the worries and concerns of this world, look to Jesus. Walk with Him and if you fall, He will lift you up and carry you through.
Blessings, Cecilia
Acts 22:1-30 Are You a Citizen?
Acts 22:1-30
Paul’s Defense before the Jews
1“Brethren and fathers, hear my defense which I now offer to you.”
2And when they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew dialect, they became even more quiet; and he said,
3“I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated under Gamaliel, strictly according to the law of our fathers, being zealous for God just as you all are today. 4“I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and putting both men and women into prisons, 5as also the high priest and all the Council of the elders can testify. From them I also received letters to the brethren, and started off for Damascus in order to bring even those who were there to Jerusalem as prisoners to be punished.
6“But it happened that as I was on my way, approaching Damascus about noontime, a very bright light suddenly flashed from heaven all around me, 7and I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’ 8“And I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus the Nazarene, whom you are persecuting.’ 9“And those who were with me saw the light, to be sure, but did not understand the voice of the One who was speaking to me. 10“And I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Get up and go on into Damascus, and there you will be told of all that has been appointed for you to do.’ 11“But since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me and came into Damascus.
12“A certain Ananias, a man who was devout by the standard of the Law, and well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there, 13came to me, and standing near said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight!’ And at that very time I looked up at him. 14“And he said, ‘The God of our fathers has appointed you to know His will and to see the Righteous One and to hear an utterance from His mouth. 15‘For you will be a witness for Him to all men of what you have seen and heard. 16‘Now why do you delay? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on His name.’
17“It happened when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that I fell into a trance, 18and I saw Him saying to me, ‘Make haste, and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your testimony about Me.’ 19“And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves understand that in one synagogue after another I used to imprison and beat those who believed in You. 20‘And when the blood of Your witness Stephen was being shed, I also was standing by approving, and watching out for the coats of those who were slaying him.’ 21“And He said to me, ‘Go! For I will send you far away to the Gentiles.’”
22They listened to him up to this statement, and then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he should not be allowed to live!” 23And as they were crying out and throwing off their cloaks and tossing dust into the air, 24the commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, stating that he should be examined by scourging so that he might find out the reason why they were shouting against him that way. 25But when they stretched him out with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who was standing by, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman and uncondemned?” 26When the centurion heard this, he went to the commander and told him, saying, “What are you about to do? For this man is a Roman.” 27The commander came and said to him, “Tell me, are you a Roman?” And he said, “Yes.” 28The commander answered, “I acquired this citizenship with a large sum of money.” And Paul said, “But I was actually born a citizen.” 29Therefore those who were about to examine him immediately let go of him; and the commander also was afraid when he found out that he was a Roman, and because he had put him in chains.
30But on the next day, wishing to know for certain why he had been accused by the Jews, he released him and ordered the chief priests and all the Council to assemble, and brought Paul down and set him before them.
Paul's testimony is rich. He is the one who help me believe in Jesus. He persecuted to the death the Way and had a hand in killing Stephen. But he saw the Light of Jesus and turned mightily for the Lord.
But the Jews ears were closed by Satan. They were zealots and wouldn't hear the way, the truth, or the light.
Paul was also born a Roman citizen, which came with privileges which is why the soldiers released him from chains and their hands.
You too have privileges as a son of God, adopted by the Father because you believe in His Son Jesus Christ. Your soul has been marked spiritually and Satan and his armies cannot touch you. Remember Job? God had to give Satan permission to touch him as it is with you.
Remember, man can kill you but he can't touch your soul. And until God is through with you on earth you are under His wings. I ask, why was Stephen allowed to die? Why do I question the will of God? His ways are greater!
Here is a story about George Washington and how the Indians couldn't kill him.
"I am a chief, and ruler over my tribes. My influence extends to the waters of the great lakes, and to the far blue mountains. I have traveled a long and weary path, that I might see the young warrior (George Washington, from the day he had horses shot out from underneath him) of the Great Battle.
It was on the day when the white man's blood mixed with the streams of our forest, that I first beheld this chief. I called to my young men and said, mark yon tall and daring warrior? He is not of the red-coat tribe — he hath an Indian's wisdom, and his warriors fight as we do — himself is alone exposed.
Quick, let your aim be certain, and he dies.
Our rifles were leveled, rifles which, but for him, knew not how to miss - 'twas all in vain, a power mightier far than we, shielded him from harm. He cannot die in battle. I am old, and soon shall be gathered to the great council fire of my fathers in the land of shades, but ere I go, there is something bids me speak in the voice of prophecy.
Listen! The Great Spirit protects that man, and guides his destinies — he will become the chief of nations, and a people yet unborn will hail him as the founder of a mighty empire."'"
http://www.ministers-best-friend.com/George-Washington-Indian-Chief-TESTIFIES-He-Couldnt-be-killed.html
George Washington was a man of God and God wasn't done with him. He was under His protection. A Citizen of Heaven.
The Revolutionary War has always intrigued me as my fourth great grandfather fought in the war and his record is in the National Archives.
Is God done with you? Is death knocking on your door? Those of us in Jesus Christ it matters not, for we will go home to Him in heaven. But for those not in Christ, the consequences are dear, for they will die a second time, in their spirit. Maybe that's why God isn't through with you on this day? Go tell them about His Son before He calls you home.
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
John 3:3-7 Are You Born Again?
John 3:3
Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’
I recently tried to explain to someone what it means to be born again. I did not do a very good job. Maybe that's why God has me studying this passage today. The next time I'll be better prepared. I found this commentary which sums it up pretty well.
