The Biblical Path of Life

Author: mjross

  • 2 Kings 14-16; 2 Chronicles 25-28: Amaziah, Uzziah (Azariah), Jotham, and Ahaz Lesson 11

    Key Verse

    Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy.

    —Psalm 33:18

    Key Verse Thought: Read the key verse. What does it mean to fear the Lord? (A good example is Job. “… Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil” Job 1:1. He showed his fear by turning from evil.) To fear God is to obey His word. Church is a good place to learn God’s Word.

    Emphasis: To recognize the importance of frequenting the house of the Lord often, knowing that it is there we will learn the fear of the Lord, seeking his mercy upon our lives.

    Lesson Summary: In the lesson before Joel, we remembered the last two who reigned in Judah: Athaliah (an illegitimate queen), and Joash (a good king). Although King Joash made great reformations, he forgot God after Jehoiada (his uncle the priest) died.      

    So far, we have learned of the first eight kings of Judah, with only three good kings so far. In this lesson, we continue in our study of the kings of Judah. We will look at the next four kings of Judah. When Joash was killed, his son Amaziah became king. He reigned for 29 years and was a good king. After killing the servants who killed his father, he began his reign relying upon God. Nevertheless, like many kings before him, he forgot God. It was then that God’s anger was kindled against Amaziah. When Amaziah challenged the king of Israel, Joash, and they fought, he lost the battle. Amaziah turned away from following the Lord, and conspirators killed him in Lachish. His son, Uzziah, became king. 

    Uzziah reigned for 52 years, did that which was right in the eyes of the Lord, and did much good for Judah. Moreover, God blessed him. Uzziah defeated enemies around, built up the cities, the army, and the defenses of the cities in Judah. However, when he was strong, his heart was lifted up. He went to the temple to perform the duty of the priest (he could not because he was not a priest). When rebuked by the priests, he rejected that rebuke, and God struck him with leprosy. His son, Jotham, judged the people until he died. 

    After Uzziah’s death, Jotham became king. He did right in the eyes of the Lord, but he never entered the house of the Lord. When he died, his son Ahaz became king. He was a very bad king – for he did not right in the eyes of the Lord, but walked in the ways of the kings of Israel. He made images for Baalim and burnt his children in the fire to false idols. God delivered him into the hand of Syria. When rebuked by God’s prophet, not only did he reject the rebuke, but he also sought help from another enemy nation. Instead of helping, that enemy nation took more. Ahaz shut up the house of the Lord and made altars in every corner of the city – provoking the anger of God. When he died, his son, Hezekiah, became king. We will learn about him in our next lesson.

    Y2Q2 – Lesson 11 Questions

    Y2Q2 – Lesson 11 Children’s Worksheets

    If you are doing this lesson with younger children, the following is a craft idea:

    We made a Ten Commandments to remember the importance of obeying God’s Word.

  • Do you Believe?

    “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”
    John 3:18

    The many miracles Jesus did, and the many things Jesus taught were very important – for many people believed upon Him, becoming His followers. However, we can understand that not all who saw and heard believed. Jesus explained how one must come to Him – not with an educated mind, challenging the things of God (as the religious leaders continually did). After teaching some of the people, children were brought to Jesus. The disciples tried to keep the children from Jesus. However, Jesus was displeased. He called for the children to come to Him. Jesus then explained to the people how to receive the kingdom of God (receive means “to accept an offer deliberately and readily”). Understand the kingdom of God by the following: When the Pharisees asked Jesus when it should come, read His reply. “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation” (Luke 17:20). Not with observation means, “you cannot see it with human eyes.” He went on to say. “Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:21). Within you means “it is located in your heart and affections; not external.” That is one reason we refer to being saved as “asking Jesus into your heart.” You cannot see it with your eyes. Jesus wanted the people to understand this. To children, things are simpler, less convoluted. The gospel message is very simple – one must only believe – just as a child. In other words, simply believe and receive without question.

