The Biblical Path of Life

Category: Picture with verse and blog

  • Two Worlds

    “And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”

    Mark 8:34

    We are to recognize that there are two worlds. This world and a world to come. Jesus spoke of them. “And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come” (Matthew 12:32). He mentioned there is a difference in living for the world to come. “29. And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, 30. But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life” (Mark 10:29-30). Jesus wanted us to understand these two worlds. There is the world where sin rules and reigns supremely, and the world of which Christians are to live in anticipation. To prepare for the latter, one is to please the Lord and live for Him – not oneself. Remember what Jesus has called us to do: “And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34).

    Jesus sent the Comforter (the Holy Spirit) to be with us (see John 16:7-13), teaching us how to live this Christian life (see 1 John 2:20, 27). Remember, one who has trusted in Christ as their Lord and Saviour, has received the Holy Spirit. “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God” (1 Corinthians 2:12). With that Spirit, we are to learn those things freely given to us as to how to live pleasing to Him. The Holy Spirit enables us to live this Christian life. He teaches us how to deny ourselves, and how we are to please Christ.

    We also understand that Christians have been called to forsake the things of this world, instead choosing things that please Christ. “1. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:1-3). We are to remember that this our temporary home, for we are only passing through. Our forever home is with the Lord one day. So while we are here, we are to keep our eyes upon Christ. Remember how Paul recorded his own experience as he chose to know Christ (see Philippians 3:7-10). He gave us some insight as to how he was able to strive for this goal of knowing Christ. “13. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). Paul understood the importance of forgetting the things in his past, and pressing forward, choosing to live for Christ Jesus. Paul recorded many letters in the New Testament to help us understand how to walk in the new life in Christ Jesus.

    Jesus knew what it was to deny Himself. He leads us by His example. He also gives us plain instructions as to what He expects from Christians. “23. And he said to them all,If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. 25. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?” (Luke 9:23-25). One of our greatest battles is with our own hearts and minds.

    Knowing that Christians are to live lives pleasing to Jesus is not enough. Each person must choose as to which world he/she is going to love and serve. Remember the following warning: “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. 17. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” (1 John 2:15-17). We have many examples in the Bible of those who chose to love this world by succumbing to the “lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life”. We must learn not to fail in the same manner as they did.

    Which world are you living for?

  • Taste and See That the Lord is Good

    “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”

    Psalm 34:8

    David was known as a man after God’s own heart. “And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will” (Acts 13:22). The amazing part of this: God knew this before David was even chosen to become king of Israel.

    If you remember, King Saul continually disobeyed God. When God declared the kingdom would be removed from Saul and his family, read what Samuel told King Saul: “But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee” (1 Samuel 13:14). After one final chance, God told Samuel to declare the kingdom was rent from Saul’s family: “And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou” (1 Samuel 15:28). We find out who that man is in the next chapter. “Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward…” (1 Samuel 16:13).

    It is good to know that God knew David’s heart. And David knew God. However, that did not prevent events of life from happening. There was a time when King Saul was after David (for even King Saul recognized God’s hand upon David). Saul wanted to kill David. David spent many years fleeing from King Saul. There was one occasion in particular where David had to flee the country. He ended up in the presence of an enemy king, Achish (Abimelech). They knew who David was, a mighty warrior in Israel’s army. David was afraid. “And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard” (1 Samuel 21:13). When David behaved in this manner, the king thought David was mad (crazy). David was allowed to depart and escape (see 1 Samuel 21:10 – 21:1).

    David recognized that even though he was in a terrible place, it was God who delivered him from the hand of the enemy king. He wrote a Psalm to remember and praise God for taking care of him in such a time. “4. I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears … 6. This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. 7. The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. 8. O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him” (Psalm 34:4-8). David sought God in his time of trouble. And God heard and delivered him. Notice that David called himself “This poor man”. When he cried unto the Lord, “the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.” David understood what God did for him. He wanted others to recognize and do the same thing when one found themselves in trouble. “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him” (Psalm 34:8). David was fleeing from King Saul because Saul recognized David would be the king to replace him. The trouble was not something that David was looking for or dove into of his own accord. There is a great difference when one seeks trouble because of selfish desires or choosing to sin willfully. However, when trouble comes as one seeks after God, trying to please Him, God will help that one. Remember what David recognized: “The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them” (Psalm 34:7).

