The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Jesus

  • I Was Blind, but Now I See

    “He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.”

    John 9:25

    Jesus had another opportunity to teach the people. “And as Jesuspassed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth” (John 9:1). We learn that the disciples thought this man was blind because of sin – his or his parents. Jesus wanted to dispel an old thought – that all sicknesses, injuries, or birth defects are caused by sin. “Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him” (John 9:3). Jesus taught that sin was not the cause of this man’s blindness. In the case of the blind man, it was so “that the works of God should be made manifest in him.” Manifest means “to become or be made visible or manifest; make known.” God had a plan for this blind man to receive his sight, bringing Jesus into his life.

    Not only was the blind man to understand what God was doing, it was important for all to know that Jesus was there to do those works of God. “4. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.5. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world” (John 9:4-5). Jesus would not be walking on the earth for long, and He had work to do (see John 5:36; John 17:4). As long as Jesus was there, He was the Light. “6. When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay. 7. And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam,(which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing” (John 9:6-7). This blind man could see.

    From these events, we understand this man was born blind so that at this time in history, God would be revealed to this man and to the world. God’s plan was now known. Because he obeyed the words of Jesus, he could see. This man, who had only known darkness, now understood the importance of light.

    When the people saw that this blind man could now see, they had many questions. When they asked him what happened, he explained (see John 9:8-11). When the Pharisees asked him what happened. He told the story again (see John 9:13-16). They wanted to know who he thought Jesus was. “They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet” (John 9:17). At this point, this is all he knows about Jesus. The Pharisees asked his parents (see John 9:18-23). When the Pharisees told him to give God the glory because they declared Jesus was a sinner, read the man’s response. “He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see” (John 9:25). Because the Pharisees still do not believe or understand, they asked him again how he could see. “He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples?” (John 9:27). This outraged them. “We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is” (John 9:29).

    Watch this man’s understanding and faith begin to grow: “30. The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes. 31. Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. 32. Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. 33. If this man were not of God, he could do nothing” (John 9:30-33). This man who was blind is beginning to see the Light: he recognizes that the Man who healed him was of God. After these statements, the religious leaders cast him out.

    But Jesus found him. “35. Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him,Dost thou believe on the Son of God?36. He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? 37. And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.38. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him” (John 9:35-38). This man became a Believer.

    This blind man did not know anything about Jesus; he was ignorant. This is how most people are when introduced to Jesus. They really know little or nothing about Him. When the man began to understand what Jesus had done for him by giving him sight, his faith began to grow. As he explained to the Pharisees what happened, he began to understand – really see. When faced with Jesus again, he believed. When one recognizes that Jesus is the only way to salvation, and willingly responds in faith, this is the simple Gospel Message.

    The Pharisees could see, yet they would not acknowledge Jesus. Because they could see and rejected Jesus and the truth of who Jesus is, their sin remained (see John 9:39-41).

    Have you chosen to “see” and remain in your sin?

    Or

    Are you able to “see” Jesus is the Light, and the only way to salvation?

    The way to salvation.

  • The Marks of a True Believer

    “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;”

    John 8:31

    Jesus taught the people the way of salvation – only through true belief in Jesus that brings a change of heart and life (see John 8:1-32). At this point, many believed. “As he spake these words, many believed on him” (John 8:30). This is the first step of salvation. However, Jesus wanted them to understand it was more than a “mental assent” to Jesus. Belief demands a changed life that begins in the heart (see Romans 10:9-10). In these teachings, Jesus taught them much more than the way of salvation. He revealed to them the ways to identify true salvation – in their own lives and even in the lives of others.

    We remembered the step of salvation: “As he spake these words, many believed on him” (John 8:30).

    Jesus continued with the first mark of true salvation: “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him,If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed” (John 8:31). Indeed means “truly; of a surety.” For those who truly give their hearts and lives to Jesus, making Jesus the Lord of that life, it is only natural that one must continue in Jesus’ Word (see 2 Timothy 3:14-17). One must read and learn more about the Bible. As one learns more about the Bible, that life is changed from the inside out. One learns to walk like Jesus (see Colossians 1:10; 2:6-7, and Ephesians 5:8).