    “And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him …” (Mark 10:17a). The placement of this event with this one that comes running to Jesus is interesting. It follows the recording of Jesus explaining that one must come to His kingdom as a child. Keep that thought in mind as we look at this “rich young ruler.” He is called a “young man” in Matthew’s accounting (see Matthew 19:16-22) and a “ruler” in Luke’s accounting (see Luke 18:18-27). He is often called The Rich Young Ruler.

    He asked Jesus, “Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” (Mark 10:17b). Read the events. “18. And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God. 19. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother. 20. And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth. 21. Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. 22. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions” (Mark 10:18-22).

    In this event, the first thing we notice is that the young ruler thought he had to “do” something to inherit eternal life (see Mark 10:17). He had already obeyed God’s Word (the Law), but Jesus told him what was lacking (see Mark 10:20). His faith was in his earthly possessions – not in Jesus. Jesus wanted His disciples to understand the difference. One cannot do anything to inherit eternal life, but believe in Jesus.

    “23. And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! 24. And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! 25. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. 26. And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? 27. And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible” (Mark 10:23-27). See that Jesus called them “children.” He was talking to His disciples – those who believed upon Him. Yet in that explanation, one can almost sense that Jesus wanted them to remember that one must come to Him as a child – not with anything they can bring. One must have faith just trusting and believing in Jesus.

    When Peter acknowledged that they had given their all (see Mark 10:28), Jesus explained that they would be rewarded in heaven. While they lived on the earth, man may not see Jesus’ followers as important, but in heaven, God will reward them according to their faithfulness to Him. The Rich Young Ruler chose unwisely, while Jesus’ disciples chose wisely. For one must come to Jesus, simply with the heart and mind of a child, just believing in Jesus. One has to believe in the heart – not actually having to see the “kingdom of God” with the eyes. Then one must follow Jesus.

    Have you come to Jesus, simply with the heart as a child in faith, just believing in Jesus?

    How to be Saved

  • Joel: A Message in a Plague of Locusts: Lesson 10

    Key Verse

    If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. —1 John 1:9

    Key Verse Thought: Read today’s Key Verse. Do you know what it means to confess (means “to admit; to confess your guilt exposing yourself for punishment”)? God will forgive when we confess our sin.

    Emphasis: We are to recognize the destruction sin does, not only to a nation, but also to each life. We are to place our hope in Christ, obeying and pleasing Him, not the things of this world.

    Lesson Summary: We need to remember what we have learned about Judah so far: after King Jehoshophat, the nation of Judah had a time of bad kings. King Jehoram (King Jehoshaphat’s son) married wicked King Ahab’s daughter, Athaliah. He too, was a wicked king. Jehoram’s son, Ahaziah, was yet another wicked king. He had only reigned one year when Jehu killed him (when he was visiting the king of Israel, Jehoram). When King Ahaziah’s mother, Athaliah, heard her son was dead, she made herself queen – killing all of the seed royal (except for one that was hidden – Jehoash). During this time of wicked kings, we learned that the house of God had become in great disrepair. When Jehoiada the priest revealed Jehoash as king of Judah, wicked Queen Athaliah was killed and the house of God was repaired. This is most likely the time that the book of Joel took place.

    The book of Joel begins with, “The word of the LORD that came to Joel ….”   Joel prophesied to Judah during the reign of Jehoash (Joash) that began in Second Kings chapter twelve. As we study, we will find that God directs His Words to the priests and the elders (remember that Jehoash was only seven years old when he became king, and Jehoiada the priest counseled him). God spoke, and Joel relayed God’s message to the people. After seeing a plague of locusts, Joel warned of a coming invasion that he compared to that plague of locusts. Just as a plague of locusts completely destroys everything in its path, so the enemies of God would do to His people unless they repented of their sins against God. Joel called for the people to repent.   

    Joel continued his cry with an alarm warning of the “day of the Lord.” God’s people would be taken captive, but when they repented, God would restore the years that the locust had eaten. God’s judgment would fall upon the enemy nations and hope would once again be restored, and Judah will dwell forever.