    This is a great lesson for Christians today who choose to set their hearts to follow after God and the things of God. God will be with those who fear Him when trouble finds them. It is up to us to keep our hearts upon God and to cry out for help in times of trouble.

    Have you set your heart to seek after God?

    Do you call out for Him in times of trouble?

  • Believe in Him

    “That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”

    John 3:15

    Almost everyone has either heard or memorized John 3:16:“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” However, have you ever stopped to understand what this verse really means?

    In John 3:16, we are to recognize the way in which God loved the world. Because sin had entered into the world, there was a breach between God and man. The penalty for sin is death (see Romans 6:23). There was only one way to bridge that separation and give life. Because God is a loving and gracious God, He sent His Son, Jesus, into the world.“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). God gave His Beloved Son, Jesus, to pay the penalty for each individual person’s sin with His life. All one must do is believe upon Jesus, receiving this great gift. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Can you better understand this verse now? Read the next verse in that passage to understand even better as to why Jesus came: “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved” (John 3:17).

    After reading both of those verses, understand that the gift of the pardon for sin is offered – all one has to do is receive it. This pardon from sin is understood as a promise from God – but only for those who accept that gift. God wanted each person in the world to be saved from the penalty of sin, however God allows each person to make the choice: believe unto salvation or believe not (“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).

    Why would God, who is known for His great love, condemn people? Each person was already condemned because of that separation. God provided the way to be saved – leaving the decision up to each individual. People condemn themselves when they choose to not believe in Jesus (the Light, see John 8:12) and continue in sin. “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). Those who choose to not believe, love darkness – because their deeds are evil. Surprisingly, many people enjoy sin.

    What if one chooses to continue in sin, rejecting the gift God offered? John summed up the consequences of rejecting this gift of Jesus in the last verse of that chapter. It tells what becomes of one who does not believe that Jesus came and died, living again, enabling Him to take away the sin of each individual who would only believe. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (John 3:36). This, too, is a promise.

    No one talks about the wrath of God anymore. What exactly is the wrath of God? It is mentioned most often in the New Testament. One clear understanding of it is found in the reading of Romans chapter one. In that chapter, one can understand that God’s wrath is holy and just in its’ indignation against sin. It is so much more than just anger at the willingness of people to continue in sin, it is extreme anger mingled with disgust or abhorrence of that sin.

    How can one escape the wrath of God. and choose this gift God offered? Remember what Jesus declared: “That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:15). It is declared simply in the Scriptures: “9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (Romans 10:9-10). Because one receives the Lord Jesus, believing by faith, that one will be saved from God’s wrath. “Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him” (Romans 5:9).

    Life is fleeting and short. No one knows what tomorrow may hold. It is up to each individual to decide. Choose life (eternal with Jesus), or receive the penalty for sin – the wrath of God abiding on him.

    Each person has a choice to make:

    • Believe on the Son and have everlasting life, or
    • Believe not the Son and have the wrath of God abide upon them.

    Have you chosen to receive the gift of salvation (life) by believing in Jesus?

  • Is There a Portal to Another World?

    “And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.”

    Luke 16:26

    Many people search for a “portal” to either enter another dimension or at the very least to peer into one. Innumerable movies have incorporated this into the story-line. These thoughts of a “portal” into another dimension are classified as science-fiction. People dream of finding a way through one of those “portals”. Scientists perform experiments trying to open a “portal” into another dimension. Man wants to “see what is on the other side.” Humans are limited in the ability to cross that threshold and return. However, there is another “world” that each person should seriously consider. Another “world” that Jesus addressed many times.

    Read of a certain rich man and a beggar named Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31.

    We are introduced to two men. “19. There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: 20. And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores” (Luke 16:19-20). Notice that the rich man is not named. However the beggar was named Lazarus.

