Isaiah 59
The first fourteen verses of Isaiah 59 describe a society saturated with sin. In verse 1, God begins by saying His hand is not shortened that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy that it cannot hear. Then in verse 2, the awful conjunction, “But....your iniquities have separated between you and God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that He will not hear.”
Verses 3-14 give a graphic description of the sins of the nation. What a list! God describes this society as bloodthirsty liars who have perverted their ways. They are deceitful and venomous leaches who run to wickedness like a moth to a flame. They dream of their sin, shed innocent blood, and destroy all in their paths. They have no peace, there is no justice, and they walk in darkness. They are blind to the path they walk, they roar and suffer. They have sinned, rejecting God, living lives of rebellion and disobedience. Verse 14 gives the results of their awful condition, “And judgement is turned away backward, and justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter.”
Then, in verse 15, the subject changes from the wicked to “he that departeth from evil.” Even in such a pervasively wicked society, there were a few righteous. The Lord always has his remnant. But they, too, were paying a price for their decadence and sin. They became the prey of the wicked, and there was no one who would defend them or give them justice. The Lord saw there was no intercessor, and so He became their defender. Verses 16-17 say it this way, “therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him. For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke.”
Christian, no matter how bad the world becomes, or how much it seems as though God has forgotten, He is aware of His people. He knows those who are His, and He will be their defense in time of trouble. Don’t let being in the minority cause you to falter in your walk with God. You can never be more secure that when you are in His care, though all hell rage around you.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Jesus, our Eternal Priest
Read: Hebrews 7
In Genesis chapter 14 we read of Abraham’s rescue of his nephew Lot from the heathen kings who defeated Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham armed the 318 souls in his household and pursued after Lot, ultimately recovering not only Lot, but all the spoil that had been taken from the kings. Upon his return, he was meant by “Melchizedek king of Salem (Peace)”. Melchizedek, the King of Peace and a “priest of the most High God”, brought bread and wine to the victors. He then blessed Abraham in the name of the Most High God, and Abraham gave Melchizidek tithes of all they recovered. Melchizedek appears on the scene suddenly, and disappears suddenly, never to be show up again. The entire story of Abraham’s encounter with Melchizedek takes three verses, Genesis 14:8-11.
The only other record of Melchizedek in the Old Testament was recorded 600 years later in the messianic Psalm, Psalm 110. Here, the Messiah is described as a “priest forever after the order of Melchizedek,” forever linking the two. Then, over 1000 years later, the author of Hebrews spends almost an entire chapter explaining the cryptic prophecy of Psalm 110.
Essentially, the salient points are these. There existed a priesthood prior to the Levitical which was greater. We know it was greater because Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek. We also recognize this priesthood existed apart from the tribe of Levi. And this priesthood is eternal. By virtue of his mysterious appearance and disappearance in Genesis 14, Melchizedek is described in Hebrews 7:3 as “without father, without mother, withouth descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life, but made like unto the Son of God, abideth a priest continually.”
Like Melchizedek, the priesthood of Jesus Christ is greater than the Levitical order, separate from it and eternal rather than temporal. This makes Him a “priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” Additionally, rather than bringing sacrifices day after day, He offered one sacrifice of Himself. As a result of His sacrificial work and eternal nature, Jesus, according to Hebrews 7:25, “is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever lieveth to make intercession for them.”
Jesus, our eternal High Priest.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
In Genesis chapter 14 we read of Abraham’s rescue of his nephew Lot from the heathen kings who defeated Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham armed the 318 souls in his household and pursued after Lot, ultimately recovering not only Lot, but all the spoil that had been taken from the kings. Upon his return, he was meant by “Melchizedek king of Salem (Peace)”. Melchizedek, the King of Peace and a “priest of the most High God”, brought bread and wine to the victors. He then blessed Abraham in the name of the Most High God, and Abraham gave Melchizidek tithes of all they recovered. Melchizedek appears on the scene suddenly, and disappears suddenly, never to be show up again. The entire story of Abraham’s encounter with Melchizedek takes three verses, Genesis 14:8-11.
The only other record of Melchizedek in the Old Testament was recorded 600 years later in the messianic Psalm, Psalm 110. Here, the Messiah is described as a “priest forever after the order of Melchizedek,” forever linking the two. Then, over 1000 years later, the author of Hebrews spends almost an entire chapter explaining the cryptic prophecy of Psalm 110.
Essentially, the salient points are these. There existed a priesthood prior to the Levitical which was greater. We know it was greater because Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek. We also recognize this priesthood existed apart from the tribe of Levi. And this priesthood is eternal. By virtue of his mysterious appearance and disappearance in Genesis 14, Melchizedek is described in Hebrews 7:3 as “without father, without mother, withouth descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life, but made like unto the Son of God, abideth a priest continually.”
Like Melchizedek, the priesthood of Jesus Christ is greater than the Levitical order, separate from it and eternal rather than temporal. This makes Him a “priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” Additionally, rather than bringing sacrifices day after day, He offered one sacrifice of Himself. As a result of His sacrificial work and eternal nature, Jesus, according to Hebrews 7:25, “is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever lieveth to make intercession for them.”
Jesus, our eternal High Priest.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
A Day Late and a Dollar Short
TEXT: Hebrews 4:1-11
The letter to the Hebrews is, in its essence, an appeal to saving faith. The author exhorts his Jewish brethren to recognize that Jesus is the Christ, the fulfillment of all Old Testament prophecy, and that faith in Him is the only road to the Father.
In Hebrews 4:1-2, the author warns them not to stop short of saving faith. He begins, “Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” These folks had the knowledge of the gospel, but not the faith that saves, therefore the word was of no profit to them. The Bible goes on to state that “we which have believed do enter into rest (v. 3). ”
This idea of rest is a great aid to our understanding of what exactly constitutes saving faith. In explaining what is meant by rest, the author uses a series of illustrations. First, there is the example of the Jewish nation wandering in the wilderness, their refusal to enter into the land because they lacked the faith to trust the God who brought them out of Egypt (v. 3, see Psalm 95:11). Then creation is the example, when God worked for six days and rested on the seventh. Next, the Jewish audience is encouraged to heed the warning of David in Psalm 95:7-8 to not harden their hearts, but rather to enter into the rest that Jesus gives (v. 5-8).
Verses 9-11 provide the summary and the punch line. There is a rest for the people of God (v. 9). We enter into rest when we cease from our own works (v. 10). True saving faith means we no longer rely on our own works or righteousness to save us, but trust totally and completely in the Lord Jesus Christ. Failure to do this is to abide in unbelief (v. 11).