    The next thing Jesus emphasized was knowing the truth: “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). Make you free means “to liberate; the result of redemption.” Knowing the truth of God’s Word gives Christians much freedom. Jesus fulfilled the Law for us, setting us free to walk with Him according to His Word (see James 1:22). Christians are to continue in that liberty. Paul later emphasized the importance of keeping one’s liberty and not returning to the bondage of the Old Testament Law (see Galatians 5:1).

    The Pharisees challenged Jesus: “They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?” (John 8:33). If you know the history of the Israelites at all, this statement might make you laugh. This nation had been in bondage many times through the years. For example, Moses led them out of bondage in Egypt (see Exodus 5-14). Think of the times of the Judges where God had to send deliverers many time to free the from bondage. Even in the days of the Pharisees who challenged Jesus, God’s people were under the bondage of Rome.

    The bondage the Pharisees were referring to was something completely different than what Jesus was trying to get them to understand. “Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin” (John 8:34). Jesus came to set them free from the law of sin and death (see Romans 8:2). With that freedom comes an understanding that we are to no longer be servants of sin. Later, Paul taught more on this subject (see Romans 6:12-14). All of Romans chapter six will help in the understanding of the importance of not allowing sin to rule a Christian’s life. Christians are to yield to righteousness.

    Jesus taught that true Christians will hear God’s Word: “He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God” (John 8:47). People had come to Jesus before this to hear the Word of God (see Luke 5:1). Jesus later calls Christians His sheep: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). We know that the Bible is the Word of God.

    A Believer must keep His Word, for it is a proof of the salvation in the heart. “Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death” (John 8:51). Why is it so important to keep His Word? “21. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.22. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23. Jesus answered and said unto him,If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. 24. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me” (John 14:21-24). Manifest means “to disclose (by words): appear, declare (plainly), inform.” Not only does keeping His Word show that we love Him, but Jesus said He would manifest Himself to those who keep His Word. Obedience to God’s Word is a key mark of one who is a true Believer (see 1 John 2:3-6).

    When others see you, do they find the marks of a true Believer?

  • The Truth Shall Make You Free

    “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free”

    John 8:32

    In John chapter eight, Jesus was teaching the people. While He was teaching, the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery. They proceeded to tell Jesus what the Law of Moses said should be done. She should be stoned. They asked Jesus what He said about it. “This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not” (John 8:6).

    “So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them,He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her” (John 8:7). Jesus just went back to writing on the ground. “And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst” (John 8:9). Jesus did not accuse them. He did not have to say anything else. Jesus waited for them to recognize that each and every one of them was a sinner. This is the place that every person who hears Jesus must come: recognize that each person is a sinner (see Romans 3:23).

    “10. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? 11. She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her,Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more” (John 8:10-11). Jesus did not condemn this woman (see John 3:17). He told her what she must do: “go, and sin no more.” She must have a change of heart and life (see Romans 10:10; Hebrews 10:26, and 2 Peter 2:20-22).

    Jesus then taught the people more. “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). He not only wanted them to recognize He was the light, but all who followed Jesus fully would have that light. This is the second “I Am” statement Jesus made (see the first in John 6:35). All Jews knew that “I Am” is God (remember Moses learned this in Exodus 3:13-14). Jesus is the Son of God.

    However, these Pharisees would not acknowledge Jesus for who He was. Because Jesus understood this, see what He told them. “Then said Jesus again unto them,I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come” (John 8:21). All who reject Jesus will die in their sin. “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins” (John 8:24). This is the same today. Each person must acknowledge that Jesus is God, the only one who can take away sin and give the gift of eternal life (see Romans 6:23).

    “28. Then said Jesus unto them,When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things” (John 8:28). Jesus wanted them to understand what it was that He came to do: to pay the penalty for man’s sin by His death on the cross (see Romans 5:8, 1 John 2:2, and 1 John 4:10).

    “As he spake these words, many believed on him” (John 8:30). At this point, many understood and believed. However, Jesus wanted them to understand it was more than a “mental assent” to Jesus. Belief demands a changed life (see Romans 12:1-2). “31. Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him,If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;32. And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). The truth of who Jesus is and what He did for me sets me free from sin and death (see Romans 6:14, Romans 8:2, and 1 Corinthians 15:56-57).

    Many of the people Jesus was speaking to believed that it was enough that they were literal children of Abraham, of whom received the promise from God to be His people (see Genesis 12:1-3). “They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham” (John 8:39). Jesus had already taught the people the only work one can do for salvation: “28. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29. Jesus answered and said unto them,This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent” (John 6:28-29). If you remember, Abraham believed in the Lord (see Genesis 15:6).