    We learn what happens immediately after death. “22. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; 23. And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame” (Luke 16:22-24). One was carried by angels to Abraham. The other was buried, yet he was in hell. The rich man who was in torment, could see Lazarus afar off who was not in torment. The rich man wanted mercy and relief from the torment in the flame. “25. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. 26. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence” (Luke 16:25-26). We find no opportunity for relief from the torment for the rich man. Notice also that there is a great gulf fixed between the two places, and no one can cross it.

    Once the rich man realized he would not be freed from his torment in the flame, and Lazarus could not come even for a moment to bring him any relief, the rich man wanted to warn his family back on earth. “27. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house: 28. For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment” (Luke 16:27-28). He did not want anyone else to be sent to the place of torment in flame where he was now bound. He wanted Lazarus to be enabled to return to his life on earth to go warn the rich man’s five brothers. The rich man did not want his brothers to end up in that place of torment. “29. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. 30. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. 31. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead” (Luke 16:29-31).

    This event speaks of very specific men: a certain rich man, Lazarus, and Abraham. One can understand it as a warning. There is another world to consider: an eternal one. The “portal” from one world to the other is death – either eternal death (in hell) or eternal life (in heaven).

    It is most interesting that after the rich man was in hell, in torment, he wanted to send someone back to warn his brothers about that awful place. Abraham reminded him of Moses and the prophets (referring to the Old Testament, which foretold Jesus would come). The rich man argued that if one went from the dead, his brothers would repent. Abraham reiterated; if they wouldn’t believe God’s Word, they wouldn’t believe one who rose from the dead. It was not long after Jesus told of this event that He suffered and died upon the cross – to pay that penalty of eternal death for any one who would believe upon Him. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). Jesus was that One who would come back from the dead that the rich man was to be looking for. Only faith in Jesus for remission of sins will keep one out of that place the rich man spoke of where he was “tormented in this flame”, yet there are many today, who do not believe. It will be those of unbelief who will spend eternity in that place of torment called hell.

    There has been much debate throughout the centuries as to whether heaven and hell are real places. Jesus declared they were real. When one reads the Bible, the uncertainty should end.

    Do you now understand that hell is a real place?

    Are you one who has received the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord?

    Read how to find eternal life through Jesus.

  • He’s Everything to Me

    “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:”

    John 10:27

    The other day, I heard a song played at church that I had not heard for many years. It was called, “He’s Everything to Me.” Although I had not heard the song for a long time, the words came flooding back into my mind and heart immediately. Songs often do that. It reminded me of what I had been reading in John 10 about the Good Shepherd, Jesus. He calls His sheep by name, He leads them out, He goes before His sheep and they follow Him because they know Him. This Good Shepherd not only takes care of His sheep, “…the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep” (see John 10:11). Read what else we learn. “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine” (John 10:14).

    As you read the words to “He’s Everything to Me”, consider what it is saying.

    He’s Everything to Me

    by Ralph Carmichael

    “In the stars His handiwork I see,
    On the wind He speaks with majesty,
    Though He ruleth over land and sea,
    What is that to me?
    I will celebrate Nativity,
    For it has a place in history,
    Sure, He came to set His people free,
    What is that to me?

    Till by faith I met Him face to face,
    and I felt the wonder of His grace,
    Then I knew that He was more than just a
    God who didn’t care,
    That lived a way out there and

    Now He walks beside me day by day,
    Ever watching o’er me lest I stray,
    Helping me to find that narrow way,
    He’s Everything to me.”

    The song begins with one recognizing the hand of God in nature. Remember: “When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained” (Psalm 8:3). See also: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” (Psalm 19:1). God reveals Himself through His creation, yet not many acknowledge God. Most people celebrate Christmas. However, the birth of Jesus means very little to most people. God delivered His people from Egypt with His mighty hand. Yet many people are indifferent to this fact: “What is that to me?” God tells us why He did this: “Unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest know that the LORD he is God; there is none else beside him” (Deuteronomy 4:35). But more than that, remember: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). God sent His son, Jesus, who came to take away the penalty of sin (death) to give eternal life to one who would believe by faith. Even with all of this, many people end their thought of God on this note: “What is that to me?”

