The Biblical Path of Life

Category: Picture with verse and blog

  • 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

  • The Accounting

    “For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.”
    Ecclesiastes 12:14

    There were times in the Old Testament that God warned a people that He would send complete and utter destruction upon them because they were against God’s people and because of their wickedness (remember Nineveh in the book of Nahum). The city of Nineveh saw complete physical destruction. In remembering the book of Nahum, one can see the wrath of God fall upon a nation that had wronged His people. However, more than that, remember that the people in Nineveh had once repented from their sin and wickedness and turned to God (during the days of Jonah). Nevertheless, the people of Nineveh forgot God.

    Nevertheless, we must consider another kind of judgment as well. Each Christian will be accountable for his or her own actions: good or evil. After we die, we will all stand before the Lord and He will pass eternal judgment upon each individual according to what that person has done with his or her life. “10. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. 11. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men …” (2 Corinthians 5:10–11a). These verses were written as a warning to Christian people. Terror in this verse means “a deep and reverential sense of accountability to God or Jesus.” How many Christians are living their life with a deep and reverential sense of accountability to God; or are most people just living a life pleasing self? Just as in the Bible times, today, each person must consider the things done in his body, whether they are good or bad, knowing God is a perfect and righteous judge. Not only will we be accountable, but we should live a life that persuades others to have a reverential fear of God as well. God had spared the city of Nineveh once before (remember Jonah). Nevertheless, when they returned to sin, forsaking God and His people, there was a price to pay.

    In the New Testament, we can read pictures of a life apart from Christ. These are then compared to a life with Christ. Be encouraged to compare your own life to these verses and see what kind of a life you live in comparison to God’s Word, revealing the kind of witness you are.

    We must understand the law reveals the sinner (remember that all are sinners according to Romans 3:23). “9. Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10. For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine” (1 Timothy 1:9–10). 

    Christians are not to live like the world. “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: 19. Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness” (Ephesians 4:17–19).

    How are Christians to live? Read and then reread the following verses: “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; 24. And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 25. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour … 26. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27. Neither give place to the devil. 28. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good … 29. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying … 30. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God … 31. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32. And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:22–32).

    Remember what Solomon recorded for us to remember. “For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).

    Do you live a life in which you are ready to give an accounting to the Lord?

  • A Light to the Gentiles

    “And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.”
    Isaiah 60:3

    We are all familiar with the birth of Jesus that we often refer to as the “Christmas Story.” There had been about four hundred years without a new word from God or His prophets. Suddenly, we learn the angels begin to tell of the birth of Jesus that would soon be. When Jesus was born, the angels declared the birth of the “Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11) to the shepherds who went to see Him. However, have you thought about what happened shortly after Jesus’ birth? 

    Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem, Jesus had been born, and the shepherds had visited. “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem” (Matthew 2:1). Notice the question these wise men asked, “Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2). They went to the obvious place to find a newborn king: the palace (the king’s house) in the capital city, Jerusalem. Remember though, that the reigning king, Herod, was an illegitimate king appointed by the Roman government to rule over the Jewish people. Read how he responded to this news. “When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him” (Matthew 2:3). To understand this verse better, you have to know a little about King Herod. He built many great buildings, but he was also known for his great jealousy and cruelty. He had his own wife and two sons put to death. That helps us better understand why when it was declared that a new king had been born, “he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.” No one at the palace knew of a newborn king – but Herod wanted to find out. “4. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. 5. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, 6. And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel” (Matthew 2:4-6). The religious leaders had found the answer in God’s Word (in Micah 5:2). Notice that the chief priests and scribes were the ones who knew the answer – yet we do not read that any of them even went to look for this Governor, who would rule God’s people.