    Y2Q2 – Lesson 10 Questions

    Y2Q2 – Lesson 10 Children’s Worksheets

    If you choose to do a craft with younger children, the following is an idea:

    We made a frame and decorated it with the verses Joel 2:12a and 13a.

  • Believe, by Faith

    “But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.”
    Acts 15:11

    Jesus’ ministry began shortly after John the Baptist introduced Jesus saying, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29b). Then “… Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). There were many facets of Jesus’ ministry. Not only did he preach repentance to the people, but he healed many as well. “35. And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 36. But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:35-36). The words moved with compassion means “from the bowels; to feel deeply; to yearn, have compassion, pity.” Jesus saw the need of the people. However, especially notice that it took a decision on the part of the person, or persons, involved – to believe or not to believe. Remember: “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).

    Sometimes after Jesus healed someone, He would say to tell no one. However, oftentimes the one healed told everyone – insomuch that Jesus could not enter into the city for the crowds that wanted to see Him. This hindered Jesus’ ability to preach. “1. And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. 2. And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them” (Mark 2:1-2). Soon the crowds heard He was in town and went to find Him. “3. And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. 4. And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. 5. When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee” (Mark 2:3-5). Four friends brought a man sick of the palsy to Jesus to be healed. Palsy means “the loss of motor power in the muscles or the voluntary muscular motion; equivalent to motor paralysis.” These friends lowered the sick man (who could not come on his own) through the roof because there were too many people in the house. Nevertheless, Jesus saw their faith. Faith means “faith in Christ to be able to work miracles or to heal the sick.” Do you remember what Jesus went about preaching? Repent. Repent means “to change the mind; regret or sorrow, accompanied by a true change of heart toward God; sorrow for unbelief and sin and turning from them unto God and the gospel of Christ.” Jesus wanted the people to turn from their sin. Therefore, he forgave those who came to Him in faith.   

    “But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, 7. Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?” (Mark 2:6). These scribes understood that it was only the Lord, “Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases” (Psalm 103:3). Yet, they witnessed Jesus declare this man’s sins were forgiven. “8. And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts? 9. Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? 10. But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) 11. I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. 12. And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion” (Mark 2:7-12).

    When Jesus forgave that man’s sins, the scribes were “reasoning in their hearts.” Amazingly, Jesus knew their thoughts and answered their unspoken questions. Remember: God knows all. In addition, to show these unbelieving religious leaders He had the ability to not only heal but also forgive sins, Jesus told the man to take up his bed and walk. And he did. All were amazed at this healing.

    Christians understand that sinners must be brought to Jesus. Just as these four friends brought their friend to meet Jesus, we, too, must bring our friends to Jesus. However, most importantly, we must understand that although the four friends brought this man with palsy to Jesus, this man had to decide for himself. He had to have faith in Jesus, believing His words. When the man obeyed, he was healed. It was not his friends’ faith that saved him. It was incumbent upon that man to decide whether he believed Jesus’ word or not. He had to act upon the word of Jesus. When he immediately arose, took up his bed, and went forth – that showed his faith in Jesus. No one had ever seen anything like that before.

    Remembering that Jesus came to provide salvation, if you do not tell your friends about Jesus, who will?

    How to be Saved

  • The Blind Man

    “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.”
    John 12:46

    There was a particular blind man that Jesus healed. Jesus had just told his disciples that He was the Light of the world. “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world” (John 9:5). When they encountered a blind man, Jesus made clay and anointed the eyes of the blind man. He then told the man to go wash his eyes. The blind man went, washed his eyes, and came again seeing.

    There was much discussion about this man amongst the people. They finally took him to the Pharisees. When the Pharisees asked what happened to him, he told them. After much discussion, they called him again asking how he could see. All he knew was, “whereas I was blind, now I see” (John 9:25b).

