Acts 27:23-24 (New International Version)
23 Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.'
Philippians 4:11 (New International Version)
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
2 Corinthians 11:24-26 (New International Version)
24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers.
2 Timothy 4:2 (New International Version)
2 Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
Paul was an opportunist. He took advantage of every apparent opening to spread the Gospel, with no thought for his own well being or safety. Stoned, beaten, imprisoned, no matter. Paul was more than willing to put himself and his Jesus out there. What about us? In Paul’s time, Christianity was regarded as a sect. Paul preached the gospel in the face of unbelief, skepticism and overwhelming opposition. It’s plausible to think that in order for the church to be what it has become today, it took every bit of the sacrifice that Paul and believers of his day endured. What will the church of tomorrow be? How much are we willing to sacrifice in order to see the church of tomorrow flourish? Actually, I believe that when pressed, Christians will stand up. Christ will stand up in us and through us. I believe that. Historically, when the church is persecuted, it flourishes. Anything that drives us to our knees, that makes us call on the name of the Lord works to perfect us and to establish our witness in the earth. Trials refine our faith. With pressure, we become as resilient and as brilliant as diamonds. Glorious in his eyesight and in the eyes of the world. Bright and shining lights in a wicked time and place. Reservoirs of hope and healing to the lost and hopeless. Be encouraged this week my friends. Wherever you are on this journey, God’s not done with you yet. Paul had some New Testament to write from the solitude of prison. What does God have in store for you?
Blessings,
.wb
Friday, August 27, 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Sunday School Lesson for Aug. 22, 2010: Growing in Joy and Peace (Philippians 4:1-14)
Philippians 3:20-21 (New International Version)
20But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Joshua 1:8 (New Living Translation)
8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.
Colossians 3:2-3 (New International Version)
2Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Matthew 15:25 (Amplified Bible)
25But she came and, kneeling, worshiped Him and kept praying, Lord, help me!
The first word of this week’s lesson , Philippians 4:1, is the word ‘Therefore’. In order to determine what it is ‘there for’, we have to back up to the close of the previous chapter, Philippians 3:21-22.At the end of Chapter 3, Paul encourages the believers to follow the pattern of living that has been given to them. He reminds them that earth is no longer their home, Heaven is. As such, there are new rules, an alternate reality. They underwent a paradigm shift at the cross and down is now up, and up is down. Paul offers a couple of points of advice on how to find peace and contentment in this alternative reality, worship and meditation. As Christians, we emphasize the benefits of worship, but meditation, not so much. Yet, the Bible instructs us to meditate on God and His Holy Word. If I am to transcend the bounds of mortality and enter into the place of peace and joy that God has prepared for me, worship and meditation are key. I will rejoice, I will worship, I will set my mind on things above, I will meditate on the true, the noble, the right, the pure, the lovely, the admirable, the excellent, the praiseworthy. Meditation should not be a ‘clearing’ of the mind, but a filling of the mind with the things of Christ. I could go on and on. Set aside some time this week for meditation. A few minutes here, a few minutes there. A few minutes for worship directed to God. A few minutes of meditation and reflection guided by the Scriptures. What about it? Some one once said to me; ‘Don’t be so Heavenly minded, that you are no earthly good.” I would argue that exactly the opposite is true. Jesus would back me up saying ‘Ye are the salt of the earth, but if salt lost it’s saltiness, what good would it be?” Be Blessed this week. Enjoy the lesson.
.wb
20But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Joshua 1:8 (New Living Translation)
8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.
Colossians 3:2-3 (New International Version)
2Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Matthew 15:25 (Amplified Bible)
25But she came and, kneeling, worshiped Him and kept praying, Lord, help me!
The first word of this week’s lesson , Philippians 4:1, is the word ‘Therefore’. In order to determine what it is ‘there for’, we have to back up to the close of the previous chapter, Philippians 3:21-22.At the end of Chapter 3, Paul encourages the believers to follow the pattern of living that has been given to them. He reminds them that earth is no longer their home, Heaven is. As such, there are new rules, an alternate reality. They underwent a paradigm shift at the cross and down is now up, and up is down. Paul offers a couple of points of advice on how to find peace and contentment in this alternative reality, worship and meditation. As Christians, we emphasize the benefits of worship, but meditation, not so much. Yet, the Bible instructs us to meditate on God and His Holy Word. If I am to transcend the bounds of mortality and enter into the place of peace and joy that God has prepared for me, worship and meditation are key. I will rejoice, I will worship, I will set my mind on things above, I will meditate on the true, the noble, the right, the pure, the lovely, the admirable, the excellent, the praiseworthy. Meditation should not be a ‘clearing’ of the mind, but a filling of the mind with the things of Christ. I could go on and on. Set aside some time this week for meditation. A few minutes here, a few minutes there. A few minutes for worship directed to God. A few minutes of meditation and reflection guided by the Scriptures. What about it? Some one once said to me; ‘Don’t be so Heavenly minded, that you are no earthly good.” I would argue that exactly the opposite is true. Jesus would back me up saying ‘Ye are the salt of the earth, but if salt lost it’s saltiness, what good would it be?” Be Blessed this week. Enjoy the lesson.
.wb
Sunday School Lesson for Aug. 15, 2010: Living into the Future (Philippians 3:4b-16)
Matthew 25:21 (Amplified Bible)
21His master said to him, Well done, you upright (honorable, [a]admirable) and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the [b]blessedness) which your master enjoys.
Acts 7:55-56 (The Message)
54-56At that point they went wild, a rioting mob of catcalls and whistles and invective. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, hardly noticed—he only had eyes for God, whom he saw in all his glory with Jesus standing at his side. He said, "Oh! I see heaven wide open and the Son of Man standing at God's side!"
2 Timothy 4:6-8 (The Message)
6-8You take over. I'm about to die, my life an offering on God's altar. This is the only race worth running. I've run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that's left now is the shouting—God's applause! Depend on it, he's an honest judge. He'll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming.
Hebrews 12:1 (New International Version)
1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Usain Bolt is arguably the fastest man in the world right now. For those who don’t know, he is a Jamaican sprinter who currently holds the World and Olympic records in the 100 meter, 200 meter and 4 x 100 meter events. He’s so fast, that near the end of his races, he often mugs for the cameras, runs sideways, or taunts his competitors and tantalizes the rest of us with what might have been possible had he pressed through the finish. As far as I know, he hasn’t lost a race ‘looking back’. However, Bolt’s example is not to be emulated by Christian. No, we are to stay focused until the end. Let me encourage you this week. For those of you who are in this race in earnest.. all of Heaven is cheering you on., waiting for you at the finish line. Listen, you can hear Heaven calling you, can’t you? I can. For those of you who may grow tired along the way. Cheer up! Be encouraged. Don’t lose hope. I can see the hand of the Father waving in the distance. I can see the hosts of Heaven rejoicing as you get closer. Hang in there. The rewards that await us far out weigh the challenges we endure along the way.
Blessings,
wb
21His master said to him, Well done, you upright (honorable, [a]admirable) and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the [b]blessedness) which your master enjoys.
Acts 7:55-56 (The Message)
54-56At that point they went wild, a rioting mob of catcalls and whistles and invective. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, hardly noticed—he only had eyes for God, whom he saw in all his glory with Jesus standing at his side. He said, "Oh! I see heaven wide open and the Son of Man standing at God's side!"
2 Timothy 4:6-8 (The Message)
6-8You take over. I'm about to die, my life an offering on God's altar. This is the only race worth running. I've run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that's left now is the shouting—God's applause! Depend on it, he's an honest judge. He'll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming.
Hebrews 12:1 (New International Version)
1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Usain Bolt is arguably the fastest man in the world right now. For those who don’t know, he is a Jamaican sprinter who currently holds the World and Olympic records in the 100 meter, 200 meter and 4 x 100 meter events. He’s so fast, that near the end of his races, he often mugs for the cameras, runs sideways, or taunts his competitors and tantalizes the rest of us with what might have been possible had he pressed through the finish. As far as I know, he hasn’t lost a race ‘looking back’. However, Bolt’s example is not to be emulated by Christian. No, we are to stay focused until the end. Let me encourage you this week. For those of you who are in this race in earnest.. all of Heaven is cheering you on., waiting for you at the finish line. Listen, you can hear Heaven calling you, can’t you? I can. For those of you who may grow tired along the way. Cheer up! Be encouraged. Don’t lose hope. I can see the hand of the Father waving in the distance. I can see the hosts of Heaven rejoicing as you get closer. Hang in there. The rewards that await us far out weigh the challenges we endure along the way.
Blessings,
wb
Sunday School Lesson for Aug. 8, 2010: Giving of Oneself (Philippians 2:1-18)
Pay close attention to the passage from Hosea below… It’s OK to shout…
Hosea 1:8-11 (New International Version)
8 After she had weaned Lo-Ruhamah, Gomer had another son. 9 Then the LORD said, "Call him Lo-Ammi, [a] for you are not my people, and I am not your God.
10 "Yet the Israelites will be like the sand on the seashore, which cannot be measured or counted. In the place where it was said to them, 'You are not my people,' they will be called 'sons of the living God.' 11 The people of Judah and the people of Israel will be reunited, and they will appoint one leader and will come up out of the land, for great will be the day of Jezreel.
Footnotes:
Hosea 1:9 Lo-Ammi means not my people .
Romans 9:26 Hosea 1:10 ( lookup this verse… wb)
Hosea 1:9-11 (The Message)
8-9 After Gomer had weaned No-Mercy, she got pregnant yet again and had a son. God said:
"Name him Nobody. You've become nobodies to me,
and I, God, am a nobody to you.
10-11 "But down the road the population of Israel is going to explode past counting, like sand on the ocean beaches. In the very place where they were once named Nobody, they will be named God's Somebody. Everybody in Judah and everybody in Israel will be assembled as one people. They'll choose a single leader. There'll be no stopping them—a great day in Jezreel!"
Hebrews 2:10 (New International Version)
10In bringing many sons to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering.
Philippians 2:15 (King James Version)
15That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
“Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh my!” You remember this line from the ‘Wizard of Oz’ don’t you? That can be our attitude too, if we’re not careful. Most of the time, we get the ‘crooked and perverse’ message. We see the crooked and perverse all around us. And if we’re not careful, we’ll find ourselves ‘hiding out’ in plain sight. Shrinking violets, wall flowers, whatever you want to call it. ‘Christians’ only when someone calls us on it. Beloved that’s not Paul’s vision, nor our Father’s intent. We are God’s sons and daughters. Bright, healing, life bearing, Jesus sharing, Holy Ghost filled lights left here as beacons to guide the lost and the hopeless to peace and hope and love in the Beloved. Completely engaged. Walking in victory. Loving because we are loved. Caring because we are cared for. Over comers in every circumstance. Mountain movers. Dignitaries in the Kingdom. Ambassadors here on Earth. Super-Conquerors. Eagerly awaiting His appearing. Heralding His impending return. Bold as Lions, but as meek as lambs. Unafraid and unashamed. Are you getting this? Sons (and Daughters of God!). Amen and Amen!! J Rome was pretty ‘crooked and perverse’ in Paul’s day, yet the Church thrived and grew. In these last days, we might be in for an outpouring of God’s Spirit like nothing we’ve seen. May that outpouring start… in you! (I’m getting goose bumps J).
Enjoy the lesson.. Click the link below and enjoy the song…
‘I will change your name’ by written by D.J. Butler
Hosea 1:8-11 (New International Version)
8 After she had weaned Lo-Ruhamah, Gomer had another son. 9 Then the LORD said, "Call him Lo-Ammi, [a] for you are not my people, and I am not your God.
10 "Yet the Israelites will be like the sand on the seashore, which cannot be measured or counted. In the place where it was said to them, 'You are not my people,' they will be called 'sons of the living God.' 11 The people of Judah and the people of Israel will be reunited, and they will appoint one leader and will come up out of the land, for great will be the day of Jezreel.
Footnotes:
Hosea 1:9 Lo-Ammi means not my people .
Romans 9:26 Hosea 1:10 ( lookup this verse… wb)
Hosea 1:9-11 (The Message)
8-9 After Gomer had weaned No-Mercy, she got pregnant yet again and had a son. God said:
"Name him Nobody. You've become nobodies to me,
and I, God, am a nobody to you.
10-11 "But down the road the population of Israel is going to explode past counting, like sand on the ocean beaches. In the very place where they were once named Nobody, they will be named God's Somebody. Everybody in Judah and everybody in Israel will be assembled as one people. They'll choose a single leader. There'll be no stopping them—a great day in Jezreel!"
Hebrews 2:10 (New International Version)
10In bringing many sons to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering.
Philippians 2:15 (King James Version)
15That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
“Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh my!” You remember this line from the ‘Wizard of Oz’ don’t you? That can be our attitude too, if we’re not careful. Most of the time, we get the ‘crooked and perverse’ message. We see the crooked and perverse all around us. And if we’re not careful, we’ll find ourselves ‘hiding out’ in plain sight. Shrinking violets, wall flowers, whatever you want to call it. ‘Christians’ only when someone calls us on it. Beloved that’s not Paul’s vision, nor our Father’s intent. We are God’s sons and daughters. Bright, healing, life bearing, Jesus sharing, Holy Ghost filled lights left here as beacons to guide the lost and the hopeless to peace and hope and love in the Beloved. Completely engaged. Walking in victory. Loving because we are loved. Caring because we are cared for. Over comers in every circumstance. Mountain movers. Dignitaries in the Kingdom. Ambassadors here on Earth. Super-Conquerors. Eagerly awaiting His appearing. Heralding His impending return. Bold as Lions, but as meek as lambs. Unafraid and unashamed. Are you getting this? Sons (and Daughters of God!). Amen and Amen!! J Rome was pretty ‘crooked and perverse’ in Paul’s day, yet the Church thrived and grew. In these last days, we might be in for an outpouring of God’s Spirit like nothing we’ve seen. May that outpouring start… in you! (I’m getting goose bumps J).