    Nevertheless, to those who receive Jesus Christ as their Lord, all of these things become meaningful. This song reminds us of how special it is that we can be saved by grace through faith: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). We understand that God really does care about us as individuals. It is then that we can meet Him “face to face”. Jesus becomes our Good Shepherd. “27. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand” (John 10:27-28). Believers (Christians) belong to Jesus for forever.

    Because of this, Jesus now walks with us day by day. “6. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7. Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:6-7).

    Why is it important to walk with Jesus day by day? “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). He has a plan for each Christian. Because Jesus is our Good Shepherd (see John 10:11), He will watch over us, helping us to walk with Him. “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked” (1 John 2:6). Because of this, we are called to “walk worthy”. “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10).

    The Christian life in this world today can be a difficult one to traverse. Remember what Jesus warned: “Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:14). It may be difficult at times, but our Good Shepherd will lead us day by day: “Ever watching o’er me lest I stray, Helping me to find that narrow way”. Why? Because “He’s Everything to me.”

    Have you met the Good Shepherd “face to face”, and “felt the wonder of His grace”?

    Is He everything to you?

    If you have not met Him “face to face” there are Scriptures to introduce you to Jesus.

  • Wisdom or Power?

    “That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”

    1 Corinthians 2:5

    Paul began the first book of Corinthians addressing a problem. He wanted the Believers (Christians) to understand what was important: the preaching of the Gospel Message. Paul later summed up what that Gospel Message is in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4: “… that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:”. These are the basic truths of the Gospel Message. Paul emphasized the power that is in that salvation. “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18). See the following to help understand what this verse means:

    • preaching means to speak intelligently about the word of the cross
    • cross means the whole passion of Christ and the merit of His sufferings and death
    • them that perish means exposed to eternal death
    • foolishness means foolishness or absurdity
    • saved means those who have obtained salvation through Christ and are kept by Him
    • power means a person in whom the power of God is manifested

    Jesus came to pay the penalty for “them that perish”, taking that eternal death away from any who would only believe. The “power of God” was then revealed in those who believed in Christ’s work on the cross: “the whole passion of Christ and the merit of His sufferings and death”. Each Believer was changed.

    There were a couple of groups in that day (and in our day) that could not get past this “foolishness” of the preaching of the cross. “For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom” (1 Corinthians 1:22). The Jews were bound in their religious system and the outward showing of the rituals of the Old Testament Law. The Greeks sought after wisdom. Wisdom means “the knowledge of how to regulate one’s relationship with God; wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual). What did Paul want them to understand? “But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness” (1 Corinthians 1:23). The message of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection would not be accepted by the “religious” Jew, for they were bound in their religious system, having to “do” something. The Greeks thought it was just absurd to believe that one must trust in Christ as apposed to intelligently gaining their own salvation, in their own way. Both groups did not understand that it is only through the cross, in the “power of God” (see 1 Corinthians 1:18) that one is saved. Paul further explained this to help them understand: “Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men” (1 Corinthians 1:25). Neither the wisdom of man or the strength of a religion can save one. It is only by faith in Jesus and what He accomplished on the cross.

    Paul explained this further. “1. And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:1-2). Paul shared “Jesus Christ, and him crucified” which is the “the testimony of God”. Paul did not use fancy teaching or enticement to help them understand the Gospel Message. “4. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). Demonstration means “manifestation”. Because Paul just preached the truth of Christ, a Believer’s (Christian’s) faith was not by man’s reasoning or wisdom. The Spirit of God is manifested, and one can choose to believe. It is then that the power of God is acknowledged in that life. We call this becoming “saved”. All men need the salvation provided by Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. However not all will receive it. “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18). The preaching of the cross reveals the only means of salvation. Remember how Paul taught this in Romans. “8. But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. 12. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. 13. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:8-13). Salvation is not of any man – not even Paul. Each person must choose to believe by the correct faith – faith in Jesus’ completed work on the cross.

    Does your faith stand in the wisdom of men?

    Or

    Does you faith stand in the power of God?

    Click here to find the way to Salvation by faith.

