My last post was about the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus Christ, when he shed his precious blood to atone for sin, and when he took upon himself the penalty for sin by which all those who put their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ to be their Saviour are saved. In this post, Jesus is risen from the tomb and witnessed by Mary Magdalene and his disciples. Chapter 20 begins with Mary Magdalene coming early to the sepulchre.
V1-10 On the first day of the week when it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb where Jesus was laid and saw that the stone which had sealed the opening was taken away. Then she ran and came to Simon Peter and to "the other disciple whom Jesus loved" (this is the apostle John who wrote this gospel, he never refers to himself by name) and said to them "they have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him." The "we" are the other ladies who went to the tomb with Mary Magdalene. They supposed that someone had stolen the body of Jesus. So Peter and John ran together, and John got to the tomb first but did not enter. From the entrance he saw the linen cloths that Jesus had been wrapped in. Peter arrived, and being of a bolder nature, entered the tomb and saw the linen cloths lying, but the napkin that had been wound around the head of Jesus was not lying with the other cloths, but was wrapped together in a place by itself. Then John came in and saw, and believed that Jesus was gone. But as yet they did not know that Jesus must rise from the dead, and they went back home.
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
John 19: 17-42 - The Crucifixion and Burial of the Lord Jesus Christ
My last post from the gospel of John was of Jesus being condemned by Pilate to crucifixion and he was led away. Because John 19:17-42 covers many verses, they will be condensed and focus on the highlights and the sayings of Jesus as he hung on the cross. Jesus said 7 things while he was on the cross, only two of them are recorded in the gospel of John. Also, this gospel does not go into any detail of the darkness that fell on the land for three hours during which Jesus shed his precious blood and took upon himself the penalty for sin. This was the reason that Jesus came into this world, to redeem all those who call upon him by faith to be their Saviour.
V17-22 Jesus went forth to a place called Golgotha and was crucified there with two others, one on either side and Jesus in the midst. We read in the gospel of Luke that while at first both of these men railed upon Jesus, one of them recognized that he was receiving the punishment for what he had done and said to Jesus "Jesus, Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom" and Jesus said to him, "today you shall be with me in Paradise." There is no age limit when men can be saved, until your last breath is taken, the Lord will save those who recognize that they are lost, and call upon Jesus to be their Saviour.
Pilate had a sign made and had it hung on the cross, this said "Jesus of Nazareth the King of the Jews. Pilate did condemn Jesus because of the threats of the Jews, but he found no fault in him. This sign was written in Hebrew, Greek and Latin. The chief priests were not happy about that and said that Pilate should change the sign to say that Jesus said I Am King of the Jews, but Pilate said that what he had written, he had written.
V17-22 Jesus went forth to a place called Golgotha and was crucified there with two others, one on either side and Jesus in the midst. We read in the gospel of Luke that while at first both of these men railed upon Jesus, one of them recognized that he was receiving the punishment for what he had done and said to Jesus "Jesus, Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom" and Jesus said to him, "today you shall be with me in Paradise." There is no age limit when men can be saved, until your last breath is taken, the Lord will save those who recognize that they are lost, and call upon Jesus to be their Saviour.
Pilate had a sign made and had it hung on the cross, this said "Jesus of Nazareth the King of the Jews. Pilate did condemn Jesus because of the threats of the Jews, but he found no fault in him. This sign was written in Hebrew, Greek and Latin. The chief priests were not happy about that and said that Pilate should change the sign to say that Jesus said I Am King of the Jews, but Pilate said that what he had written, he had written.
Monday, February 25, 2019
A Christian Birth Certificate?
Yesterday at church, before the meeting began, someone was handing out "Birth Certificates".
As it turned out, this certificate stated what a Christian was, and had a few bible verses on it. Then there was room for a signature and a date. And therein lies the problem. Just because a person signs something does definitely not make them a Christian.
For the past few weeks there has been a man attending our church and sometimes he brings his son who is about 20. They are not Christians but the man is getting to know his bible and has a lot of interest. He has yet to make a profession of faith. I had great concern that he would sign this certificate and think that he was saved, as might his son.
This is similar to what happened to one of my granddaughters who attended bible camp. One day the leader said to them "stand up if you want to say you are saved", and so she stood up and now she thinks that she is saved. But salvation is believing that you are a sinner, and that the Lord Jesus went to the cross, shed his precious blood and took upon himself the penalty for your sin. It is putting your trust in him. If you do not believe the gospel and trust in Christ, no matter how many "birth certificates" you sign, or how many "decision cards" you sign, you are still lost in your sins.
I asked my husband to speak to the man who has been attending and let him know that signing the certificate meant nothing, and thankfully, they had a good discussion.
Why do people do these things? I do not know, but I pray that it doesn't happen again.
"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved"
Romans 5:6,8-9 "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him."
_____________________________
vcg
As it turned out, this certificate stated what a Christian was, and had a few bible verses on it. Then there was room for a signature and a date. And therein lies the problem. Just because a person signs something does definitely not make them a Christian.
For the past few weeks there has been a man attending our church and sometimes he brings his son who is about 20. They are not Christians but the man is getting to know his bible and has a lot of interest. He has yet to make a profession of faith. I had great concern that he would sign this certificate and think that he was saved, as might his son.
This is similar to what happened to one of my granddaughters who attended bible camp. One day the leader said to them "stand up if you want to say you are saved", and so she stood up and now she thinks that she is saved. But salvation is believing that you are a sinner, and that the Lord Jesus went to the cross, shed his precious blood and took upon himself the penalty for your sin. It is putting your trust in him. If you do not believe the gospel and trust in Christ, no matter how many "birth certificates" you sign, or how many "decision cards" you sign, you are still lost in your sins.
I asked my husband to speak to the man who has been attending and let him know that signing the certificate meant nothing, and thankfully, they had a good discussion.
Why do people do these things? I do not know, but I pray that it doesn't happen again.
"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved"
Romans 5:6,8-9 "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him."
_____________________________
vcg
Music Festival: More Character, Less Dance
Last night was the final night for me to attend the music festival held annually in our town. My last two posts have been about the prior nights. Last night was the Musical Theatre section, solos and groups. My granddaughter's entry was I Feel Pretty from West Side Story, and she wore a costume that was a perfect replica of the one in the movie, yellow dress with a red apron.
Before her class, there was one entry that stood out in a class of people younger than my granddaughter. That was a girl from the dance studio my granddaughter attends. It was called Daryl Is a Boy (Who Lives in my Closet) and it was very funny.
As my granddaughter's class began, she was the second person to perform. She danced her heart out and did a beautiful job, but to my untrained eye, I thought there was more dance than character. As the class went on, one number in particular brought loud laughter from the audience, that was a number called I Really Really Love You (Stalker Song). Now I never thought I would ever find a song about a stalker funny as I had one very bad experience in my younger years, but this number was comedic and it was hilarious.
After a very long night, it was time for the adjudications and awards. But the adjudicator said something that would let most of the people in my granddaughter's class out of the running for awards. That was, he was more interested in character than he was in dance, so it was the character performances that he placed first, second and third. I guess I understand his point but it was a sad moment for those young people who had danced their best.
After the performances were over, I waited downstairs for my granddaughter to come out. And I presented her with roses, red with a yellow center, the same color as her dress. And I told her that she did a great job, and that I was so proud of her. I gave her a hug and then came home.
There is still Jazz groups tonight, but I will not be attending. Over the last 3 days I have had little to eat or drink because I have a medical condition and I didn't want it to interrupt my watching the performances. It will be good to get back to normal eating.
_______________________________
vcg
Before her class, there was one entry that stood out in a class of people younger than my granddaughter. That was a girl from the dance studio my granddaughter attends. It was called Daryl Is a Boy (Who Lives in my Closet) and it was very funny.
As my granddaughter's class began, she was the second person to perform. She danced her heart out and did a beautiful job, but to my untrained eye, I thought there was more dance than character. As the class went on, one number in particular brought loud laughter from the audience, that was a number called I Really Really Love You (Stalker Song). Now I never thought I would ever find a song about a stalker funny as I had one very bad experience in my younger years, but this number was comedic and it was hilarious.
After a very long night, it was time for the adjudications and awards. But the adjudicator said something that would let most of the people in my granddaughter's class out of the running for awards. That was, he was more interested in character than he was in dance, so it was the character performances that he placed first, second and third. I guess I understand his point but it was a sad moment for those young people who had danced their best.
After the performances were over, I waited downstairs for my granddaughter to come out. And I presented her with roses, red with a yellow center, the same color as her dress. And I told her that she did a great job, and that I was so proud of her. I gave her a hug and then came home.
There is still Jazz groups tonight, but I will not be attending. Over the last 3 days I have had little to eat or drink because I have a medical condition and I didn't want it to interrupt my watching the performances. It will be good to get back to normal eating.
_______________________________
vcg
Sunday, February 24, 2019
Music Festival: A Darker Night
Yesterday I wrote about the joy at the annual music festival where I live. Last night my husband and I attended again and it was not so joyful, I'm sad to say. I was not feeling very well and because my granddaughter's group was in the first class, we had decided that if the adjudications did not follow shortly after that, we were going to leave. As it turned out, we did leave after her class. I do not know how they placed, but there seemed to be a theme running through the class that made my husband and I very uncomfortable.
I always check out the music my granddaughter's groups are using if I am unfamiliar with it, and so I knew that their music came from a horror film. I wondered why her teacher would choose that music. Before the performance my daughter-in-law asked me if I knew abut the music and I said that yes, I did. She said that there was a red balloon but then she added "I'll say no more."