Enjoy the lesson.. Click the link below and enjoy the song…
‘I will change your name’ by written by D.J. Butler
Sunday School Lesson for Aug. 1, 2010: Sharing God’s Grace (Philippians 1:15-29)
Zechariah 13:6 (New International Version)
6 If someone asks him, 'What are these wounds on your body [a] ?' he will answer, 'The wounds I was given at the house of my friends.'
Philippians 1:18 (New International Version)
18But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
I have two beautiful teenagers. They never fight or disagree… Yeah! Right! They fight like cats and dogs. Sometimes they fight in front of me and their mother. Then, we’re left trying to sort the whole mess out. Any other parents out there relate to this? Let me continue. Invariably, discipline is required. One of my children, or the other was responsible and should get what’s coming to them. The other child, the one who was wronged, wants justice, sometimes rightfully so. But, I have determined that in most circumstances I won’t discipline one child for the satisfaction of the other child. This infuriates the wronged child, but my job is to parent. Any discipline meted out would lose it’s effectiveness if the child receiving discipline thought the other child was somehow ‘winning’.
Kind of a weird intro, but it kind of points to the way we think generally. We have an innate sense about justice that says everyone should get what they deserve and we want to watch. Paul’s imprisonment brought out preachers who preached just that about him. ‘Paul is getting what he deserves’ they preached. ‘If Paul was right, why is God punishing him with jail’ they preached. Welcome to the letter to the Philippians. The beauty of this letter, especially this part of it, is that Paul could have used this passage to strike back at his detractors, but he doesn’t. Instead Paul celebrates the fact that as long as they (his detractors) are preaching Christ, he can rejoice. The Philippians were concerned about Paul’s imprisonment. Why? Why? Why? Paul recognizes that a wrong response can cause a rift in the burgeoning Christian movement spreading across the Middle East and Asia. One church is Paul’s vision and God’s heart. One church united. Enjoy this letter to the Philippian church. Keep your eyes on Christ. God will deliver us and He will deliver justice, when it is time. Until then, forward motion…
Blessings,
6 If someone asks him, 'What are these wounds on your body [a] ?' he will answer, 'The wounds I was given at the house of my friends.'
Philippians 1:18 (New International Version)
18But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
I have two beautiful teenagers. They never fight or disagree… Yeah! Right! They fight like cats and dogs. Sometimes they fight in front of me and their mother. Then, we’re left trying to sort the whole mess out. Any other parents out there relate to this? Let me continue. Invariably, discipline is required. One of my children, or the other was responsible and should get what’s coming to them. The other child, the one who was wronged, wants justice, sometimes rightfully so. But, I have determined that in most circumstances I won’t discipline one child for the satisfaction of the other child. This infuriates the wronged child, but my job is to parent. Any discipline meted out would lose it’s effectiveness if the child receiving discipline thought the other child was somehow ‘winning’.
Kind of a weird intro, but it kind of points to the way we think generally. We have an innate sense about justice that says everyone should get what they deserve and we want to watch. Paul’s imprisonment brought out preachers who preached just that about him. ‘Paul is getting what he deserves’ they preached. ‘If Paul was right, why is God punishing him with jail’ they preached. Welcome to the letter to the Philippians. The beauty of this letter, especially this part of it, is that Paul could have used this passage to strike back at his detractors, but he doesn’t. Instead Paul celebrates the fact that as long as they (his detractors) are preaching Christ, he can rejoice. The Philippians were concerned about Paul’s imprisonment. Why? Why? Why? Paul recognizes that a wrong response can cause a rift in the burgeoning Christian movement spreading across the Middle East and Asia. One church is Paul’s vision and God’s heart. One church united. Enjoy this letter to the Philippian church. Keep your eyes on Christ. God will deliver us and He will deliver justice, when it is time. Until then, forward motion…
Blessings,
Sunday School Lesson for July 25, 2010: God’s Own Faithfulness (2 Thessalonians 3:1-15)
Deuteronomy 28:12 (New International Version)
12 The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none.
Isaiah 40:30-31 (New International Version)
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
♫ ‘I am going to watch fight and pray… til I die, til I die…’ ♫
Some of you may know the lyrics from the hymn above, some of you may not.. It sums up Paul’s exhortation to the Thessalonians well. Fight the good fight. Stay the course. Keep your eyes on the prize. Don’t get distracted. Don’t get discouraged. Keep the Faith. God is in control. Jesus is still on the right hand of the Father. We are precious, beloved and accepted in him. We will be victorious. Sometimes it may be hard to get out of bed in the morning. Sometimes, you may not want to go out of your front door. Whatever the issue, whatever the problem, you can’t just quit. No, quite the opposite is true. You have to persevere, to overcome and in fact you will. Good News! You’ve already overcome by the Word of your testimony and by the Blood of the Lamb.
In sports there is a term called ‘the second wind’. Most athletes know it and have experienced it. Most look for it during the game or match they are involved in. Pushing themselves to the point of complete exhaustion, then somehow summoning up the strength to not only continue, but to excel when that second wind comes. We as believers have the ‘Helper’, the ‘Paraclete’, The Holy Spirit. We have God’s ‘Holy Wind’ at our backs, in our sails, working in us and through us. Our ‘Second Wind’. Find encouragement in that fact. You’re never alone. You’re never forgotten. You’re never forsaken. God knows your name.
Blessings,
.wb
12 The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none.
Isaiah 40:30-31 (New International Version)
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
♫ ‘I am going to watch fight and pray… til I die, til I die…’ ♫
Some of you may know the lyrics from the hymn above, some of you may not.. It sums up Paul’s exhortation to the Thessalonians well. Fight the good fight. Stay the course. Keep your eyes on the prize. Don’t get distracted. Don’t get discouraged. Keep the Faith. God is in control. Jesus is still on the right hand of the Father. We are precious, beloved and accepted in him. We will be victorious. Sometimes it may be hard to get out of bed in the morning. Sometimes, you may not want to go out of your front door. Whatever the issue, whatever the problem, you can’t just quit. No, quite the opposite is true. You have to persevere, to overcome and in fact you will. Good News! You’ve already overcome by the Word of your testimony and by the Blood of the Lamb.
In sports there is a term called ‘the second wind’. Most athletes know it and have experienced it. Most look for it during the game or match they are involved in. Pushing themselves to the point of complete exhaustion, then somehow summoning up the strength to not only continue, but to excel when that second wind comes. We as believers have the ‘Helper’, the ‘Paraclete’, The Holy Spirit. We have God’s ‘Holy Wind’ at our backs, in our sails, working in us and through us. Our ‘Second Wind’. Find encouragement in that fact. You’re never alone. You’re never forgotten. You’re never forsaken. God knows your name.
Blessings,
.wb
Sunday School Lesson for July 18, 2010: Chosen and Called (2 Thessalonians 2:7-17)
It seems lately that I’m always apologizing. I’ve been busy prepping for the audit last week. The lesson last week was too important to ignore however, so I’m submitting it late for your consideration. Again, my apologies…
Hebrews 2:5 (New International Version)
Jesus Made Like His Brothers
5It is not to angels that he has subjected the world to come
Daniel 7:21-22 (New International Version)
21 As I watched, this horn was waging war against the saints and defeating them, 22 until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom.
Daniel 12:10 (New International Version)
10 Many will be purified, made spotless and refined, but the wicked will continue to be wicked.
‘The Long View’
There’s a reason for seasoned, mature leadership in the Body of Christ. Paul is the example here. As much as the Church at Thessalonica was enduring persecution, Paul had endured more. Paul was clear in his thinking, clear in his knowledge, clear in his mission. He lived every day as if Christ’s return was imminent, yet he evangelized most of Asia and is responsible for two thirds of the New Testament. He was able to take the long view. Make no mistake. At some level, Paul understood the order of events that would precede the Lord’s return, yet his attitude and demeanor was such that he was driven to continue preaching the Gospel, building up the Saints and making new disciples. Is the ‘long view necessary today? Most definitely! The spirit of lawlessness is alive and well in the world today. I’ve been surprised by some discoveries I’ve made recently. There are a number of well known entertainers who openly worship Satan. Really! These people are antichrists. I won’t spend a lot of time here on this, but suffice it to say that a number of our politicians and entertainers (people we tend to look up to) are involved in occult practices. Why is any of this important? Because you, we cannot lose our perspective. A Biblical perspective. A perspective that says that you, we are Blessed and Highly Favored of God. That you, we are loved deeply by our Father. That you, we are Kings and Priests in our Fathers Kingdom. The thing that we must be assured of is that Jesus will come back. The dead in Christ will rise. We will reign with our Lord in Glory forward. Amen.
Psalm 73:2-4 (The Message)
An Asaph Psalm
1-5 No doubt about it! God is good— good to good people, good to the good-hearted.
But I nearly missed it,
missed seeing his goodness.
I was looking the other way,
looking up to the people
At the top,
envying the wicked who have it made,
Who have nothing to worry about,
not a care in the whole wide world.
Hebrews 2:5 (New International Version)
Jesus Made Like His Brothers
5It is not to angels that he has subjected the world to come
Daniel 7:21-22 (New International Version)
21 As I watched, this horn was waging war against the saints and defeating them, 22 until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom.
Daniel 12:10 (New International Version)
10 Many will be purified, made spotless and refined, but the wicked will continue to be wicked.
‘The Long View’
There’s a reason for seasoned, mature leadership in the Body of Christ. Paul is the example here. As much as the Church at Thessalonica was enduring persecution, Paul had endured more. Paul was clear in his thinking, clear in his knowledge, clear in his mission. He lived every day as if Christ’s return was imminent, yet he evangelized most of Asia and is responsible for two thirds of the New Testament. He was able to take the long view. Make no mistake. At some level, Paul understood the order of events that would precede the Lord’s return, yet his attitude and demeanor was such that he was driven to continue preaching the Gospel, building up the Saints and making new disciples. Is the ‘long view necessary today? Most definitely! The spirit of lawlessness is alive and well in the world today. I’ve been surprised by some discoveries I’ve made recently. There are a number of well known entertainers who openly worship Satan. Really! These people are antichrists. I won’t spend a lot of time here on this, but suffice it to say that a number of our politicians and entertainers (people we tend to look up to) are involved in occult practices. Why is any of this important? Because you, we cannot lose our perspective. A Biblical perspective. A perspective that says that you, we are Blessed and Highly Favored of God. That you, we are loved deeply by our Father. That you, we are Kings and Priests in our Fathers Kingdom. The thing that we must be assured of is that Jesus will come back. The dead in Christ will rise. We will reign with our Lord in Glory forward. Amen.
Psalm 73:2-4 (The Message)
An Asaph Psalm
1-5 No doubt about it! God is good— good to good people, good to the good-hearted.
But I nearly missed it,
missed seeing his goodness.
I was looking the other way,
looking up to the people
At the top,
envying the wicked who have it made,
Who have nothing to worry about,
not a care in the whole wide world.
Sunday School Lesson for July 11, 2010: Glory to Christ (2 Thessalonians 1:3-12)
2 Thessalonians 1:4 (New International Version)
4Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring.
2 Timothy 2:12 (New International Version)
12if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
Martyr - A Witness
There is a segment of the Christian community that we must not forget: the persecuted church. This week’s lesson, like last week’s, makes the point that the church at Thessalonica was suffering tremendous persecution. Pressure from the society around them to blend in. To fit in. Paul’s letter of encouragement includes the fact that he boasted about their faith to other churches. He was letting them know that they were not alone. The fact that this lesson is virtually a repeat of last week’s lesson speaks to me. There are Christian communities world wide that suffer dire persecution. Additionally, because of the limited access those churches have to the rest of the world, they don’t always have the benefit of encouragement from churches here in the west. I’m not speaking of poor churches in third world countries (or here in the US) that suffer primarily because of their poverty (they need our help too!). I’m speaking of churches that suffer because of persecution from their governments or their communities. Two points: 1. They deserve our fervent prayers and support. They are us. 2. They are worthy of our admiration. They persist in the face of persecution. Let us not turn a ‘blind eye’ or a ‘deaf ear’ to their plight. After all, If we endure ‘with’ them, we will ‘reign’ with them together with Jesus in Glory! Check out the link below in your private time. There are many who suffer greatly for the name of our Lord.
Blessings,
.wb
http://www.opendoorsusa.org/
Note: There is actually a ‘Day of International Prayer for the Persecuted Church’ every year. This year, I think it falls on November 14th (normally, the 2nd Sunday in November every year)
4Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring.