    Jesus wanted them to understand this required a change of thinking. “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad” (John 8:56). Before they had looked forward to the Messiah. Jesus was teaching them that Messiah had come, for Jesus was whom they had been looking.

    Do you notice anything familiar in these teachings of Jesus? Jesus taught the people the way of salvation – only through true belief in Jesus that brings a change of heart and life.

    Have you recognized you are a sinner, who needs Jesus to set you free?

    The Way of Salvation also found in Romans

  • Walking in Sunlight

    “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

    Have you ever traveled in this life discouraged, wondering how long your troubles may last? Have you had sorrow in your heart, sometimes feeling like the Lord has forgotten you? David wrote a Psalm with some of these questions in his heart and mind. Remember that before David became the king of Israel, King Saul spent many years chasing him wanting to kill him. It was during these days (before he became king) that David took his questions to the Lord.

    Read Psalm 13: “1. To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me? 2. How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me? 3. Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death; 4. Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved. 5. But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation. 6. I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me” (Psalm 13:1-6). This is a song that David wrote during trying times when he felt that God had forgotten him. However he trusted that the Lord was there and would take care of him. Therefore, David would rejoice. David recorded this, obviously to encourage others as well. Although we have no idea what the tune was, the words are extremely relevant for each person today who must remember to trust in the Lord.

    The following song has an encouraging message that reminds me of how David learned to trust God through his troubles, sorrows, and days where he believed his enemy was prevailing over him. Heavenly Sunlight helps one remember that we do not walk through this world alone – for God promised to never forsake those who belong to Him (see Hebrews 13:5)!

    Heavenly Sunlight (by H.J. Zelley)

    1. “Walking in sunlight, all of my journey;
    Over the mountains, thro' the deep vale;
    Jesus has said, “I'll never forsake thee,”
    Promise divine that never can fail. [Refrain]

    2. Shadows around me, shadows above me,
    Never conceal my Savior and Guide;
    He is the light, in Him is no darkness,
    Ever I'm walking close to His side. [Refrain]

    3. In the bright sunlight, ever rejoicing,
    Pressing my way to mansions above;
    Singing His Praises, gladly I'm walking,
    Walking in sunlight, sunlight of love.[Refrain]

    Refrain:
    Heavenly sunlight, heavenly sunlight,
    Flooding my soul with glory divine;
    Hallelujah! I am rejoicing,
    Singing His praises, Jesus is mine.”

    Read a few more encouraging verses of which this song may remind you:

    • “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).
    • “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).
    • “As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things” (2 Corinthians 6:10).
    • “Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?” (I John 5:5).
    • “5. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:5-6).

    Finally, remember how Jesus encouraged His disciples before he went to the cross: “1. Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so,I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, thereye may be also. 4. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.5. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:1-6).

    If David, who looked forward to Jesus’ day, could trust in the Lord and be encouraged, we too can be encouraged today.

    Do you recognize that the Lord will be with you through trials, remembering that Jesus is “the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life”?

  • Offenses Will Come

    “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”

    Matthew 18:6

    Jesus came offering His kingdom to the Israelites. They had been looking for the Messiah. They expected their Messiah to sit on the throne of David and free them from the Roman government. However, they did not understand what it was that Jesus was offering them. He came to give them eternal salvation, restoring the relationship with God that had been severed. Jesus would establish the perfect kingdom, when they recognized Jesus as God, and receive Him as their Messiah. However, the established religious system, the rulers in that system, and the people in general rejected Jesus and what He had to offer them.

    Nevertheless, Jesus’ disciples understood who Jesus was for when He asked them, read Peter’s reply: “And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Because they were beginning to understand that, Jesus began to teach them more. “From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day” (Matthew 16:21). Even though Jesus taught them this, they did not understand.

    Therefore, Jesus began to teach His disciples of the kingdom of God that was beginning to be formed. It was a kingdom that could not be seen with human eyes. When the Pharisees asked Jesus about this kingdom of God, read His reply: “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said,The kingdom of God cometh not with observation” (Luke 17:20). Not with observation means “you cannot see it with human eyes.” Jesus went on to say: “Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:21). Within you means “it is located in your heart and affections; not external.” That is one reason why we refer to being saved as “asking Jesus into your heart.” You cannot see it with your eyes.