The class began with a group dancing to a very strange piece about sound. It was sung in mostly a monotone voice, some of the lyrics were questionable. But after that it grew worse. The next group's piece was about violence, the group after that I think was about war because the dancers wore camouflage and one of them was supposedly dead at the end. The next next one was a piece about inner demons with the dancers half wearing white, half red. Then my granddaughter's group all dressed in yellow rain slickers with hoods, one carrying a red balloon. In the music, a child began singing and then the music became much more intense. It was creepy. The group after that had a song about someones cremation. And with the class ended, my husband and I were quick to exit the building. As Christians, we did not think that we should even have attended, and if it were not that I wanted to support my granddaughter, we would not have gone.
Was it coincidence that all these groups chose the same type of music? Or is this the state of the world now that this music is popular? That thought is unsettling to me. And we wondered, does practicing the dance for a long time listening to this music have any effect on the young ladies that are practicing the dance? I hope not.
Tonight the festival goes on with Musical Theatre. My granddaughter will be doing a solo from West Side Story, called "I Feel Pretty". Her costume is an exact replica of the one the character wore in the movie. It is a very happy song, and I am thankful for that. I hope that the rest of the solos are happier pieces as well.
Time will tell..
______________________________
vcg
I always check out the music my granddaughter's groups are using if I am unfamiliar with it, and so I knew that their music came from a horror film. I wondered why her teacher would choose that music. Before the performance my daughter-in-law asked me if I knew abut the music and I said that yes, I did. She said that there was a red balloon but then she added "I'll say no more."
The class began with a group dancing to a very strange piece about sound. It was sung in mostly a monotone voice, some of the lyrics were questionable. But after that it grew worse. The next group's piece was about violence, the group after that I think was about war because the dancers wore camouflage and one of them was supposedly dead at the end. The next next one was a piece about inner demons with the dancers half wearing white, half red. Then my granddaughter's group all dressed in yellow rain slickers with hoods, one carrying a red balloon. In the music, a child began singing and then the music became much more intense. It was creepy. The group after that had a song about someones cremation. And with the class ended, my husband and I were quick to exit the building. As Christians, we did not think that we should even have attended, and if it were not that I wanted to support my granddaughter, we would not have gone.
Was it coincidence that all these groups chose the same type of music? Or is this the state of the world now that this music is popular? That thought is unsettling to me. And we wondered, does practicing the dance for a long time listening to this music have any effect on the young ladies that are practicing the dance? I hope not.
Tonight the festival goes on with Musical Theatre. My granddaughter will be doing a solo from West Side Story, called "I Feel Pretty". Her costume is an exact replica of the one the character wore in the movie. It is a very happy song, and I am thankful for that. I hope that the rest of the solos are happier pieces as well.
Time will tell..
______________________________
vcg
Saturday, February 23, 2019
The Loudest Applause
Last night something wonderful happened. Every year a music festival is held in the town where I live. Yesterday was the beginning of the dance section and I knew my granddaughter would be dancing from Friday night through Monday night. It is always my habit to go early to secure a good parking spot and I wait in the lobby of the theatre. There was listed in the program for last night a group called "Community Group". This group is made up of mentally challenged individuals that come on-stage with their helpers. Last year they did "Footloose" costumed as cowboys and brought the house down. I hoped that this was the same group that would be dancing last night.
As I waited in the lobby, the solo and group dancers began to arrive, some carrying costumes, all beautifully made up. Then two young men arrived with accompanying adults and they greeted each other heartily. I knew that they were part of the Community group.
The program began with solo dancers, each well trained and well choreographed, floating across the stage on pointe. Beautiful to behold. Then came the group dancers, also well trained and well choreographed with costumes to match the music. They danced in perfect unison.
Then it was time for the Community Group, and music called "This Is Us" began to play. The same young man that I saw downstairs was accompanied by another adult. He had a huge smile on his face, and was dressed as a magician complete with top hat and wand. He waved his wand and drew a toy rabbit out of his hat, perfectly joyful to be there. The audience erupted with shouts and loud applause. Then it became clear that this year, instead of being cowboys, they were acts in a circus. The magician stayed where he was and three more people came to the stage carrying hula hoops. One girl made hers do circles on the floor, while another spun hers on her arm, and they also received applause. But the man who was with them was having trouble getting his to circle around his arm, but he tried again and the hula hoop went in a perfect circle. The audience was hugely responsive and by now the applause went on and on. Next a young man dressed as a clown rode a hobby horse across the stage and the applause became louder. Then a pause and two people carried a rope to the stage and laid it down end to end. This was followed by several adults who followed each other stepping along the rope, and suddenly we could envision them walking across a tightrope suspended high in the air. They were waving and smiling, so full of joy. By this time the applause was deafening and for myself, I had a lump in my throat because for this group, this was not a competition. They were dancing for the sheer joy it brought them, and I know that we, the audience were filled with joy watching them.
Tonight the competition will go on, the dancers will be beautifully costumed, well trained and well choreographed. They will do their best and there will be awards. Perhaps some of them will be nervous, and some will be more confident. But as much as I enjoy watching this competition every year, I confess I have a special spot in my heart for the Community Group and the joy with which they do their dance. Just because one is challenged, no matter what that challenge may be, you can do it!
__________________________________
vcg
As I waited in the lobby, the solo and group dancers began to arrive, some carrying costumes, all beautifully made up. Then two young men arrived with accompanying adults and they greeted each other heartily. I knew that they were part of the Community group.
The program began with solo dancers, each well trained and well choreographed, floating across the stage on pointe. Beautiful to behold. Then came the group dancers, also well trained and well choreographed with costumes to match the music. They danced in perfect unison.
Then it was time for the Community Group, and music called "This Is Us" began to play. The same young man that I saw downstairs was accompanied by another adult. He had a huge smile on his face, and was dressed as a magician complete with top hat and wand. He waved his wand and drew a toy rabbit out of his hat, perfectly joyful to be there. The audience erupted with shouts and loud applause. Then it became clear that this year, instead of being cowboys, they were acts in a circus. The magician stayed where he was and three more people came to the stage carrying hula hoops. One girl made hers do circles on the floor, while another spun hers on her arm, and they also received applause. But the man who was with them was having trouble getting his to circle around his arm, but he tried again and the hula hoop went in a perfect circle. The audience was hugely responsive and by now the applause went on and on. Next a young man dressed as a clown rode a hobby horse across the stage and the applause became louder. Then a pause and two people carried a rope to the stage and laid it down end to end. This was followed by several adults who followed each other stepping along the rope, and suddenly we could envision them walking across a tightrope suspended high in the air. They were waving and smiling, so full of joy. By this time the applause was deafening and for myself, I had a lump in my throat because for this group, this was not a competition. They were dancing for the sheer joy it brought them, and I know that we, the audience were filled with joy watching them.
Tonight the competition will go on, the dancers will be beautifully costumed, well trained and well choreographed. They will do their best and there will be awards. Perhaps some of them will be nervous, and some will be more confident. But as much as I enjoy watching this competition every year, I confess I have a special spot in my heart for the Community Group and the joy with which they do their dance. Just because one is challenged, no matter what that challenge may be, you can do it!
__________________________________
vcg
Friday, February 22, 2019
John 19:1-16 - Man's Cruelty to Jesus and Pilate Seeks to Release Jesus Again
The gospel of John chapter 19 follows the Jews choosing the criminal Barabbas as the person to be released as per the Roman custom of releasing a prisoner at the passover. This chapter shows man's cruelty to Jesus.
V1-5 "Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns and put it onto his head, and they put on him a purple robe. And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands. Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him. Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man."
It makes no sense at all that Pilate had Jesus scourged when he could find no fault in him. But perhaps this was a compromise to the Jews. Perhaps if they could see the cruel punishment that had been done to Jesus, they would have pity and let him go. The scourge was no ordinary whip. Not to go into any details, but the scourging left Jesus so weak that another man named Simon was compelled to carry his cross, because Jesus was so weakened by the scourging. The soldiers mocked Jesus by making him a crown of thorns which would have pierced his skin, and they put on him a purple robe, the color of royalty. In another gospel we are also told that they plucked out his beard. They said "hail King of the Jews" not realizing that Jesus really is King. After the soldiers had finished their cruel acts, Pilate brought Jesus forth again saying he found no fault in him. Pilate did not want any part in putting Jesus to death. But Jesus was still wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, and this incited the Jews even further.
V1-5 "Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns and put it onto his head, and they put on him a purple robe. And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands. Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him. Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man."
It makes no sense at all that Pilate had Jesus scourged when he could find no fault in him. But perhaps this was a compromise to the Jews. Perhaps if they could see the cruel punishment that had been done to Jesus, they would have pity and let him go. The scourge was no ordinary whip. Not to go into any details, but the scourging left Jesus so weak that another man named Simon was compelled to carry his cross, because Jesus was so weakened by the scourging. The soldiers mocked Jesus by making him a crown of thorns which would have pierced his skin, and they put on him a purple robe, the color of royalty. In another gospel we are also told that they plucked out his beard. They said "hail King of the Jews" not realizing that Jesus really is King. After the soldiers had finished their cruel acts, Pilate brought Jesus forth again saying he found no fault in him. Pilate did not want any part in putting Jesus to death. But Jesus was still wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, and this incited the Jews even further.
Thursday, February 21, 2019
John 18:28-40 - After the High Priest Jesus is Brought to Pilate
The time is very near for the Lord Jesus to go to the cross. He has been betrayed by Judas, arrested and has appeared before the high priest Caiaphas, to answer his questions. Now Jesus is taken to Pontius Pilate.
V28-32 "Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover. Pilate then went out unto them, and said What accusation bring ye against this man? They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor we would not have delivered him up unto thee. Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, it is not lawful for us to put any man to death: that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die."