  • Put Off the Old

    “22. That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;”

    Ephesians 4:22-23

    Much of the Old Testament is a physical picture of the spirit life described in the New Testament. One vivid picture is in the taking of the land of Canaan – the Promised Land. Remember that this was the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. When the Israelites came out of Egypt, they had grown to become a mighty nation. When the people finally prepared to conquer the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben, Gad and Manasseh wanted to stay on the eastern side of the Jordan River. This was not where God wanted them. However, concession was made for them to remain on the eastern side of the Jordan River.

    Consider what they saw: There was plenty of grassland for their animals. “Now the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of cattle: and when they saw the land of Jazer, and the land of Gilead, that, behold, the place was a place for cattle” (Numbers 32:1). They saw the land, and wanted it. They desired this place instead of the land the God had for them. So the children of Reuben and Gad asked Moses if they could stay where they were. Moses declared it would discourage the other Israelites who must go to war to conquer their land while they stayed in that grassland. “And wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the LORD hath given them?” (Numbers 32:7). Moses warned them that they were acting like the generation before them who refused to enter into the Promised Land. “And, behold, ye are risen up in your fathers’ stead, an increase of sinful men, to augment yet the fierce anger of the LORD toward Israel” (Numbers 32:14). After promising that they would help the children of Israel conquer the land, and then return to the other side of the Jordan to live and raise their animals, Moses gave them the land. “And Moses gave unto them, even to the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, and unto half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph … the land, with the cities thereof in the coasts, even the cities of the country round about” (Numbers 32:33).

    Why was it wrong for them to want to stay on the eastern side of the Jordan River?

    Consider that this was not the land that God had chosen and planned to give them. It was the land that these tribes saw and wanted. They thought it was a logical place to stay – for there was much grassland for their cattle. Besides, they agreed to help the other Israelites conquer the land, so as to not discourage them, and then return to the land they had chosen. There were many problems with their choice. They were never included within the land of Israel. At one point, the children of Israel almost went to war against them (see Joshua 22). These tribes were the first to fall into idolatry, and the first tribes carried captive out of the land. All because they chose to live on the fringe of where God wanted them to be.

    This is a great physical picture of some Christians’ lives. There are those who trust in Christ, yet they live as superficial Christians in many respects. They do not fully enter into the lifestyle that God would have for them in this new life. Many choose the things of this world walking as others, in the vanity of their minds. “17. This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18. Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart” (Ephesians 4:17-18).Remember that the tribes that chose to refuse the land God had for them, choosing instead the land that they saw and wanted. This alienated them from the life that God wanted for them – in the Promised Land. Instead, they were susceptible to extra wars with their brethren, idolatry, and eventually being cut short as a people in the land (carried captive). This is a picture of the Christian life that walks according to the world and its system, contrary to what God has planned. This is a life “alienated from the life of God”. Because of the blindness of that heart (the hardheartedness), he chooses to live on the fringe of where God wants him to be.

    Paul encouraged the church at Ephesus how to walk (according to the truth in Jesus), putting on the new man. “21. If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22. That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind” (Ephesians 4:21-23). Christians are to know how to live according to God’s Word, then forsake the old way of life (living according to the world), and choose to live a new life pleasing God. Read how Paul described this: “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:24).

    Have you put off the old man with his ways, and then put on the new man, choosing to fully enter the Christian life?

  • Jesus, the Light that Shines in the Heart

    “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

    2 Corinthians 4:6

    Paul was a great missionary, sent by God, to tell others the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. Paul understood the importance of salvation, and he was not ashamed to tell anyone he met what Jesus could do for them. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16). Salvation means “deliverance from sin and its spiritual consequences, and involving an attachment to the body of Christ (the church), and eternal life in the kingdom of Christ.” It was because of this great need of deliverance from sin and its’ spiritual consequences that encouraged Paul to preach the Gospel Message of Jesus. “1. Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2. By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:1-2). Many believed what Paul preached, and it changed their lives. However, as may happen when the Gospel Message is preached, some “believed in vain”. Believed in vain means “without effect; a temporary faith makes no appreciable difference in one’s life because the gospel fails to take effect.” Some people make a mental ascent to faith in Jesus, but unless one truly receives Christ in the heart with a changed life (see 2 Corinthians 5:17), it is only a temporary faith – not real. Nevertheless, Paul taught them Jesus, whom Paul had himself received. “3. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). It is up to each individual to choose as to whether he or she will believe.