Excerpts from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary:
Birth is the beginning of life; to be born again, is to begin to live anew. We must have a new nature, new principles, new affections, new aims. By our first birth we were corrupt, born in sin; therefore we must be made new creatures. No stronger expression could have been chosen to signify a great and most remarkable change of state and character. We must be entirely different from what we were before. This new birth is from heaven and its tendency is to heaven. It is a great change made in the heart of a sinner, by the power of the Holy Spirit. It means that something is done in us, and for us, which we cannot do for ourselves. It is necessary to our happiness here and hereafter.
It is necessary to enter Heaven. It is to begin life anew. It's a heart change, a mind change, a soul change and can only be made through love in Christ. It's to set our minds on the things of God and no longer focus on things of this world. It's to give up earthly worries and care only for what pleases God.
Are you born of the Spirit? Lord I pray today for all who are reading this devotion. If they are not yet born of the Spirit I ask that Your Spirit fill them today and renew their heart and mind to Heavenly concerns. Renew their minds and turn them from their sinful nature to focus their minds on You. We ask this in Your name Lord Jesus, Amen.
Blessings, Cecilia
Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’
I recently tried to explain to someone what it means to be born again. I did not do a very good job. Maybe that's why God has me studying this passage today. The next time I'll be better prepared. I found this commentary which sums it up pretty well.
Excerpts from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary:
Birth is the beginning of life; to be born again, is to begin to live anew. We must have a new nature, new principles, new affections, new aims. By our first birth we were corrupt, born in sin; therefore we must be made new creatures. No stronger expression could have been chosen to signify a great and most remarkable change of state and character. We must be entirely different from what we were before. This new birth is from heaven and its tendency is to heaven. It is a great change made in the heart of a sinner, by the power of the Holy Spirit. It means that something is done in us, and for us, which we cannot do for ourselves. It is necessary to our happiness here and hereafter.
It is necessary to enter Heaven. It is to begin life anew. It's a heart change, a mind change, a soul change and can only be made through love in Christ. It's to set our minds on the things of God and no longer focus on things of this world. It's to give up earthly worries and care only for what pleases God.
Are you born of the Spirit? Lord I pray today for all who are reading this devotion. If they are not yet born of the Spirit I ask that Your Spirit fill them today and renew their heart and mind to Heavenly concerns. Renew their minds and turn them from their sinful nature to focus their minds on You. We ask this in Your name Lord Jesus, Amen.
Blessings, Cecilia
Acts 21:27-40 Are You a Zealot?
Acts 21:27-40 Are You a Zealot?
Paul Seized in the Temple
27When the seven days were almost over, the Jews from Asia, upon seeing him in the temple, began to stir up all the crowd and laid hands on him, 28crying out, “Men of Israel, come to our aid! This is the man who preaches to all men everywhere against our people and the Law and this place; and besides he has even brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.” 29For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, and they supposed that Paul had brought him into the temple. 30Then all the city was provoked, and the people rushed together, and taking hold of Paul they dragged him out of the temple, and immediately the doors were shut. 31While they were seeking to kill him, a report came up to the commander of the Roman cohort that all Jerusalem was in confusion. 32At once he took along some soldiers and centurions and ran down to them; and when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 33Then the commander came up and took hold of him, and ordered him to be bound with two chains; and he began asking who he was and what he had done. 34But among the crowd some were shouting one thing and some another, and when he could not find out the facts because of the uproar, he ordered him to be brought into the barracks. 35When he got to the stairs, he was carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob; 36for the multitude of the people kept following them, shouting, “Away with him!”
37As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I say something to you?” And he said, “Do you know Greek? 38“Then you are not the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a revolt and led the four thousand men of the Assassins out into the wilderness?” 39But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” 40When he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, motioned to the people with his hand; and when there was a great hush, he spoke to them in the Hebrew dialect, saying,
It has begun, as it did with Jesus but now with Paul. Zealots for a religion believe they are following God but they are following Satan instead. They accused Jesus falsely as they are doing with Paul. They desire to kill him in the name of God and their religion but fail to follow one of his commandments; Thou shall not murder. Or as some versions say; Thou shall not kill.
How is man acting any different today? Zealots flew planes into the Twin Towers, zealots blow themselves up to murder innocents, zealots behead Christians and the list goes on.
For Paul was once like them, a zealot for his religion persecuting Christians, murdering, beating and imprisoning them.
If Jesus could turn Paul from destruction and from Hades cannot Jesus turn other zealots from their destructive path?
After all He turned you didn't He?
Blessings David
Paul Seized in the Temple
27When the seven days were almost over, the Jews from Asia, upon seeing him in the temple, began to stir up all the crowd and laid hands on him, 28crying out, “Men of Israel, come to our aid! This is the man who preaches to all men everywhere against our people and the Law and this place; and besides he has even brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.” 29For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, and they supposed that Paul had brought him into the temple. 30Then all the city was provoked, and the people rushed together, and taking hold of Paul they dragged him out of the temple, and immediately the doors were shut. 31While they were seeking to kill him, a report came up to the commander of the Roman cohort that all Jerusalem was in confusion. 32At once he took along some soldiers and centurions and ran down to them; and when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 33Then the commander came up and took hold of him, and ordered him to be bound with two chains; and he began asking who he was and what he had done. 34But among the crowd some were shouting one thing and some another, and when he could not find out the facts because of the uproar, he ordered him to be brought into the barracks. 35When he got to the stairs, he was carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob; 36for the multitude of the people kept following them, shouting, “Away with him!”
37As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I say something to you?” And he said, “Do you know Greek? 38“Then you are not the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a revolt and led the four thousand men of the Assassins out into the wilderness?” 39But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” 40When he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, motioned to the people with his hand; and when there was a great hush, he spoke to them in the Hebrew dialect, saying,
It has begun, as it did with Jesus but now with Paul. Zealots for a religion believe they are following God but they are following Satan instead. They accused Jesus falsely as they are doing with Paul. They desire to kill him in the name of God and their religion but fail to follow one of his commandments; Thou shall not murder. Or as some versions say; Thou shall not kill.