2 Timothy 2:12 (New International Version)
12if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
Martyr - A Witness
There is a segment of the Christian community that we must not forget: the persecuted church. This week’s lesson, like last week’s, makes the point that the church at Thessalonica was suffering tremendous persecution. Pressure from the society around them to blend in. To fit in. Paul’s letter of encouragement includes the fact that he boasted about their faith to other churches. He was letting them know that they were not alone. The fact that this lesson is virtually a repeat of last week’s lesson speaks to me. There are Christian communities world wide that suffer dire persecution. Additionally, because of the limited access those churches have to the rest of the world, they don’t always have the benefit of encouragement from churches here in the west. I’m not speaking of poor churches in third world countries (or here in the US) that suffer primarily because of their poverty (they need our help too!). I’m speaking of churches that suffer because of persecution from their governments or their communities. Two points: 1. They deserve our fervent prayers and support. They are us. 2. They are worthy of our admiration. They persist in the face of persecution. Let us not turn a ‘blind eye’ or a ‘deaf ear’ to their plight. After all, If we endure ‘with’ them, we will ‘reign’ with them together with Jesus in Glory! Check out the link below in your private time. There are many who suffer greatly for the name of our Lord.
Blessings,
.wb
http://www.opendoorsusa.org/
Note: There is actually a ‘Day of International Prayer for the Persecuted Church’ every year. This year, I think it falls on November 14th (normally, the 2nd Sunday in November every year)
Sunday School Lesson for July 4, 2010: God’s Cosmic Plan (1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, 23, 24)
Wayne’s two cents worth
Sorry this took so long. But, there’s a reason…. I knew what I wanted to say, but not quite how to say it. It took a little time this week.. to get the picture… to frame the lesson in the proper light (smile)… I hope this works..
1 Thessalonians 5:5 (New International Version)
5You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.
Romans 8:16 (New International Version)
16The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.
1 John 3:2 (New International Version)
2Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears,[a]we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.
Isaiah 8:12 (New International Version)
12b do not fear what they fear,
and do not dread it.
1 Thessalonians 5:9 (New International Version)
9For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Did you ever play ‘dress up’ as a little kid? Did you ever put on your dad’s shoes, throw on his too large coat and his too big hat? For the ladies out there, did your mom or an aunt ever dress you up? You know, help you put on some of her makeup? Fix your hair real pretty and throw one off those too big scarves around your shoulders. Do you remember how you felt? It was fun, kind of a rush as you kind of tried to imagine being ‘all grown up’. But, there was also a real sense of ‘this stuff’s too big for me’, wasn’t there? Shuffling around in those ‘big ol’ shoes’. That’s me in the picture below. That’s my grandpa’s hat and his pipe. Notice how the hat just swallows my head? See how that pipe is just barely hanging on? I’ll bet I’m biting that stem as hard as I can with both gums, just to keep it in J Here’s the point: I can still smell that pipe. I can still smell that hat. After all these years. This picture evokes some pretty strong memories.
As believer’s, we can get a little overwhelmed by all that happens around us, and by all that’s going to happen. Life’s full of uncertainties. That can all be compounded by our misinterpretation of God’s word. A little doubt can creep in on us as we deal with our weakness, our faults, our personal inadequacies. Maybe I’m just speaking for myself J
God wants us to develop a different perspective though. Don’t focus on how little you are, but on how Magnificent He is. And how much He loves you! That’s the message this week. We’re sitting here, clothed in our Father’s Glory and it’s all just a little to ‘big’ for us at times. But, you know what? All of Heaven is bursting with anticipation at what you’re becoming. So, instead of wrestling with weight of your Father’s robes (Sh’khinah Glory), enjoy the moment. See if you can get a wiff of your Father’s scent in His robes (Shk’khinah Glory). Treasure the moment! (I’m dancing around in circles with His sleeves hanging off the end of my armsJ Can you picture that?)
Enjoy the Journey!
.wb
Wayne’s two cents worth
Sorry this took so long. But, there’s a reason…. I knew what I wanted to say, but not quite how to say it. It took a little time this week.. to get the picture… to frame the lesson in the proper light (smile)… I hope this works..
1 Thessalonians 5:5 (New International Version)
5You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.
Romans 8:16 (New International Version)
16The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.
1 John 3:2 (New International Version)
2Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears,[a]we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.
Isaiah 8:12 (New International Version)
12b do not fear what they fear,
and do not dread it.
1 Thessalonians 5:9 (New International Version)
9For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Did you ever play ‘dress up’ as a little kid? Did you ever put on your dad’s shoes, throw on his too large coat and his too big hat? For the ladies out there, did your mom or an aunt ever dress you up? You know, help you put on some of her makeup? Fix your hair real pretty and throw one off those too big scarves around your shoulders. Do you remember how you felt? It was fun, kind of a rush as you kind of tried to imagine being ‘all grown up’. But, there was also a real sense of ‘this stuff’s too big for me’, wasn’t there? Shuffling around in those ‘big ol’ shoes’. That’s me in the picture below. That’s my grandpa’s hat and his pipe. Notice how the hat just swallows my head? See how that pipe is just barely hanging on? I’ll bet I’m biting that stem as hard as I can with both gums, just to keep it in J Here’s the point: I can still smell that pipe. I can still smell that hat. After all these years. This picture evokes some pretty strong memories.
As believer’s, we can get a little overwhelmed by all that happens around us, and by all that’s going to happen. Life’s full of uncertainties. That can all be compounded by our misinterpretation of God’s word. A little doubt can creep in on us as we deal with our weakness, our faults, our personal inadequacies. Maybe I’m just speaking for myself J
God wants us to develop a different perspective though. Don’t focus on how little you are, but on how Magnificent He is. And how much He loves you! That’s the message this week. We’re sitting here, clothed in our Father’s Glory and it’s all just a little to ‘big’ for us at times. But, you know what? All of Heaven is bursting with anticipation at what you’re becoming. So, instead of wrestling with weight of your Father’s robes (Sh’khinah Glory), enjoy the moment. See if you can get a wiff of your Father’s scent in His robes (Shk’khinah Glory). Treasure the moment! (I’m dancing around in circles with His sleeves hanging off the end of my armsJ Can you picture that?)
Enjoy the Journey!
.wb
Sunday School Lesson for June 27, 2010: Demonstrated in Action (1 Thessalonians 4:1-12)
Galatians 6:9 (New International Version)
9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Hebrews 6:11 (New International Version)
11We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure.
‘Common Sense Christianity’ There’s an old axiom. I don’t know where I heard it, but goes: ‘It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish.” You can apply this axiom to almost every area of your life, can’t you? Marriage. Parenting. Career. Christian Walk. For some of you, you’ve been doing this for awhile. For some of you, you’re just getting started. Wherever you are on the path, keep on keeping on. That’s Paul’s message to the Thessalonians. It’s God’s message to us. Don’t stop. Hang in there. Stay the course. Stay focused. Heaven is watching. The reward that awaits you is immeasurable. Blessings!
9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Hebrews 6:11 (New International Version)
11We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure.
‘Common Sense Christianity’ There’s an old axiom. I don’t know where I heard it, but goes: ‘It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish.” You can apply this axiom to almost every area of your life, can’t you? Marriage. Parenting. Career. Christian Walk. For some of you, you’ve been doing this for awhile. For some of you, you’re just getting started. Wherever you are on the path, keep on keeping on. That’s Paul’s message to the Thessalonians. It’s God’s message to us. Don’t stop. Hang in there. Stay the course. Stay focused. Heaven is watching. The reward that awaits you is immeasurable. Blessings!
Sunday School Lesson for June 20, 2010: Sustained Through Encouragement (1 Thessalonians 3)
3 John 1:4 (New International Version)
4I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
Hi all.. How are you? Really! How are you? I get it. You see, I miss you… all. Whether you are a relative, a friend, a coworker, fellow church member, whoever, if you’re receiving this email from me it means that I think about you regularly. I continually think about you and pray for you. Why? It’s a good question. I don’t bear any responsibility for you spiritually, except for this: if you care about me enough to read this weekly lesson, how can I not care about you? This weekly discussion started out of my love for this particular curriculum and it’s affect on my personal walk with Christ. It’s still my primary motivation, but you know what? If you’re reading this, God Bless You! Really! God Bless Your Heart! And thank you! Trust me when I tell you; you are in my thoughts and prayers. And my desire for you is that you continue to walk in God’s favor and grow in His Grace. Amen! Enjoy this week’s lesson.
4I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
Hi all.. How are you? Really! How are you? I get it. You see, I miss you… all. Whether you are a relative, a friend, a coworker, fellow church member, whoever, if you’re receiving this email from me it means that I think about you regularly. I continually think about you and pray for you. Why? It’s a good question. I don’t bear any responsibility for you spiritually, except for this: if you care about me enough to read this weekly lesson, how can I not care about you? This weekly discussion started out of my love for this particular curriculum and it’s affect on my personal walk with Christ. It’s still my primary motivation, but you know what? If you’re reading this, God Bless You! Really! God Bless Your Heart! And thank you! Trust me when I tell you; you are in my thoughts and prayers. And my desire for you is that you continue to walk in God’s favor and grow in His Grace. Amen! Enjoy this week’s lesson.
Sunday School Lesson for June 13, 2010: Pleasing to God (1 Thessalonians 2:1-13)
1 Corinthians 14:8
For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?
1 Corinthians 2:12
We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.
John 10:27
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
Christians are unusual creatures. Re-Creatures might be more accurate. We’ve been rewired, as it were, to hear God. To hear Him through His Word, His Holy Spirit, His ministers and through fellow believers. We’ve been re-gene’d (regenerated) by the Word and the Spirit and now we take our directions from the realm of the Spirit. At least, that’s what’s supposed to happen. This week’s lesson reminds us that there are many voices in the world and that we, as Christians need to pray for discernment as we sort through all the noise around us. I have tinnitus, a constant ringing or echoing in one ear that causes me to have to concentrate to listen. When there are a number of people talking around me, it becomes difficult to distinguish the particular voice or sound I want to hear from the rest of the sounds around me. It requires some concentration. The same is true in the spirit. There are many voices and many different versions of the gospel being presented. The believer has to discern the truth. Thankfully, we have help. We have the assurance that God will not let us be led astray. Not if we are truly His. It’s that assurance that causes us to patiently wait upon the Truth. Jesus Christ, The same yesterday, today and forever. Subsequently, it’s our patience and our faithfulness in the face of the various challenges that pleases our Father in Heaven..
Blessings,
wb
For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?
1 Corinthians 2:12
We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.
John 10:27
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
Christians are unusual creatures. Re-Creatures might be more accurate. We’ve been rewired, as it were, to hear God. To hear Him through His Word, His Holy Spirit, His ministers and through fellow believers. We’ve been re-gene’d (regenerated) by the Word and the Spirit and now we take our directions from the realm of the Spirit. At least, that’s what’s supposed to happen. This week’s lesson reminds us that there are many voices in the world and that we, as Christians need to pray for discernment as we sort through all the noise around us. I have tinnitus, a constant ringing or echoing in one ear that causes me to have to concentrate to listen. When there are a number of people talking around me, it becomes difficult to distinguish the particular voice or sound I want to hear from the rest of the sounds around me. It requires some concentration. The same is true in the spirit. There are many voices and many different versions of the gospel being presented. The believer has to discern the truth. Thankfully, we have help. We have the assurance that God will not let us be led astray. Not if we are truly His. It’s that assurance that causes us to patiently wait upon the Truth. Jesus Christ, The same yesterday, today and forever. Subsequently, it’s our patience and our faithfulness in the face of the various challenges that pleases our Father in Heaven..
Blessings,
wb
Sunday School Lesson for June 6, 2010: Visible for God (1 Thessalonians 1)
The New Testament meaning of Hope – “Hope always expresses confidence based on the character and power of God. Believers in Christ can have assurance about the future, knowing that God loves them and is faithful and powerful to deliver what he has promised.”
Selah.
The definition above is a nearly direct quote from this week’s Sunday School Lesson Standard Commentary. It’s one of the best explanation for the word ‘hope’ that I have encountered in the twenty three years I’ve been saved. You see, in the same way that Faith produces good works, Love produces Hope. Love saved us and empowers us. Faith guides us (we walk by Faith, not by sight). Hope strengthens and sustains us. In the fiery furnace, in the raging storm, in the valley of the shadow of death, through testing and trail hope gives us the impetus to continue putting one foot in front of the other. Patient hope causes us to wait upon the unseen with unshakable confidence. Hope causes us to ‘act out’ our faith and demonstrate our love daily. Hope makes us visible as ‘Christians’. Visible for God.
On a personal note: Sorry about the delay of the lesson this week. The journey to the Philippines was exhausting and I went directly to work upon arrival. I wish you all could be here. The scenery is beautiful. God is awesome. The people here are all very friendly and supportive, particularly here @ Clark. Also, I had the privilege of sitting next to two young missionaries on each leg of the journey. Aya, a young college student on her way to South Korea for a mission trip and Kyla, a young college student on her way to Manila to work with special needs children in the slums in Manila. Two young ladies empowered by love, guided by faith, sustained by hope. Keep them in your prayers and may God grant them favor in their endeavors.
Blessings…
Selah.
The definition above is a nearly direct quote from this week’s Sunday School Lesson Standard Commentary. It’s one of the best explanation for the word ‘hope’ that I have encountered in the twenty three years I’ve been saved. You see, in the same way that Faith produces good works, Love produces Hope. Love saved us and empowers us. Faith guides us (we walk by Faith, not by sight). Hope strengthens and sustains us. In the fiery furnace, in the raging storm, in the valley of the shadow of death, through testing and trail hope gives us the impetus to continue putting one foot in front of the other. Patient hope causes us to wait upon the unseen with unshakable confidence. Hope causes us to ‘act out’ our faith and demonstrate our love daily. Hope makes us visible as ‘Christians’. Visible for God.