    Paul recognized the primary focus of his life was to spread the Gospel message of Jesus, however he also understood the importance of living a life so that any who saw him knew he was different – that he belonged to Jesus. “15. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16. To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?” (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). Paul had learned that not all would believe in the Gospel Message of Jesus. Nevertheless, all Christians are to tell others about Jesus and live a life so that others can recognize they have Jesus. It is then up to the individuals to make their own choice – saved or perish; death or life. Wherever Paul went, the people were called to a time of decision – either accept Jesus, or reject Jesus.

    As Paul preached faithfully, he recognized that to some, the Gospel Message was hidden. “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost” (2 Corinthians 4:3). More importantly, Paul understood how it was hidden from them. “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Remember: Jesus is the Light of the world. “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). If one does not receive “the glorious gospel of Christ”, it is because “the god of this world” (Satan) has hidden it from them (blinded their minds). It is interesting that Satan blinds the mind. Somehow, he is able to convolute the simplicity of the Gospel Message. “But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3). Because of blinded minds, many have rejected Jesus, the Light of the World.

    However, read what God does: “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6). God “hath shined in our hearts”. Where Satan blinds the mind, God shines in the heart, “to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ”. If one will receive that Light, one gains the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

    Paul understood the importance of the message he was to deliver: Jesus, God’s Son, lived a perfect life, died on the cross, paying for man’s sin, rose again the third day, and is coming again one day. This was a message the world did not, and could not understand – for Satan blinds the mind. However, the Light of the knowledge of Jesus can change one’s life – if one will only believe.

    Have you received the Light of the knowledge of Jesus, living a changed life, then becoming a savor of life to others?

    Find out how to receive the Light of Jesus: Salvation.

  • Know Ye Not?

    “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain”

    1 Corinthians 9:24

    Paul had visited Corinth on two different missionary journeys, spending at least eighteen months on one visit. He also wrote two letters to the church established in Corinth that we have to read even today. In these letters, we find much that should apply to all Christians. Paul wrote one letter when he heard of problems in the church. There were divisions beginning to form that needed to be stopped. There was also sin being allowed into the church that left unchecked, would destroy the church from within. Paul understood the importance of dealing with these issues, quickly, to help the young Christians to grow in Christ as they should. “That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:5).

    When Paul wrote, we find that he recognized their condition. “And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:1). Notice Paul said he could not speak unto them as spiritual, but carnal. They were still babes in Christ. Because they had not yet learned how to live a Christian life, they were still “carnal” (carnal means “weakness; frailty; of persons being worldly”). This revealed that they were living according to the world and its’ standards, not according to God’s. “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?” (1 Corinthians 3:3). After addressing their divisions, he reminded them that God’s Spirit lived in them. “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16). Did you notice how that verse began? “Know ye not”. This was a big part of their problem. They had not taken the time to “know” what they needed to know in order to live as they were supposed to live. Paul mentions this several times in this letter. Take note of the following:

    • “Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?” (1 Corinthians 5:6).
    • “Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? …” (1 Corinthians 6:2:).
    • “Know ye not that we shall judge angels? …” (1 Corinthians 6:3).
    • “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? …” (1 Corinthians 6:9).
    • “Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? …” (1 Corinthians 6:15).
    • “What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? …” (1 Corinthians 6:16).
    • “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19).

    Paul addressed many thing that they did not know. One more thing they did not know was that the Christian life is much like a race. And Paul was a great example for them to follow. “24. Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible” (1 Corinthians 9:24-25). Paul compared this Christian life to a race that all are running. Think of a race: there is a course, a goal in sight, and a reward. The Christian life can be thought of in much the same way:

    • there is a course (a godly lifestyle one lives according to God’s Word),
    • a goal in sight (keeping eyes on Jesus, living that life so others can see and come to know Jesus),
    • and a reward (eternal life in heaven with Jesus someday where Christians will receive rewards for things done on this earth for Jesus).