Such hypocrisy, the Jews took the Lord Jesus to Pilate because they did not want to be the ones to put him to death, they did not want to "dirty their hands" as it were. They believed they would be defiled if they entered the judgment hall and so Pilate came out to them. They wanted to be "clean" so they could keep the Passover and yet they desired that Jesus be put to death. So Pilate came out to them to ask what the accusation was against Jesus. But the Jews did not tell Pilate exactly what their charge against Jesus was, they just said that he was a "malefactor". When Pilate said that Jesus should be judged according to their law, they said that it was not lawful for them to put any man to death. But we know that certainly that was not true, as in the book of Acts, Stephen is stoned to death and the apostle Paul was also stoned although he did not die from the stoning. But all this was unfolding according to God's plan, that the scripture would be fulfilled. Previously Jesus said that he would be "lifted up" and this is crucifixion.
V28-32 "Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover. Pilate then went out unto them, and said What accusation bring ye against this man? They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor we would not have delivered him up unto thee. Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, it is not lawful for us to put any man to death: that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die."
Such hypocrisy, the Jews took the Lord Jesus to Pilate because they did not want to be the ones to put him to death, they did not want to "dirty their hands" as it were. They believed they would be defiled if they entered the judgment hall and so Pilate came out to them. They wanted to be "clean" so they could keep the Passover and yet they desired that Jesus be put to death. So Pilate came out to them to ask what the accusation was against Jesus. But the Jews did not tell Pilate exactly what their charge against Jesus was, they just said that he was a "malefactor". When Pilate said that Jesus should be judged according to their law, they said that it was not lawful for them to put any man to death. But we know that certainly that was not true, as in the book of Acts, Stephen is stoned to death and the apostle Paul was also stoned although he did not die from the stoning. But all this was unfolding according to God's plan, that the scripture would be fulfilled. Previously Jesus said that he would be "lifted up" and this is crucifixion.
Wednesday, February 20, 2019
John 18:19-27 - Jesus is Questioned and Peter's Denials
In the beginning of John 18, Jesus is betrayed by Judas who leads a group of men to the place where he knew Jesus would be. Jesus is arrested and taken before the high priest, Caiaphas. Peter has denied knowing the Lord Jesus one time and is now warming himself by a fire where the officers who arrested Jesus stood.
V19-24 "The high priest then asked Jesus ....... of his doctrine. Jesus answered hi, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the Temple whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said." But one of the officers struck Jesus with the palm of his hand....."Jesus answered him, if I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me? Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiphas the high priest."
Jesus was questioned by Caiaphus about his doctrine and Jesus' response is that he never taught anything in secret, it was always in public. The synagogue was a house of worship, while the Temple is the holy place in Jerusalem. Jesus asked Caiaphas, since his teachings were always public, why was the high priest questioning him when they could have found out the doctrines of Jesus from anyone who was in attendance when Jesus was teaching. One of the officers, probably one who had arrested Jesus, did not like the way that Jesus was speaking to the high priest, so he slapped Jesus across the face. The way Jesus reacted was to ask the man a question, why did he slap him instead of giving evidence of what Jesus taught, whether good or evil. I think that the officer was, in his mind, exercising power over Jesus not knowing that he was, in fact, striking the Christ. This is another example of Jesus submitting. V24 says that Annas had sent Jesus bound to the high priest. As if cords or ropes could have kept the Lord Jesus bound if that was not his will.
V25-27 "And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied it and said I am not. One of the servants of the high priest, being the kinsman (of the man) whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him? Peter then denied again: and immediately the cock crowed."
We know that Peter loved the Lord, yet his faith wavered and he was fearful of what would happen to him if he admitted that he was one of Jesus' disciples. We are told again that Peter was warming himself while the Lord Jesus was being questioned by Caiaphas. It seems that he has forgotten his words that he would lay down his life for Jesus. But fellow believers, what would we do if we were faced with a similar situation as Peter? We say we would stand for him, but it is only by the grace of God to strengthen any of us that we stand for Jesus at any time. Even when faced with a question by one who saw Peter in the garden, Peter denied that he was one of Jesus' disciples. But then, a rooster crowed, fulfilling Jesus words to Peter that he would deny Jesus three times before the rooster crowed. The gospel of Luke tells us that after this "Peter went out and wept bitterly"..
At this point it is good to remember that Jesus had told Peter that Satan desired to sift him as wheat but that Jesus had prayed for him that his faith would not fail and that later he would strengthen his brethren. (Luke 22:31-32)
The next post will be about Jesus brought to Pilate.
________________________________
vcg
V19-24 "The high priest then asked Jesus ....... of his doctrine. Jesus answered hi, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the Temple whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said." But one of the officers struck Jesus with the palm of his hand....."Jesus answered him, if I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me? Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiphas the high priest."
Jesus was questioned by Caiaphus about his doctrine and Jesus' response is that he never taught anything in secret, it was always in public. The synagogue was a house of worship, while the Temple is the holy place in Jerusalem. Jesus asked Caiaphas, since his teachings were always public, why was the high priest questioning him when they could have found out the doctrines of Jesus from anyone who was in attendance when Jesus was teaching. One of the officers, probably one who had arrested Jesus, did not like the way that Jesus was speaking to the high priest, so he slapped Jesus across the face. The way Jesus reacted was to ask the man a question, why did he slap him instead of giving evidence of what Jesus taught, whether good or evil. I think that the officer was, in his mind, exercising power over Jesus not knowing that he was, in fact, striking the Christ. This is another example of Jesus submitting. V24 says that Annas had sent Jesus bound to the high priest. As if cords or ropes could have kept the Lord Jesus bound if that was not his will.
V25-27 "And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied it and said I am not. One of the servants of the high priest, being the kinsman (of the man) whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him? Peter then denied again: and immediately the cock crowed."
We know that Peter loved the Lord, yet his faith wavered and he was fearful of what would happen to him if he admitted that he was one of Jesus' disciples. We are told again that Peter was warming himself while the Lord Jesus was being questioned by Caiaphas. It seems that he has forgotten his words that he would lay down his life for Jesus. But fellow believers, what would we do if we were faced with a similar situation as Peter? We say we would stand for him, but it is only by the grace of God to strengthen any of us that we stand for Jesus at any time. Even when faced with a question by one who saw Peter in the garden, Peter denied that he was one of Jesus' disciples. But then, a rooster crowed, fulfilling Jesus words to Peter that he would deny Jesus three times before the rooster crowed. The gospel of Luke tells us that after this "Peter went out and wept bitterly"..
At this point it is good to remember that Jesus had told Peter that Satan desired to sift him as wheat but that Jesus had prayed for him that his faith would not fail and that later he would strengthen his brethren. (Luke 22:31-32)
The next post will be about Jesus brought to Pilate.
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vcg
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
John 18:1-18 Jesus' Arrest and Peter's First Denial
In John 13 Peter tells Jesus that "I will lay down my life for thy sake" and Jesus tells him "...verily, verily, I say unto thee, the cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice." Peter was so sure of his love for Christ, so sure that he would never deny him but in John 18 we have the fulfillment of Jesus words to Peter, and in V15-18 the first of three denials that Peter was one of Jesus' disciples.
John 18 follows the prayer of Jesus: for himself, his disciples and all those who will believe on him through the preaching of the gospel. Jesus goes over the brook Cedron with his disciples, and is met by Judas and a band of men.
V1-5 "..Jesus...went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples. And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place:...Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, 'Whom seek ye?'.. They answered him Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them."
The betrayal of Judas was truly abhorrent for as Luke's gospel tells us, Judas betrayed him with a kiss that would identify Jesus. The chief priests and Pharisees had sent an armed group of men with Judas, as though they would be able to overpower the Son of God. Jesus knew all these things would happen, and were happening as the plan of God unfolded towards Jesus going to the cross to redeem his own. He asked the men who they were seeking, but he already knew. Even at that point Judas could have repented of his actions, but he stood fast with those who came for Jesus.
John 18 follows the prayer of Jesus: for himself, his disciples and all those who will believe on him through the preaching of the gospel. Jesus goes over the brook Cedron with his disciples, and is met by Judas and a band of men.
V1-5 "..Jesus...went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples. And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place:...Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, 'Whom seek ye?'.. They answered him Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them."
The betrayal of Judas was truly abhorrent for as Luke's gospel tells us, Judas betrayed him with a kiss that would identify Jesus. The chief priests and Pharisees had sent an armed group of men with Judas, as though they would be able to overpower the Son of God. Jesus knew all these things would happen, and were happening as the plan of God unfolded towards Jesus going to the cross to redeem his own. He asked the men who they were seeking, but he already knew. Even at that point Judas could have repented of his actions, but he stood fast with those who came for Jesus.
Monday, February 18, 2019
John 16:13 and John 17 - The Holy Spirit and Jesus' Prayer Before His Betrayal
In John chapter 16 there is further teaching on the Holy Spirit, the Comforter of all those who believe on Jesus. One verse in particular stands out:
V12-13 "I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."
It is a precious truth that the Holy Spirit is the best teacher of believers. He will teach all truth, he will not speak of himself, but of those things which Christ taught, and which are taught in all the Bible. He will show us things that God will reveal, but not the things of which we have no need to know.
Chapter 17 is the great prayer of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane just prior to his betrayal and arrest. Some people think the Lord's prayer begins "our father who art in heaven" but that prayer was taught to the disciples by Jesus, as how they should pray. John 17 is Jesus true prayer to his Father. As his disciples lay sleeping, Jesus first prays for himself, then for the disciples that were with him, and finally for all those who will believe on Jesus through all time until he comes again.
V1-5 Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven and said "Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: as thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent......and now O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was."
These are huge verses. Jesus says that the Father has given him power over all flesh, that all who will have eternal life were given Christ by the Father. And eternal life of believers is found in this: believing in the true God and the Lord Jesus Christ who the Father sent to redeem his own. Then Jesus prays of the time when he was with the Father before the world was, and asks that he be glorified with the glory he had then.
V12-13 "I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."