On a personal note: Sorry about the delay of the lesson this week. The journey to the Philippines was exhausting and I went directly to work upon arrival. I wish you all could be here. The scenery is beautiful. God is awesome. The people here are all very friendly and supportive, particularly here @ Clark. Also, I had the privilege of sitting next to two young missionaries on each leg of the journey. Aya, a young college student on her way to South Korea for a mission trip and Kyla, a young college student on her way to Manila to work with special needs children in the slums in Manila. Two young ladies empowered by love, guided by faith, sustained by hope. Keep them in your prayers and may God grant them favor in their endeavors.
Blessings…
Sunday School Lesson May 30, 2010: At Risk in the Community (Jude 3-8, 19-25)
Mark 16:17-18 (New International Version)
17And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well."
Revelation 2:2-4 (New International Version)
2I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. 4Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love.
Psalm 36:7 (New International Version)
7 How priceless is your unfailing love!
Both high and low among men
find [a] refuge in the shadow of your wings
First, a definition:
Chris·to·cen·tric
Spelled[kris-tuh-sen-trik] Show IPA
–adjective
having as the theological focal point the teachings and practices of Jesus Christ.
When you find yourself consumed by the fierceness of the battle, when the storm is raging all around you, stop and remember that nothing going on around you will unseat God from His throne. Nothing. Remember that nothing will move Jesus, Our Lord from the right hand of the Father. And remember that nothing.. Not any thing will separate you from His love. Remember that Love never fails. Remember that nothing can pluck you from His hand. Remember that every good gift comes from Him. Remember that His gifts are without repentance. Remember that He is Light. There is no shadow of turning in Him. Remember that He loves you and gave Himself for you. Remember that He has all power in His hands. Remember where Joy comes from. Remember where Peace comes from. Drink deeply from that fountain. Remember that out of your belly will flow rivers of Living Water. Remember that He gives freely of Himself, His Glorious Grace. Remember that it is by Grace that you were saved. Remember that Faith will move mountains. Remember the Treasure housed in your earthen vessel (The Holy Ghost). Don’t rejoice in the fact that you’ve cast out devils. Rather rejoice that your name is written in the Book. Remember that you have a new name… that no one knows but Him. Remember that He declared His work ‘finished’ at Calvary. Remember that He paid a terrible price there. Remember that He was buried in a borrowed tomb. Remember that He arose from the grave victorious. Remember and the Peace of God to which you are called will rest, rule and abide in your heart… In the midst of the storm.
Peace. Be still…. We’ve got work to do..
17And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well."
Revelation 2:2-4 (New International Version)
2I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. 4Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love.
Psalm 36:7 (New International Version)
7 How priceless is your unfailing love!
Both high and low among men
find [a] refuge in the shadow of your wings
First, a definition:
Chris·to·cen·tric
Spelled[kris-tuh-sen-trik] Show IPA
–adjective
having as the theological focal point the teachings and practices of Jesus Christ.
When you find yourself consumed by the fierceness of the battle, when the storm is raging all around you, stop and remember that nothing going on around you will unseat God from His throne. Nothing. Remember that nothing will move Jesus, Our Lord from the right hand of the Father. And remember that nothing.. Not any thing will separate you from His love. Remember that Love never fails. Remember that nothing can pluck you from His hand. Remember that every good gift comes from Him. Remember that His gifts are without repentance. Remember that He is Light. There is no shadow of turning in Him. Remember that He loves you and gave Himself for you. Remember that He has all power in His hands. Remember where Joy comes from. Remember where Peace comes from. Drink deeply from that fountain. Remember that out of your belly will flow rivers of Living Water. Remember that He gives freely of Himself, His Glorious Grace. Remember that it is by Grace that you were saved. Remember that Faith will move mountains. Remember the Treasure housed in your earthen vessel (The Holy Ghost). Don’t rejoice in the fact that you’ve cast out devils. Rather rejoice that your name is written in the Book. Remember that you have a new name… that no one knows but Him. Remember that He declared His work ‘finished’ at Calvary. Remember that He paid a terrible price there. Remember that He was buried in a borrowed tomb. Remember that He arose from the grave victorious. Remember and the Peace of God to which you are called will rest, rule and abide in your heart… In the midst of the storm.
Peace. Be still…. We’ve got work to do..
Sunday School Lesson for May 23, 2010: At Home in the Community (Philemon 4, 5, 8-21)
Philippians 4:2 (New International Version
2I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord.
Ephesians 4:3-5 (New International Version)
3Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism;
Christianity applied…
This is it! This is where the rubber meets the road… isn’t it? Philemon and Onesimus have a problem, a serious problem. The tone of Paul’s letter intimates that fact. The easy thing to do here is to make Philemon the bad guy and make this two cent’s worth about the evils of slavery and classism, but there is another lesson here. Onesimus has some repenting to do here too. Clearly, he has wronged Philemon in some way and needs to make amends. Wait.. Onesimus is the victim right? Not entirely. Not according to Paul. No, Onesimus needs to go to Philemon and throw himself at Philemon’s mercy.. and be prepared to suffer the consequences… I appreciate this lesson. You see… this is the hard stuff. This is the stuff we leave churches over… broken relationships. This is how families are broken.. I have my own story about such a rift. I recently (very recently) took time to reconcile a relationship with an aunt that kept us separated for about 15 years. That’s a long time isn’t it? She’s 83 years old and I can say that I am truly thankful and grateful that I had the opportunity on this side of Heavan to reconcile. I’ll also confess that it was my foolish pride that was at the root of the problem (Remember Dwight?). I’ll always regret the time we’ve lost, but I am grateful that I have had a chance to start to make it right. What about you? Do you have something that you need to make right. Remember! Tomorrow’s not promised to you. What about Onesimus and Philemon? Well the scripture doesn’t provide a lot of illumination, but Church history tells us that a servant of Christ named Onesimus became the second Bishop of the Church of Ephesus after Timothy. From runaway slave to Leader of the largest church of its era. All made possible because he went to Philemon and made amends. He might have disobeyed Paul and went on about his way… saved, but still bound. Through his obedience to the Apostle, God was able to establish him as a pillar in the church and as a lasting example to us of real church.. the hard stuff.
Be Blessed!!
p.s. Feel free to ask me about the details of the story about my aunt. I won’t mind telling it if time permits…J
1 Peter 5:6 (King James Version)
6Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
2I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord.
Ephesians 4:3-5 (New International Version)
3Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism;
Christianity applied…
This is it! This is where the rubber meets the road… isn’t it? Philemon and Onesimus have a problem, a serious problem. The tone of Paul’s letter intimates that fact. The easy thing to do here is to make Philemon the bad guy and make this two cent’s worth about the evils of slavery and classism, but there is another lesson here. Onesimus has some repenting to do here too. Clearly, he has wronged Philemon in some way and needs to make amends. Wait.. Onesimus is the victim right? Not entirely. Not according to Paul. No, Onesimus needs to go to Philemon and throw himself at Philemon’s mercy.. and be prepared to suffer the consequences… I appreciate this lesson. You see… this is the hard stuff. This is the stuff we leave churches over… broken relationships. This is how families are broken.. I have my own story about such a rift. I recently (very recently) took time to reconcile a relationship with an aunt that kept us separated for about 15 years. That’s a long time isn’t it? She’s 83 years old and I can say that I am truly thankful and grateful that I had the opportunity on this side of Heavan to reconcile. I’ll also confess that it was my foolish pride that was at the root of the problem (Remember Dwight?). I’ll always regret the time we’ve lost, but I am grateful that I have had a chance to start to make it right. What about you? Do you have something that you need to make right. Remember! Tomorrow’s not promised to you. What about Onesimus and Philemon? Well the scripture doesn’t provide a lot of illumination, but Church history tells us that a servant of Christ named Onesimus became the second Bishop of the Church of Ephesus after Timothy. From runaway slave to Leader of the largest church of its era. All made possible because he went to Philemon and made amends. He might have disobeyed Paul and went on about his way… saved, but still bound. Through his obedience to the Apostle, God was able to establish him as a pillar in the church and as a lasting example to us of real church.. the hard stuff.
Be Blessed!!
p.s. Feel free to ask me about the details of the story about my aunt. I won’t mind telling it if time permits…J
1 Peter 5:6 (King James Version)
6Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Sunday School Lesson for May 16, 2010: A Chosen Community (Colossians 3:1, 2, 8-17)
Colossians 3:13
13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Applied Christianity…
This ‘Christian’ thing would be alright… if it were just me and Jesus, wouldn’t it? Maybe just me and him, some of my family members, a few friends, some of you all. You know. Just the people I get along with. Wouldn’t that be nice? But alas, it is not God’s plan. His plan for us is to be changed from the inside out. And… He let’s us take an active role in the process. Day after day, we’re faced with challenges with most of them coming from … other people. Your boss, your children, your spouse, mostly the same people from the first list. I … would love to lock myself away somewhere and spend three or four hours a day ‘communing’ with Jesus, but it is not to be so. No we’re supposed to be out here, in the mix. Interacting with fellow believers, as well as with non-believers. And sometimes, we’re supposed to be offended, hurt, ashamed, embarrassed or worse. Sometimes, we’re supposed to feel as though we’re being pushed off of a precipice. And somehow, in all of this, if we will trust and obey, we will reap the fruit of the Spirit as our reward. In order to forgive, you must have someone to forgive and some offense for which to forgive them. And… you have to be prepared to keep forgiving them over and over again (Matt. 18:21-22). I’ll close with this: I don’t often quote from James, you’ll have to ask Eric why that is J, but James sums it up very nicely with:
James 3:18
Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
Enjoy the Journey…
13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Applied Christianity…
This ‘Christian’ thing would be alright… if it were just me and Jesus, wouldn’t it? Maybe just me and him, some of my family members, a few friends, some of you all. You know. Just the people I get along with. Wouldn’t that be nice? But alas, it is not God’s plan. His plan for us is to be changed from the inside out. And… He let’s us take an active role in the process. Day after day, we’re faced with challenges with most of them coming from … other people. Your boss, your children, your spouse, mostly the same people from the first list. I … would love to lock myself away somewhere and spend three or four hours a day ‘communing’ with Jesus, but it is not to be so. No we’re supposed to be out here, in the mix. Interacting with fellow believers, as well as with non-believers. And sometimes, we’re supposed to be offended, hurt, ashamed, embarrassed or worse. Sometimes, we’re supposed to feel as though we’re being pushed off of a precipice. And somehow, in all of this, if we will trust and obey, we will reap the fruit of the Spirit as our reward. In order to forgive, you must have someone to forgive and some offense for which to forgive them. And… you have to be prepared to keep forgiving them over and over again (Matt. 18:21-22). I’ll close with this: I don’t often quote from James, you’ll have to ask Eric why that is J, but James sums it up very nicely with:
James 3:18
Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
Enjoy the Journey…
Sunday School Lesson for May 9, 2010: An Established Community (Colossians 2:1-12)
Psalm 133 (English Standard Version)
When Brothers Dwell in Unity
A Song of(A) Ascents: .of David.
1Behold, how good and pleasant it is
when(B) brothers dwell in unity![a]
2It is like the precious(C) oil on(D) the head,
running down on the beard,
on the beard of Aaron,
running down on(E) the collar of his robes!
3It is like(F) the dew of(G) Hermon,
which falls on(H) the mountains of Zion!
For there the LORD(I) has commanded the blessing,
life forevermore.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 (English Standard Version)
12 And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
Matthew 18:19-20 (New International Version)
19"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."
1 Peter 3:7 (New International Version)
7 Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.
My apologies. I’m doing it again. Giving too many verses. Yep. Sure did. Why? In the lesson below, Paul states that the reason he works so hard on the behalf of the believers in Colossae is so that they will be united. And why does he want them united? So that they will have ‘the riches of complete understanding’. So ‘that they may know the Mystery of God, namely, Christ’. Wow! …. Wow! A few weeks ago I talked about having a place alone to seek God. How that time spent in prayer to God would result in the intersection of Heaven and Earth (you!). Remember? But the Bible also teaches that we must not forsake the assembling of ourselves with one another. Why? Because God inhabits our collective praise. The Chinese translate Psalms 22:3 thusly: ‘The Lord takes the praise of Israel and sits down in it like a chair.’ So, where the Body of Christ is in unity, Heaven is there. All of Heaven in all of its splendor. The fullness of the Godhead is there in all of It’s Majesty. And…. Your brothers and sisters are there (here). Visibly sharing the invisible. And becoming indivisible in the process. Oh! And brothers.. pay attention to I Peter 3:7. Want your prayers answered? Then, be at one with your wife. She is a co-heir with you of the riches of Eternity. Rejoice!. Enjoy the Lesson. See you in Church!
Psalm 22:3 (King James Version)
3 But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel
When Brothers Dwell in Unity
A Song of(A) Ascents: .of David.
1Behold, how good and pleasant it is
when(B) brothers dwell in unity![a]
2It is like the precious(C) oil on(D) the head,
running down on the beard,
on the beard of Aaron,
running down on(E) the collar of his robes!
3It is like(F) the dew of(G) Hermon,
which falls on(H) the mountains of Zion!