How is man acting any different today? Zealots flew planes into the Twin Towers, zealots blow themselves up to murder innocents, zealots behead Christians and the list goes on.
For Paul was once like them, a zealot for his religion persecuting Christians, murdering, beating and imprisoning them.
If Jesus could turn Paul from destruction and from Hades cannot Jesus turn other zealots from their destructive path?
After all He turned you didn't He?
Blessings David
Monday, June 27, 2016
John 3:1-2 Darkness or Light?
John 3:1-2
There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.
This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”
Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, under the cover of darkness. He did not want to be seen. He was a Pharisees, a religious leader of the time. To be seen with Jesus would only validate Jesus as the Messiah and the Pharisees couldn't let that happen. They had their reputation to think of! Their pride got in the way. They represented themselves as knowing everything about the Bible yet didn't believe Jesus could be the Messiah. Jesus didn't fit their idea of who the Savior should be.
Nicodemus states "Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God". He acknowledges Jesus as a teacher and that He has come from God. He knows this, he believes this to be true. Yet he has some doubt or he would not have come under darkness of night. Nicodemus also used the word "we". Who is the "we"? We're there other Pharisees who believed but were afraid to acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah?
Are you afraid to publicly acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah? Is He part of your every day or someone you call on only when things get tough? Do your family and friends know you love Jesus or do you keep Him to yourself? Are you seeking Him in darkness or worshipping Him in the light?
Jesus said in Matthew 10:32 Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father in heaven. 33But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father in heaven.
When I die, I want Jesus to introduce me to His and my Father God. I don't want to hear Him say "I never knew you; depart from Me" Matthew 7:23
What about you?
Blessings, Cecilia
Acts 21:15-26 Do You Gratify Men?
Acts 21:15-26 Do You Gratify Men?
Paul at Jerusalem
15After these days we got ready and started on our way up to Jerusalem. 16Some of the disciples from Caesarea also came with us, taking us to Mnason of Cyprus, a disciple of long standing with whom we were to lodge.
17After we arrived in Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. 18And the following day Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present. 19After he had greeted them, he began to relate one by one the things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. 20And when they heard it they began glorifying God; and they said to him, “You see, brother, how many thousands there are among the Jews of those who have believed, and they are all zealous for the Law; 21and they have been told about you, that you are teaching all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs. 22“What, then, is to be done? They will certainly hear that you have come. 23“Therefore do this that we tell you. We have four men who are under a vow; 24take them and purify yourself along with them, and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads; and all will know that there is nothing to the things which they have been told about you, but that you yourself also walk orderly, keeping the Law. 25“But concerning the Gentiles who have believed, we wrote, having decided that they should abstain from meat sacrificed to idols and from blood and from what is strangled and from fornication.” 26Then Paul took the men, and the next day, purifying himself along with them, went into the temple giving notice of the completion of the days of purification, until the sacrifice was offered for each one of them.
"he began to relate one by one the things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry."
Christians we must not get puffed up when working for God. I have always been reluctant to call any ministry mine, rather His. Be humble while working for Him and give Him the glory. Then you will not allow Satan a foothold through pride in His ministry.
The Jews were spreading lies about Paul to stir up the people so they could seize him and kill him putting and end to him spreading the gospel. Why do men fear the truth? They fear loosing power over people. The same is true today.
The elders were warning Paul that the Jews "will certainly hear that you have come."
"24take them and purify yourself along with them, and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads; and all will know that there is nothing to the things which they have been told about you, but that you yourself also walk orderly, keeping the Law."
James and the elders asked Paul to gratify the Jews by submitting to a purification ceremony with four other men and paying their expenses, honoring the law.
Really? They wanted to kill Paul, no lawful ceremony honoring God would stop them from honoring Satan.
Why do men try to please man instead of God?
We always try to fix things instead of leaving them to Jesus Christ. He created the heavens and the earth. Can He not turn the minds and hearts of men?
Remember the Pharaoh?
Dear Heavenly Father I lift up those working in Your ministries around the world. May we all have humble hearts while working for you. Help us to remember we cannot be saved by works but through grace alone. Use us where we can honor and glorify You.
In Jesus name I pray.
Paul at Jerusalem
15After these days we got ready and started on our way up to Jerusalem. 16Some of the disciples from Caesarea also came with us, taking us to Mnason of Cyprus, a disciple of long standing with whom we were to lodge.
17After we arrived in Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. 18And the following day Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present. 19After he had greeted them, he began to relate one by one the things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. 20And when they heard it they began glorifying God; and they said to him, “You see, brother, how many thousands there are among the Jews of those who have believed, and they are all zealous for the Law; 21and they have been told about you, that you are teaching all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs. 22“What, then, is to be done? They will certainly hear that you have come. 23“Therefore do this that we tell you. We have four men who are under a vow; 24take them and purify yourself along with them, and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads; and all will know that there is nothing to the things which they have been told about you, but that you yourself also walk orderly, keeping the Law. 25“But concerning the Gentiles who have believed, we wrote, having decided that they should abstain from meat sacrificed to idols and from blood and from what is strangled and from fornication.” 26Then Paul took the men, and the next day, purifying himself along with them, went into the temple giving notice of the completion of the days of purification, until the sacrifice was offered for each one of them.
"he began to relate one by one the things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry."
Christians we must not get puffed up when working for God. I have always been reluctant to call any ministry mine, rather His. Be humble while working for Him and give Him the glory. Then you will not allow Satan a foothold through pride in His ministry.
The Jews were spreading lies about Paul to stir up the people so they could seize him and kill him putting and end to him spreading the gospel. Why do men fear the truth? They fear loosing power over people. The same is true today.
The elders were warning Paul that the Jews "will certainly hear that you have come."