It is a precious truth that the Holy Spirit is the best teacher of believers. He will teach all truth, he will not speak of himself, but of those things which Christ taught, and which are taught in all the Bible. He will show us things that God will reveal, but not the things of which we have no need to know.
Chapter 17 is the great prayer of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane just prior to his betrayal and arrest. Some people think the Lord's prayer begins "our father who art in heaven" but that prayer was taught to the disciples by Jesus, as how they should pray. John 17 is Jesus true prayer to his Father. As his disciples lay sleeping, Jesus first prays for himself, then for the disciples that were with him, and finally for all those who will believe on Jesus through all time until he comes again.
V1-5 Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven and said "Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: as thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent......and now O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was."
These are huge verses. Jesus says that the Father has given him power over all flesh, that all who will have eternal life were given Christ by the Father. And eternal life of believers is found in this: believing in the true God and the Lord Jesus Christ who the Father sent to redeem his own. Then Jesus prays of the time when he was with the Father before the world was, and asks that he be glorified with the glory he had then.
Friday, February 15, 2019
John 15:18-27 - The World and The Followers of Jesus
In the King James bible, John 15 uses the word "hate" in Jesus speaking to his disciples. Noah Websters 1828 defines the word "hate" as to dislike greatly, to have an aversion to. According to their definition it is less than "abhor" or "detest". I can attest that this is certainly true with regard to some family members who are anti-gospel, and even Christians who do not want to stand for the truth but are willing to compromise for the sake of "unity".. but on to the verses in John 15.
V18-21 (Jesus speaking to his disciples) "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you........if they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you......but all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me."
These are tough words. No one wants to know that the world of the unsaved will greatly dislike us, or have an aversion to us. But the bible shows us that the scribes and Pharisees hated the Lord Jesus so much that from the beginning of his ministry they sought ways to kill him. For Christians now, mostly it is that if we stand for the truth of God's word or the gospel, we are avoided and would spend a lonely life but for the presence of the Holy Spirit who is our comfort and encourager as well as being our teacher. If we were still in the world, if we were still lost in our sins, we would be accepted. But again Jesus teaches that "I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you." And may I say that many Christians do not want to accept that Christ has chosen them, they would rather believe that they chose Christ of their own "free will" and this alone makes for hard feelings towards any Christian who holds to the truth that the bible teaches, that Christ chose his own. Christians are not hated for who they are so much as what they believe. The gospel divides families, the bible divides families.
V22-27 "if I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin but now they have no cloke for their sin...if I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father....But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning."
Those that were on this earth during Jesus ministry of teaching, preaching and healing, are now without excuse when they rejected Christ because they were witnesses of him. Now they had no covering for their sin, because even though they were witnesses of Jesus' ministry, they had an aversion to him and rejected him. Now Jesus tells his disciples that when the Holy Spirit comes, they would bear witness that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, the promised Redeemer, and they will spread the gospel and carry forth the teachings of the Lord Jesus. For Christians today who look back to the cross by faith, and believe on Jesus as their Saviour, we also testify of Jesus, and bear witness of his teachings, and of the gospel.
The next post will summarize chapter 16 and 17 before moving on to Chapter 18, the betrayal and arrest of Jesus.
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vcg
V18-21 (Jesus speaking to his disciples) "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you........if they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you......but all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me."
These are tough words. No one wants to know that the world of the unsaved will greatly dislike us, or have an aversion to us. But the bible shows us that the scribes and Pharisees hated the Lord Jesus so much that from the beginning of his ministry they sought ways to kill him. For Christians now, mostly it is that if we stand for the truth of God's word or the gospel, we are avoided and would spend a lonely life but for the presence of the Holy Spirit who is our comfort and encourager as well as being our teacher. If we were still in the world, if we were still lost in our sins, we would be accepted. But again Jesus teaches that "I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you." And may I say that many Christians do not want to accept that Christ has chosen them, they would rather believe that they chose Christ of their own "free will" and this alone makes for hard feelings towards any Christian who holds to the truth that the bible teaches, that Christ chose his own. Christians are not hated for who they are so much as what they believe. The gospel divides families, the bible divides families.
V22-27 "if I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin but now they have no cloke for their sin...if I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father....But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning."
Those that were on this earth during Jesus ministry of teaching, preaching and healing, are now without excuse when they rejected Christ because they were witnesses of him. Now they had no covering for their sin, because even though they were witnesses of Jesus' ministry, they had an aversion to him and rejected him. Now Jesus tells his disciples that when the Holy Spirit comes, they would bear witness that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, the promised Redeemer, and they will spread the gospel and carry forth the teachings of the Lord Jesus. For Christians today who look back to the cross by faith, and believe on Jesus as their Saviour, we also testify of Jesus, and bear witness of his teachings, and of the gospel.
The next post will summarize chapter 16 and 17 before moving on to Chapter 18, the betrayal and arrest of Jesus.
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vcg
Thursday, February 14, 2019
John 15:1-17 - Jesus is the True Vine
Previously in the gospel of John, Jesus has compared himself to things that were common to the people of his day. He is the good Shepherd, one who cares for his sheep. He is the bread of life, those that come to him shall never hunger. He is the light of the world, those that follow him shall no longer walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.
Grapevines were very common, and in Chapter 15 Jesus presents himself as the true vine, the Saviour, and those who believe in him are the branches. His Father in heaven is the husbandman, over all.
V2 "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit"
There are those who make false professions, but they bear no fruit, there is nothing about them that gives evidence that they are truly saved. These are taken away, either by apostasy or even by death.
On a grape vine, the branches are pruned every year so that they will bear more grapes. If they were allowed to grow freely, there would be very little fruit. Thus it is with Christians, we are chastened to bring forth more fruit. "The trial of your faith worketh patience." Hebrews 12:6 says "For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth." These trials are to bring us closer to the Lord. To rely on him to carry us through. With each trial we are strengthened and bear more fruit.
V5, 8 "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.......Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples."
Christians can do nothing on their own. All that we are, all that we will ever be comes from the Lord as we abide in him. As soon as we try to do something on our own strength, we fail. And when we bear fruit, whether it be sharing the gospel, or witnessing to neighbours or those with whom we are given opportunity, the glory is not ours, the glory is Gods.
Grapevines were very common, and in Chapter 15 Jesus presents himself as the true vine, the Saviour, and those who believe in him are the branches. His Father in heaven is the husbandman, over all.
V2 "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit"
There are those who make false professions, but they bear no fruit, there is nothing about them that gives evidence that they are truly saved. These are taken away, either by apostasy or even by death.
On a grape vine, the branches are pruned every year so that they will bear more grapes. If they were allowed to grow freely, there would be very little fruit. Thus it is with Christians, we are chastened to bring forth more fruit. "The trial of your faith worketh patience." Hebrews 12:6 says "For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth." These trials are to bring us closer to the Lord. To rely on him to carry us through. With each trial we are strengthened and bear more fruit.
V5, 8 "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.......Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples."
Christians can do nothing on their own. All that we are, all that we will ever be comes from the Lord as we abide in him. As soon as we try to do something on our own strength, we fail. And when we bear fruit, whether it be sharing the gospel, or witnessing to neighbours or those with whom we are given opportunity, the glory is not ours, the glory is Gods.
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
John 14:15-31 - The Comforter Will Come
Before the Lord Jesus went to the cross, the Holy Spirit did not permanently dwell in his disciples. The Holy Spirit gave them faith to believe, but he did not indwell them. In the old testament the Holy Spirit came upon people such as Elijah and David for specific tasks or as a sign of God's favor upon that person. In the Psalms David prays that the Lord "take not thy holy spirit from me". But since the Lord Jesus ascended to heaven, the Holy Spirit now indwells those who by faith believe on Jesus as their Saviour and are saved by grace. In John 14, after speaking about heaven and that He is the way to heaven, Jesus tells his disciples of the Comforter to come, the Holy Spirit.
V15-18 "If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; even the spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he........ shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you."
Jesus' new commandment was for the disciples to love each other. Not in a romantic way, but in an action way, of serving each other, helping each other, bearing each other's burdens, encouraging each other. Jesus had just finished telling the disciples that he was leaving them, and going to heaven. During his earthly ministry, Jesus was a comfort to his disciples. The one they loved, trusted, the one they believed on as the Son of God, the Christ, the promised Redeemer. Now Jesus tells them that another Comforter would come, this being the Holy Spirit. Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will be in them, and in Acts 2 the Holy Spirit comes as with tongues of fire and "they were filled with the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:4) Jesus promises that his disciples would not be comfortless. He says that "I will come to you." the Holy Spirit will come, and Jesus will, as he has already said in V3, Jesus will come again to receive those who believe on Him.
V15-18 "If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; even the spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he........ shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you."
Jesus' new commandment was for the disciples to love each other. Not in a romantic way, but in an action way, of serving each other, helping each other, bearing each other's burdens, encouraging each other. Jesus had just finished telling the disciples that he was leaving them, and going to heaven. During his earthly ministry, Jesus was a comfort to his disciples. The one they loved, trusted, the one they believed on as the Son of God, the Christ, the promised Redeemer. Now Jesus tells them that another Comforter would come, this being the Holy Spirit. Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will be in them, and in Acts 2 the Holy Spirit comes as with tongues of fire and "they were filled with the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:4) Jesus promises that his disciples would not be comfortless. He says that "I will come to you." the Holy Spirit will come, and Jesus will, as he has already said in V3, Jesus will come again to receive those who believe on Him.
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
John 14:1-14 Jesus Teaches That He is the Way to Heaven
John 14 is another familiar chapter in the gospel of John. Jesus teaches about heaven, and importantly, that he is the way to heaven.
V1-5 "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 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. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?"