    The religious people challenged Jesus’ authority to give this blind man sight. “We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is” (John 9:29). This man, who was once blind, did not understand them. This is a marvelous thing! Even though these religious leaders did not know Jesus, the blind man was just glad that he could see! This blind man understood enough to know that God is the one that heals. “32. Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. 33. If this man were not of God, he could do nothing” (John 9:32-33).

    The religious leaders did not like his answer. “34. They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out” (John 9:34). They cast him out of the Temple.

    When Jesus heard, he found the man. “Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?” (John 9:35). The man who had been healed had a question. “He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?” (John 9:36). Jesus declared to him that He was the Son of God. Read the man’s response. “And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him” (John 9:38). This man who was blind could now see. But more than that, he met Jesus and believed that He was the Son of God. He could not only see physically, but spiritually he “saw” Jesus.

    What happened next? Jesus had a point to make. “And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind” (John 9:39). The religious leaders heard what Jesus had to say. The Pharisees responded. “And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?” (John 9:40). Jesus responded: “Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth” (John 9:41).

    The Pharisees did not think they were blind. Jesus pointed out that they were right. They could see. Most importantly, they could see the sin in their lives and chose to let it remain – even though Jesus was right there. For Jesus is the only one who could take that sin away, curing the blindness in the Pharisees. Remember why Jesus cam: “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness” (John 12:46). In this instance, the Pharisees chose to remain in darkness. Read what the Bible teaches about those who choose to remain in their sin. “26. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 27. But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries” (Hebrews 10:26-27).

    Have you chosen to see (believing in Jesus), or to abide in darkness (remain in sin)?

    How to be Saved

  • Faith Comes by Hearing

    “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
    Romans 10:17

    After much healing and preaching, Jesus sent the multitude away. “35. And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. 36. And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. 37. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?” (Mark 4:35-38). First, recognize Jesus told them to pass over to the other side. They should have had confidence that they would make it, because Jesus told them they would. Next, see that they should not have worried because Jesus was with them. This can be seen as a practical test to see if they had learned anything that Jesus had been teaching them. How did they fare? We find these seasoned fishermen afraid in a storm.

    Jesus slept on the ship – even when a storm arose. The disciples were fearful and woke Jesus. “39. And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? 41. And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” (Mark 4:39-41). Jesus rebuked the storm, and it ceased. Jesus then questioned the disciples. How could they be so afraid? Understand that their lack of faith caused them to fear. Faith here means “in an absolute sense of Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah and Savior.” Jesus wanted to know why they had no faith. After all the things the disciples had witnessed and learned, they still needed to know more. They still did not understand Jesus is God. There is an important verse that can help us understand what the disciples had not yet learned. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Jesus is the Word of God. Remember: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).

    Most remember when Jesus fed the five thousand men plus women and children. As He was teaching, Jesus had compassion on them and because much time had passed, He fed them with the five loaves and two fishes (see Matthew 14:13-21). John tells us what the people’s reaction to this miracle was. “When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone” (John 6:15). They wanted to force Jesus to become a king.

    Instead, Jesus sent the disciples in a ship across the sea where He would join them. Jesus went up on the mount to pray. “22. And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. 23. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. 24. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. 25. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. 26. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.” (Matthew 14:22-26). Remember, Jesus had told them to go to the other side before Him. When the disciples saw someone on the water, they were afraid.   

    “27. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. 28. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. 29. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 30. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. 31. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? 32. And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. 33. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.” (Matthew 14:27-33). Peter asked Jesus to call him onto the water to Him. Peter acted, in faith, when he heard Jesus. However, as Peter walked on the water, he became afraid. He still had more to learn. When he cried out, Jesus saved him. After these events, we see the disciples’ faith had grown. They now acknowledged that Jesus is the Son of God.   

    Do you read your Bible, hearing the Word of God, allowing your faith to grow?

  • We are His Workmanship

    “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
    Ephesians 2:10

    John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus by preaching repentance. In that message, John was preparing the people’s hearts to understand their need for Jesus. After John the Baptist introduced the people to Jesus, read what happened. “35. Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; 36. And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!” (John 1:35-36). John again declared Jesus as the Lamb of God. “And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus” (John 1:37). Recognize that these men left John the Baptist to follow the One for which John had come to prepare the way. John had done His job: he had directed the people’s attention to the Savior of the world, Jesus. These men left John, and they followed Jesus.