For there the LORD(I) has commanded the blessing,
life forevermore.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 (English Standard Version)
12 And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
Matthew 18:19-20 (New International Version)
19"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."
1 Peter 3:7 (New International Version)
7 Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.
My apologies. I’m doing it again. Giving too many verses. Yep. Sure did. Why? In the lesson below, Paul states that the reason he works so hard on the behalf of the believers in Colossae is so that they will be united. And why does he want them united? So that they will have ‘the riches of complete understanding’. So ‘that they may know the Mystery of God, namely, Christ’. Wow! …. Wow! A few weeks ago I talked about having a place alone to seek God. How that time spent in prayer to God would result in the intersection of Heaven and Earth (you!). Remember? But the Bible also teaches that we must not forsake the assembling of ourselves with one another. Why? Because God inhabits our collective praise. The Chinese translate Psalms 22:3 thusly: ‘The Lord takes the praise of Israel and sits down in it like a chair.’ So, where the Body of Christ is in unity, Heaven is there. All of Heaven in all of its splendor. The fullness of the Godhead is there in all of It’s Majesty. And…. Your brothers and sisters are there (here). Visibly sharing the invisible. And becoming indivisible in the process. Oh! And brothers.. pay attention to I Peter 3:7. Want your prayers answered? Then, be at one with your wife. She is a co-heir with you of the riches of Eternity. Rejoice!. Enjoy the Lesson. See you in Church!
Psalm 22:3 (King James Version)
3 But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel
Sunday School Lesson for May 2, 2010: A Faithful Community (Colossians 1:1-14)
Proverbs 20:6 (New International Version)
6 Many a man claims to have unfailing love,
but a faithful man who can find?
1 Thessalonians 1:3 (New International Version)
3We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Galatians 5:6 (King James Version)
6For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
1 Thessalonians 5:8 (New International Version)
8But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.
Faith. Love. Spiritual terms intertwined in such a way as to be inseparable in the heart of God. As we study this week’s lesson: ‘A Faithful Community’, it might help to envision a different title: ‘ A Loving Community”. Why? Because Love drives Faith and Faithfulness. The things in our lives that we’ve been most faithful to are the things we’ve loved. Where we’ve experienced the deepest love in our relationships, faithfulness has often been a factor. The biblical implication is that without love, faith cannot exist, something to think about as we walk out this Christian experience before God and men. Often times, we look for examples of great faith in the community of believers. We run to hear this great preacher or that one. We flock (sometimes) to this great church or that great revival. Are they motivated by love? Because where love is, faith will abide. Where love is, faith will operate. God’s love for us is demonstrated by his steadfast faithfulness to us. He never gives up. He is longsuffering. How then can we build our faith? By love. Love for Christ. Love for one another. Find yourself loving your family in Christ, faith will come… Motivated by love to reach the lost, the needy and the hopeless among us? Faith will meet you there. Be encouraged…
6 Many a man claims to have unfailing love,
but a faithful man who can find?
1 Thessalonians 1:3 (New International Version)
3We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Galatians 5:6 (King James Version)
6For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
1 Thessalonians 5:8 (New International Version)
8But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.
Faith. Love. Spiritual terms intertwined in such a way as to be inseparable in the heart of God. As we study this week’s lesson: ‘A Faithful Community’, it might help to envision a different title: ‘ A Loving Community”. Why? Because Love drives Faith and Faithfulness. The things in our lives that we’ve been most faithful to are the things we’ve loved. Where we’ve experienced the deepest love in our relationships, faithfulness has often been a factor. The biblical implication is that without love, faith cannot exist, something to think about as we walk out this Christian experience before God and men. Often times, we look for examples of great faith in the community of believers. We run to hear this great preacher or that one. We flock (sometimes) to this great church or that great revival. Are they motivated by love? Because where love is, faith will abide. Where love is, faith will operate. God’s love for us is demonstrated by his steadfast faithfulness to us. He never gives up. He is longsuffering. How then can we build our faith? By love. Love for Christ. Love for one another. Find yourself loving your family in Christ, faith will come… Motivated by love to reach the lost, the needy and the hopeless among us? Faith will meet you there. Be encouraged…
Sunday School Lesson for April 25, 2010: Inclusion in Community (Luke 14:15-24)
Exodus 24:8-11 (The Message)
8 Moses took the rest of the blood and threw it out over the people, saying, "This is the blood of the covenant which God has made with you out of all these words I have spoken."
9-11 Then they climbed the mountain—Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel—and saw the God of Israel. He was standing on a pavement of something like sapphires—pure, clear sky-blue. He didn't hurt these pillar-leaders of the Israelites: They saw God; and they ate and drank.
New International Version (NIV)
Luke 14:2
There in front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.
Luke 14:4
But they remained silent. So taking hold of the man, he healed him and sent him away.
Luke 14:23 (New King James Version)
23 Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.
A few weeks ago my refrigerator died. So I loaded it on my truck and took it to a local metal recycling site. It was late on a Sunday afternoon, so I didn’t expect to see anyone there, but as I backed up to the drop off spot, a guy kind of appeared from over behind the ‘stuff’ in the yard next to the driveway. He was younger than me, maybe his mid thirties. His skin was weather beaten, his hands as hard as the pavement we were standing on. He spoke in a rambling manner and there was a slight smell of alcohol on his breath. We struck up a conversation as he helped me slide the fridge off of my truck. He told me he worked there and I kind of got the impression that he lived there as well. He was really friendly and maybe a little lonesome. I talked to him for about an hour.. maybe a little longer. It turned out that he did most of the talking. I just listened mostly. At one point he literally had tears running down his face as he thanked me for just taking some time to talk to him.
Last week I made a comment about how my wife making a statement about not wanting to be in ‘your heaven’, referring to a heaven of my own design, as if I were Jesus. As I think about this encounter I had with Steve (his real name), it occurs to me that the heaven that I end up in will have a lot of people like him in it… won’t it? Really! Think about it for a moment. Jesus died for people just like Steve… didn’t he? Sure he did. You and I might not want to sit next to someone like Steve (meaning…’not like me’) in church, but we’d better get used to the fact that when we get to heaven it will be full of ‘Steves’ or ‘Stephanies’. That’s what my bible says. Are you ready for that? If not.. a little help. A long time ago, a preacher gave me a little idiom for the letters that spell bible: Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. The thing with instructions is… you have to follow them. And in this case, you have to follow them before leaving here. That’s the point of this parable. As the opportunities present themselves, whether by organized outreach and missions or through chance encounters like the one I had, take advantage of these opportunities to share… really share the Gospel with people. That way… when you do get to heaven… you may see some one you recognizeJ
As always… I have a lot more to say, but this is the place to stop. Pray for Steve. I have him on speed dial and I need to remember to go by and check on him sometime soon.
Blessings,
♫‘There is room at the Cross for you’♫
8 Moses took the rest of the blood and threw it out over the people, saying, "This is the blood of the covenant which God has made with you out of all these words I have spoken."
9-11 Then they climbed the mountain—Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel—and saw the God of Israel. He was standing on a pavement of something like sapphires—pure, clear sky-blue. He didn't hurt these pillar-leaders of the Israelites: They saw God; and they ate and drank.
New International Version (NIV)
Luke 14:2
There in front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.
Luke 14:4
But they remained silent. So taking hold of the man, he healed him and sent him away.
Luke 14:23 (New King James Version)
23 Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.
A few weeks ago my refrigerator died. So I loaded it on my truck and took it to a local metal recycling site. It was late on a Sunday afternoon, so I didn’t expect to see anyone there, but as I backed up to the drop off spot, a guy kind of appeared from over behind the ‘stuff’ in the yard next to the driveway. He was younger than me, maybe his mid thirties. His skin was weather beaten, his hands as hard as the pavement we were standing on. He spoke in a rambling manner and there was a slight smell of alcohol on his breath. We struck up a conversation as he helped me slide the fridge off of my truck. He told me he worked there and I kind of got the impression that he lived there as well. He was really friendly and maybe a little lonesome. I talked to him for about an hour.. maybe a little longer. It turned out that he did most of the talking. I just listened mostly. At one point he literally had tears running down his face as he thanked me for just taking some time to talk to him.
Last week I made a comment about how my wife making a statement about not wanting to be in ‘your heaven’, referring to a heaven of my own design, as if I were Jesus. As I think about this encounter I had with Steve (his real name), it occurs to me that the heaven that I end up in will have a lot of people like him in it… won’t it? Really! Think about it for a moment. Jesus died for people just like Steve… didn’t he? Sure he did. You and I might not want to sit next to someone like Steve (meaning…’not like me’) in church, but we’d better get used to the fact that when we get to heaven it will be full of ‘Steves’ or ‘Stephanies’. That’s what my bible says. Are you ready for that? If not.. a little help. A long time ago, a preacher gave me a little idiom for the letters that spell bible: Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. The thing with instructions is… you have to follow them. And in this case, you have to follow them before leaving here. That’s the point of this parable. As the opportunities present themselves, whether by organized outreach and missions or through chance encounters like the one I had, take advantage of these opportunities to share… really share the Gospel with people. That way… when you do get to heaven… you may see some one you recognizeJ
As always… I have a lot more to say, but this is the place to stop. Pray for Steve. I have him on speed dial and I need to remember to go by and check on him sometime soon.
Blessings,
♫‘There is room at the Cross for you’♫
Sunday School Lesson for April 18, 2010: Connecting in Community (Matthew 5:17-20; 22:34-40)
Matthew 5:48 (New International Version)
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Luke 10:25-28 (New International Version)
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
25 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
26 "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
27 He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'[a]; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[b]"
28 "You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."
Hebrews 2:11 (New International Version)
Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.
Leviticus 19:14
" 'Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the LORD.
Colossians 3:14 (King James Version)
And above all these things put on charity (love), which is the bond of perfectness.
I apologize. Each week I try and bring some scripture to add perspective to the Sunday School Lesson. This week I added too many verses. I can hear you saying.. ”Why didn’t he just some of them out?” I couldn’t. Not this time. You see, I always struggle with the Sermon on the Mount. Who is Jesus talking to and why is taking this tone? If he really is preaching to the ‘poor in spirit’, why does he seem to be making right standing harder instead of easier for them? For me? Perfection? Really?!?! I haven’t ever done perfect. What about you? I know. Right? But the scripture tells me that my Father in Heaven is so perfect.. in love that He causes it to rain on those who deserve it and those who do not as well. He’s so perfect .. in love that He gave His only Son … to the whole world. He’s so perfect.. in love that He’s patiently beckoning to all, not willing that any should perish. Wait! Wait! Wait! He’s so perfect.. in love that before the foundation for earth, He was sending us a Savior! Isn’t that good news? I like that kind of perfectness. And you know what? I do want to be like Him. Really! There have been times when I’ve been overly judgmental of people around me.. Christians or non Christians.. I can hear my wife telling me.. “I’m glad you are not Jesus”. I don’t know If I’d want to be in your heaven. You know what. I’m glad I’m not Jesus too. I’d mess this all up. But as the day of Jesus’ return approaches , I get it. No, I don’t want anyone to see me as Jesus, but rather I want them to see Jesus in me. If I can do that, maybe they will hear him (not me) and be made whole. How does any of this happen? By walking in love. Love Beloved. Walk in it. It’s not hard. Jesus said “My yoke is easy..” The yoke He speaks of is Love. And you know what? It is easy.. Enjoy the lesson.
p.s. thanks Gman.. much love…
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Luke 10:25-28 (New International Version)
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
25 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
26 "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"
27 He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'[a]; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[b]"
28 "You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."
Hebrews 2:11 (New International Version)
Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.
Leviticus 19:14
" 'Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the LORD.
Colossians 3:14 (King James Version)
And above all these things put on charity (love), which is the bond of perfectness.
I apologize. Each week I try and bring some scripture to add perspective to the Sunday School Lesson. This week I added too many verses. I can hear you saying.. ”Why didn’t he just some of them out?” I couldn’t. Not this time. You see, I always struggle with the Sermon on the Mount. Who is Jesus talking to and why is taking this tone? If he really is preaching to the ‘poor in spirit’, why does he seem to be making right standing harder instead of easier for them? For me? Perfection? Really?!?! I haven’t ever done perfect. What about you? I know. Right? But the scripture tells me that my Father in Heaven is so perfect.. in love that He causes it to rain on those who deserve it and those who do not as well. He’s so perfect .. in love that He gave His only Son … to the whole world. He’s so perfect.. in love that He’s patiently beckoning to all, not willing that any should perish. Wait! Wait! Wait! He’s so perfect.. in love that before the foundation for earth, He was sending us a Savior! Isn’t that good news? I like that kind of perfectness. And you know what? I do want to be like Him. Really! There have been times when I’ve been overly judgmental of people around me.. Christians or non Christians.. I can hear my wife telling me.. “I’m glad you are not Jesus”. I don’t know If I’d want to be in your heaven. You know what. I’m glad I’m not Jesus too. I’d mess this all up. But as the day of Jesus’ return approaches , I get it. No, I don’t want anyone to see me as Jesus, but rather I want them to see Jesus in me. If I can do that, maybe they will hear him (not me) and be made whole. How does any of this happen? By walking in love. Love Beloved. Walk in it. It’s not hard. Jesus said “My yoke is easy..” The yoke He speaks of is Love. And you know what? It is easy.. Enjoy the lesson.
p.s. thanks Gman.. much love…
Sunday School Lesson for April 11, 2010: Love Within the Community (1 John 2:7-17)
Psalms 4:3 - But know that the LORD has set apart the godly man for Himself; The LORD hears when I call to Him.