Jesus begins this teaching with a very comforting statement, "let not your heart be troubled." This comes after Judas has been exposed as the one who will betray Jesus. But now Jesus is comforting his apostles. They already believed in God and had looked forward to the promised Redeemer, and now Jesus says that they are to believe also in him. Then he tells them something about heaven, referring to it as "my Father's house". Jesus saying "I go to prepare a place for you" refers to his work of redemption on the cross. If Jesus had not shed his precious blood to atone for sin, and taken upon himself the penalty for sin, had he not died and been resurrected, we all would die in our sins and have no hope of heaven. But Jesus is going to the cross to prepare a place in heaven for those who believe on Him as the Christ, the one and only Saviour. Then Jesus promises that he will return and receive those who believe on him unto himself. This says nothing about a "secret rapture in the air", just that Jesus will come again for his own. Jesus says that they know the way to heaven but Thomas, ever doubting, wants to know "how can we know the way?"
V1-5 "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 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. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?"
Jesus begins this teaching with a very comforting statement, "let not your heart be troubled." This comes after Judas has been exposed as the one who will betray Jesus. But now Jesus is comforting his apostles. They already believed in God and had looked forward to the promised Redeemer, and now Jesus says that they are to believe also in him. Then he tells them something about heaven, referring to it as "my Father's house". Jesus saying "I go to prepare a place for you" refers to his work of redemption on the cross. If Jesus had not shed his precious blood to atone for sin, and taken upon himself the penalty for sin, had he not died and been resurrected, we all would die in our sins and have no hope of heaven. But Jesus is going to the cross to prepare a place in heaven for those who believe on Him as the Christ, the one and only Saviour. Then Jesus promises that he will return and receive those who believe on him unto himself. This says nothing about a "secret rapture in the air", just that Jesus will come again for his own. Jesus says that they know the way to heaven but Thomas, ever doubting, wants to know "how can we know the way?"
Winter Visitor: a Northern Junco
We always know when the cold weather is coming for the number of Northern Juncos that appear wanting food from my ground feeder. The one in the photo below is in a Japanese Maple tree beside the feeder. He kindly waited in the tree so I could take his photo.
Yet Another Snowfall
After last Sunday's snowfall, it began again yesterday and still continues. We have about 18 inches now and this is a lot for this area. Here are a couple of photos, these are also posted on my photo blog at Word Press. The first is the hedge that runs beside our deck.
The second is the path I had my husband clear to the ground bird feeder. It was getting impossible for me to trudge through the snow without having snow in my boots.
And finally, here is the view to the west from our deck. There are hills in the distance but they are not visible with the snow. In the background are the lovely Garry Oaks at a heritage church.
I really hope that this is the last snowfall.
The second is the path I had my husband clear to the ground bird feeder. It was getting impossible for me to trudge through the snow without having snow in my boots.
And finally, here is the view to the west from our deck. There are hills in the distance but they are not visible with the snow. In the background are the lovely Garry Oaks at a heritage church.
I really hope that this is the last snowfall.
Monday, February 11, 2019
John 13: 31-38 - Jesus Tells Peter That He Will Deny Jesus
In John 13:31-38 we have Jesus foretelling Peter of something he is going to do, something that will make Peter very distressed, something he will not believe he would do, but something that will happen shortly.
This exchange between Peter and the Lord Jesus takes place after Judas has gone out into the darkness, after it is revealed that he is the one who will betray Jesus.
V31-35 "...Jesus said Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him...Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come, so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples."
Now the hour has come when Jesus will be betrayed, arrested, tried and crucified. This is the purpose for which the Lord Jesus came into the world, to shed his precious blood, take upon himself the penalty for sin, to die and be resurrected. Everything that Jesus has done over the past 3 1/2 year culminates in his going to the cross. For this reason he came into the world. His disciples will not be able to follow him, they are not able, on their own, to enter heaven. But Jesus gives them a new commandment, to love one another as Jesus loved them. And this love shown will be a testimony to the world. But I have to say that this is a very difficult thing to do, it does not come naturally, and it is only by the Holy Spirit indwelling every Christian, that we are able to be loving. Not a romantic love, but an action love, a love that is God-given.
This exchange between Peter and the Lord Jesus takes place after Judas has gone out into the darkness, after it is revealed that he is the one who will betray Jesus.
V31-35 "...Jesus said Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him...Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come, so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples."
Now the hour has come when Jesus will be betrayed, arrested, tried and crucified. This is the purpose for which the Lord Jesus came into the world, to shed his precious blood, take upon himself the penalty for sin, to die and be resurrected. Everything that Jesus has done over the past 3 1/2 year culminates in his going to the cross. For this reason he came into the world. His disciples will not be able to follow him, they are not able, on their own, to enter heaven. But Jesus gives them a new commandment, to love one another as Jesus loved them. And this love shown will be a testimony to the world. But I have to say that this is a very difficult thing to do, it does not come naturally, and it is only by the Holy Spirit indwelling every Christian, that we are able to be loving. Not a romantic love, but an action love, a love that is God-given.
After The Snow
Until a few days ago, winter on Vancouver Island has been very mild. The daffodils were blooming, in Victoria the cherry blossoms were beginning to bloom. But last week all that changed. At first a snowfall of about 4 inches, then yesterday we had 1 foot of snow which fell over a relatively short period. My husband and I drove to town and it was near a white-out. This morning I took some photos from the back yard to show the depth:
Here is a closer look at the chair which shows the depth of snow better.
Apparently we are to receive more snow today, 1 foot. I hope not.
Here is a closer look at the chair which shows the depth of snow better.
Apparently we are to receive more snow today, 1 foot. I hope not.
Sunday, February 10, 2019
Truth is Better Than Lies
Today at church I was faced with telling the truth about two subjects that I hoped I could keep to myself.
Last week I did not go to the meetings because the speaker is all about prophecy and current world events. I am not interested in these things. My focus is that one day Jesus will return and before that all that is meant to be accomplished will be accomplished according to the plan of God.
I did not want anyone except my husband to know about this, but today the lady who sits in front of us remarked that she did not see me last week. I said that I stayed home and she wanted to know why. So I had to say that I didn't care to hear speculations and politics.
Last week I did not go to the meetings because the speaker is all about prophecy and current world events. I am not interested in these things. My focus is that one day Jesus will return and before that all that is meant to be accomplished will be accomplished according to the plan of God.
I did not want anyone except my husband to know about this, but today the lady who sits in front of us remarked that she did not see me last week. I said that I stayed home and she wanted to know why. So I had to say that I didn't care to hear speculations and politics.
Saturday, February 9, 2019
Daily Bible Reading: John 13:18-30 The Betrayer of Jesus is Revealed
In the last post, Jesus washed the feet of his apostles, including Judas Iscariot. But Jesus knew that Judas would betray him as the following verses reveal:
V18-21 "...I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me. Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he......When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me."
Everything that Jesus did in his ministry on this earth was in fulfillment of the scriptures. He chose the one who would betray him in order that the scriptures would be fulfilled. Now it is time for Jesus to tell his apostles that one of them would betray him. He used the words "verily, verily", words which he always used when he had something very important to say. This caused the disciples to look at each other and wonder who it was. Jesus speaks of his betrayal before it happened in order that his apostles would believe. Still, it troubled Jesus to tell the apostles that the betrayer was one of them.
V18-21 "...I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me. Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he......When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me."
Everything that Jesus did in his ministry on this earth was in fulfillment of the scriptures. He chose the one who would betray him in order that the scriptures would be fulfilled. Now it is time for Jesus to tell his apostles that one of them would betray him. He used the words "verily, verily", words which he always used when he had something very important to say. This caused the disciples to look at each other and wonder who it was. Jesus speaks of his betrayal before it happened in order that his apostles would believe. Still, it troubled Jesus to tell the apostles that the betrayer was one of them.
Friday, February 8, 2019
Daily Bible Reading: John 13: 1-17 - The Lesson of Foot Washing
John 13 begins with Jesus and his 12 apostles in the upper room, after the Passover feast. According to V1 Jesus knew that his hour was come that he would leave this world and return to his Father in heaven, having loved his own which were in the world. Judas Iscariot was there as well, the one who would betray Jesus, and his hour had come as well for the betrayal. But even this was in the control of Jesus.
V2 tells us that "the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot to betray him"
The fact that Judas would betray Jesus shows that having been a follower of Jesus for 3 1/2 years, having been a witness of his teaching, preaching and healing ministry, he never did believe on Jesus as the Christ of God. He always referred to Jesus as Rabbi, (teacher) not Lord. The fact is that Jesus chose Judas knowing that he would be the one that would betray him so that he would go to the cross, shed his precious blood to atone for sin, and take upon himself the penalty of sin. All of this was pre-ordained.
V3-17 "Jesus.....ariseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel..Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet?" Jesus answered him that he didn't understand now, but that after he would. But Peter protested "Thou shalt never wash my feet..." But Jesus said "he that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean but not all. " After he had washed their feet...and was set down again he said unto them, know ye what I have done to you?......if I..your Lord and Master have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example that ye should do as I have done to you. ...if ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them."
This is a difficult passage. Why would Jesus the Christ, their Lord and Master, wash their feet? They were stunned but Peter, as far as we are told, was the only one who protested because he supposed himself to be unworthy for his Lord to wash his feet. Jesus here is taking the servant's position in washing their feet. By saying that they are washed and only need to wash their feet, he is saying that they are saved, but they need daily washing. This is done by keeping short accounts with God. When we do something we know we shouldn't do, we should confess it to God. Then we are cleansed. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit in every believer certainly convicts the heart when something is said or done that shouldn't be.
When Jesus said "ye are clean but not all" he was referring to Judas who would shortly betray him. It is amazing to me that Jesus must have washed the feet of Judas as well since Judas was with them at this time. The Son of God washing the feet of his betrayer is truly something to marvel at.
Christians can "wash each other's feet" in service to each other. By being loving, being helpful, doing what may be asked of them.