Many, many people, professed Christians, are guilty of the same error as these Jews. We know about Jesus, we believe about Jesus, but we cannot bring ourselves to trust absolutely in his grace. So...we keep working, striving to be found worthy of God’s favor. And when we fail, as we inevitably do (1 John 1:8), we experience terrible guilt and remorse. We can relax, my brothers and sisters. Our salvation is secure in Christ, and our righteousness is strictly the imputed righteousness that comes by grace through faith. And when we fail, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, realizing that He has not only promised forgiveness and cleansing, He has also done everything necessary to secure it.
Shalom, y’all.
Bro. Tom
The letter to the Hebrews is, in its essence, an appeal to saving faith. The author exhorts his Jewish brethren to recognize that Jesus is the Christ, the fulfillment of all Old Testament prophecy, and that faith in Him is the only road to the Father.
In Hebrews 4:1-2, the author warns them not to stop short of saving faith. He begins, “Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” These folks had the knowledge of the gospel, but not the faith that saves, therefore the word was of no profit to them. The Bible goes on to state that “we which have believed do enter into rest (v. 3). ”
This idea of rest is a great aid to our understanding of what exactly constitutes saving faith. In explaining what is meant by rest, the author uses a series of illustrations. First, there is the example of the Jewish nation wandering in the wilderness, their refusal to enter into the land because they lacked the faith to trust the God who brought them out of Egypt (v. 3, see Psalm 95:11). Then creation is the example, when God worked for six days and rested on the seventh. Next, the Jewish audience is encouraged to heed the warning of David in Psalm 95:7-8 to not harden their hearts, but rather to enter into the rest that Jesus gives (v. 5-8).
Verses 9-11 provide the summary and the punch line. There is a rest for the people of God (v. 9). We enter into rest when we cease from our own works (v. 10). True saving faith means we no longer rely on our own works or righteousness to save us, but trust totally and completely in the Lord Jesus Christ. Failure to do this is to abide in unbelief (v. 11).
Many, many people, professed Christians, are guilty of the same error as these Jews. We know about Jesus, we believe about Jesus, but we cannot bring ourselves to trust absolutely in his grace. So...we keep working, striving to be found worthy of God’s favor. And when we fail, as we inevitably do (1 John 1:8), we experience terrible guilt and remorse. We can relax, my brothers and sisters. Our salvation is secure in Christ, and our righteousness is strictly the imputed righteousness that comes by grace through faith. And when we fail, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, realizing that He has not only promised forgiveness and cleansing, He has also done everything necessary to secure it.
Shalom, y’all.
Bro. Tom
Run to Him
Read: 1 Samuel 30
In 1 Samuel 30, David and his men, having been rejected in their bid to fight with Achish for the Philistines, return to Ziklag. Upon arrival they discover the city has been taken by the Amalekites and burned. Their wives and children had been taken captive and all of their possessions looted. In verse 4, the Bible says they lifted up their voices and wept until they had no more power to weep.
It didn’t take long for their grief to become rage. They became angry, not at the Amalekites, but at David their leader, and even began to speak of stoning him. In verse 6, we see that David was greatly distressed by the attitude of the people toward him, and by their grief for their lost loved ones.
But verse 6 also shows us why David was a leader. Facing the same grief they did, and more, David turned to the Lord. He sought comfort from God, encouraging himself in the one who had always preserved and protected him. He then sought the Lord’s will concerning the next step. God instructed David to follow after the Amalekites and recover the lost family members and goods. David did so, and God blessed, enabling them to snatch victory from the jaws of an apparently crushing defeat.
No matter your station, there is a lesson to be learned. God allows trials and difficulties into our lives not to destroy us, but to strengthen us. David faced difficulties from without and within, yet he did not abandon himself to despair. He turned to the only true source of strength, comfort and wisdom. As a result, David learned again his dependence on God, a dependence that would serve him well as King of Israel.
For everyone, troubles, trials, burdens and problems are part of life. For the Christian, they are like huge neon signs flashing out a single message, “PRAY, PRAY, PRAY”.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
In 1 Samuel 30, David and his men, having been rejected in their bid to fight with Achish for the Philistines, return to Ziklag. Upon arrival they discover the city has been taken by the Amalekites and burned. Their wives and children had been taken captive and all of their possessions looted. In verse 4, the Bible says they lifted up their voices and wept until they had no more power to weep.
It didn’t take long for their grief to become rage. They became angry, not at the Amalekites, but at David their leader, and even began to speak of stoning him. In verse 6, we see that David was greatly distressed by the attitude of the people toward him, and by their grief for their lost loved ones.
But verse 6 also shows us why David was a leader. Facing the same grief they did, and more, David turned to the Lord. He sought comfort from God, encouraging himself in the one who had always preserved and protected him. He then sought the Lord’s will concerning the next step. God instructed David to follow after the Amalekites and recover the lost family members and goods. David did so, and God blessed, enabling them to snatch victory from the jaws of an apparently crushing defeat.
No matter your station, there is a lesson to be learned. God allows trials and difficulties into our lives not to destroy us, but to strengthen us. David faced difficulties from without and within, yet he did not abandon himself to despair. He turned to the only true source of strength, comfort and wisdom. As a result, David learned again his dependence on God, a dependence that would serve him well as King of Israel.
For everyone, troubles, trials, burdens and problems are part of life. For the Christian, they are like huge neon signs flashing out a single message, “PRAY, PRAY, PRAY”.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Before You Were in the Womb, I Knew You...
March 24
Read: Judges 13
It is interesting to reflect on the various birth records recorded in the Bible. Given the number of such accounts in Scripture, one would be forced to conclude children, even infants, are very important to God. In fact, many times God gives specifics about a child before he or she is even conceived.
Judges 13 is one such instance. The angel of the Lord appears to a previously barren woman (her name is never mentioned), tells her she will bear a son and gives instructions concerning his raising. Her husband, Manoah, requests confirmation of the message and details concerning the raising, which the Lord graciously provides. The son is to be a Nazirite from the womb and a special servant of God. The young man in question was Samson; a judge of Israel.
One can easily call to mind other such instances such as Isaac, the son of Abraham’s old age and Hannah’s son Samuel. In the New Testament, there are John the Baptist and Jesus. God told Jeremiah directly that he was specially chosen of God. In Jeremiah 1:5 the Bible records God’s words: “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.”
In each of the cases above, God not only had a specific plan and purpose for each life, He revealed it prior to conception. Every one of these children had a place in the plan and mind of God before they were ever conceived. Every child has a place in the plan and mind of God! David wrote in Psalm 22:10, “I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou art my God from my mother's belly.” He who knows the beginning from the end and who created all things for his glory has a purpose for every life. Wow. Just think of it. Red, yellow, black, white, wanted, unwanted, loved, unloved, rich, poor, whole or sick, every one of us has a place in God’s plan.