    Just as runners have to train, exercise, and eat right, Christians who want to live a life pleasing to God must also train, exercise and eat right. How? Christians are given God’s Word to teach them how to live a life pleasing to God. It takes much work and exercise to strengthen spiritual muscles to put away the sins of the world and instead choose the things of God (see 1 Timothy 4:6-9). Eating right would consist of putting God’s Word into the Christian heart and mind (see Psalm 119:11) as opposed to the things of this world. This was an area that the Corinthian church needed to work on: knowing how to live the Christian life.

    There is one important difference in a physical race, and the race of the Christian life, that Paul explained to them. In a physical race, there is only one winner, but in the race of the Christian life, all will receive eternal life with Jesus – only the personal rewards will be different, according to how the race is run (see 1 Corinthians 3:11-15).

    Do you know how to run the race that is the Christian life, understanding how to please God?

  • Works Shall be Made Manifest

    “Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.”

    1 Corinthians 3:13

    Once one believes that Jesus died upon the cross to pay for sin, then trusts in Jesus as one’s Lord, there is a growing process that is to begin. Christians learn to walk in obedience to God’s Word. We must also learn to joyfully surrender to His will. Christians are to lay aside the sinfulness of this world, in obedience to God, understanding one day we will be with Him in heaven (see Romans 6:12-13). So as we live here on earth, Christians are to live lives for Christ.

    There are many lives recorded in the Bible that are examples to help us understand how to live as a Christian. Paul was one of the great ones. He recognized the importance of obedience, and recorded the following to help us understand. “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). This verse does not mean that one “works” for his salvation. Work out means “to work fully, that is, accomplish; by implication to finish… perform, work out; toil; commit.” Christians are to allow the salvation (that we already have because of Jesus) to be manifested (revealed by how we live Christ-like) in the expression of this new life. Christians need to live Christ-like for our own benefit. However, it is more than this. It is also important for Christians to accomplish, finish, what God has for us to do while we live here in this world. This verse emphasizes that it is each Christian’s responsibility. Salvation here means “of the present experience of God’s power to deliver.”

    The greatest thing to recognize is that Christians have been given the Holy Spirit within to teach us and lead us into the truths found in God’s Word. “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). God promises that He will work in our lives, helping us to do what is right and pleasing to Him. God working in Christians emphasizes that God enables us; for we cannot do it on our own. When you read “both to will”, it is letting Christians know that it is to be our desire to do what God expects of us. When you read “and to do,” we understand that all that we do for the Lord here depends upon His working in us, fulfilling His plan. He allows us to accomplish things for Him while we are on this earth – if we will only obey Him. Remember: we are not doing it alone – for God’s power is helping us. We are to not come short of what God has for our lives here on the earth. Christians are to actually accomplish what God has for us to do.

    There is a picture for us that may help in understanding how we can please God. “11. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13. Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 14. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward” (1 Corinthians 3:11-14). Once I belong to Jesus (He is my foundation), I choose how to build my life here on this earth. In verse twelve, we find six things built upon the foundation “which is Jesus Christ”. The first three listed (gold, silver, and precious stones), picture things that glorify God. Fire cannot destroy the first three. Fire purifies them. However, fire will destroy the last three mentioned (wood, hay, stubble). These things are representative of things from this life and world that we cannot take with us into eternity. It is important that we choose to build lives here that glorify God, and to not choose the temporary things of the here and now. One day, when I stand before God, I will account for the kind of life I lived for Him. My salvation was determined when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Saviour. However, one day I will be rewarded for the things I have accomplished for the Lord. (“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. Also see Romans 8:1). Anything I have done that did not glorify Him will be burned up – for “it shall be revealed by fire”.

    Something that should make the choices in this life easier: Christians are to remember that our lives are no longer our own, for we have been bought with a price. “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:20). Remembering that Jesus gave His life to purchase each Christian’s salvation, Christians are to choose to accomplish the things He has for us to do, pleasing Him.

    Have you chosen to fill your life with the things of this world that will one day be “revealed by fire”?

    Or

    Have you determined to build your life with things that glorify God, looking forward to a reward from Him?