For more teaching on this subject of foot-washing, follow the link below at Got Questions.
Foot Washing
______________________________
vcg
V2 tells us that "the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot to betray him"
The fact that Judas would betray Jesus shows that having been a follower of Jesus for 3 1/2 years, having been a witness of his teaching, preaching and healing ministry, he never did believe on Jesus as the Christ of God. He always referred to Jesus as Rabbi, (teacher) not Lord. The fact is that Jesus chose Judas knowing that he would be the one that would betray him so that he would go to the cross, shed his precious blood to atone for sin, and take upon himself the penalty of sin. All of this was pre-ordained.
V3-17 "Jesus.....ariseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel..Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet?" Jesus answered him that he didn't understand now, but that after he would. But Peter protested "Thou shalt never wash my feet..." But Jesus said "he that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean but not all. " After he had washed their feet...and was set down again he said unto them, know ye what I have done to you?......if I..your Lord and Master have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example that ye should do as I have done to you. ...if ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them."
This is a difficult passage. Why would Jesus the Christ, their Lord and Master, wash their feet? They were stunned but Peter, as far as we are told, was the only one who protested because he supposed himself to be unworthy for his Lord to wash his feet. Jesus here is taking the servant's position in washing their feet. By saying that they are washed and only need to wash their feet, he is saying that they are saved, but they need daily washing. This is done by keeping short accounts with God. When we do something we know we shouldn't do, we should confess it to God. Then we are cleansed. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit in every believer certainly convicts the heart when something is said or done that shouldn't be.
When Jesus said "ye are clean but not all" he was referring to Judas who would shortly betray him. It is amazing to me that Jesus must have washed the feet of Judas as well since Judas was with them at this time. The Son of God washing the feet of his betrayer is truly something to marvel at.
Christians can "wash each other's feet" in service to each other. By being loving, being helpful, doing what may be asked of them.
For more teaching on this subject of foot-washing, follow the link below at Got Questions.
Foot Washing
______________________________
vcg
Will There Be Babies in Heaven
Will there be babies in heaven..this was something I discussed yesterday with a lady from the church we attend. She thinks that yes, there will be babies and children in heaven while I said that we will be resurrected/changed to a body like unto Christ, that being one of maturity.
I think that we tend to humanize the glorified state too much. One day with the Lord is as 1,000 years and 1,000 years is as one day. Wouldn't that mean that there is no aging in heaven? And if there is no aging in heaven, then a baby who dies would be a baby through eternity. A child would be a child through eternity. Would God have someone be a baby or a child for all eternity? What does the bible say about this?
1 Corinthians 15:35-38 "But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: and that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body."
From these verses we know that the body is a seed, and the resurrected body will not be the body that has died, but a body as it pleases God, and to every seed his own body.
I think that we tend to humanize the glorified state too much. One day with the Lord is as 1,000 years and 1,000 years is as one day. Wouldn't that mean that there is no aging in heaven? And if there is no aging in heaven, then a baby who dies would be a baby through eternity. A child would be a child through eternity. Would God have someone be a baby or a child for all eternity? What does the bible say about this?
1 Corinthians 15:35-38 "But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: and that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body."
From these verses we know that the body is a seed, and the resurrected body will not be the body that has died, but a body as it pleases God, and to every seed his own body.
Thursday, February 7, 2019
Do Not Delay..
This morning I am reading a sermon by Charles Spurgeon entitled The Lamb of God in Scripture. There is a portion I just must share regarding people who have heard the gospel putting off receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour, their own salvation, delaying for one reason or another. I speak of my own brother who says that he will "think about these things over the summer". Here is the portion:
"Now behold Him, each one of you for yourself. I know what someone will say, 'I hope to do that by and by." I hope you do not so deceive yourself. I have heard that there was once a great meeting in the den of the arch-enemy and he was stirring up his myrmidons to seek the destruction of men. One of them said 'I have gone forth, and I have told men that there is no God, and no hereafter, and no difference between sin and righteousness and that they may live as they like"; and there was considerable approbation among the evil spirits. But Satan himself said, "thou hast done small service, for man has a conscience, and his conscience teaches him better; he knows that there is a God, he knows that there is a difference between sin and righteousness he knows that there must be future punishment; you have done but little." Then anther stood up, and said "I have done better, I think, most mighty chieftain, for I have told them that the Bible is a worn-out book, that it was a fable at the first, and that they need not believe it." There was a round of cheers, for they said that he had done splendid service for the cause of darkness; but Satan said "It is in vain that you meddle with the old Book, it has taken care of itself, and it can still do so There is no shaking, it is like a rock. Thou hast done service for a time, but it will soon pass away." And scarcely did anyone of the fallen spirits venture to bring forward his boasting in the presence of the terrible master who sat in the midst of them; but at last, one said "I have told men that they have souls, and there is a God, and that the Bible is true. I have left them to believe as they will, but I have whispered in their ear that there is plenty of time to consider all this." Then there was a hush, and the great master of demons said "Thou hast done best of all. This is my great net in which I take more souls that with any other, this net of procrastination or delay." Therefore say I to you, my hearers, disappoint the fiend. Fly to Jesus at once. Behold not tomorrow, but tonight, behold the Lamb of God, each man for himself."
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. Do not delay!
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Portion from The Lamb of God in Scripture. C.H. Spurgeon,
On Lord's-Day Evening, August 25, 1889
link to complete sermon: The Lamb of God in Scripture
"Now behold Him, each one of you for yourself. I know what someone will say, 'I hope to do that by and by." I hope you do not so deceive yourself. I have heard that there was once a great meeting in the den of the arch-enemy and he was stirring up his myrmidons to seek the destruction of men. One of them said 'I have gone forth, and I have told men that there is no God, and no hereafter, and no difference between sin and righteousness and that they may live as they like"; and there was considerable approbation among the evil spirits. But Satan himself said, "thou hast done small service, for man has a conscience, and his conscience teaches him better; he knows that there is a God, he knows that there is a difference between sin and righteousness he knows that there must be future punishment; you have done but little." Then anther stood up, and said "I have done better, I think, most mighty chieftain, for I have told them that the Bible is a worn-out book, that it was a fable at the first, and that they need not believe it." There was a round of cheers, for they said that he had done splendid service for the cause of darkness; but Satan said "It is in vain that you meddle with the old Book, it has taken care of itself, and it can still do so There is no shaking, it is like a rock. Thou hast done service for a time, but it will soon pass away." And scarcely did anyone of the fallen spirits venture to bring forward his boasting in the presence of the terrible master who sat in the midst of them; but at last, one said "I have told men that they have souls, and there is a God, and that the Bible is true. I have left them to believe as they will, but I have whispered in their ear that there is plenty of time to consider all this." Then there was a hush, and the great master of demons said "Thou hast done best of all. This is my great net in which I take more souls that with any other, this net of procrastination or delay." Therefore say I to you, my hearers, disappoint the fiend. Fly to Jesus at once. Behold not tomorrow, but tonight, behold the Lamb of God, each man for himself."
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. Do not delay!
_________________________________
Portion from The Lamb of God in Scripture. C.H. Spurgeon,
On Lord's-Day Evening, August 25, 1889
link to complete sermon: The Lamb of God in Scripture
Daily Bible Reading: John 12:20-50 - Jesus Begins His Discourse
Much of this section of John 12, that want to see Jesus, is Jesus speaking to his disciples. I am posting highlights of what he said to them, but we start with a group of men who wanted to see Jesus:
V21-22 "and there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast: the same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying Sir, we would see Jesus. Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus."
In John chapter 10, Jesus speaking of himself as the Good Shepherd, tells of "other sheep" which would be brought into the fold. In the verses above, we have Greeks (Gentiles) seeking Jesus. These are an example of the "other sheep". Those in authority wanted to kill Jesus, but here we have Gentiles seeking him.
V21-22 "and there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast: the same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying Sir, we would see Jesus. Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus."
In John chapter 10, Jesus speaking of himself as the Good Shepherd, tells of "other sheep" which would be brought into the fold. In the verses above, we have Greeks (Gentiles) seeking Jesus. These are an example of the "other sheep". Those in authority wanted to kill Jesus, but here we have Gentiles seeking him.
Wednesday, February 6, 2019
Daily Bible Reading: John 12:12-19 - Jesus' Entry into Jerusalem
In the previous post, Jesus went to Bethany and a dinner was held for him with Martha serving. Lazarus, whom Jesus had raised from the grave, was in attendance.
V12-13 The next day many people who had been to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem and so they "took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord." These were the same people who had been witnesses of Jesus calling Lazarus from the grave.
The same people who were now praising Jesus were the ones to condemn him a few days later. They referred to him as King of Israel which angered the Pharisees.
V14-19 "And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written, Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt. These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him. The people therefore that were with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record. For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle. The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, 'perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the world is gone after him.'"
In the other gospels, Jesus sends his disciples to find and bring back to him a colt which had never been ridden. Jesus sent them directly to where the colt was. This was in fulfillment of scripture (Zechariah 9:9). All was proceeding as it must. The Pharisees unknowingly prophesied when they said "behold the world is gone after him", Jew or Gentile, bond or free, male or female, those who believe are in Christ Jesus.
In the next post, Jesus tells his disciples that his hour has come.
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vcg
V12-13 The next day many people who had been to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem and so they "took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord." These were the same people who had been witnesses of Jesus calling Lazarus from the grave.
The same people who were now praising Jesus were the ones to condemn him a few days later. They referred to him as King of Israel which angered the Pharisees.
V14-19 "And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written, Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt. These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him. The people therefore that were with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record. For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle. The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, 'perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the world is gone after him.'"