Are you in your place? If not, why not?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Judges 13
It is interesting to reflect on the various birth records recorded in the Bible. Given the number of such accounts in Scripture, one would be forced to conclude children, even infants, are very important to God. In fact, many times God gives specifics about a child before he or she is even conceived.
Judges 13 is one such instance. The angel of the Lord appears to a previously barren woman (her name is never mentioned), tells her she will bear a son and gives instructions concerning his raising. Her husband, Manoah, requests confirmation of the message and details concerning the raising, which the Lord graciously provides. The son is to be a Nazirite from the womb and a special servant of God. The young man in question was Samson; a judge of Israel.
One can easily call to mind other such instances such as Isaac, the son of Abraham’s old age and Hannah’s son Samuel. In the New Testament, there are John the Baptist and Jesus. God told Jeremiah directly that he was specially chosen of God. In Jeremiah 1:5 the Bible records God’s words: “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.”
In each of the cases above, God not only had a specific plan and purpose for each life, He revealed it prior to conception. Every one of these children had a place in the plan and mind of God before they were ever conceived. Every child has a place in the plan and mind of God! David wrote in Psalm 22:10, “I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou art my God from my mother's belly.” He who knows the beginning from the end and who created all things for his glory has a purpose for every life. Wow. Just think of it. Red, yellow, black, white, wanted, unwanted, loved, unloved, rich, poor, whole or sick, every one of us has a place in God’s plan.
Are you in your place? If not, why not?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Savior of All
March 12
Read: 1 Timothy 2
There seems to be a comeback recently of reformed or covenant theology. You may recall the patron saint of such theology, John Calvin, or the oft used acronym TULIP. The third point of the TULIP is the concept of a limited atonement. Limited atonement, briefly stated, declares that Christ died only for the elect. The sacrificial death and atoning blood were given only for those chosen of God and foreordained to salvation (unconditional election).
Funny how often we careen from one ditch to another. Denying that men have a choice in salvation really doesn’t abrogate the sovereignty of God. But if we stand convinced only the elect are saved, and they have no choice in the matter, then the idea of a limited atonement is almost a logical necessity.
But...the Scripture really doesn’t support either. At the risk of opening up a thousand year-old argument (which neither side can win), one must simply read 1 Timothy 2 to see the difference. In verse 4, speaking of God, it says that He “will have all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” This is consistent with John 3:16, which says clearly that God loved the world”. That’s everybody, as near as I can tell. Then, in 1 Timothy 2:6 the Scriptures say that Jesus, “gave himself a ransom for all...” Again this is consistent with John 3:16, which says “whosoever believeth on him.” Whosoever does not sound limiting at all, granting to us the option of either believing or not believing.
Dearly beloved, Jesus died for every man (Hebrews 2:9). And He is the only mediator between God and man (1 Tim. 2:5), the exclusive path to God (John 14:6). And in order to come to God, one must hear of Jesus (Romans 10:13-15). And in order to hear, someone must tell. And that someone is us.
Give someone the gift of eternity today. Share Jesus.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 1 Timothy 2
There seems to be a comeback recently of reformed or covenant theology. You may recall the patron saint of such theology, John Calvin, or the oft used acronym TULIP. The third point of the TULIP is the concept of a limited atonement. Limited atonement, briefly stated, declares that Christ died only for the elect. The sacrificial death and atoning blood were given only for those chosen of God and foreordained to salvation (unconditional election).
Funny how often we careen from one ditch to another. Denying that men have a choice in salvation really doesn’t abrogate the sovereignty of God. But if we stand convinced only the elect are saved, and they have no choice in the matter, then the idea of a limited atonement is almost a logical necessity.
But...the Scripture really doesn’t support either. At the risk of opening up a thousand year-old argument (which neither side can win), one must simply read 1 Timothy 2 to see the difference. In verse 4, speaking of God, it says that He “will have all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” This is consistent with John 3:16, which says clearly that God loved the world”. That’s everybody, as near as I can tell. Then, in 1 Timothy 2:6 the Scriptures say that Jesus, “gave himself a ransom for all...” Again this is consistent with John 3:16, which says “whosoever believeth on him.” Whosoever does not sound limiting at all, granting to us the option of either believing or not believing.
Dearly beloved, Jesus died for every man (Hebrews 2:9). And He is the only mediator between God and man (1 Tim. 2:5), the exclusive path to God (John 14:6). And in order to come to God, one must hear of Jesus (Romans 10:13-15). And in order to hear, someone must tell. And that someone is us.
Give someone the gift of eternity today. Share Jesus.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
In Flaming Fire
March 11
Read: 2 Thessalonians 1
The church at Thessalonica was a persecuted church. This is clear from in verses 4-6 where the church is described as enduring persecutions and tribulations, suffering, and troubled. The exact source of the trouble is not described, but clearly all was not well in Mudville (or Thessalonica).
Paul chooses to comfort the church by reminding them God would ultimately bring those who troubled them to an accounting. He says, “It is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you.” He then tells them of when the final judgement will occur, saying in verses 7-9:
“And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;”
The Thessalonian believers are to draw comfort and patience from the knowledge that God will judge their persecutors. And what a judgement! Jesus will come with His angels in flaming fire to judge those that do not know God and have rejected the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are to be banished from the Lord’s presence and glory into a place of eternal destruction.
Jesus also mentioned this place while he ministered on earth. In fact, he mentioned it many times. In Mark 9 he referred to a place called hell, where “the fire is not quenched.” Matthew 25:41 tells of a place described as “everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” The parable of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke 16 tells that the rich man “died, and was buried, and in hell he lifted up his eyes, being in torments.”
Paul intended for the Thessalonian believers to draw comfort from the fact God was going to judge their tormentors by sentencing them to hell. Hell and its punishment are facts, facts that not only comfort but send terror into our hearts as well. Did you notice who was destined for hell? It is a place for those who “know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Anyone who has not come to Christ in repentance and faith, who has not trusted him for forgiveness of sins, is going to spend eternity in the fires of hell.
Christian friend, do you know anyone who is destined for hell? Of course you do. And you hold the key that can unlock the door to heaven. The precious story of the sinless life, substitutionary death, atoning blood, and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the gospel that is the power of God unto salvation, and you have it, and they will go to hell without it. C’mon, folks, let’s share.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 2 Thessalonians 1
The church at Thessalonica was a persecuted church. This is clear from in verses 4-6 where the church is described as enduring persecutions and tribulations, suffering, and troubled. The exact source of the trouble is not described, but clearly all was not well in Mudville (or Thessalonica).