    “38. Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? 39. He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day … 40. One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother” (John 1:38-40). John’s disciples called Jesus Rabbi (Master); yet another indication that they had turned their focus from John to Jesus. They were ready to hear the teachings of Jesus now that they had met Him. Rabbi means “a doctor, teacher, master; a title of honor in the Jewish schools.” After Andrew believed in Jesus, he immediately found his brother, Simon (Peter), and took him to meet Jesus.

    “The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me” (John 1:43). Jesus called Philip, too. What did Philip do? “Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” (John 1:45). Philip recognized who this man was that called him. Philip understood that Jesus was the Promised One that Moses and the prophets had written about in the Old Testament. Immediately he went and found Nathanael to bring him to Jesus. (Remember, that is what Andrew had done. Andrew immediately went and found his brother, Simon.) Today, when a person meets Jesus, becoming a Christian, the immediate response should be to introduce others to Jesus, too.

    Nathanael was a skeptic – at first. Nevertheless, after Jesus told him where he had been, Nathanael believed. Remember that each person has the choice – to believe or not to believe. Nathanael believed.

    Many people followed Jesus because they wanted to hear His teachings – so many that they crowded Him. Jesus saw the empty ships, and asked Simon to thrust the ship out a little from the shore. Jesus taught the people from the ship. After finishing teaching, Jesus told Simon (Peter) to go out to the deep water and throw out their nets again to fish. Simon (Peter) initially objected – but then he obeyed Jesus. They caught so many fish that their nets broke, and then both ships began to sink because of the number of fish caught. How did Peter respond? “8. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. 9. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken” (Luke 5:8-9). Especially notice that Peter was not the only one affected by this miraculous catch of fish. “10. And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. 11. And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him” (Luke 5:10-11). It was at this point that these four men forsook their old occupation as fishermen of fish, and followed Jesus as fishers of men. If you notice, it said, “they forsook all.” In Matthew, chapter four it tells us that James and John were working with their father. They left him, too. 

    People were trying not only to hear Jesus’ teachings, but also to be healed. Many people followed Jesus. He was drawing the people from a religious practice to a commitment of the heart – a heart committed to Jesus. Jesus saw the need of the people. Read what Jesus did. “12. And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. 13. And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles” (Luke 6:12-13). Apostle means “an ambassador; it indicates the distinctive relation of the 12 men Jesus chose to be His witnesses of Him before the world.” This was the third call of these men. They were initially called to believe in Jesus. Then they were called to follow Jesus. Finally, Jesus called them for a special purpose – to be His apostles.

    Just as Jesus called the twelve disciples (Apostles) for a special purpose, when someone today is saved (asks Jesus into their heart), Jesus has a special purpose for them as well. “8. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 10. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:8, 10). Not only are Christians His workmanship (workmanship means “the result of work; something produced; something made”), but God has before ordained (before ordained means “to make ready beforehand; used of God’s foreordaining for good, referring to glory and good works”) that new Christian to walk in that new life Jesus has for them. Jesus has a job for each Christian.

    Have you believed in Jesus, becoming a Christian?

    Do you follow Jesus and His teachings?

    Have you recognized the job that Jesus has for your life?

    How to be Saved

  • Enduring Temptations

    “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world”
    1 John 2:16

    It would be very important to understand that as soon as one acknowledges publicly that they belong to Jesus, and they begin to be obedient to God’s Word, the battle begins. Because Christians have made the decision to reject the things of this world for the things of God, the Prince of this world (Satan) wants to defeat Christians in the Christian life. “8. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9. Whom resist stedfast in the faith …” (1 Peter 5:8-9a). Adversary means “enemy; it is applied to the devil, the adversary of man and accuser of Christians.” Remember Job: Satan stood before God’s throne, accused Job, and proceeded to attack him. But only with God’s permission (see Job 1:6-12 and 2:1-7). We must watch out because Satan desires to “devour” Christians. He wants to destroy each Christian life and that witness for Jesus. Understand that God knows when Satan comes against Christians, and God wants to help us to be strong – defeating Satan’s temptations. If you recall, Satan tempted Jesus immediately after Jesus was publicly declared as God’s Son.