"24take them and purify yourself along with them, and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads; and all will know that there is nothing to the things which they have been told about you, but that you yourself also walk orderly, keeping the Law."
James and the elders asked Paul to gratify the Jews by submitting to a purification ceremony with four other men and paying their expenses, honoring the law.
Really? They wanted to kill Paul, no lawful ceremony honoring God would stop them from honoring Satan.
Why do men try to please man instead of God?
We always try to fix things instead of leaving them to Jesus Christ. He created the heavens and the earth. Can He not turn the minds and hearts of men?
Remember the Pharaoh?
Dear Heavenly Father I lift up those working in Your ministries around the world. May we all have humble hearts while working for you. Help us to remember we cannot be saved by works but through grace alone. Use us where we can honor and glorify You.
In Jesus name I pray.
Blessings David
Sunday, June 26, 2016
John 2:12-25 Fools
John 2:12-25
After this He went down to Capernaum, He, His mother, His brothers, and His disciples; and they did not stay there many days.
Now the Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
And He found in the temple those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers doing business.
When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables.
And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!”
Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.”
So the Jews answered and said to Him, “What sign do You show to us, since You do these things?”
Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
Then the Jews said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?”
But He was speaking of the temple of His body.
Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.
Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did.
But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men,
and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man.
Here we see Jesus get mad. He went out and fashioned a whip. He didn't just explode when He saw what was going on in the temple. He went outside, gathered the material and sat and made a whip. This required time. He sat and braided the material together. Once He completed it, He went back in, and then drove away the people selling things, dumped the tables and got rid of the animals. Jesus displayed righteous indignation. He had a right to be angry and expressed it with dignity.
Many believed in Jesus when they saw Him drive out the merchants. The merchants had been taking advantage of the people and they knew it but no one would stand up to them. Finally, someone had come along who got rid of them, they wanted to be with Him! But they only wanted what they could get from Jesus. Jesus knew their hearts. He knew they didn't truly believe He was the Messiah.
Today, some follow Jesus because of what they think they can get from Him. But Jesus sees the heart, He knows if your commitment is genuine. It's dangerous to try to fool God. Adam and Eve tried to fool God in the Garden after they had eaten the forbidden fruit by hiding. God wasn't fooled then and He's not fooled now.
Galatians 6:7 But do not be deceived; God is not mocked.
Blessings, Cecilia
Acts 21:1-14 Which Spirit is Right?
Acts 21:1-14 Which Spirit is Right?
Paul Sails from Miletus
1When we had parted from them and had set sail, we ran a straight course to Cos and the next day to Rhodes and from there to Patara; 2and having found a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, we went aboard and set sail. 3When we came in sight of Cyprus, leaving it on the left, we kept sailing to Syria and landed at Tyre; for there the ship was to unload its cargo. 4After looking up the disciples, we stayed there seven days; and they kept telling Paul through the Spirit not to set foot in Jerusalem. 5When our days there were ended, we left and started on our journey, while they all, with wives and children, escorted us until we were out of the city. After kneeling down on the beach and praying, we said farewell to one another. 6Then we went on board the ship, and they returned home again.
7When we had finished the voyage from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais, and after greeting the brethren, we stayed with them for a day. 8On the next day we left and came to Caesarea, and entering the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, we stayed with him. 9Now this man had four virgin daughters who were prophetesses. 10As we were staying there for some days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11And coming to us, he took Paul’s belt and bound his own feet and hands, and said, “This is what the Holy Spirit says: ‘In this way the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’” 12When we had heard this, we as well as the local residents began begging him not to go up to Jerusalem. 13Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” 14And since he would not be persuaded, we fell silent, remarking, “The will of the Lord be done!”
Acts 20:22“And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me.
"and they kept telling Paul through the Spirit not to set foot in Jerusalem."
“This is what the Holy Spirit says: ‘In this way the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’”
“The will of the Lord be done!”
In Acts 20 we see Paul is bound by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem. In Acts 21 the disciples kept telling Paul through the Spirit not to go there. Agabus says, "this is what the Holy Spirit says:".
Which Spirit is correct?
They all were! The Spirit was telling the disciples of the capture and bonds that awaited Paul in Jerusalem. The Spirit was telling Paul to go to Jerusalem and that bonds that awaited him there.
Paul says; “The will of the Lord be done!”
Jesus said; Luke 22:42 "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."
Which Spirit do you follow? The Spirit that speaks to you or the Spirit that speaks to a friend? We can answer that question with this simple test. WWJD? (What would Jesus do?)
Simple; "yet not my will, but yours be done."
Follow the Father's will for you, in you, guiding you. Not the will of others!
Remember, for you, in you, guiding you!
Dear Heavenly Father, I lift up those who are confused what to do and where to go. Guide them through the Holy Spirit to do Your will.
In Jesus name I pray.
Paul Sails from Miletus
1When we had parted from them and had set sail, we ran a straight course to Cos and the next day to Rhodes and from there to Patara; 2and having found a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, we went aboard and set sail. 3When we came in sight of Cyprus, leaving it on the left, we kept sailing to Syria and landed at Tyre; for there the ship was to unload its cargo. 4After looking up the disciples, we stayed there seven days; and they kept telling Paul through the Spirit not to set foot in Jerusalem. 5When our days there were ended, we left and started on our journey, while they all, with wives and children, escorted us until we were out of the city. After kneeling down on the beach and praying, we said farewell to one another. 6Then we went on board the ship, and they returned home again.
7When we had finished the voyage from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais, and after greeting the brethren, we stayed with them for a day. 8On the next day we left and came to Caesarea, and entering the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, we stayed with him. 9Now this man had four virgin daughters who were prophetesses. 10As we were staying there for some days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11And coming to us, he took Paul’s belt and bound his own feet and hands, and said, “This is what the Holy Spirit says: ‘In this way the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’” 12When we had heard this, we as well as the local residents began begging him not to go up to Jerusalem. 13Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” 14And since he would not be persuaded, we fell silent, remarking, “The will of the Lord be done!”