Paul chooses to comfort the church by reminding them God would ultimately bring those who troubled them to an accounting. He says, “It is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you.” He then tells them of when the final judgement will occur, saying in verses 7-9:
“And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;”
The Thessalonian believers are to draw comfort and patience from the knowledge that God will judge their persecutors. And what a judgement! Jesus will come with His angels in flaming fire to judge those that do not know God and have rejected the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are to be banished from the Lord’s presence and glory into a place of eternal destruction.
Jesus also mentioned this place while he ministered on earth. In fact, he mentioned it many times. In Mark 9 he referred to a place called hell, where “the fire is not quenched.” Matthew 25:41 tells of a place described as “everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” The parable of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke 16 tells that the rich man “died, and was buried, and in hell he lifted up his eyes, being in torments.”
Paul intended for the Thessalonian believers to draw comfort from the fact God was going to judge their tormentors by sentencing them to hell. Hell and its punishment are facts, facts that not only comfort but send terror into our hearts as well. Did you notice who was destined for hell? It is a place for those who “know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Anyone who has not come to Christ in repentance and faith, who has not trusted him for forgiveness of sins, is going to spend eternity in the fires of hell.
Christian friend, do you know anyone who is destined for hell? Of course you do. And you hold the key that can unlock the door to heaven. The precious story of the sinless life, substitutionary death, atoning blood, and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the gospel that is the power of God unto salvation, and you have it, and they will go to hell without it. C’mon, folks, let’s share.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Love 'em or Leave 'em
March 6
Read: Philippians 3
There are two references in Paul's epistles to people whose "god is their bellies". One of them is here in Philippians 3:19 and the other in Romans 16:18, where the Bible records, "For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple." Neither reference is complimentary toward the parties being discussed. In Philippians, they are described as "enemies of the cross of Christ, having destruction as their end, who glory in their shame, and who mind earthly things."
It's not too hard to find contemporary parallels. Every church has their share of the unregenerate and carnal. They baffle born-again believers by their apparent obstinate refusal to allow the Word and the Spirit to make any impact on their lives. They may be in the church every time the door is open, but you really have to wonder why they bother. Every word our of their mouths, every attitude they evince is further evidence of selfishness and self-centeredness. Its not hard for anyone indwelt by the Spirit of God to see the very same things that Paul saw, that these are indeed the enemies of the cross of Christ, worshippers of their own bellies.
But if that's all we see here we have missed something important. Look at Paul's attitude. In verse 18 he says of these, "For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping..." Although Paul was quick to warn the Philippian believers concerning these folks, he shed tears as he did it. Paul was grieved over the condition of these people, even though he recognized them as serious problems for true believers. He was saddened to the point of weeping. I can see him sobbing as he prays over them, asking God again and again how they could remain in this condition.
Beloved, is this our attitude toward those whose "god is their bellies"? Are we grieved by the hardness of their hearts and burdened because of their ultimate end? Are we lifting them up to God, pleading with Him to do a work in their hearts only He can do? Or are we harsh, hard and judgmental, having given them up to the enemy?
Jude 22-23 describes a special group of believers with these words, "And of some have compassion, making a difference: and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh." Let's determine we will be part of that group.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Philippians 3
There are two references in Paul's epistles to people whose "god is their bellies". One of them is here in Philippians 3:19 and the other in Romans 16:18, where the Bible records, "For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple." Neither reference is complimentary toward the parties being discussed. In Philippians, they are described as "enemies of the cross of Christ, having destruction as their end, who glory in their shame, and who mind earthly things."
It's not too hard to find contemporary parallels. Every church has their share of the unregenerate and carnal. They baffle born-again believers by their apparent obstinate refusal to allow the Word and the Spirit to make any impact on their lives. They may be in the church every time the door is open, but you really have to wonder why they bother. Every word our of their mouths, every attitude they evince is further evidence of selfishness and self-centeredness. Its not hard for anyone indwelt by the Spirit of God to see the very same things that Paul saw, that these are indeed the enemies of the cross of Christ, worshippers of their own bellies.
But if that's all we see here we have missed something important. Look at Paul's attitude. In verse 18 he says of these, "For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping..." Although Paul was quick to warn the Philippian believers concerning these folks, he shed tears as he did it. Paul was grieved over the condition of these people, even though he recognized them as serious problems for true believers. He was saddened to the point of weeping. I can see him sobbing as he prays over them, asking God again and again how they could remain in this condition.
Beloved, is this our attitude toward those whose "god is their bellies"? Are we grieved by the hardness of their hearts and burdened because of their ultimate end? Are we lifting them up to God, pleading with Him to do a work in their hearts only He can do? Or are we harsh, hard and judgmental, having given them up to the enemy?
Jude 22-23 describes a special group of believers with these words, "And of some have compassion, making a difference: and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh." Let's determine we will be part of that group.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
The Danger of Affluence
March 3
Read: Deuteronomy 31:14-30
A church we once attended had a special prayer group that prayed during the morning service. There were typically three persons assigned at a time. They went into a basement room during the service and prayed for God’s blessings and power on the preaching, the singing, the praying and the entire service. One morning when my wife and I had a turn in the closet, we were accompanied by a businessman who was a member of the church. The conversation wandered onto investments and savings, and the businessman was lamenting a significant loss in recent months. After he spoke of it, he looked at us and said, as if he were just thinking of it, “Oh, but you guys live by faith.”
I understood what he meant. He was simply saying that as supported missionaries, we probably didn’t or couldn’t rely on a monthly dividend check to get us through. And he was right. We were accustomed to going to God for our needs and seeing his blessings upon our lives. Certainly he had enough money in the bank that he never had such concerns.
But the Bible says a number of times, “The just shall live by faith.” That doesn’t mean we should all take a vow of poverty, but it does mean we should be looking to God as the supplier of our needs and not our bank accounts or our employer or especially the state. The danger in having too much is that we cease to see God as the source of everything and start to rely on ourselves or on someone else.
Moses, in Deuteronomy 31:20, predicted what would happen to the Israelites when they got into a land of plenty. “For when I shall have brought them into the land which I swore unto their fathers, that floweth with milk and honey; and they shall have eaten and filled themselves, and waxen fat; then will they turn unto other gods, and serve them, and provoke me, and break my covenant.” He essentially says when they achieve affluence, they will forget me. What was true of the Israelites has been true of every civilization God has chosen to bless. Western Europe, blessed of God and affluent, has reached a point where they rely on themselves. Respect and love for God is nearly dead in those countries, and evangelizing in them, according to one well--known preacher, is like planting okra on concrete. Unfortunately we seem to have forgotten the penalty for apostasy is judgment (see Judges, entire book; and consider the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities).