    In that wilderness, Jesus was tempted in three particular areas by Satan. Later, John wrote a verse where these three areas are clearly mentioned. “15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world” (1 John 2:15-16). Notice the three areas of temptation: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Keep these thoughts in mind as we read the events of Satan tempting Jesus in the wilderness.

    Remember: Jesus had been in the wilderness for forty days and nights with no food. “3. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 4. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:3-4). God had just declared with an audible voice to all that Jesus was His Son. Nevertheless, the first thing Satan said to Jesus was a challenge of that very fact: “If thou be the Son of God.” Once a person trusts in Jesus, becoming a Christian, one of the first things Satan wants to do is to cause that new Believer to doubt their very salvation – that they are truly a child of God – and to doubt the Word of God. However, did you notice Jesus’ defense? “It is written.” Jesus quoted the Bible. Did you notice the temptation Satan presented to Jesus? Food! Recognize that Jesus defeated this temptation from the devil by quoting God’s Word. Just as God’s Word says, “… that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live” (Deuteronomy 8:3). Jesus understood that God’s Word was more important than earthly food. Even today, we are to use God’s Word as our defense. Notice this was a temptation of “the lust of the flesh” (stones to bread). Remember 1 John 2:15-16.

    The second temptation was recorded in Matthew 4:5-7: “5. Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6. And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. 7. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” Jesus again quoted God’s Word as a defense against Satan’s attacks. “Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God …” (Deuteronomy 6:16a). Notice this was a temptation of “the pride of life” (to jump from the pinnacle of the temple). Remember 1 John 2:15-16.

     The third temptation was recorded Matthew 4:8-11: “8. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9. And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. 11. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” Jesus quoted God’s Word as a defense against Satan’s attacks – again. “Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him …” (Deuteronomy 6:13). Notice this was a temptation of “the lust of the eyes” (the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them). Remember 1 John 2:15-16.

    The following verses help us understand why Jesus had to be tempted and be victorious in those temptations. “For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted” (Hebrews 2:18). Also, see the following verse. “15. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16). Jesus understands what it is like to endure temptation, and He can be an encouragement to all Christians today. Jesus will help us.

    Have you hidden God’s Word in your heart to use as a defense against temptations?

  • Thoroughly Furnished

    “That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
    2 Timothy 3:17

    After learning of Paul and his missionary journeys in the book of Acts, we can read the letters he wrote to the Gentile churches – many of which he started while on those missionary journeys recorded in the book of Acts. When we study these letters, we begin to recognize a pattern that develops. This pattern is revealed in an important verse found in Second Timothy. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).  Look at this verse more in depth by using the following definitions to help in the understanding of it: 

    • Scripture means “every part of the whole and all of it together; that which has been written once and for all and constitutes the final authority of God’s revelation.”
    • Given by inspiration of God means “prompted by God; divinely inspired; appears only in 2 Timothy 3:16.”
    • Profitable means “to be useful, profitable, or advantageous.”
    • Doctrine means “teaching or instruction with the meaning of warning.”
    • Reproof means “to convict; in the sense of refutation of adversaries; not merely the charge on the basis of which one is convicted, but the manifestation of the truth of that charge and the results to be reaped; the acknowledgement of its truth on the part of the accused.”
    • Correction means “to set right again; to correct or make straight.”
    • Instruction means “to instruct; rectification; including discipline.”