    When the disciples asked about the kingdom of heaven, Jesus began to explain. “1. At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2. And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, 3. And said,Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. 4. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. 6. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:1-6). As Jesus began teaching His disciples of the kingdom of God, He began by explaining one must be humble, as a little child. To children, things are simpler, less convoluted. The Gospel Message is very simple – one must just believe – just as a child. Salvation begins with a new birth (see John 3:3). In other words, simply believe and receive without question – just like a child. Offend in Matthew 18:6 means “to craftily entice or lead to ruin, allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin (see also Mark 9:42 and Luke 17:2).” It is a terrible thing to “craftily entice or lead to ruin, allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin” – especially a child! Jesus warned that it would be “better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea”. Just as it is a terrible thing to do this to a child, Jesus wanted us to understand that it is just as bad to offend a new Believer (Christian). It is a very dangerous thing to discourage a new Believer or by “allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin”. Every Christian should be very protective of new Believers and help them in any way to encourage them in this new Christian life. They are babes in Christ, who need to be fed, encouraged, and taught about the things of God. All Christians should help protect them from false doctrines or behavior that is unbecoming to a Christian who lives for Christ.

    Because salvation is so simple, and available to whosoever will believe (see John 3:16), Jesus gave a warning. “Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!” (Matthew 18:7). Offences means “things which lead others to turn away from God’s salvation and thus to come to ruin (see also Luke 17:1).” It is a very serious thing to turn anyone away from God’s salvation.

    Do you lead others toward salvation and encourage new Believers by living a Christ-like life, teaching them the things of God?

    Salvation

  • Christian Living

    “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”

    Hebrews 12:1

    The following is an excerpt from The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Four, Lesson 5:

    ‘Remember how we have learned that living a faithful Christian life is much like running a race (see 1 Corinthians 9:24-27). The goal to be kept in sight is Jesus (see Philippians 3:12-14). After remember many of the faithful men and women from the Old Testament (see Hebrews 11) who looked forward to the fulfillment of God’s promise – Jesus – see what they are to Christians today.

    “1. Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

    All of those faithful who have died are now in heaven, watching Christians today. But more than that, they are mighty examples to us as we recognize the importance of eliminating the things that weigh us down, enabling us to run the race that is a faithful Christ-like life. Remember this, and it will help one keep their focus upon Jesus – always reminding Christians to life a life pleasing to Jesus.

    Moreover, Christians are not left without instruction. And more importantly, correction for when one chooses to live wrong (contrary to God’s Word).

    “5. And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6. For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. 7. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?”(Hebrews 12:5-7).

    Remember that Christians are God’s children, and He disciplines Christians as His children. “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby” (Hebrews 12:11). Do you know of anyone who likes to get in trouble when they do something wrong? The smallest toddlers and children dislike it, teenagers despise it, and even adults do not appreciate chastisement (think: speeding ticket, etc.). Nevertheless, Christians are to remember that chastisement from God is perfect and right – and it makes Christians become more Christ-like when they receive that correction.

    How can Christians prevent chastisement? “5. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:5-6).

    • Conversation means “disposition; manner; mode of thinking or feeling; acting; a turn of the mind.”
    • Without covetousness means “not fond of money; not a lover of money.”
    • Content means “to be satisfied with.”

    Once again, Christians are reminded to live a right life through Jesus and to be content with what God has given (see Philippians 4:11, and 1 Timothy 6:8). God will take care of His children.

    What else is important? “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation” (Hebrews 13:7). Listening to godly pastors, teachers, and faithful Christian friends – making sure their lifestyle reflects faith taught in God’s Word. See what else Hebrews says about the importance of listening to faithful men and women of God. “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you” (Hebrews 13:17). Each person who teaches others about Jesus must give an account of that teaching. Think of it as keeping that teacher in check – not saying what they feel or think, but only what God’s Word has to say about issues. That may be one of the more difficult things a teacher does, but God will hold that teacher accountable for what is taught. So what does the writer of Hebrews add next? “Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly” (Hebrews 13:18). It is important for every teacher to desire the prayers of faithful Christians, helping them to not only teach correctly, but to live right before God.’

    Have you learned to keep Jesus as the goal in your Christian live, remembering the faithful who have done this?