Acts 20:22“And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me.
"and they kept telling Paul through the Spirit not to set foot in Jerusalem."
“This is what the Holy Spirit says: ‘In this way the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’”
“The will of the Lord be done!”
In Acts 20 we see Paul is bound by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem. In Acts 21 the disciples kept telling Paul through the Spirit not to go there. Agabus says, "this is what the Holy Spirit says:".
Which Spirit is correct?
They all were! The Spirit was telling the disciples of the capture and bonds that awaited Paul in Jerusalem. The Spirit was telling Paul to go to Jerusalem and that bonds that awaited him there.
Paul says; “The will of the Lord be done!”
Jesus said; Luke 22:42 "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."
Which Spirit do you follow? The Spirit that speaks to you or the Spirit that speaks to a friend? We can answer that question with this simple test. WWJD? (What would Jesus do?)
Simple; "yet not my will, but yours be done."
Follow the Father's will for you, in you, guiding you. Not the will of others!
Remember, for you, in you, guiding you!
Dear Heavenly Father, I lift up those who are confused what to do and where to go. Guide them through the Holy Spirit to do Your will.
In Jesus name I pray.
Blessings David
Saturday, June 25, 2016
John 2:1-11 Christ's Approval
John 2:1-11
On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there.
Now both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding.
And when they ran out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to Him, “They have no wine.”
Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.”
His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.”
Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of purification of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece.
Jesus said to them, “Fill the waterpots with water.” And they filled them up to the brim.
And He said to them, “Draw some out now, and take it to the master of the feast.” And they took it.
When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from but the servants who had drawn the water knew, the master of the feast called the bridegroom.
And he said to him, “Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!”
This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.
Weddings in Jesus' day lasted 7 days. Can you imagine? A 7 day wedding party meant planning and providing food, drink, entertainment and lodging for all those guests for 7 full days!
The term "woman" did not show disrespect. It was used then like a title. It would be similar today of saying "my lady". A term of respect and importance, a term of endearment.
My question with this passage has always been why did Jesus say "My hour has not yet come" and then turn the water into wine?" I was unable to find any definitive explanation other then this first miracle was done privately with few witness. His time for public announcement that He was the Messiah was not then.
The quality of the wine is significant. As the host tasted the wine he was surprised it was better then any served prior. What would you expect if Jesus supplies the wine? He would never do anything half way!
That's our Savior! He does everything to perfection. Nothing He creates is partly good, it's all perfect.
We saw at the beginning of this study, Jesus was there at creation therefore He created everything. Now we see that all Jesus creates is perfect. Since Jesus created you, that means Jesus created you perfect just the way you are. The only approval we need seek in this life is the approval of Jesus. If we are following Him and living according to His teachings, He already approves. Therefore we can go confident out into this world with Christ's perfect love and approval.
Blessings, Cecilia
Acts 20:17-36 Can you live with your answer?
Farewell to Ephesus
17From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church. 18And when they had come to him, he said to them,
“You yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, how I was with you the whole time, 19serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the plots of the Jews; 20how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house, 21solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. 22“And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. 24“But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.
25“And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face. 26“Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27“For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. 28“Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 29“I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; 30and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. 31“Therefore be on the alert, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears. 32“And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. 33“I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or clothes. 34“You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me. 35“In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
36When he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. 37And they began to weep aloud and embraced Paul, and repeatedly kissed him, 38grieving especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they were accompanying him to the ship.
Paul was serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials. For three years he was working hard, giving to the poor, testifying of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. He was tent maker, working to support himself so he could say he took neither gold, silver, or clothing from anyone.
He was a gifted writer, speaker and used his gifts in the ministry which Jesus laid before him. He was leaving for Jerusalem, where the Jews awaited him with evil on their hearts and a murderous plan. These were the same Jews that killed Jesus.
So Paul was returning to the prospect of death because this is where the Holy Spirit was leading him, saying that bonds and afflictions awaited him.
Paul also warned the church to be on guard for themselves and the flock, from wolves and men speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them.
Remember; use scripture to interpret scripture. Keep it in context. Context; "the parts of something written or spoken that immediately precede and follow a word or passage and clarify its meaning."
What about you? Do you follow the Holy Spirit when He calls you? Will you leave everything and everyone as Paul did? Will you say "it is more blessed to give that to receive"? Will your friends weep out loud and embrace you? What will your legacy be for God after you die the first death?
These are questions only you can answer.
Can you live with your answer?
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
17From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church. 18And when they had come to him, he said to them,
“You yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, how I was with you the whole time, 19serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the plots of the Jews; 20how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house, 21solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. 22“And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. 24“But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.
25“And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face. 26“Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27“For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. 28“Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 29“I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; 30and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. 31“Therefore be on the alert, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears. 32“And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. 33“I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or clothes. 34“You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me. 35“In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
36When he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. 37And they began to weep aloud and embraced Paul, and repeatedly kissed him, 38grieving especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they were accompanying him to the ship.
Paul was serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials. For three years he was working hard, giving to the poor, testifying of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. He was tent maker, working to support himself so he could say he took neither gold, silver, or clothing from anyone.
He was a gifted writer, speaker and used his gifts in the ministry which Jesus laid before him. He was leaving for Jerusalem, where the Jews awaited him with evil on their hearts and a murderous plan. These were the same Jews that killed Jesus.
So Paul was returning to the prospect of death because this is where the Holy Spirit was leading him, saying that bonds and afflictions awaited him.
Paul also warned the church to be on guard for themselves and the flock, from wolves and men speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them.
Remember; use scripture to interpret scripture. Keep it in context. Context; "the parts of something written or spoken that immediately precede and follow a word or passage and clarify its meaning."