Psalms 149:5 - Let the saints be joyful in glory
John 15:12 – “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”
Chaciyd – pronounced ‘khaw-seed' – A Hebrew word for ‘Love’ or ‘Godly’ or ‘Faithful’. Often interchanged with the word ‘saint’ in the Old Testament.
Beloved, I can feel John’s exhortation here. His exhortation, his ‘command’ if you will is to practice ‘love’; to walk in love because Love has come, to walk in light because Light has come. Because you are chosen by Love Himself, you have become ‘love’. Isn’t that interesting? The Hebrew word above is used as an adjective in Psalms 4:3, but as a noun in Psalms 149:5. The inference is that since you are loved by God, who is Love (noun), you are a Saint (noun), you should demonstrate godliness through love (a verb). The verses in this week’s lesson just drip with love. God’s love for you and I. Our love for Him. Our love for his Word. Our love one for another. When the world observes this kind of love among the saints, it is irresistible. Many years ago I was standing in a Church parking lot late one night after an evening service talking to the assistant Pastor. During the conversation he remarked, “Brother Wayne, when the church is on point, people will be drawn in by the Holy Ghost.” Well the conversation continued on and a while later, some guy rides up on a motorcycle. He takes off his helmet, looks at us and says “When does church start?” I learned something about the power of being on one accord that night. Faith works by love. When we walk in love we create an atmosphere, an environment where the Presence of God is manifest. When that happens… Glory!
Psalms 149:5 - Let the saints be joyful in glory
John 15:12 – “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”
Chaciyd – pronounced ‘khaw-seed' – A Hebrew word for ‘Love’ or ‘Godly’ or ‘Faithful’. Often interchanged with the word ‘saint’ in the Old Testament.
Beloved, I can feel John’s exhortation here. His exhortation, his ‘command’ if you will is to practice ‘love’; to walk in love because Love has come, to walk in light because Light has come. Because you are chosen by Love Himself, you have become ‘love’. Isn’t that interesting? The Hebrew word above is used as an adjective in Psalms 4:3, but as a noun in Psalms 149:5. The inference is that since you are loved by God, who is Love (noun), you are a Saint (noun), you should demonstrate godliness through love (a verb). The verses in this week’s lesson just drip with love. God’s love for you and I. Our love for Him. Our love for his Word. Our love one for another. When the world observes this kind of love among the saints, it is irresistible. Many years ago I was standing in a Church parking lot late one night after an evening service talking to the assistant Pastor. During the conversation he remarked, “Brother Wayne, when the church is on point, people will be drawn in by the Holy Ghost.” Well the conversation continued on and a while later, some guy rides up on a motorcycle. He takes off his helmet, looks at us and says “When does church start?” I learned something about the power of being on one accord that night. Faith works by love. When we walk in love we create an atmosphere, an environment where the Presence of God is manifest. When that happens… Glory!
Sunday School Lesson for April 4, 2010: The Community Faces Pain and Joy (John 16:16-24; 20:11-16)
Psalm 30:5b (King James Version)
“…weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
Matthew 21:9 (King James Version)
9And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.
John 1:29 (King James Version)
29The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
Allow me to frame the occasion. This is Passover and Jesus has gathered his disciples for the observance. This is when the Jews celebrated The Hebrews Nation’s deliverance from Egypt.. Celebrated…But, this occasion turns out to be a somber one for the disciples. Nothing is going the way they would have thought. A week earlier, Jesus had entered Jerusalem on a pavement of palm leaves and to shouts of ‘Hosanna!’. He’d driven the money changers from the Temple and then held a healing service right there on the Temple Mount! (Matthew 21:14) He seemed to be finally taking his place as… Messiah! The King of the Jews. A scant week later there very lives were in danger. How could that be? What had gone so wrong? Nothing! Nothing at all. You see, The disciples were looking for a king, but what they needed was … a lamb. Jesus healing the lame and blind on the Temple Mount… That was a foreshadowing of Glory to come. Jesus on his way to Calvary… That was the fulfillment of many ancient, ancient prophecies. Jesus’ time had come. The most pivotal event of all ages was about to occur. And the disciples were about to be witnesses to it. They were looking for a conquering King, but what they needed was a ‘stand-in’. Some one to endure the wrath of God for them because of the eternal punishment due them… and us. The Gospel, the Good News could not have been without the death and the resurrection of our Lord. Just forty or so days later, the Disciples would receive the power and the joy of the Holy Spirit and spread the Good News to the nations. Have a Blessed Resurrection Sunday. Enjoy the lesson.
“…weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
Matthew 21:9 (King James Version)
9And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.
John 1:29 (King James Version)
29The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
Allow me to frame the occasion. This is Passover and Jesus has gathered his disciples for the observance. This is when the Jews celebrated The Hebrews Nation’s deliverance from Egypt.. Celebrated…But, this occasion turns out to be a somber one for the disciples. Nothing is going the way they would have thought. A week earlier, Jesus had entered Jerusalem on a pavement of palm leaves and to shouts of ‘Hosanna!’. He’d driven the money changers from the Temple and then held a healing service right there on the Temple Mount! (Matthew 21:14) He seemed to be finally taking his place as… Messiah! The King of the Jews. A scant week later there very lives were in danger. How could that be? What had gone so wrong? Nothing! Nothing at all. You see, The disciples were looking for a king, but what they needed was … a lamb. Jesus healing the lame and blind on the Temple Mount… That was a foreshadowing of Glory to come. Jesus on his way to Calvary… That was the fulfillment of many ancient, ancient prophecies. Jesus’ time had come. The most pivotal event of all ages was about to occur. And the disciples were about to be witnesses to it. They were looking for a conquering King, but what they needed was a ‘stand-in’. Some one to endure the wrath of God for them because of the eternal punishment due them… and us. The Gospel, the Good News could not have been without the death and the resurrection of our Lord. Just forty or so days later, the Disciples would receive the power and the joy of the Holy Spirit and spread the Good News to the nations. Have a Blessed Resurrection Sunday. Enjoy the lesson.
Sunday School Lesson for March 28, 2010: Acceptance in the Community (Ruth 2:5-12; 3:9-11)
Matthew 5:14a-16b
14"You are the light of the world…. …let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Ruth 2:4
4 Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters, "The LORD be with you!"
"The LORD bless you!" they called back.
Ruth 2:20
20 "The LORD bless him!" Naomi said
Please! Take some time this week to read the entire book of Ruth. This book is special! Picking up on my theme from last week, of speaking or ‘witnessing’ to those that God brings across your path, what kind of example are you setting for others? When Ruth arrived in Bethlehem, she could not know what to expect. It’s the same for the visitor @ your church or the new employee @ your job. They don’t know quite what to expect in a new situation and they will take their cues from the people around them. This is especially important in the workplace. Notice Boaz’s greetings to his laborers and their return response to him. What a testimony. Listen, people are looking for a way to connect to the Divine. Tag! You’re it! Let them ‘witness’ the ‘Christ’ in you. Enjoy the lesson..
Colossians 3:23-24
23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
14"You are the light of the world…. …let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Ruth 2:4
4 Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters, "The LORD be with you!"
"The LORD bless you!" they called back.
Ruth 2:20
20 "The LORD bless him!" Naomi said
Please! Take some time this week to read the entire book of Ruth. This book is special! Picking up on my theme from last week, of speaking or ‘witnessing’ to those that God brings across your path, what kind of example are you setting for others? When Ruth arrived in Bethlehem, she could not know what to expect. It’s the same for the visitor @ your church or the new employee @ your job. They don’t know quite what to expect in a new situation and they will take their cues from the people around them. This is especially important in the workplace. Notice Boaz’s greetings to his laborers and their return response to him. What a testimony. Listen, people are looking for a way to connect to the Divine. Tag! You’re it! Let them ‘witness’ the ‘Christ’ in you. Enjoy the lesson..
Colossians 3:23-24
23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Sunday School Lesson for March 28, 2010: Acceptance in the Community (Ruth 2:5-12; 3:9-11)
Matthew 5:14a-16b
14"You are the light of the world…. …let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Ruth 2:4
4 Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters, "The LORD be with you!"
"The LORD bless you!" they called back.
Ruth 2:20
20 "The LORD bless him!" Naomi said
Please! Take some time this week to read the entire book of Ruth. This book is special! Picking up on my theme from last week, of speaking or ‘witnessing’ to those that God brings across your path, what kind of example are you setting for others? When Ruth arrived in Bethlehem, she could not know what to expect. It’s the same for the visitor @ your church or the new employee @ your job. They don’t know quite what to expect in a new situation and they will take their cues from the people around them. This is especially important in the workplace. Notice Boaz’s greetings to his laborers and their return response to him. What a testimony. Listen, people are looking for a way to connect to the Divine. Tag! You’re it! Let them ‘witness’ the ‘Christ’ in you. Enjoy the lesson..
Colossians 3:23-24
23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
14"You are the light of the world…. …let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Ruth 2:4
4 Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters, "The LORD be with you!"
"The LORD bless you!" they called back.
Ruth 2:20
20 "The LORD bless him!" Naomi said
Please! Take some time this week to read the entire book of Ruth. This book is special! Picking up on my theme from last week, of speaking or ‘witnessing’ to those that God brings across your path, what kind of example are you setting for others? When Ruth arrived in Bethlehem, she could not know what to expect. It’s the same for the visitor @ your church or the new employee @ your job. They don’t know quite what to expect in a new situation and they will take their cues from the people around them. This is especially important in the workplace. Notice Boaz’s greetings to his laborers and their return response to him. What a testimony. Listen, people are looking for a way to connect to the Divine. Tag! You’re it! Let them ‘witness’ the ‘Christ’ in you. Enjoy the lesson..
Colossians 3:23-24
23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Sunday School Lesson for March 21, 2010: Family as Community (Ruth 1:1-9, 14b-16)
Ruth 1:9 (New International Version)
9 May the LORD grant that each of you will find rest in the home of another husband."
Then she kissed them and they wept aloud
Jeremiah 1:5 (New International Version)
5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew [a] you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
Romans 10:17 (King James Version)
17So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Often times we are a little hard on Orpah aren’t we? She stayed in Moab and Ruth came with Naomi to Israel. But notice that Naomi blessed Orpah. Blessed her! What then sets Ruth apart? God set Ruth apart.. to be a part of the Heavenly Lineage of Jesus Christ. Before Ruth was formed in the womb, God knew her. He knew the plans he had for her. Plans to proper her. Plans to give her a hope and a future. I can relate to this a little bit. I’m one of those folks that believe that everything happens for a reason. I also believe that God’s hand has been on my life all of my life. Believing in the power of God’s word like I do, I’m fairly certain that in spite of her staying behind, Orpah was blessed. But Ruth was chosen. Why? Because God is God. He’s no respecter of persons. Ruth is representative of the Gentiles, those who would be grafted into the Kingdom through the preaching of the Gospel. When he chose Ruth, He was choosing you and I. Isn’t that good news?
There is a progression I see here in Ruth’s story that I’ve observed in the lives of some people I’ve been around. Sometimes you can see God’s influence on a person, even if they don’t openly confess Jesus. Something about Ruth caused her to ‘cling’ to Naomi. Faith comes by hearing. What kind of influence had the family of Elimelech and Naomi had on Ruth, Orpah and the Moabites in the community where they lived? What were their confessions? How did they impact those around them? Whatever Ruth heard, she was willing to reject her past for a future with the people of Israel, serving the God of Israel. How does that relate to us today? More often than not, when I have encountered those people that I ‘see’ God’s hand on I tell them about it. I tell them what I see and why it matters. What happens next? It varies, but in most cases the results are a closer walk with God for the person I’m ‘witnessing’ to. They’re not just busting the Church doors down the following week, but they do develop a consciousness of God in their life and over time become receptive to the things of God and, sometimes, eventually live their lives for him…like Ruth did.
Your demeanor and your words impact the world around you. You were chosen… to be a blessing. Don’t be shy. The person God’s put’s in your path to speak to … was chosen too. Enjoy the lesson.
9 May the LORD grant that each of you will find rest in the home of another husband."
Then she kissed them and they wept aloud
Jeremiah 1:5 (New International Version)
5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew [a] you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
Romans 10:17 (King James Version)
17So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Often times we are a little hard on Orpah aren’t we? She stayed in Moab and Ruth came with Naomi to Israel. But notice that Naomi blessed Orpah. Blessed her! What then sets Ruth apart? God set Ruth apart.. to be a part of the Heavenly Lineage of Jesus Christ. Before Ruth was formed in the womb, God knew her. He knew the plans he had for her. Plans to proper her. Plans to give her a hope and a future. I can relate to this a little bit. I’m one of those folks that believe that everything happens for a reason. I also believe that God’s hand has been on my life all of my life. Believing in the power of God’s word like I do, I’m fairly certain that in spite of her staying behind, Orpah was blessed. But Ruth was chosen. Why? Because God is God. He’s no respecter of persons. Ruth is representative of the Gentiles, those who would be grafted into the Kingdom through the preaching of the Gospel. When he chose Ruth, He was choosing you and I. Isn’t that good news?