Trying to keep your balance when everyone else is losing his can be quite a challenge. I suggest we consider carefully the words of the wise man in Proverbs, who wrote in chapter 30:8-9, “Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me: Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Deuteronomy 31:14-30
A church we once attended had a special prayer group that prayed during the morning service. There were typically three persons assigned at a time. They went into a basement room during the service and prayed for God’s blessings and power on the preaching, the singing, the praying and the entire service. One morning when my wife and I had a turn in the closet, we were accompanied by a businessman who was a member of the church. The conversation wandered onto investments and savings, and the businessman was lamenting a significant loss in recent months. After he spoke of it, he looked at us and said, as if he were just thinking of it, “Oh, but you guys live by faith.”
I understood what he meant. He was simply saying that as supported missionaries, we probably didn’t or couldn’t rely on a monthly dividend check to get us through. And he was right. We were accustomed to going to God for our needs and seeing his blessings upon our lives. Certainly he had enough money in the bank that he never had such concerns.
But the Bible says a number of times, “The just shall live by faith.” That doesn’t mean we should all take a vow of poverty, but it does mean we should be looking to God as the supplier of our needs and not our bank accounts or our employer or especially the state. The danger in having too much is that we cease to see God as the source of everything and start to rely on ourselves or on someone else.
Moses, in Deuteronomy 31:20, predicted what would happen to the Israelites when they got into a land of plenty. “For when I shall have brought them into the land which I swore unto their fathers, that floweth with milk and honey; and they shall have eaten and filled themselves, and waxen fat; then will they turn unto other gods, and serve them, and provoke me, and break my covenant.” He essentially says when they achieve affluence, they will forget me. What was true of the Israelites has been true of every civilization God has chosen to bless. Western Europe, blessed of God and affluent, has reached a point where they rely on themselves. Respect and love for God is nearly dead in those countries, and evangelizing in them, according to one well--known preacher, is like planting okra on concrete. Unfortunately we seem to have forgotten the penalty for apostasy is judgment (see Judges, entire book; and consider the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities).
Trying to keep your balance when everyone else is losing his can be quite a challenge. I suggest we consider carefully the words of the wise man in Proverbs, who wrote in chapter 30:8-9, “Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me: Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Glory in the Lord
March 2
Read: 2 Corinthians 10
In a world of more and more extremes, the use of superlatives has become so common as to render them virtually meaningless. One of my favorite contemporary examples is an explosion of Chinese restaurants called, “Number 1 Chinese Restaurant” or “Best Buffet”. The owners have obviously picked up on the tendency of diners to gravitate to award winning establishments. In order to attract paying customers, they just went ahead and awarded themselves the title of “best” or “number one” from the outset.
Believers can easily fall victim to the same mind set. Paul describes this in 2 Corinthians 10:12. He writes, “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” It seems there were a number of believers who spent much of their time comparing individual walks with God. This judgement relies on a number of purely superficial indicators, such as how often I go to church, whether I say “amen” in the service, how I dress, whether I read my Bible, and other similar. This is not to say that any of these are not important for the believer. Every Christian should attend services regularly, pay attention to the preaching of the Word, dress in a way that would please the Father, study the Word, and pray. But its possible to do all these things and have a heart as wicked as the devil himself. I can’t judge what’s on the inside of you, and that’s where the most important work is done.
These folks were looking at these externals in others, comparing them to the same externals in themselves, and deciding how “spiritual” they were. They were measuring themselves by themselves. Paul says simply that in doing so they are not wise. He talks briefly of his own ministry in verses 13-16, then sums up the whole discussion in verses 17-18. “But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.”
Beloved, let’s be careful not to evaluate our own spirituality in terms of others. Each and every Christian is a particular and specific work of the Holy Spirit whose goal is to make each like Christ. We all come to the process with a unique set of weaknesses and strengths, talents and handicaps. When we compare ourselves with others we can almost always find an area in which the other has a weakness, thereby accentuating our strength. The ultimate result is spiritual pride.
The standard to which we attain is not our neighbor, but Christ. He alone is a model worth emulating. He alone is perfection in every aspect of his being. If you must have a goal, make it Jesus.
Also, we should always remember the limitations that exist in our ability to judge. Just as God told Samuel, “Man looks on the outside, but God looks on the heart”. Verse 18 tells us clearly that what we say (or think) or ourselves is not nearly as important as what God thinks of us. The key to living a successful Christian life is not “Am I better than John?” but “Am I pleasing to God?”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 2 Corinthians 10
In a world of more and more extremes, the use of superlatives has become so common as to render them virtually meaningless. One of my favorite contemporary examples is an explosion of Chinese restaurants called, “Number 1 Chinese Restaurant” or “Best Buffet”. The owners have obviously picked up on the tendency of diners to gravitate to award winning establishments. In order to attract paying customers, they just went ahead and awarded themselves the title of “best” or “number one” from the outset.
Believers can easily fall victim to the same mind set. Paul describes this in 2 Corinthians 10:12. He writes, “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” It seems there were a number of believers who spent much of their time comparing individual walks with God. This judgement relies on a number of purely superficial indicators, such as how often I go to church, whether I say “amen” in the service, how I dress, whether I read my Bible, and other similar. This is not to say that any of these are not important for the believer. Every Christian should attend services regularly, pay attention to the preaching of the Word, dress in a way that would please the Father, study the Word, and pray. But its possible to do all these things and have a heart as wicked as the devil himself. I can’t judge what’s on the inside of you, and that’s where the most important work is done.
These folks were looking at these externals in others, comparing them to the same externals in themselves, and deciding how “spiritual” they were. They were measuring themselves by themselves. Paul says simply that in doing so they are not wise. He talks briefly of his own ministry in verses 13-16, then sums up the whole discussion in verses 17-18. “But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.”
Beloved, let’s be careful not to evaluate our own spirituality in terms of others. Each and every Christian is a particular and specific work of the Holy Spirit whose goal is to make each like Christ. We all come to the process with a unique set of weaknesses and strengths, talents and handicaps. When we compare ourselves with others we can almost always find an area in which the other has a weakness, thereby accentuating our strength. The ultimate result is spiritual pride.
The standard to which we attain is not our neighbor, but Christ. He alone is a model worth emulating. He alone is perfection in every aspect of his being. If you must have a goal, make it Jesus.
Also, we should always remember the limitations that exist in our ability to judge. Just as God told Samuel, “Man looks on the outside, but God looks on the heart”. Verse 18 tells us clearly that what we say (or think) or ourselves is not nearly as important as what God thinks of us. The key to living a successful Christian life is not “Am I better than John?” but “Am I pleasing to God?”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
How Far Will You Go?