What about you? Do you follow the Holy Spirit when He calls you? Will you leave everything and everyone as Paul did? Will you say "it is more blessed to give that to receive"? Will your friends weep out loud and embrace you? What will your legacy be for God after you die the first death?
These are questions only you can answer.
Can you live with your answer?
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Friday, June 24, 2016
John 1:35-51 Follow Him
John 1:35-51
Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples.
And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!”
The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” which is to say, when translated, Teacher, “where are You staying?”
He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day now it was about the tenth hour.
One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.
He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” which is translated, the Christ.
And he brought him to Jesus. Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” which is translated, A Stone.
The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.”
Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.
Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”
And Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.”
Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!”
Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.”
Nathanael answered and said to Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!”
Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”
And He said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”
These men who had little education knew Jesus when they saw Him. They didn't just spend the day with Him and go home at night, they left their job, walked away from their homes and spent the next three years day and night with Jesus.
That's what Jesus wants us to do. He doesn't expect us to leave our job or walk away from our homes. He wants us to leave our old ways, our old life behind and follow Him. He wants us to give up our sins and repent. He wants us to stop living for ourselves and focusing on our own pleasure and start focusing on His will in our lives. When we let go of trying to control our lives and release control to God, amazing things happen.
Like volunteering at a homeless shelter and it becoming a full time job when I wasn't even looking for work.
Like deciding to move back to my home state and thinking it would take a year to complete the move and it only taking four months.
Like moving to a new town where I didn't know anyone and through my new church making great friends that will last a lifetime.
Surrender control to God. You'll be amazed at what He will do in your life if you will follow Him.
Blessings, Cecilia
Acts 20:13-16 Do You Celebrate Pentecost?
Troas to Miletus
13But we, going ahead to the ship, set sail for Assos, intending from there to take Paul on board; for so he had arranged it, intending himself to go by land. 14And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene. 15Sailing from there, we arrived the following day opposite Chios; and the next day we crossed over to Samos; and the day following we came to Miletus. 16For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost.
Paul was hurrying to Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost. But what is Pentecost and why was he wanting to celebrate it? Paul also knew it meant trouble for him from the Jews if he went to Jerusalem which we will begin to study soon.
"Pentecost is one of the great festivals of the Church. In modern popular culture it isn't nearly as well known as Christmas or Easter, but for Christians it's profoundly significant. It marks the coming of the Holy Spirit on the disciples and their transformation from frightened and confused people to men who would face martyrdom for what they believed."
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/nine.key.things.to.know.about.pentecost/54344.htm
Jewish demonstrators shouted “We will tear down this abomination, you are evil. The Jewish people lives forever! King David lives forever! May the name of your so-called God be blotted out forever.
“It hurts me that they are letting these goyyim come here. It hurts me that these evil men, who have oppressed the Jews throughout history, are being allowed to contaminate our holy sites.
“The goyyim got their way this time. But they won’t the next time. King David lives forever! The people of Israel lives forever!”
https://uprootedpalestinians.wordpress.com/2016/06/22/jews-call-for-destruction-of-christianity-during-greek-orthodox-pentecost-prayer-in-jerusalem/
You would think this was the response to Paul and the disciples as they entered Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost but it wasn't. According to the article on uprooted Palestinians Wordpress this happened two days ago. I take with a grain of salt what I read on this website.
Please keep them in prayer because Jesus loves them too.
So Pentecost is a celebration of the Holy Spirit on the disciples and their transformation from frightened and confused people to men who would face martyrdom for what they believed."
What about you? Do you celebrate Pentecost?
Would you face martyrdom for your belief in Jesus Christ? Sadly I believe most Christians would not. They would run away in fear.
What about me? I feel down in my soul I would face it head on, but in reality only God knows. I do know I love Him deeply and pray that my strength and resolve holds fast in Him and Jesus Christ.
Dear Heavenly Father, I pray for Christians around the world that face persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ. I pray that you give them strength and bless them. Please keep Your hand of protection over them. And if they must die for their faith in your Son Jesus help them stay strong in Your Son.
I also pray for the persecutors of the faithful, remind us that You love everyone and Jesus loves them too.
In Jesus name I pray.
13But we, going ahead to the ship, set sail for Assos, intending from there to take Paul on board; for so he had arranged it, intending himself to go by land. 14And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene. 15Sailing from there, we arrived the following day opposite Chios; and the next day we crossed over to Samos; and the day following we came to Miletus. 16For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost.
Paul was hurrying to Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost. But what is Pentecost and why was he wanting to celebrate it? Paul also knew it meant trouble for him from the Jews if he went to Jerusalem which we will begin to study soon.
"Pentecost is one of the great festivals of the Church. In modern popular culture it isn't nearly as well known as Christmas or Easter, but for Christians it's profoundly significant. It marks the coming of the Holy Spirit on the disciples and their transformation from frightened and confused people to men who would face martyrdom for what they believed."
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/nine.key.things.to.know.about.pentecost/54344.htm
Jewish demonstrators shouted “We will tear down this abomination, you are evil. The Jewish people lives forever! King David lives forever! May the name of your so-called God be blotted out forever.
“It hurts me that they are letting these goyyim come here. It hurts me that these evil men, who have oppressed the Jews throughout history, are being allowed to contaminate our holy sites.
“The goyyim got their way this time. But they won’t the next time. King David lives forever! The people of Israel lives forever!”
https://uprootedpalestinians.wordpress.com/2016/06/22/jews-call-for-destruction-of-christianity-during-greek-orthodox-pentecost-prayer-in-jerusalem/
You would think this was the response to Paul and the disciples as they entered Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost but it wasn't. According to the article on uprooted Palestinians Wordpress this happened two days ago. I take with a grain of salt what I read on this website.