There is a progression I see here in Ruth’s story that I’ve observed in the lives of some people I’ve been around. Sometimes you can see God’s influence on a person, even if they don’t openly confess Jesus. Something about Ruth caused her to ‘cling’ to Naomi. Faith comes by hearing. What kind of influence had the family of Elimelech and Naomi had on Ruth, Orpah and the Moabites in the community where they lived? What were their confessions? How did they impact those around them? Whatever Ruth heard, she was willing to reject her past for a future with the people of Israel, serving the God of Israel. How does that relate to us today? More often than not, when I have encountered those people that I ‘see’ God’s hand on I tell them about it. I tell them what I see and why it matters. What happens next? It varies, but in most cases the results are a closer walk with God for the person I’m ‘witnessing’ to. They’re not just busting the Church doors down the following week, but they do develop a consciousness of God in their life and over time become receptive to the things of God and, sometimes, eventually live their lives for him…like Ruth did.
Your demeanor and your words impact the world around you. You were chosen… to be a blessing. Don’t be shy. The person God’s put’s in your path to speak to … was chosen too. Enjoy the lesson.
Sunday School Lesson for March 14, 2010: A Community to Redeem (Jonah 3:10-4:11)
Jonah 3:4 (New International Version)
4 On the first day, Jonah started into the city. He proclaimed: "Forty more days and Nineveh will be overturned."
How often are we willing to pass and execute judgment on people who are not like us. Jonah certainly was. He pitched a tent east of Nineveh, sat down and waited. He was prepared to wait as long as forty days to see God execute judgment. Biblical judgment comes in three forms: Super natural disaster, Pestilence and Famine, War. Jonah must have known this, yet he was willing to hang around within viewing distance, possibly in harm’s way, of Nineveh to see God’s judgment. That’s remarkable. Can you hate that much? Unfortunately, I think the answer is yes for most of us. The Bible is about two distinctly different things: The Absolute Majesty and Wonder of God and the utter depravity of mankind. Jonah paints a picture for us.. of ourselves.
This segment of lessons focuses on Community. The root word here is ‘common’, as in what do we all have in common? The Church has to accomplish two tasks: 1. Not be absorbed by the community and 2. Impact the community for Christ. We are in the world, but not of the world.
My last point: Who wrote this book? Jonah did. Free confession is good for the soul. Jonah may not have remained as hateful and angry through the remainder of his life as he was during this brief episode in Nineveh. Transparency brings healing and signals that one has received healing. The fact that Jonah could be this transparent about this period in his life indicates that he eventually dealt with the extreme emotions he exhibited. That’s good news for you and I. If Jonah could ‘get over himself’, so can you and I.
1 John 1:9 (New International Version)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Blessings..
wb
4 On the first day, Jonah started into the city. He proclaimed: "Forty more days and Nineveh will be overturned."
How often are we willing to pass and execute judgment on people who are not like us. Jonah certainly was. He pitched a tent east of Nineveh, sat down and waited. He was prepared to wait as long as forty days to see God execute judgment. Biblical judgment comes in three forms: Super natural disaster, Pestilence and Famine, War. Jonah must have known this, yet he was willing to hang around within viewing distance, possibly in harm’s way, of Nineveh to see God’s judgment. That’s remarkable. Can you hate that much? Unfortunately, I think the answer is yes for most of us. The Bible is about two distinctly different things: The Absolute Majesty and Wonder of God and the utter depravity of mankind. Jonah paints a picture for us.. of ourselves.
This segment of lessons focuses on Community. The root word here is ‘common’, as in what do we all have in common? The Church has to accomplish two tasks: 1. Not be absorbed by the community and 2. Impact the community for Christ. We are in the world, but not of the world.
My last point: Who wrote this book? Jonah did. Free confession is good for the soul. Jonah may not have remained as hateful and angry through the remainder of his life as he was during this brief episode in Nineveh. Transparency brings healing and signals that one has received healing. The fact that Jonah could be this transparent about this period in his life indicates that he eventually dealt with the extreme emotions he exhibited. That’s good news for you and I. If Jonah could ‘get over himself’, so can you and I.
1 John 1:9 (New International Version)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Blessings..
wb
Sunday School Lesson: Lesson for March 7, 2010: Mission to the Community (Jonah 1:1-3; 3:1-9)
Greetings,
First a little reflection::
II Tim. 3:16 - All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Last week I may have taken one of the points of my commentary on the lesson too far. Someone I didn’t know up to that point lovingly sent a little correction my way. For that I am grateful. I can be extreme when it comes to scripture, especially where it concerns Jesus. But, it was not my intent to infer, in any way, that Christ receives all things done in His name as righteous. My apologies.
Lev. 10:10 - You must distinguish between the holy and the common…
Selah….
Now this week’s comment:
What? You’ve never been where Jonah was. C’mon. I’m there every day. I am an Ambassador for Christ, but do I act like it? All the time? Sure, I don’t cuss or chew, or hang with them that do, but is that enough? Really? Jonah’s reluctance to speak God’s word (in season or out of season) put a whole city in peril, as well as his unknowing shipmates. His obedience in preaching God’s word to Nineveh brought the entire city to repentance. Imagine that. Early Church history teaches that while the Apostle Paul was imprisoned in Rome, the Guards would have to be rotated every four hours lest they be converted to Christianity. I’m also reminded of a Hebrew slave girl whose words led to her master’s (Naaman’s) deliverance from leprosy. Whose life might you impact for Christ by a word spoken in due season? Speak up! Somebody’s healing is right on the tip of your tongue. Silence is not always golden.
First a little reflection::
II Tim. 3:16 - All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Last week I may have taken one of the points of my commentary on the lesson too far. Someone I didn’t know up to that point lovingly sent a little correction my way. For that I am grateful. I can be extreme when it comes to scripture, especially where it concerns Jesus. But, it was not my intent to infer, in any way, that Christ receives all things done in His name as righteous. My apologies.
Lev. 10:10 - You must distinguish between the holy and the common…
Selah….
Now this week’s comment:
What? You’ve never been where Jonah was. C’mon. I’m there every day. I am an Ambassador for Christ, but do I act like it? All the time? Sure, I don’t cuss or chew, or hang with them that do, but is that enough? Really? Jonah’s reluctance to speak God’s word (in season or out of season) put a whole city in peril, as well as his unknowing shipmates. His obedience in preaching God’s word to Nineveh brought the entire city to repentance. Imagine that. Early Church history teaches that while the Apostle Paul was imprisoned in Rome, the Guards would have to be rotated every four hours lest they be converted to Christianity. I’m also reminded of a Hebrew slave girl whose words led to her master’s (Naaman’s) deliverance from leprosy. Whose life might you impact for Christ by a word spoken in due season? Speak up! Somebody’s healing is right on the tip of your tongue. Silence is not always golden.
Sunday School Lesson for Feb. 28, 2010: The Anointed in Bethany (Matthew 26:3-16)
Song of Solomon 1:12 (New International Version)
12 While the king was at his table,
my perfume spread its fragrance
For a long time I could not fully understand the story of the Anointing at Bethany. Then I discovered this verse in the Song of Solomon and I understood perfectly. There are a number of prophecies in scripture, especially the Old Testament that point to a coming King, Savior, Messiah. They are regarded as ‘Messianic Prophecies and their specific purpose was to leave prophetic indicators or markers throughout history for the Hebrew peoples to watch for so that they would not miss the coming of their promised Messiah. I believe the verse above was such a prophetic marker. I also believe that in that setting, at that dinner, on a day when the Pharisees were plotting to kill Jesus, the significance of this single act was not lost on the guests. In essence, this woman silently made a declaration to all that were present that Jesus was Lord! The very Promise that they had awaited for centuries they were now plotting to kill. What an act of courage on her part. The Bible says that we are to be living Epistles (II Corinthians 3:3). Our lives should testify of our faith. Her’s certainly did.
An interesting point about Jesus and Messianic Prophecy. The statistical odds that one man would fulfill just seven of the major Messianic Prophecies is 1 in 100 billion billion billion billion. Whew! The question then becomes “How could you not believe the Jesus is the Christ?”
My final observation: Jesus called her gift ‘beautiful’. This is what I love about him. He enjoyed it! He told them (and us) that.. He liked it! It felt good! That it was pleasant! Can you see him smiling? He takes pleasure in our worship, in our giving, in our service, in our kindness toward strangers and our love for one another. His simple acknowledgement of his enjoyment of her worship lets me know that whenever I do whatever I do in his name, it pleases him. It causes him to smileJ The scripture tells us that he endured the pain of the cross because of the joy that he was looking forward to (Hebrews 12:2). We are his joy. The Church; you and I. Selah.
12 While the king was at his table,
my perfume spread its fragrance
For a long time I could not fully understand the story of the Anointing at Bethany. Then I discovered this verse in the Song of Solomon and I understood perfectly. There are a number of prophecies in scripture, especially the Old Testament that point to a coming King, Savior, Messiah. They are regarded as ‘Messianic Prophecies and their specific purpose was to leave prophetic indicators or markers throughout history for the Hebrew peoples to watch for so that they would not miss the coming of their promised Messiah. I believe the verse above was such a prophetic marker. I also believe that in that setting, at that dinner, on a day when the Pharisees were plotting to kill Jesus, the significance of this single act was not lost on the guests. In essence, this woman silently made a declaration to all that were present that Jesus was Lord! The very Promise that they had awaited for centuries they were now plotting to kill. What an act of courage on her part. The Bible says that we are to be living Epistles (II Corinthians 3:3). Our lives should testify of our faith. Her’s certainly did.
An interesting point about Jesus and Messianic Prophecy. The statistical odds that one man would fulfill just seven of the major Messianic Prophecies is 1 in 100 billion billion billion billion. Whew! The question then becomes “How could you not believe the Jesus is the Christ?”
My final observation: Jesus called her gift ‘beautiful’. This is what I love about him. He enjoyed it! He told them (and us) that.. He liked it! It felt good! That it was pleasant! Can you see him smiling? He takes pleasure in our worship, in our giving, in our service, in our kindness toward strangers and our love for one another. His simple acknowledgement of his enjoyment of her worship lets me know that whenever I do whatever I do in his name, it pleases him. It causes him to smileJ The scripture tells us that he endured the pain of the cross because of the joy that he was looking forward to (Hebrews 12:2). We are his joy. The Church; you and I. Selah.
Sunday School Lesson: Lesson for Feb. 21, 2010: Witnessed by Disciples (Matthew 17:1-13)
Wayne’s two cents worth..
Wow!
Have you ever had this feeling when you walked through the Church doors on Sunday morning that you felt GOD’s presence? Do you have a place? You know.. a place? A secret closet? Inside your car alone? Maybe… the bathroom? A place.. where you meet GOD. All alone.. c’mon … a place! A place where it’s just you and Jesus. The reason I ask is because the example that I’ve taken from saints that have gone before me was that they had a place. They understood how important alone time with GOD was. I’m not talking about the saints of the bible or the saints of the early church. I’m talking about Mother Sneed (My Grandmother), Sister Mayes (her neighbor), Momma Lena (My other Grandmother), Rev. Moore (the Preacher that helped me get delivered (not saved, delivered), my uncle Milton and a good many others from my younger years. They took their example from the Master, Jesus.
Jesus made it a habit of going to a mountain to pray. This time, He took Peter, James and John (Cephas, Jacob and JochananJ) with him. Was this heavenly interlude a common occurrence with Jesus? It’s possible. The Bible says that angels ministered to him after the temptation in the desert (Matt. 4:11). They ministered to him again in Gethsemane (John 22:42, 43). After one mountaintop experience, He literally walked on water and calmed a storm (Matt. 14:23-33). Another gospel tells us that Moses and Elijah ministered to Jesus at this meeting about His pending crucifixion (Luke 9:31). So it’s conceivable that every time Jesus made time for prayer alone Heaven and Earth intersected. Wow!
Scientists say that there are as many a thirteen to fifteen different dimensions, but that we can only perceive four of them: length, width, height and time. And we can only experience time in one direction. I like to think that Heaven is right here all the time, just in a different dimension. That’s why Jesus would often say to people ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand’. I think he literally meant ‘right at your fingertips’. Close enough to touch. In essence… that Heaven / Earth intersection is always imminent. In fact the Bible tells us that the veil that separated us from GOD has been torn from top to bottom and that we can boldly come before the Throne of Grace. One of my favorite passages in scripture is Hebrews 12:18-24. It tells me that I have come to the Heavenly, invisible, Mt. Zion and that I currently am in the presence of the spirits of just men made perfect, all of the hosts of Heaven and Jesus, the Mediator of this New Covenant…
Let me stop here.. I have a lot more to say. Especially about this lesson, but I’ve said enough already. The old folks used to say something like ‘Prayer is the key and Faith is the Door’. Remember that? Be Blessed Beloved. May you enjoy some quiet time with GOD this week.
.wb
Wow!
Have you ever had this feeling when you walked through the Church doors on Sunday morning that you felt GOD’s presence? Do you have a place? You know.. a place? A secret closet? Inside your car alone? Maybe… the bathroom? A place.. where you meet GOD. All alone.. c’mon … a place! A place where it’s just you and Jesus. The reason I ask is because the example that I’ve taken from saints that have gone before me was that they had a place. They understood how important alone time with GOD was. I’m not talking about the saints of the bible or the saints of the early church. I’m talking about Mother Sneed (My Grandmother), Sister Mayes (her neighbor), Momma Lena (My other Grandmother), Rev. Moore (the Preacher that helped me get delivered (not saved, delivered), my uncle Milton and a good many others from my younger years. They took their example from the Master, Jesus.