    When Herod called in the wise man to give them the answer, he sent them to search and find the child. Herod told these wise men to return and tell him where this new king was found so that he too, could go and worship him (see Matthew 2:7-8). When the wise men left, the star went before them until it stood over where the young child was. “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy” (Matthew 2:10). But more than that: “11. 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. 12. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way” (Matthew 2:11-12). They worshiped the child and presented Him with gifts. The Wise Men also heeded the warning from God and did not return to King Herod to tell him where the new king had been born.  

    God also warned Joseph of the pending danger (see Matthew 2:13-15a). Joseph obeyed God, and Jesus’ life was spared. And remember wicked King Herod? When he finally figured out that the wise men were not returning, he was angry. He had all the children two years old and under killed (see Matthew 2:16). However, what Herod did not know was that God had already moved Jesus to a safer place, protecting Him from wicked King Herod.

    Remember what Isaiah wrote hundreds of years earlier. “1. Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. 2. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. 3. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. 6. The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD” (Isaiah 60:1-3, 6). Remember that there were about four hundred years of silence from God before Jesus was born (“darkness shall cover the earth”). Then angels appeared declaring Jesus, the Savior of the world, was coming (“his glory shall be seen upon thee”). Remember also that Jesus is the “Light of the world” (see John 8:12). Wise men (“Gentiles”) from the east brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (“they shall bring gold and incense”). It all happened just as God declared it would.

    Have you recognized Jesus, the Saviour, which is Christ the Lord?

    How to be Saved

  • Christmas Time

    “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”
    Luke 2:10

    This has been another crazy year. Many things continue to feel uncertain. So much has changed. It is hard to believe that the year 2021 is almost over. Does it feel like Christmas time?

    Have you ever watched A Charlie Brown Christmas? As it opens, Charlie Brown is declaring to Linus, “I think there must be something wrong with me. Christmas is coming, but I’m not happy. I don’t feel the way I’m supposed to feel. I just don’t understand Christmas, I guess.” He then continues by telling Linus all of the things he likes about the Christmas season, but that he still isn’t happy. “I always end up feeling depressed,” declares Charlie Brown. Linus tells Charlie Brown that only he could turn a wonderful season like Christmas and turn it into a problem.

    If you remember how the show progresses, Charlie Brown is in charge of the Christmas program. He finds that everything he does turns into a disaster. In the midst of it all, he declares that he really doesn’t know what Christmas is all about. He then cries out, “Isn’t there anyone who can tell me what Christmas is all about?!”

    Linus steps up declaring that he knows what Christmas is all about. One should remember what Linus quotes to everyone who is there: “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:8-14).

    Most people in the world today seem to forget: What Christmas is all about. In the cartoon A Charlie Brown Christmas, the point is made. It is not the giving and receiving of Christmas gifts, the sending of Christmas cards, the commercialism that Christmas has become, and not even the Christmas programs that people try to make happen. The simplicity of the Christmas message is lost on the masses. It is purely what the angels told the shepherds in the field that night so long ago: “For, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. ” The good tiding of great joy was the birth of Jesus, the Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. One must understand that Christmas is about the greatest gift ever given: Jesus. God so loved us that He sent His only Son. “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). God revealed His love for us by sending His only Son to die for our sin. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Then one must believe that Jesus did die to pay the penalty for our sin. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). He came to die (because of our sin), so that we could have life (because we cannot pay the penalty for our sin). Whoever will believe in Him, though they were dead in their sins and trespasses, yet shall he live. (Remember what Jesus declared to Martha, “Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live” John 11:25.) Each person must understand that Christmas is remembering the giving of the greatest gift. God gave His only Son, Jesus. What is one to do with that important information? “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). This message of Jesus is the tidings of great joy! To all people!

    This gift is available to anyone. But this gift must be received by one who would only believe.

    Do you know what Christmas is all about?

    Have you received God’s gift (Jesus) into your heart and life?