Please keep them in prayer because Jesus loves them too.
So Pentecost is a celebration of the Holy Spirit on the disciples and their transformation from frightened and confused people to men who would face martyrdom for what they believed."
What about you? Do you celebrate Pentecost?
Would you face martyrdom for your belief in Jesus Christ? Sadly I believe most Christians would not. They would run away in fear.
What about me? I feel down in my soul I would face it head on, but in reality only God knows. I do know I love Him deeply and pray that my strength and resolve holds fast in Him and Jesus Christ.
Dear Heavenly Father, I pray for Christians around the world that face persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ. I pray that you give them strength and bless them. Please keep Your hand of protection over them. And if they must die for their faith in your Son Jesus help them stay strong in Your Son.
I also pray for the persecutors of the faithful, remind us that You love everyone and Jesus loves them too.
In Jesus name I pray.
Thursday, June 23, 2016
John 1:19-34 The Voice
John 1:19-34
Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?”
He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.”
And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.”
Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?”
He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,”’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”
Now those who were sent were from the Pharisees.
And they asked him, saying, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?”
John answered them, saying, “I baptize with water, but there stands One among you whom you do not know.
It is He who, coming after me, is preferred before me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose.”
These things were done in Bethabara beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.’
I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.”
And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him.
I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’
And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”
Isaiah 40:3 A voice of one calling:
“In the wilderness prepare
the way for the Lorda ;
make straight in the desert
a highway for our God.b
John the Baptist knew what his purpose was. He knew he was the fulfillment of Isaiah 40 verse 3. He was to prepare people for Jesus.
The Pharisees were the learned religious leaders of the day. They knew the scriptures inside out and backwards. Yet as we will see, they didn't recognize the Messiah when He stood in front of them.
John understood that although people would flock to him for answers, Jesus was who they were ultimately looking for. He knew that Jesus was there at the beginning of creation. That Jesus was God in human form.
God had told John that the one who he saw the Holy Spirit descend on like a dove was the Messiah.
What is baptism? It's an outward expression of an inward commitment to Christ. It's a washing away of the old life. It's a cleansing of sin. It's a resurrection. Just as Jesus went into the grave, and rose three days later it's a death of our old self and a rising of our new life in Christ. It is NOT necessary to be saved. The thief on the cross was not baptized yet Jesus told him he would be in Paradise (heaven) with Him that day. It is however a good start when we become Christians and a liberating feeling when done.
What is your purpose as a Christian? It is to worship God. It is to love Him with all your mind, heart and soul. It is to serve Him. When we start doing that, God starts using us in ways we never imagined.
Blessings, Cecilia
Acts 20:1-12 Are You Staying Awake?
Acts 20:1-12 Are You Staying Awake?
Paul in Macedonia and Greece
1After the uproar had ceased, Paul sent for the disciples, and when he had exhorted them and taken his leave of them, he left to go to Macedonia. 2When he had gone through those districts and had given them much exhortation, he came to Greece. 3And there he spent three months, and when a plot was formed against him by the Jews as he was about to set sail for Syria, he decided to return through Macedonia. 4And he was accompanied by Sopater of Berea, the son of Pyrrhus, and by Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia. 5But these had gone on ahead and were waiting for us at Troas. 6We sailed from Philippi after the days of Unleavened Bread, and came to them at Troas within five days; and there we stayed seven days.
7On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began talking to them, intending to leave the next day, and he prolonged his message until midnight. 8There were many lamps in the upper room where we were gathered together. 9And there was a young man named Eutychus sitting on the window sill, sinking into a deep sleep; and as Paul kept on talking, he was overcome by sleep and fell down from the third floor and was picked up dead. 10But Paul went down and fell upon him, and after embracing him, he said, “Do not be troubled, for his life is in him.” 11When he had gone back up and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left. 12They took away the boy alive, and were greatly comforted.
We see in this study that the Jews wouldn't give up and let go of their anger for Paul. He was once one of them, converted to the Way, a follower of Jesus Christ after seeing the blinding truth of the road to Damascus when Jesus confronted him and blinded him with His glory.
And what about you? Is there someone in your life that you won't let the anger subside over? Was this person once one with you but then turned on you? Christian, you need to let it go. Jesus tells us we have to forgive or the Father wont forgive us. Don't let bitterness take root in your heart as it will affect your whole body, poisoning it from within. And if you have already poisoned your whole body, pray for the poison and bitterness to be removed from you. You will breathe with new lungs and the oxygen will restore your strength and people will see a new light in you. The light of Jesus Christ.
Do we prolong our message like Paul and put people to sleep? This young man was sitting in a bad location and fell three stories to his death. Paul was able to restore him through the power of Jesus Christ . I pray my studies don't put you to sleep and that you don't fall to your death apart from Jesus Christ. Let's be clear here, if you die without Jesus you die twice, the first death is of your body then the second death is of your soul. The second death will be more painful as it will linger throughout eternity.
Dear Heavenly Father, I pray you bless those reading today's message and if we are holding any anger or bitterness towards anyone that You guide us to let it go and bring us to repentance through Your Son Jesus Christ. Please keep us awake when we study Your word so we don't fall to our death apart from you.
In Jesus name I pray.
Blessings, David
Scripture blog; http://stanfordsancutaryscripturestudies.blogspot.com
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Acts 19:21-41 A Riot on the Way?
Acts 19:21-41 A Riot on the Way?
21 Now after these things were finished, Paul purposed in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem after he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome.” 22And having sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, Timothy and Erastus, he himself stayed in Asia for a while.
23About that time there occurred no small disturbance concerning the Way. 24For a man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Artemis, was bringing no little business to the craftsmen; 25these he gathered together with the workmen of similar trades, and said, “Men, you know that our prosperity depends upon this business. 26“You see and hear that not only in Ephesus, but in almost all of Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away a considerable number of people, saying that gods made with hands are no gods at all. 27“Not only is there danger that this trade of ours fall into disrepute, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis be regarded as worthless and that she whom all of Asia and the world worship will even be dethroned from her magnificence.”