March 1
Read: 2 Corinthians 11:16-33
In 2 Corinthians 11 the apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, began to list some of his qualifications for ministry. It is interesting to note the progression here, as he begins by giving his Jewish heritage in verse 22. He then goes on to list as his qualifications some of the obstacles he had overcome in the course of his ministry for Christ. Winding through a long list of imprisonments, stonings, beatings, shipwrecks, and physical discomforts, he displays them as credentials for ministry. In effect, he tells them how far he was willing to go in the service of their faith.
The restatement of his personal qualifications had been required because questions had arisen in Corinth concerning Paul’s apostleship. Even though he had been used of God to bring the gospel to Corinth and had doubtless been instrumental in building the church there, there were some who began to chafe under Paul’s authority and teaching and desired to follow a different path. They began to question his qualifications for ministry in hopes of undermining that authority.
Paul’s response was simple. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he simply described the lengths he had gone to minister to them. The unasked question then became, “Can you really doubt the ministry and love of a man who has gone this far for your sake?” Paul went far, far beyond everyone else, and as a result he could point to a ministry in which the power of God was clearly visible even in Corinth.
If someone asks us to describe our qualifications for ministry, how would we answer? Would we point to our Bible college or seminary degree, or our twenty-plus years on the church roll, or maybe to our children who are faithfully serving God? Or could we, like Paul, simply point back to a life given over in sacrifice for the good of others? Would we fall back on theological arguments, such as the sufficiency of Christ or the work of the Holy Spirit in every believer, or would we point to the changed lives of our family, friends, neighbors and others?
How far will we go on behalf of Christ and others? Are we willing to sacrifice our standard of living to send the gospel to the world? Or is our giving simply out of our abundance (leftovers after the bass boat and the vacation in Disneyworld)? Can we give ten minutes out of our day to share Christ with the store clerk? Are we willing to drop late night television for the sake of leading our family in daily devotions? Is my neighbor’s spiritual welfare important to me at all?
We in the church talk a good game. We come to church, partake of the activities (as long as they aren’t too spiritual), and go home feeling good about ourselves. But for many, many, many of us that is as far as we will go. Any discussion of going to the mission field, getting involved in discipleship or using my gifts for the service of others falls on deaf ears. There is a line drawn which we will not cross.
Christian, Jesus intended for each generation to reach each generation. Even the most casual observer would be forced to conclude this generation is not getting it done. Our commitment to Christ and to the lost simply doesn’t go far enough.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 2 Corinthians 11:16-33
In 2 Corinthians 11 the apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, began to list some of his qualifications for ministry. It is interesting to note the progression here, as he begins by giving his Jewish heritage in verse 22. He then goes on to list as his qualifications some of the obstacles he had overcome in the course of his ministry for Christ. Winding through a long list of imprisonments, stonings, beatings, shipwrecks, and physical discomforts, he displays them as credentials for ministry. In effect, he tells them how far he was willing to go in the service of their faith.
The restatement of his personal qualifications had been required because questions had arisen in Corinth concerning Paul’s apostleship. Even though he had been used of God to bring the gospel to Corinth and had doubtless been instrumental in building the church there, there were some who began to chafe under Paul’s authority and teaching and desired to follow a different path. They began to question his qualifications for ministry in hopes of undermining that authority.
Paul’s response was simple. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he simply described the lengths he had gone to minister to them. The unasked question then became, “Can you really doubt the ministry and love of a man who has gone this far for your sake?” Paul went far, far beyond everyone else, and as a result he could point to a ministry in which the power of God was clearly visible even in Corinth.
If someone asks us to describe our qualifications for ministry, how would we answer? Would we point to our Bible college or seminary degree, or our twenty-plus years on the church roll, or maybe to our children who are faithfully serving God? Or could we, like Paul, simply point back to a life given over in sacrifice for the good of others? Would we fall back on theological arguments, such as the sufficiency of Christ or the work of the Holy Spirit in every believer, or would we point to the changed lives of our family, friends, neighbors and others?
How far will we go on behalf of Christ and others? Are we willing to sacrifice our standard of living to send the gospel to the world? Or is our giving simply out of our abundance (leftovers after the bass boat and the vacation in Disneyworld)? Can we give ten minutes out of our day to share Christ with the store clerk? Are we willing to drop late night television for the sake of leading our family in daily devotions? Is my neighbor’s spiritual welfare important to me at all?
We in the church talk a good game. We come to church, partake of the activities (as long as they aren’t too spiritual), and go home feeling good about ourselves. But for many, many, many of us that is as far as we will go. Any discussion of going to the mission field, getting involved in discipleship or using my gifts for the service of others falls on deaf ears. There is a line drawn which we will not cross.
Christian, Jesus intended for each generation to reach each generation. Even the most casual observer would be forced to conclude this generation is not getting it done. Our commitment to Christ and to the lost simply doesn’t go far enough.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Angel of Light
February 28
Read: 2 Corinthians 11:1-15
Not all that glitters is gold. Similarly, not everyone that claims to be a follower of Christ is what he claims to be. We are frequently warned in Scripture to beware of the counterfeit, the false and the apostate. Jesus mentioned the deceivers in Matthew 24:4-5. Peter covers the same ground in 2 Peter 2:1 and John in 1 John 4:1 says “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
2 Corinthians 11:13-15 warns of deceitful workers who transform themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for the devil himself is transformed into an angel of light. It follows that his servants would present themselves as ministers of righteousness. We must be constantly on guard to ensure we are not deceived by the powers of darkness posing as preachers and teachers of righteousness.
Whenever I am reminded of that I think of the Old Testament prophet in 1 Kings 13. The prophet was sent by God with a message for Jereboam the king. Delivering the message, God authenticated it with special signs. Jereboam invited the prophet to go home with him, but the prophet informed him that God had instructed him neither to eat nor drink while on his mission and to return home via a different route.
The Bible continues to tell of an old prophet in Bethel whose son told him of the man of God who visited Jeremiah. The prophet of Bethel followed after him and invited him to come aside and sup. The man repeated God’s instructions, that he must neither eat nor drink until he had returned home, but the prophet from Bethel told him, in 1 Kings 13:18, “...I am a prophet also as thou art; and an angel spoke unto me by the word of the LORD, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat bread and drink water. But he lied unto him.” The first prophet believed him and went with him, not discerning that the message was not from God, but from his enemies. Because of his disobedience, the prophet was killed by a lion on the way home.