    How to be Saved

  • Having Done All, to Stand

    “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”
    Ephesians 6:13

    Nehemiah was a man who was faithful in his job as a king’s cupbearer in the land of Persia. Yet when he heard of the condition of the broken down walls in Jerusalem, he had a desire to do something about it. First, he prayed. Then when the king asked what he wanted, Nehemiah asked if the king would send him to Jerusalem, the home of his people, to build it. The king sent him. Nehemiah led the people to rebuild the city walls in spite of the resistance against them, encouraging the people to remember God was with them. This is what we remember Nehemiah for accomplishing. However, Nehemiah did so much more.

    Nehemiah understood the importance of not only the physical rebuilding of the city that was needed, but also the spiritual rebuilding that must coincide. When he saw wrong living among the people, he “consulted” with himself and understood what was needed to make corrections. He knew the Word of God and helped apply those principles to the people’s living. Throughout these changes, the enemies constantly tried to harm or kill Nehemiah. Nevertheless, he perceived this danger, and by God’s grace avoided those instances of mischief.

    Nehemiah had promised the king he would return to fulfill his job in Persia. Because of that promise to leave Jerusalem, Nehemiah understood the importance of implementing certain things before he left. He set porters (watchmen) at the doors of the newly built walls, and made sure the religious leaders were organized in their jobs. Nehemiah also established faithful leadership that feared God. Ezra (the ready scribe) read the Law of Moses to the people, and the Levites helped the people understand what was read. When the people heard and understood the Word of God when it was read to them, there was a time of weeping. They recognized the sin in their lives, and they chose to eliminate that sin from their lives. The people committed to follow the Law of Moses. Through all of these actions, Nehemiah was teaching the people to know how to stand.

    • To stand in the truth of God’s Word and oppose the evil that tried to stop the people from rebuilding and protecting the city.
    • To recognize the leaders who feared God that had been placed over them.
    • To know the truth of God’s Word understanding how to live lives pleasing to God.

    Nehemiah was faithful to complete the job God had for him. This job included teaching the people.

    One cannot help but compare the things Nehemiah did to the truths Paul wrote of to the church at Ephesus. He wanted them to know how to stand in the wicked days in which they lived. He gave them principles of God’s Word, teaching them how to live. However, one could not do it on their own. He taught them: “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13). What is this armor one needs to be able to stand and not fall in the evil days?

    One needs the following: “14. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15. And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16. Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints” (Ephesians 6:14-18).

    • Truth
    • Righteousness
    • Gospel
    • Shield of Faith
    • Salvation
    • Word of God (sword)
    • Prayer
    • To Watch

    Can you see these truths lived out in the life of Nehemiah, centuries before they were written to the church at Ephesus? God’s Word never changes. The ability to life a life pleasing to God is the same today, just as it was in the Old Testament times as well as in the New Testament times.

    Do you live a life where you stand in the Truth of God’s Word, having taken the Whole Armor of God?

  • The Heart of the Matter

    “O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!”
    Deuteronomy 5:29

    Do you remember the first murderer in the Bible? His name was Cain. He had a brother named Able. We do not read much about them, but what we do find in God’s Word should help us much if we will only understand.

    “And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD” (Genesis 4:3). We read that Cain understood he was to bring an offering before God, so he brought an offering. “And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering” (Genesis 4:4). Abel, too, understood he was to bring an offering. However, we can read a difference. The Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering. Why? “By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh” (Hebrews 11:4). There is something very important to consider here. One must remember that God does not only look upon outward actions, He looks upon the attitude of the heart. Remember what we can read: “But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). Man looks on the outside, God looks on the heart.

    God knew Cain’s heart. God knew Abel’s heart. It is always a heart issue with God. We can see what comes from Cain’s heart as we continue to remember. “But unto Cain and to his offering he (God) had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell” (Genesis 4:5). Cain was angry. Read the warning God gave Cain: “6. And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7. If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him” (Genesis 4:6-7). If Cain would respond correctly to God, he would be accepted of God. On the converse, if he did not respond correctly sin lie at the door. Cain had a choice: To obey God, or allow the sin to rule his life.