  • The Way of the Cross

    “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”

    Galatians 5:16

    It is always important to remember salvation is by faith in Jesus and His atoning death upon the cross. “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). Once one trusts in Jesus, it is incumbent upon that new Christian to make Jesus Lord of that life. We then understand that the Christian life is not just difficult; it is impossible to live apart from the Holy Spirit. “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). We are taught to walk in the Spirit. The only way to do this is to learn to deny oneself and do what Christ would have us do. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). It is with these thoughts that I awoke the other morning singing the following song. As I looked up the words to it, I was amazed at the three-fold teaching.

    I Must Needs go Home by the Way of the Cross

    Author: Jessie Brown Pounds (1906)

    “1. I must needs go home by the way of the cross;
    There’s no other way but this.
    I shall ne’er get sight of the Gates of Light
    If the way of the cross I miss. [Refrain]

    2. I must needs go home in the blood-sprinkled way,
    The path that the Savior trod,
    If I ever climb to the heights sublime,
    Where the soul is at home with God. [Refrain]

    3. Then I bid farewell to the way of the world,
    To walk in it nevermore;
    For the Lord says, “Come,” and I seek my home
    Where He waits at the open door. [Refrain]

    Refrain:
    The way of the cross leads home.
    The way of the cross leads home.
    It is sweet to know, as I onward go,
    The way of the cross leads home.”

    I remembered the song teaching that salvation is only through the cross upon which Jesus died. “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). If I miss Jesus, I miss – for there is no other way.

    As I read verse two, I recognized that it was teaching that I must walk in the way that Jesus walked: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). That is exactly what Jesus did. I am to follow His example.

    As I read the words to the third verse, I remembered that one day I will leave this world and all of its’ struggles, to live with my Lord forevermore. “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God” (1 John 5:13).

    In all ways – salvation, walking, and living by the Spirit in this world, and looking forward to my future home – all are by the way of the cross. They each lead me to my eternal home. So the important thing for me to concentrate upon (once I have been saved) is to walk in the Spirit, and I will not fulfill the lust of the flesh. That is my daily job. Remember the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians: “22. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23. Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Galatians 5.22-23). As I walk in the Spirit, I begin to produce that fruit, and my character becomes more like Christ. It is then that others can see Jesus in me.

    Have you chosen to walk in the Spirit, daily, producing fruit that changes your character to be more like Jesus?

  • Lesson 13: Review of the New Testament: Matthew – Revelation

    Key Verse

    Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

    —Psalm 119:9

    Key Verse Thought: Read the Key Verse. Use the following definitions to help with the understanding of this verse:

    • Wherewithal means “how”
    • Young man means “from the age of infancy to adolescence; a girl or boy”
    • Cleanse means “to be transparent; clear; pure; innocent; to cleanse oneself”
    • Taking heed means “to guard; generally to protect or attend (keep the mind on) to; to regard; to preserve”

    From this verse one can understand that the only way to keep one’s life pure and innocent, pleasing God, is to keep one’s heart and mind on God’s Word, living according to what is written within.

    Emphasis: We are to understand that Jesus is the One promised from the beginning of time, and His life is revealed in the Bible. Christians must recognize the importance of knowing about all of God’s Word for it teaches each Christian how to live.

    Lesson Summary: This lesson will be a review over the whole New Testament. First remember the divisions we have learned. If you are teaching a class, instead of you, as the teacher, trying to teach the entire New Testament in one lesson, have your students tell you what they remember about the different divisions, and then about the different books. We must understand the importance of remembering just who Jesus is, and what He did for mankind. Also recognize the new Christians’ perseverance as they faithfully spread the Gospel message – even while suffering persecution. Remember the great leader Peter was as he helped establish the church among the Jews, and Paul as he dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel message to the Gentile nations on his missionary journeys. Even when Paul suffered great persecutions and imprisonments, he still took the time to not only continually tell people about Jesus, but he wrote many letters that now make up much of our New Testament. The most important thing we can and must recognize: all of Scripture is important for Christians to know in order to live that life God requires Christians to live. Without knowing the Scriptures, one can never fully please God with his life. Be encouraged to desire to not only read, but also to know God’s Word.

    Y3Q4 – Lesson 13 Questions

    Y3Q4 – Lesson 13 Children’s Worksheets

    The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Four is available through Amazon

  • 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?

  • 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?