The old prophet from Bethel was a lion in sheep’s clothing, or a devil cast as an angel of light. He had the right look, he said the right things, but he was a liar. Through deceit, he diverted the prophet of God from his appointed path to a road that ultimately destroyed him.
In spiritual warfare, there is an enemy and there are casualties. Day after day, lives are destroyed, ministries ruined and souls condemned to a Christless eternity through the efforts of the master of deceit. Today, brethren, let’s be alert to the enemy and his devices. Keep your life pure. Let your spiritual senses be honed sharp by the Word of God and amplified by the work of the Spirit in your life. As is so succinctly written, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 2 Corinthians 11:1-15
Not all that glitters is gold. Similarly, not everyone that claims to be a follower of Christ is what he claims to be. We are frequently warned in Scripture to beware of the counterfeit, the false and the apostate. Jesus mentioned the deceivers in Matthew 24:4-5. Peter covers the same ground in 2 Peter 2:1 and John in 1 John 4:1 says “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
2 Corinthians 11:13-15 warns of deceitful workers who transform themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for the devil himself is transformed into an angel of light. It follows that his servants would present themselves as ministers of righteousness. We must be constantly on guard to ensure we are not deceived by the powers of darkness posing as preachers and teachers of righteousness.
Whenever I am reminded of that I think of the Old Testament prophet in 1 Kings 13. The prophet was sent by God with a message for Jereboam the king. Delivering the message, God authenticated it with special signs. Jereboam invited the prophet to go home with him, but the prophet informed him that God had instructed him neither to eat nor drink while on his mission and to return home via a different route.
The Bible continues to tell of an old prophet in Bethel whose son told him of the man of God who visited Jeremiah. The prophet of Bethel followed after him and invited him to come aside and sup. The man repeated God’s instructions, that he must neither eat nor drink until he had returned home, but the prophet from Bethel told him, in 1 Kings 13:18, “...I am a prophet also as thou art; and an angel spoke unto me by the word of the LORD, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat bread and drink water. But he lied unto him.” The first prophet believed him and went with him, not discerning that the message was not from God, but from his enemies. Because of his disobedience, the prophet was killed by a lion on the way home.
The old prophet from Bethel was a lion in sheep’s clothing, or a devil cast as an angel of light. He had the right look, he said the right things, but he was a liar. Through deceit, he diverted the prophet of God from his appointed path to a road that ultimately destroyed him.
In spiritual warfare, there is an enemy and there are casualties. Day after day, lives are destroyed, ministries ruined and souls condemned to a Christless eternity through the efforts of the master of deceit. Today, brethren, let’s be alert to the enemy and his devices. Keep your life pure. Let your spiritual senses be honed sharp by the Word of God and amplified by the work of the Spirit in your life. As is so succinctly written, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
A Plea for Holiness
February 27
Read:2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
2 Corinthians 6:14 is a verse often quoted which has been applied to everything from marriage to business partnerships (rightfully so, I believe). The Holy Spirit directs us to avoid an unequal yoke with an unbeliever, then proceeds to give a number of analogies to demonstrate why this is unhealthy or unnatural. Why, He asks, would you mix unrighteousness with righteousness (v. 14), or light with darkness (v. 14), or Christ with Belial (v. 15), or an infidel with a believer (v. 15), or even the temple of God with an idol (v. 16)? He continues that because God dwells in us, we are the temple of God (v. 16).
Given all of these obvious truths, we are to separate ourselves from things unholy or unclean (v. 17). If we do so, God has promised to receive us, to be our Father, and to make us His sons and daughters (v. 17-18). Chapter 7:1 then puts the conclusion on the passage, “Having therefore these promises (v. 17-18 above), dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
The New Testament, in removing us from under the curse and demands of the law, never permits us to slack off in the area of personal holiness. Time and again the New Testament believer is called to strive for the holiness of God. We are given the New Testament as our guide, the Holy Spirit as interpreter, and Jesus Himself as our standard. Moment by moment, day by day, year by year, we are to be conformed to the image of Christ. It is an image not only of a loving Savior but of a holy God. We who are His followers must strive to be like Him in all aspects of His character. To strive to love our neighbor as ourselves, yet to dabble in the sins of the flesh, is to have a unbalanced view of God the Son.
The Bible tells us that Jesus, “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” His holiness was perfect, ours will never be this side of heaven. Yet we must be always aware of our deficiencies and working toward change. Like most of God’s work, there is His part, and there is our part. His part is expressed in Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Our part is expressed in 2 Corinthians 7:1, where the Bible says, “...let us cleanse ourselves...”
Today, let’s make an extra effort to be clean and holy, as He is clean and holy.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read:2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
2 Corinthians 6:14 is a verse often quoted which has been applied to everything from marriage to business partnerships (rightfully so, I believe). The Holy Spirit directs us to avoid an unequal yoke with an unbeliever, then proceeds to give a number of analogies to demonstrate why this is unhealthy or unnatural. Why, He asks, would you mix unrighteousness with righteousness (v. 14), or light with darkness (v. 14), or Christ with Belial (v. 15), or an infidel with a believer (v. 15), or even the temple of God with an idol (v. 16)? He continues that because God dwells in us, we are the temple of God (v. 16).
Given all of these obvious truths, we are to separate ourselves from things unholy or unclean (v. 17). If we do so, God has promised to receive us, to be our Father, and to make us His sons and daughters (v. 17-18). Chapter 7:1 then puts the conclusion on the passage, “Having therefore these promises (v. 17-18 above), dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
The New Testament, in removing us from under the curse and demands of the law, never permits us to slack off in the area of personal holiness. Time and again the New Testament believer is called to strive for the holiness of God. We are given the New Testament as our guide, the Holy Spirit as interpreter, and Jesus Himself as our standard. Moment by moment, day by day, year by year, we are to be conformed to the image of Christ. It is an image not only of a loving Savior but of a holy God. We who are His followers must strive to be like Him in all aspects of His character. To strive to love our neighbor as ourselves, yet to dabble in the sins of the flesh, is to have a unbalanced view of God the Son.
The Bible tells us that Jesus, “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” His holiness was perfect, ours will never be this side of heaven. Yet we must be always aware of our deficiencies and working toward change. Like most of God’s work, there is His part, and there is our part. His part is expressed in Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Our part is expressed in 2 Corinthians 7:1, where the Bible says, “...let us cleanse ourselves...”
Today, let’s make an extra effort to be clean and holy, as He is clean and holy.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Created Anew
February 26
Read: 1 Corinthians 5
If one considers the history of man’s relationship with his Creator, it’s easy to recognize a handful of events that are absolutely crucial both to the race as a whole and to every individual. The book of Genesis records a number of these beginning with creation and proceeding through God’s adoption of Abram. But even among this amazing sequence, there is one event that stands above them all in terms of significance. That event is the one we know as “the fall”.