    Read what Cain chose: “And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him” (Genesis 4:8). He chose to kill his brother, Abel. When God came to him, he immediately had a choice. He could confess and ask forgiveness. “And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis 4:9). Do you think God would have forgiven Cain if he had only asked? Remember: “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). Instead, Cain lied to God. “And Cain went out from the presence of the LORD, and dwelt in the land of Nod, on the east of Eden” (Genesis 4:16). Cain chose to leave God.

    See what Jesus said about Abel in the New Testament: “That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar” (Matthew 23:35). Jesus declared Abel was righteous. Next, read some insight we gain on Cain in the New Testament: “Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous” (1 John 3:12). Cain was of the wicked one, Satan, and he killed his brother because he chose his own works, which were evil.

    Remember what God later told Moses: “O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!” (Deuteronomy 5:29).

    Have you realized that God sees the heart and not the outward acts of your attempts at righteousness?

    How to be Saved

  • A Personal Testimony

    “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
    John 14:6

    There was a very religious man, a Pharisee, named Saul. He witnessed an amazing defense of the Gospel Message of Jesus by Stephen that ended in Stephen’s death. When Saul heard of this new “way,” he actively sought to stop it. Although this may have sounded commendable, he was wrong in his thinking. Saul set out to persecute this new way, putting people in prison (see Acts 8:3). However, in reality, see what this caused: “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word” (Acts 8:4).

    Saul received special permission to go to Damascus to bring any of “this way,” bound to Jerusalem. As he went, he saw a great light and heard Someone call out his name. When Saul asked who it was, he found out it was Jesus, the one whom Saul was persecuting. When he heard from Jesus, Himself, Saul had much to consider. Jesus told him, to go to the city and wait (see Acts 9:6b). Saul went to the city and waited. “And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink” (Acts 9:9).

    The Lord sent a certain disciple named Ananias to see Saul. Saul received his sight, and more importantly, he received Jesus into his heart and life. Soon, he was no longer called Saul, but Paul. He became a voice preaching the truth of Jesus. He recorded much of the New Testament for us to read today.

    Later, when he was given the opportunity to share just what had happened to him before a great crowd of people (who wanted to kill him), see how he did this.  

    • Paul briefly reminded them of the sinner he was,
    • He spent time explaining the specific call Jesus made to him,
    • He told of his personal response,
    • Then, he told of the particular job Jesus gave to Paul to accomplish with his life. 
    • Paul briefly reminded them of the sinner he was:

    “1. Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you … 3. I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. 4. And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. 5. … and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished” (Acts 22:1-5). Gamaliel was a doctor of the Law of Moses, and he had at one time been Paul’s teacher. Remember Paul was one of the religious leaders that had hated the Christians. Before Jesus called Paul, Paul persecuted any who believed or taught of “this way.” “This way” in verse 4 refers to what Jesus had said in John 14:6: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”  Jesus is The Way. 

    • He spent time explaining the specific call Jesus made to him & he told of his personal response:

    “6. And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. 7. And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 8. And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. 9. And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. 10. And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. 11. And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus. 12. And one Ananias, a devout man … 13. Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. 14. And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. 15. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.” (Acts 22:6-15). 

    • And then the particular job Jesus gave to Paul to accomplish with his life:

    Paul (Saul) was saved when Jesus called him, and he responded to that call. However, God had a job for him to do. “18. And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. … 21. And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles” (Acts 22:17-21).  Jesus called Paul, he believed and was saved, and then God sent him to preach Jesus – primarily to the Gentiles.

    This is a good basis for anyone to use who will give their testimony of the time they gave their heart and life to Jesus. Spend time understanding how to simply share. A personal testimony of when Jesus called upon one’s heart is pivotal in witnessing to someone else. 

    Have you ever shared your personal salvation experience with anyone else?

    How to be Saved