Jesus made it a habit of going to a mountain to pray. This time, He took Peter, James and John (Cephas, Jacob and JochananJ) with him. Was this heavenly interlude a common occurrence with Jesus? It’s possible. The Bible says that angels ministered to him after the temptation in the desert (Matt. 4:11). They ministered to him again in Gethsemane (John 22:42, 43). After one mountaintop experience, He literally walked on water and calmed a storm (Matt. 14:23-33). Another gospel tells us that Moses and Elijah ministered to Jesus at this meeting about His pending crucifixion (Luke 9:31). So it’s conceivable that every time Jesus made time for prayer alone Heaven and Earth intersected. Wow!
Scientists say that there are as many a thirteen to fifteen different dimensions, but that we can only perceive four of them: length, width, height and time. And we can only experience time in one direction. I like to think that Heaven is right here all the time, just in a different dimension. That’s why Jesus would often say to people ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand’. I think he literally meant ‘right at your fingertips’. Close enough to touch. In essence… that Heaven / Earth intersection is always imminent. In fact the Bible tells us that the veil that separated us from GOD has been torn from top to bottom and that we can boldly come before the Throne of Grace. One of my favorite passages in scripture is Hebrews 12:18-24. It tells me that I have come to the Heavenly, invisible, Mt. Zion and that I currently am in the presence of the spirits of just men made perfect, all of the hosts of Heaven and Jesus, the Mediator of this New Covenant…
Let me stop here.. I have a lot more to say. Especially about this lesson, but I’ve said enough already. The old folks used to say something like ‘Prayer is the key and Faith is the Door’. Remember that? Be Blessed Beloved. May you enjoy some quiet time with GOD this week.
.wb
Sunday School Lesson for Feb. 14, 2010: Declared by Peter (Matthew 16:13-27)
OK! OK! I’ll go first
Wayne’s two cents worth:
Heaty,
Dudny,
Bay Bay (cousin)
Bootsie (another cousin)
Toosie (Aunt)
Mutt (Uncle)
Some of the nick names of people I grew up around. Peter was the nickname (if you will) that Jesus bestowed on Simon at the Call (John 1:42). I don’t want to take a lot of time, but I do want to paint the picture. He called him Cephas or Peter which is translated ‘stone’. Through Church history we have taken the name ‘Peter’ and imbued it with such importance that we forget, it was a nickname. Personally, I like nicknames. I have one. I won’t share it with you, because it’s extremely personal. You see, only my dad could call me by that name. It was a term of extreme endearment on my dad’s part. He called me by that name all of my life until his passing a few years ago. I’ve kind a tailed off here onto another tangent. This nickname thing is another lesson for another time ( see Revelations 2:17), but please permit me to finish my thought. When my dad called me that name, whether it was for good or bad (sometime it meant real trouble) it was always such an intimate term that it was as though we were ‘face to face’ (intimacy = into-me-see J ) Thus, as a child and as an adult I was very protective and jealous of that name. When my brothers and sisters or cousin’s used it, they were normally teasing me. It would be on. When aunts and uncles used it, it meant they were looking at me through my dad’s eyes. After all they heard it first from him. Forgive my digression here, but imagine how Simon must have felt every time Jesus called him ‘Peter’. It must have been, to Simon a very personal term of endearment. So, on with the lesson…
‘Who do you say that I am?’
‘Thou art the Christ (Messiah), the Son of the Living God.’
Sometimes we get a little too greekified’ The KJV uses the term Christ, but Peter probably used the term Messiah. I like the term Messiah because contextually, it had such a rich, powerful meaning to the Jewish peoples. Messiah. In that term rested all of the hope of the Hebrew peoples through all generations up to that point in time. Think about it. It was bigger than governor. Bigger than King. Bigger than Prime Minister. Bigger than Pope. Bigger than President. It literally meant ‘one sent from God to save’. You can see even more of it’s depth in what Peter said immediately after that: ‘The Son of the LIVING God’. The right now God. The right here God. The All powerful God. The God who Was, Is and forever will Be. God!. Not just God’s answer to all my problems, but God’s answer to The Problem. Period. It’’s OK to shout. I am.
Then Jesus says to Simon (I going) to intentionally paraphrase here), ‘Wow! Simon, it took a lot for you to say that? In fact, you didn’t just figure it out on your own! You got that directly from my Father, in Heaven.’ ‘‘Simon. You know I call you Cephas, which means ‘pebble’, (I can see Jesus grinning broadly, with his arm around Simon’s shoulder) but I’m going to build a Church on the revelation of Me Being the Messiah sent from God in Heaven. And you know what? It will be built on a great immovable boulder that not even the gates of Hell will be able to prevail against.’ ‘ It’ll be Awesome!’ (can you imagine Jesus using the word ‘Awesome!’? J) The reason I focus on this part of the Lesson is because it is the most important revelation in all of history, human or otherwise. Jesus is absolutely All. He is the King.. of Kings. He is the Lord… of Lords. HE is absolutely All!. Isn’t that good news?? Halleluiah!
Jesus goes on to tell Simon.. ‘This little revelation IS the Key to the Kingdom’ ‘With this knowledge the possibilities are limitless’ (I’m still paraphrasing here) ‘In My Name… you’ll move mountains…you’ll cast out devils, you’ll heal the sick… you’ll..you’ll…’ ‘ In fact, what ever you apply this revelation to on Earth… any where on Earth.. It will be so in Heaven. Heaven… All of Heaven will back it up!!’. (I hope you all got that J)
Woo!
Now just for a moment, let me talk about another part of the lesson:
‘Get thee behind me Satan!’ ‘….you do not have on your mind the things of God, but the things of men.’
First, a mental picture. You know that picture you have in your head of the little angel in one ear and the little devil in the other? Look at Simon’s predicament. Hearing from Heaven one moment, used by Lucifer the next. Isn’t that how it goes with us sometimes if we are not careful? Full of ourselves (who am I to talk?). So much so that we think we have all of the word, all the revelation, all of the knowledge from on high? Like we are the only ones with ‘special knowledge’ from God!?!? (Amen or Ouch… OUCH! J). Sorry, I’m having too much fun… Jesus’ simple remedy for the big head… take up your cross. Take up your cross beloved and follow him.
Peace
wb
Wayne’s two cents worth:
Heaty,
Dudny,
Bay Bay (cousin)
Bootsie (another cousin)
Toosie (Aunt)
Mutt (Uncle)
Some of the nick names of people I grew up around. Peter was the nickname (if you will) that Jesus bestowed on Simon at the Call (John 1:42). I don’t want to take a lot of time, but I do want to paint the picture. He called him Cephas or Peter which is translated ‘stone’. Through Church history we have taken the name ‘Peter’ and imbued it with such importance that we forget, it was a nickname. Personally, I like nicknames. I have one. I won’t share it with you, because it’s extremely personal. You see, only my dad could call me by that name. It was a term of extreme endearment on my dad’s part. He called me by that name all of my life until his passing a few years ago. I’ve kind a tailed off here onto another tangent. This nickname thing is another lesson for another time ( see Revelations 2:17), but please permit me to finish my thought. When my dad called me that name, whether it was for good or bad (sometime it meant real trouble) it was always such an intimate term that it was as though we were ‘face to face’ (intimacy = into-me-see J ) Thus, as a child and as an adult I was very protective and jealous of that name. When my brothers and sisters or cousin’s used it, they were normally teasing me. It would be on. When aunts and uncles used it, it meant they were looking at me through my dad’s eyes. After all they heard it first from him. Forgive my digression here, but imagine how Simon must have felt every time Jesus called him ‘Peter’. It must have been, to Simon a very personal term of endearment. So, on with the lesson…
‘Who do you say that I am?’
‘Thou art the Christ (Messiah), the Son of the Living God.’
Sometimes we get a little too greekified’ The KJV uses the term Christ, but Peter probably used the term Messiah. I like the term Messiah because contextually, it had such a rich, powerful meaning to the Jewish peoples. Messiah. In that term rested all of the hope of the Hebrew peoples through all generations up to that point in time. Think about it. It was bigger than governor. Bigger than King. Bigger than Prime Minister. Bigger than Pope. Bigger than President. It literally meant ‘one sent from God to save’. You can see even more of it’s depth in what Peter said immediately after that: ‘The Son of the LIVING God’. The right now God. The right here God. The All powerful God. The God who Was, Is and forever will Be. God!. Not just God’s answer to all my problems, but God’s answer to The Problem. Period. It’’s OK to shout. I am.
Then Jesus says to Simon (I going) to intentionally paraphrase here), ‘Wow! Simon, it took a lot for you to say that? In fact, you didn’t just figure it out on your own! You got that directly from my Father, in Heaven.’ ‘‘Simon. You know I call you Cephas, which means ‘pebble’, (I can see Jesus grinning broadly, with his arm around Simon’s shoulder) but I’m going to build a Church on the revelation of Me Being the Messiah sent from God in Heaven. And you know what? It will be built on a great immovable boulder that not even the gates of Hell will be able to prevail against.’ ‘ It’ll be Awesome!’ (can you imagine Jesus using the word ‘Awesome!’? J) The reason I focus on this part of the Lesson is because it is the most important revelation in all of history, human or otherwise. Jesus is absolutely All. He is the King.. of Kings. He is the Lord… of Lords. HE is absolutely All!. Isn’t that good news?? Halleluiah!
Jesus goes on to tell Simon.. ‘This little revelation IS the Key to the Kingdom’ ‘With this knowledge the possibilities are limitless’ (I’m still paraphrasing here) ‘In My Name… you’ll move mountains…you’ll cast out devils, you’ll heal the sick… you’ll..you’ll…’ ‘ In fact, what ever you apply this revelation to on Earth… any where on Earth.. It will be so in Heaven. Heaven… All of Heaven will back it up!!’. (I hope you all got that J)
Woo!
Now just for a moment, let me talk about another part of the lesson:
‘Get thee behind me Satan!’ ‘….you do not have on your mind the things of God, but the things of men.’
First, a mental picture. You know that picture you have in your head of the little angel in one ear and the little devil in the other? Look at Simon’s predicament. Hearing from Heaven one moment, used by Lucifer the next. Isn’t that how it goes with us sometimes if we are not careful? Full of ourselves (who am I to talk?). So much so that we think we have all of the word, all the revelation, all of the knowledge from on high? Like we are the only ones with ‘special knowledge’ from God!?!? (Amen or Ouch… OUCH! J). Sorry, I’m having too much fun… Jesus’ simple remedy for the big head… take up your cross. Take up your cross beloved and follow him.
Peace
wb
Sunday School Lesson for Feb. 7, 2010: Recognized in Gentile Territory (Matthew 15:21-31)
Wayne's two cents worth....
'And he went up on a mountainside and sat down'
There are times when I catch my wife staring at me and kind of smiling... and I'll say "What?" She'll smile and say "Oh, nothing! It's just sometimes you look just like your dad. Jesus is traveling through Canaan when these two stories are told. The story of the Canaanite woman is very familiar, and gets a lot of attention for the 'crumbs' analogy. The second part of this lesson is remarkable as well. These are Gentiles that Jesus is ministering to. People like you and I. What do they see when they see Jesus? Well, they come away from the encounter praising the God of Israel. In essence, they come: halt, lame, mute, deaf, blind, frail, seeking healing and comfort from the God of Heaven and Earth. There's Jesus, sitting on a mountainside. Looking like his Father. Sitting high and looking low. Enthroned and yet completely Accessible. Majestic and Compassionate alll-in-one. The thing about a mountain is you have to climb it. People thought it worth their time and considerable effort to climb up to kneel down. Worship. That's what worship looks like. Both the Canaanite woman and the crowds here at the mountain were rewarded for their worship. I can personally identify with the people in this story. I became aware of my human frailty many years ago. There really is a reason I need a Savior, a Protector, a Comforter, a Guide. Thank God for his Wisdom. First, after the Fall, He gave us Death. Death represents an end to our sinful condition (Mercy). Second, He gave me Jesus. In Jesus, I have abundant life (Grace).
Blessings,
wb
'And he went up on a mountainside and sat down'
There are times when I catch my wife staring at me and kind of smiling... and I'll say "What?" She'll smile and say "Oh, nothing! It's just sometimes you look just like your dad. Jesus is traveling through Canaan when these two stories are told. The story of the Canaanite woman is very familiar, and gets a lot of attention for the 'crumbs' analogy. The second part of this lesson is remarkable as well. These are Gentiles that Jesus is ministering to. People like you and I. What do they see when they see Jesus? Well, they come away from the encounter praising the God of Israel. In essence, they come: halt, lame, mute, deaf, blind, frail, seeking healing and comfort from the God of Heaven and Earth. There's Jesus, sitting on a mountainside. Looking like his Father. Sitting high and looking low. Enthroned and yet completely Accessible. Majestic and Compassionate alll-in-one. The thing about a mountain is you have to climb it. People thought it worth their time and considerable effort to climb up to kneel down. Worship. That's what worship looks like. Both the Canaanite woman and the crowds here at the mountain were rewarded for their worship. I can personally identify with the people in this story. I became aware of my human frailty many years ago. There really is a reason I need a Savior, a Protector, a Comforter, a Guide. Thank God for his Wisdom. First, after the Fall, He gave us Death. Death represents an end to our sinful condition (Mercy). Second, He gave me Jesus. In Jesus, I have abundant life (Grace).
Blessings,
wb
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