In the other gospels, Jesus sends his disciples to find and bring back to him a colt which had never been ridden. Jesus sent them directly to where the colt was. This was in fulfillment of scripture (Zechariah 9:9). All was proceeding as it must. The Pharisees unknowingly prophesied when they said "behold the world is gone after him", Jew or Gentile, bond or free, male or female, those who believe are in Christ Jesus.
In the next post, Jesus tells his disciples that his hour has come.
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vcg
Tuesday, February 5, 2019
Daily Bible Reading: John 12:1-11 - Mary Annoints Jesus and Judas Protests
John chapter 12 follows the raising of Lazarus from the grave in a mighty display by the Lord Jesus. After this Lazarus returned to his home and his sisters where a dinner was made for Jesus. Lazarus was there as well. It was at this dinner that Mary, the one who sat at Jesus' feet and learned of him, anointed him. This is where the true personality of Judas, the one who betrayed Jesus, begins to show itself.
V1-2 "Six days before the feast of Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus was which had been dead. There they made him a supper and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him."
To learn where Passover originated, please read Exodus 12. One cannot help but marvel that Lazarus who had been in the grave for four days was raised free of the illness from which he had died, his body restored. This time Martha is willingly serving, and does not complain to the Lord about Mary not helping her as she did on a previous occasion. (Luke 10:38-42)
V3 "Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment."
For an excellent explanation of what Spikenard is, please follow this link to Got Questions. It is speculated that this spikenard might have been Mary's dowry. She wanted only the best for Jesus. It is fitting that the one who sat at the feet of Jesus and learned of him would be the one to anoint his feet and dry them not with a towel but with her hair. In these times hair was the woman's glory and Mary did not hesitate to use her hair in this manner, showing her love and respect for Jesus. The odour of the ointment was so strong and beautiful that it filled the house, thus Mary's act of love for Jesus had an effect on the whole house.
V1-2 "Six days before the feast of Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus was which had been dead. There they made him a supper and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him."
To learn where Passover originated, please read Exodus 12. One cannot help but marvel that Lazarus who had been in the grave for four days was raised free of the illness from which he had died, his body restored. This time Martha is willingly serving, and does not complain to the Lord about Mary not helping her as she did on a previous occasion. (Luke 10:38-42)
V3 "Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment."
For an excellent explanation of what Spikenard is, please follow this link to Got Questions. It is speculated that this spikenard might have been Mary's dowry. She wanted only the best for Jesus. It is fitting that the one who sat at the feet of Jesus and learned of him would be the one to anoint his feet and dry them not with a towel but with her hair. In these times hair was the woman's glory and Mary did not hesitate to use her hair in this manner, showing her love and respect for Jesus. The odour of the ointment was so strong and beautiful that it filled the house, thus Mary's act of love for Jesus had an effect on the whole house.
Monday, February 4, 2019
Daily Bible Reading: John 11:32-57 Jesus Raises Lazarus and the Response of the Priests
In my last two posts from the gospel of John chapter 11, the first was concerning the death of Lazarus, the second was concerning Jesus teaching Martha about the resurrection, specifically that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. In this post, Mary comes to Jesus, and with power, Jesus raises Lazarus from the grave in the witness of many people.
As the section starts, Martha has gone home and told secretly told Mary that Jesus "calleth for thee" (V28)
V32-36 When Mary came to Jesus and saw him, she fell down at his feet saying "Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died" Mary had faith the Jesus could have healed her brother. She did not know the wonder and mercy she was about to witness. When Jesus saw her weeping, and that those who came with her were also weeping, he groaned in the spirit and was troubled. Jesus asked "where have ye laid him?" and they said to Jesus "Lord, come and see." Then we have the shortest verse in the bible, powerful in its meaning, "Jesus wept" These two words show the compassionate heart of Jesus. Some of the people said "behold how he loved him" but others said "could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind have caused that even this man should not have died?" Referring to Jesus as "this man" reveals that they did not believe on Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God.
As the section starts, Martha has gone home and told secretly told Mary that Jesus "calleth for thee" (V28)
V32-36 When Mary came to Jesus and saw him, she fell down at his feet saying "Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died" Mary had faith the Jesus could have healed her brother. She did not know the wonder and mercy she was about to witness. When Jesus saw her weeping, and that those who came with her were also weeping, he groaned in the spirit and was troubled. Jesus asked "where have ye laid him?" and they said to Jesus "Lord, come and see." Then we have the shortest verse in the bible, powerful in its meaning, "Jesus wept" These two words show the compassionate heart of Jesus. Some of the people said "behold how he loved him" but others said "could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind have caused that even this man should not have died?" Referring to Jesus as "this man" reveals that they did not believe on Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God.
Feeding Under the Light
My last post featured an Anna's Hummingbird sitting on the light which warms our hummingbird feeder. In this post she has moved to the feeder and then in the second photo she is feeding, not minding the heat from the light.
Keeping Warm
Our winter has been very mild thus far, but arctic air has moved in, we are having our first snowfall, and an Anna's Hummingbird has chosen to rest near the off-on switch on the light which warms the hummingbird feeder when the weather is at or below zero. It's feathers are plumped up and that helps to keep the little creatures warm as well. Photo taken from inside our laundry room looking onto the deck.
This photo is also featured on my photography blog at WordPress called My Vancouver Island Life.
This photo is also featured on my photography blog at WordPress called My Vancouver Island Life.
Sunday, February 3, 2019
Daily Bible Reading: John 11:17-31 - Jesus Assures Martha of the Resurrection
There is so much in John 11 that I am breaking it up into 3 posts. The first was posted earlier, verses 1-16, The Death of Lazarus. This second post concerns Lazarus' sister Martha who went to meet Jesus on his way to Lazarus. Verses 17-31 give assurance of the resurrection, not only of Lazarus but of all who believe on Jesus: then, now, and until the Lord comes again.
V17-20 As Jesus was coming, he found that Lazarus had been in the grave for four days. Many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary to comfort them concerning their brother. Since they were offering comfort, it seems likely that they had heard of the death of Lazarus and that is when they came to comfort Martha and Mary. As soon as Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him but her sister Mary sat still in the house.
V21-24 Martha speaks to Jesus: "Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died". Martha had faith that Jesus would have been able to heal Lazarus of his illness. She further says "I know that whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee." To this Jesus answers "Thy brother shall rise again." Martha thinks that Jesus is speaking of the future resurrection at the last day and so she says "I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day."
V25-27 It is at this point that Jesus tells Martha a wondrous truth. "I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever believeth in me shall never die. Believeth thou this?" And next we have Martha's confession of faith, "Yea, Lord, I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world." In these verses Jesus is saying that all those who believe on Jesus, though their earthly bodies will die, yet they shall live. Paul the apostle said that he would rather be absent from the body and present with the Lord.
V28-31 When Martha had finished her confession of faith, she went home and called Mary secretly, saying "the Master is come, and calleth for thee." And as soon as Mary heard that, "she arose quickly and came unto him." Martha went to Jesus as soon as she heard he was coming and she received a glorious truth about the resurrection, but Mary chose to stay home until she was called by Jesus. Perhaps it was better to do as Mary did, and wait to be called by Jesus but it was in being alone with Jesus that Martha received her comfort concerning the resurrection of her brother.
Jesus had not yet come to the town of Bethany but was still in the place where Martha had met him. But something more happened, the Jews that had been with Martha and Mary to comfort them saw that Mary got up hastily and went out, and so they followed her thinking that she was going to the grave to weep. They did not suspect the great wonder that was about to behold them.
The next post will be the raising of Lazarus.
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vcg
V17-20 As Jesus was coming, he found that Lazarus had been in the grave for four days. Many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary to comfort them concerning their brother. Since they were offering comfort, it seems likely that they had heard of the death of Lazarus and that is when they came to comfort Martha and Mary. As soon as Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him but her sister Mary sat still in the house.
V21-24 Martha speaks to Jesus: "Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died". Martha had faith that Jesus would have been able to heal Lazarus of his illness. She further says "I know that whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee." To this Jesus answers "Thy brother shall rise again." Martha thinks that Jesus is speaking of the future resurrection at the last day and so she says "I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day."
V25-27 It is at this point that Jesus tells Martha a wondrous truth. "I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever believeth in me shall never die. Believeth thou this?" And next we have Martha's confession of faith, "Yea, Lord, I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world." In these verses Jesus is saying that all those who believe on Jesus, though their earthly bodies will die, yet they shall live. Paul the apostle said that he would rather be absent from the body and present with the Lord.
V28-31 When Martha had finished her confession of faith, she went home and called Mary secretly, saying "the Master is come, and calleth for thee." And as soon as Mary heard that, "she arose quickly and came unto him." Martha went to Jesus as soon as she heard he was coming and she received a glorious truth about the resurrection, but Mary chose to stay home until she was called by Jesus. Perhaps it was better to do as Mary did, and wait to be called by Jesus but it was in being alone with Jesus that Martha received her comfort concerning the resurrection of her brother.
Jesus had not yet come to the town of Bethany but was still in the place where Martha had met him. But something more happened, the Jews that had been with Martha and Mary to comfort them saw that Mary got up hastily and went out, and so they followed her thinking that she was going to the grave to weep. They did not suspect the great wonder that was about to behold them.
The next post will be the raising of Lazarus.
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vcg
Daily Bible Reading: John 11: 1-16 -The Death of Lazarus
John chapter 11 is full of teaching: Firstly is the raising of Lazarus. This is not the first time that Jesus has raised the dead; previously he raised the dead son of a widow while on his way to burial, also the daughter of Jairus, a child of 12. But Lazarus is different. He was raised to show forth the glory of God. Lazarus, unlike the previous two, was already in the tomb, and had been for several days. He was a person well known to Jesus and loved by him. Many people witnessed the raising of Lazarus. Jesus did it in a very public manner while the first two were in a more quiet way.