    Recognize that this verse cites the four benefits (profitableness) of the Word of God: doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction. The different parts of this verse reveal that each of these components are interdependent and are all necessary in the process of sanctification of a Christian’s life. First, the Word of God is presented as doctrine or instruction as in authoritative teaching. Then as truth, which is ethically persuasive, convincing one of error. Next, it places that person in a correct moral position, which allows one to be brought to the final place where that one can be provided the discipline, chastisement, or training needed to bring about righteousness. This verse summarizes the third division of the New Testament:  Romans – 2 Thessalonians. It is with this insight that Paul spent much of his time writing to the new churches, so that they would know how to become righteous.

    Remember theses letters of Paul that are important for each Christian to study:

    • Romans: the teaching of doctrine,
    • 1 and 2 Corinthians: reproof for failure to live right,
    • Galatians: correction, rectifying wrong doctrine that had permeated the church,
    • Ephesians: the revealing of deeper doctrinal truths intended for growing Christians,
    • Philippians: reproof for wrong living, the rectifying of a potential problem,
    • Colossians: correction to rectify wrong doctrine,
    • 1 and 2 Thessalonians: the teaching of doctrine and instructions.   

    Did you notice the pattern of how these books, or letters, can be used as doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction? As we read about the churches as they received these letters from Paul, some of them immediately put into practice what was taught therein. When that happened, we read that Paul received encouraging words about the growth of the churches. After reading theses letters (books), can you recognize the different stages of implementation each one was designed to teach? Remember, that these books (letters) are for Christians to use even today. Remember what the very next verse in Second Timothy says. “That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:17). The words throughly furnished means “to equip fully; completely.” This is the purpose of God’s Word. To equip Christians completely to be able to do what God wants us to do.

    Do you read understanding that all Scripture, when it is implemented into one’s life, will furnish you unto all good works?

  • Witnesses of the Redeemer

    “4. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5. To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.”
    Galatians 4:4-5

    Have you ever considered that God provided witnesses to the birth of His Son, Jesus?

    When Jesus was born, the angels declared His birth to the shepherds who were watching their flocks by night. “10. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12). They immediately went to the city of David, Bethlehem, and found the child just as the angels had told them. “And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child” (Luke 2:17). After they saw the baby, Jesus, they told everyone about this child and what they knew of Him.

    We also remember that there were Wise Men from the East who followed a star. They went to Jerusalem to find out where the new King had been born. Herod called in the chief priests and scribes to ask them where this new King would be born. They recalled the answer from the book of Micah. “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:2).When the Wise Men learned that this King was born in Bethlehem, they went and followed the star. It came to rest over the house where Jesus was born. “And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh” (Matthew 2:11).

    The shepherds and the Wise Men are both witnesses that Jesus was born in Bethlehem – just as God’s Word had declared.

    We find that God also had declared in His Word that Jesus would come to the Temple. “Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts” (Malachi 3:1). The people were to be watching for the Lord to come to the Temple. In Luke chapter two, we find that there were two such people. Simeon was a man waiting for the Messiah to come. When he saw Joseph and Mary bring the babe Jesus to the Temple, he declared, “For mine eyes have seen thy salvation” (Luke 2:30). He recognized Jesus was that Messiah God had promised from the beginning of time.

    Anna was a widow who “… departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day” (Luke 2:37b). When she came in at that instant and saw Jesus, she gave thanks to the Lord, “… and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem” (Luke 2:38b). She understood that this was the One that God sent to redeem His people. (See Hebrews 9:12.)

    Simeon and Anna were both witness that Jesus came to the Temple suddenly – just as God’s Word had declared.

    Each of these instances took place in different cities, in different places, and at different times. Yet each of these instances fulfilled the stipulations put forth in the Bible. Only God could know that these events would happen exactly as they did, hundreds of years before they actually took place! God declared that he sent His only Son into the World, to redeem the world from sin – if only they would believe. It is only then that one can become a son of God, through Christ. “4. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5. To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. 7. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ” (Galatians 4:4-7). One must only believe the witness that God sent His Son, Jesus, to redeem man from sin.

    Have you believed the witnesses that Jesus came, born of a woman, to redeem any who would believe?

    How to be Saved