28When they heard this and were filled with rage, they began crying out, saying, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” 29The city was filled with the confusion, and they rushed with one accord into the theater, dragging along Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s traveling companions from Macedonia. 30And when Paul wanted to go into the assembly, the disciples would not let him. 31Also some of the Asiarchs who were friends of his sent to him and repeatedly urged him not to venture into the theater. 32So then, some were shouting one thing and some another, for the assembly was in confusion and the majority did not know for what reason they had come together. 33Some of the crowd concluded it was Alexander, since the Jews had put him forward; and having motioned with his hand, Alexander was intending to make a defense to the assembly. 34But when they recognized that he was a Jew, a single outcry arose from them all as they shouted for about two hours, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” 35After quieting the crowd, the town clerk said, “Men of Ephesus, what man is there after all who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of the image which fell down from heaven? 36“So, since these are undeniable facts, you ought to keep calm and to do nothing rash. 37“For you have brought these men here who are neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of our goddess. 38“So then, if Demetrius and the craftsmen who are with him have a complaint against any man, the courts are in session and proconsuls are available; let them bring charges against one another. 39“But if you want anything beyond this, it shall be settled in the lawful assembly. 40“For indeed we are in danger of being accused of a riot in connection with today’s events, since there is no real cause for it, and in this connection we will be unable to account for this disorderly gathering.” 41After saying this he dismissed the assembly.
It was the same then as it is now.
The love of money is the root of all evil!
32So then, some were shouting one thing and some another, for the assembly was in confusion and the majority did not know for what reason they had come together.
Sounds like the protesters you see on television! Doesn't it?
No different back then as it is today, man is the same.
And what about you? Do you cause a disturbance concerning the Way? (Christians were called the Way in Pauls day). Do you cause a disturbance when you try evangelizing to family or friends? We all have a family member that says;
I don't want to hear it! But your heart grieves for them because you know the fate that awaits them.
Romans 3:10 As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one;
Matthew 13:50 and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
You know the bible is clear. This is what happens because we have all sinned against God. But God gave us a path of redemption through His Son.
John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
So don't start a riot concerning the Way, pray for them instead!
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for those who are grieving over the family member or friend that won't accept Jesus Christ. I pray that you open their heart, remove Satan' stronghold on them. Send someone into their life that will have an accepting message of salvation through Jesus Christ at the right time and moment. Help us be strong and continue in prayer for them. Help us be Your shining example.
In Jesus name I pray.
21 Now after these things were finished, Paul purposed in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem after he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome.” 22And having sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, Timothy and Erastus, he himself stayed in Asia for a while.
23About that time there occurred no small disturbance concerning the Way. 24For a man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Artemis, was bringing no little business to the craftsmen; 25these he gathered together with the workmen of similar trades, and said, “Men, you know that our prosperity depends upon this business. 26“You see and hear that not only in Ephesus, but in almost all of Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away a considerable number of people, saying that gods made with hands are no gods at all. 27“Not only is there danger that this trade of ours fall into disrepute, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis be regarded as worthless and that she whom all of Asia and the world worship will even be dethroned from her magnificence.”
28When they heard this and were filled with rage, they began crying out, saying, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” 29The city was filled with the confusion, and they rushed with one accord into the theater, dragging along Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s traveling companions from Macedonia. 30And when Paul wanted to go into the assembly, the disciples would not let him. 31Also some of the Asiarchs who were friends of his sent to him and repeatedly urged him not to venture into the theater. 32So then, some were shouting one thing and some another, for the assembly was in confusion and the majority did not know for what reason they had come together. 33Some of the crowd concluded it was Alexander, since the Jews had put him forward; and having motioned with his hand, Alexander was intending to make a defense to the assembly. 34But when they recognized that he was a Jew, a single outcry arose from them all as they shouted for about two hours, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” 35After quieting the crowd, the town clerk said, “Men of Ephesus, what man is there after all who does not know that the city of the Ephesians is guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of the image which fell down from heaven? 36“So, since these are undeniable facts, you ought to keep calm and to do nothing rash. 37“For you have brought these men here who are neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of our goddess. 38“So then, if Demetrius and the craftsmen who are with him have a complaint against any man, the courts are in session and proconsuls are available; let them bring charges against one another. 39“But if you want anything beyond this, it shall be settled in the lawful assembly. 40“For indeed we are in danger of being accused of a riot in connection with today’s events, since there is no real cause for it, and in this connection we will be unable to account for this disorderly gathering.” 41After saying this he dismissed the assembly.
It was the same then as it is now.
The love of money is the root of all evil!
32So then, some were shouting one thing and some another, for the assembly was in confusion and the majority did not know for what reason they had come together.
Sounds like the protesters you see on television! Doesn't it?
No different back then as it is today, man is the same.
And what about you? Do you cause a disturbance concerning the Way? (Christians were called the Way in Pauls day). Do you cause a disturbance when you try evangelizing to family or friends? We all have a family member that says;
I don't want to hear it! But your heart grieves for them because you know the fate that awaits them.
Romans 3:10 As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one;
Matthew 13:50 and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
You know the bible is clear. This is what happens because we have all sinned against God. But God gave us a path of redemption through His Son.
John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
So don't start a riot concerning the Way, pray for them instead!
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for those who are grieving over the family member or friend that won't accept Jesus Christ. I pray that you open their heart, remove Satan' stronghold on them. Send someone into their life that will have an accepting message of salvation through Jesus Christ at the right time and moment. Help us be strong and continue in prayer for them. Help us be Your shining example.
In Jesus name I pray.
Blessings David
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