The raising of Lazarus takes place after the teaching of Jesus that he is The Good Shepherd. That his sheep hear his voice, that they follow him, Lazarus heard the voice of Jesus calling him and he came forth.
Also in this chapter is Lazarus' sister Martha. Jesus gives Martha the assurance of resurrection. Also here is the shortest verse in the bible "Jesus wept."
V1-3 A certain man named Lazarus was sick. He was of the town of Bethany, as were his sisters Martha and Mary. They sent word to Jesus saying "Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick."
From this we know that Martha and Mary were well acquainted with Jesus as they did not hesitate to send word to Jesus that Lazarus was sick. It is likely that they believed that Jesus would come and heal Lazarus as he had done to so many others.
V4-7 Jesus said to his disciples "this sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus." This verse is confirmation of the close relationship that they had. But Jesus did not immediately go to Lazarus, he stayed two more days in the same place because the death of Lazarus was to be very significant.
V7-16 After the two days were up, Jesus told his disciples "let us go to Judea again." His disciples were surprised at that because the Jews had wanted to stone Jesus there. But Jesus said to them "our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep." His disciples did not understand that Jesus was going to raise Lazarus from the dead, they just thought that Lazarus was sleeping as restful sleep so Jesus told them "Lazarus is dead." Then Jesus told them that he was glad that he was not there when Lazarus died because it was because of this that they would believe. Jesus said "nevertheless let us go to him."
My next post will be about Martha, and her assurance of the resurrection of Lazarus.
______________________________
vcg
The raising of Lazarus takes place after the teaching of Jesus that he is The Good Shepherd. That his sheep hear his voice, that they follow him, Lazarus heard the voice of Jesus calling him and he came forth.
Also in this chapter is Lazarus' sister Martha. Jesus gives Martha the assurance of resurrection. Also here is the shortest verse in the bible "Jesus wept."
V1-3 A certain man named Lazarus was sick. He was of the town of Bethany, as were his sisters Martha and Mary. They sent word to Jesus saying "Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick."
From this we know that Martha and Mary were well acquainted with Jesus as they did not hesitate to send word to Jesus that Lazarus was sick. It is likely that they believed that Jesus would come and heal Lazarus as he had done to so many others.
V4-7 Jesus said to his disciples "this sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus." This verse is confirmation of the close relationship that they had. But Jesus did not immediately go to Lazarus, he stayed two more days in the same place because the death of Lazarus was to be very significant.
V7-16 After the two days were up, Jesus told his disciples "let us go to Judea again." His disciples were surprised at that because the Jews had wanted to stone Jesus there. But Jesus said to them "our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep." His disciples did not understand that Jesus was going to raise Lazarus from the dead, they just thought that Lazarus was sleeping as restful sleep so Jesus told them "Lazarus is dead." Then Jesus told them that he was glad that he was not there when Lazarus died because it was because of this that they would believe. Jesus said "nevertheless let us go to him."
My next post will be about Martha, and her assurance of the resurrection of Lazarus.
______________________________
vcg
Saturday, February 2, 2019
Tying Current Events into the Bible
I won't be going to church tomorrow. And I am not happy about it because I do not like to miss the morning worship service, the breaking of bread and taking the cup which we do on a weekly basis.
The reason I am not going is because the man who is speaking is all about prophesy, the book of Revelation and current events and I am not about speculations and politics. It is a sadness to me that there are people in our church who hang on his every word.
Ever since I became a Christian in 1987 I have heard the same old thing, trying to tie current events into the bible, whether it be the books of Daniel, Ezekiel or most often, Revelation. I heard it said that Henry Kissinger was the antichrist but he was not, or that Obama was the antichrist, but he was not. One man said the Lord was coming in 1993 because he thought the world would not go on past the year 2000 and therefore, with the 7 year tribulation, the Lord had to return in 1993. But he did not. However for that man, in 1995 he died, and went to be with his Lord. Last year a couple told us that the "rapture" was going to be in 2018 because that was a generation since Israel became a nation in 1948. When December came they said they were trying to figure out how long a generation was. I am sure that in earlier years, people thought that Hitler was the antichrist, but he was not.
So what is the point of trying to tie current events into the bible? and why do people seem to hang on the words of anyone who speaks what they call "prophecy". I think the reason is that they spend too much time watching the TV news and they are so caught up in the thought of a pre-trib rapture and a 7 year tribulation that they are willing to listen to and believe whatever they are told about the matter.
The truth though is that Christians are not to know the day or the hour, the times or the seasons of the Lord's return. Let the bible speak:
Acts 1:6-7 "....Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power...
1 Thessalonians 5:1 (after the Lord's teaching of the catching up of believers when he comes again) "But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you." And Jesus says that we are to (V6) watch and be sober.
Matthew 24:36 "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."
Matthew 25:13 "Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh."
Mark 13:32 "but of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
Mark 13:33 "take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.
Speculation about current events is a waste of time.. far better to read your bible and know that the Lord Jesus is coming again. When we do not know, but it is one day closer than it was yesterday and that is enough for me.
_________________________________________
vcg
The reason I am not going is because the man who is speaking is all about prophesy, the book of Revelation and current events and I am not about speculations and politics. It is a sadness to me that there are people in our church who hang on his every word.
Ever since I became a Christian in 1987 I have heard the same old thing, trying to tie current events into the bible, whether it be the books of Daniel, Ezekiel or most often, Revelation. I heard it said that Henry Kissinger was the antichrist but he was not, or that Obama was the antichrist, but he was not. One man said the Lord was coming in 1993 because he thought the world would not go on past the year 2000 and therefore, with the 7 year tribulation, the Lord had to return in 1993. But he did not. However for that man, in 1995 he died, and went to be with his Lord. Last year a couple told us that the "rapture" was going to be in 2018 because that was a generation since Israel became a nation in 1948. When December came they said they were trying to figure out how long a generation was. I am sure that in earlier years, people thought that Hitler was the antichrist, but he was not.
So what is the point of trying to tie current events into the bible? and why do people seem to hang on the words of anyone who speaks what they call "prophecy". I think the reason is that they spend too much time watching the TV news and they are so caught up in the thought of a pre-trib rapture and a 7 year tribulation that they are willing to listen to and believe whatever they are told about the matter.
The truth though is that Christians are not to know the day or the hour, the times or the seasons of the Lord's return. Let the bible speak:
Acts 1:6-7 "....Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power...
1 Thessalonians 5:1 (after the Lord's teaching of the catching up of believers when he comes again) "But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you." And Jesus says that we are to (V6) watch and be sober.
Matthew 24:36 "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."
Matthew 25:13 "Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh."
Mark 13:32 "but of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
Mark 13:33 "take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.
Speculation about current events is a waste of time.. far better to read your bible and know that the Lord Jesus is coming again. When we do not know, but it is one day closer than it was yesterday and that is enough for me.
_________________________________________
vcg
Daily Bible Reading: John 10: The Good Shepherd
For Christians, the gospel of John, chapter 10 is surely one of the
most comforting and encouraging chapters in the bible for here we have
the security of the believer. Here also are Jew and Gentile coming
together into one fold. And here we have proof positive that the Lord
Jesus lay down his life for his sheep, those that are and will be his.
In chapter 8 and chapter 9 Jesus presented himself to be the "light of the world" and he healed a man born blind. After the healing Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees and he continued to do so as chapter 10 begins. And as Jesus often did, he begins this new teaching with a parable, which is putting a great truth into things that happen to everyone. In this case Jesus spoke of the shepherd and his sheep and of those who did not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbed up some other way, this person is a thief and a robber. But the person who entered by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. The sheep heard the voice of the shepherd because the shepherd called them by name and led them out of the sheepfold. The sheep followed him because they knew his voice. They would not follow a stranger.
Those who heard the parable did not understand what Jesus was saying to them.
Then Jesus began his great teaching:
V7 ...verily, verily (truly, truly) I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. (the sheep arehis own, those given him by the Father, those who will be saved by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus)
V8 "All that ..came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them". As Jesus said in a previous chapter, "I am the light of the world". The thieves and robbers are those who taught that the people should follow the law rather than follow Jesus.
V9 "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out and find pasture." Jesus is the only way to salvation. In John 14:6 we have these words: "I am the way, the truth and the life, no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
V11 "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep." This verse foretells Christ's death on the cross, shedding his precious blood and taking upon himself the penalty for sin for his sheep, for all those who would be saved. Many people believe that Jesus died for all people, but this verse clearly states that Jesus would give his life for the sheep, for those who belong to his flock.
In chapter 8 and chapter 9 Jesus presented himself to be the "light of the world" and he healed a man born blind. After the healing Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees and he continued to do so as chapter 10 begins. And as Jesus often did, he begins this new teaching with a parable, which is putting a great truth into things that happen to everyone. In this case Jesus spoke of the shepherd and his sheep and of those who did not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbed up some other way, this person is a thief and a robber. But the person who entered by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. The sheep heard the voice of the shepherd because the shepherd called them by name and led them out of the sheepfold. The sheep followed him because they knew his voice. They would not follow a stranger.
Those who heard the parable did not understand what Jesus was saying to them.
Then Jesus began his great teaching:
V7 ...verily, verily (truly, truly) I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. (the sheep arehis own, those given him by the Father, those who will be saved by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus)
V8 "All that ..came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them". As Jesus said in a previous chapter, "I am the light of the world". The thieves and robbers are those who taught that the people should follow the law rather than follow Jesus.
V9 "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out and find pasture." Jesus is the only way to salvation. In John 14:6 we have these words: "I am the way, the truth and the life, no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
V11 "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep." This verse foretells Christ's death on the cross, shedding his precious blood and taking upon himself the penalty for sin for his sheep, for all those who would be saved. Many people believe that Jesus died for all people, but this verse clearly states that Jesus would give his life for the sheep, for those who belong to his flock.
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