Because of the disobedience of Adam and Eve, the universe as God created it was drastically and dramatically altered. All of creation was cast under the curse of sin. Sickness and death entered in, and mankind began a conflict, internal as well as external, that continues to this day. Man’s link to his Creator was broken, and mankind entered into a life of rebellion and disobedience. His spirit was fatally wounded and he fell, surrendering himself to the control of the world, the flesh and the devil. Man, and mankind, died.
For thousands of years, sin and death ruled over God’s creation and creatures. There were promises of redemption to come, but no solution, not even a partial, for many years. Then, on a hill outside Jerusalem, the second pivotal event in history occurred. On a Roman cross, Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God, shed His blood for the sins of mankind. That sacrifice, its efficacy confirmed by His resurrection, driven by the love and grace of Creator God, bought us another chance.
Thus came to mankind the very best of news. Jesus, having died on the cross, shed His blood as payment for our sins, raised from the dead and received by faith, can make us whole again. That which was broken in the garden can be recreated by the Father thanks to the work of His Son Jesus.
1 Corinthians 5:17 tells us if any man be in Christ he is a new creature. He is freed from the penalty and bondage of sin. He is finally able to live a life in unison with His Creator. Old things are passed away. All is become new. What was hopelessly dead and beyond the capability of man to repair, God has made wonderfully fresh and alive. Truly, through faith in Christ, man is born again.
Brothers and sisters, that’s the good news. Today, let’s be thankful for our redemption. But let’s not stop there. Someone we will encounter also needs to hear of Christ and His work on the cross. Let’s go and tell them.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 1 Corinthians 5
If one considers the history of man’s relationship with his Creator, it’s easy to recognize a handful of events that are absolutely crucial both to the race as a whole and to every individual. The book of Genesis records a number of these beginning with creation and proceeding through God’s adoption of Abram. But even among this amazing sequence, there is one event that stands above them all in terms of significance. That event is the one we know as “the fall”.
Because of the disobedience of Adam and Eve, the universe as God created it was drastically and dramatically altered. All of creation was cast under the curse of sin. Sickness and death entered in, and mankind began a conflict, internal as well as external, that continues to this day. Man’s link to his Creator was broken, and mankind entered into a life of rebellion and disobedience. His spirit was fatally wounded and he fell, surrendering himself to the control of the world, the flesh and the devil. Man, and mankind, died.
For thousands of years, sin and death ruled over God’s creation and creatures. There were promises of redemption to come, but no solution, not even a partial, for many years. Then, on a hill outside Jerusalem, the second pivotal event in history occurred. On a Roman cross, Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God, shed His blood for the sins of mankind. That sacrifice, its efficacy confirmed by His resurrection, driven by the love and grace of Creator God, bought us another chance.
Thus came to mankind the very best of news. Jesus, having died on the cross, shed His blood as payment for our sins, raised from the dead and received by faith, can make us whole again. That which was broken in the garden can be recreated by the Father thanks to the work of His Son Jesus.
1 Corinthians 5:17 tells us if any man be in Christ he is a new creature. He is freed from the penalty and bondage of sin. He is finally able to live a life in unison with His Creator. Old things are passed away. All is become new. What was hopelessly dead and beyond the capability of man to repair, God has made wonderfully fresh and alive. Truly, through faith in Christ, man is born again.
Brothers and sisters, that’s the good news. Today, let’s be thankful for our redemption. But let’s not stop there. Someone we will encounter also needs to hear of Christ and His work on the cross. Let’s go and tell them.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Changed into His Image
February 25
Read: 2 Corinthians 3
The apostle Paul, inspired scribe of the Holy Spirit, gives us a truly beautiful picture in 2 Corinthians 3:18. “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
In the verses prior, Paul references the veil Moses placed over his face after descending from Mount Sinai. He had been with God, and his face shone with the reflection of God’s glory. The image was so striking and disconcerting to the Israelites Moses had to cover his face when he spoke with them. Later, when he spoke with God, the veil was removed.
In 2 Corinthians, Paul compares the law administered by Moses with grace administered by the Spirit. The law given on Sinai condemns us. The Bible refers to it as the “ministration of death”. And yet, in spite of its function, it was a glorious law given by a glorious God. Even though the covenant of law was temporary, to be superceded by grace, Paul affirms its glory, so much that the Israelites could not bear to look on even the reflection of it on Moses’ face.
By comparison, consider the covenant of grace and the work of the Spirit. In verse 9 we read, “For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, how much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory?” He goes on to write that when we come to Christ in grace and forgiveness, the veil is done away, and we behold the glory of the Lord face to face.
But wait, there’s more. In verse 18, we are told not only do we see the Lord as if looking in a mirror, but that the Spirit of God is changing us to look just like Him. Moses was a mere reflection of the glory of God. We, the children of God by faith in Christ, are destined to be not a reflection, but a true manifestation of His wonderful glory. Day by day as we look upon Him the precious Holy Spirit is remaking us into His image, and the glory He has possessed from eternity past is given to us. What an exciting thought, to realize that as I am recreated to be like Him, His glory in me shines brighter and brighter. It is precisely as Solomon wrote in Proverbs 4:18, “But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
1 Corinthians 15:49 “And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.”
Read: 2 Corinthians 3
The apostle Paul, inspired scribe of the Holy Spirit, gives us a truly beautiful picture in 2 Corinthians 3:18. “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
In the verses prior, Paul references the veil Moses placed over his face after descending from Mount Sinai. He had been with God, and his face shone with the reflection of God’s glory. The image was so striking and disconcerting to the Israelites Moses had to cover his face when he spoke with them. Later, when he spoke with God, the veil was removed.
In 2 Corinthians, Paul compares the law administered by Moses with grace administered by the Spirit. The law given on Sinai condemns us. The Bible refers to it as the “ministration of death”. And yet, in spite of its function, it was a glorious law given by a glorious God. Even though the covenant of law was temporary, to be superceded by grace, Paul affirms its glory, so much that the Israelites could not bear to look on even the reflection of it on Moses’ face.
By comparison, consider the covenant of grace and the work of the Spirit. In verse 9 we read, “For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, how much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory?” He goes on to write that when we come to Christ in grace and forgiveness, the veil is done away, and we behold the glory of the Lord face to face.
But wait, there’s more. In verse 18, we are told not only do we see the Lord as if looking in a mirror, but that the Spirit of God is changing us to look just like Him. Moses was a mere reflection of the glory of God. We, the children of God by faith in Christ, are destined to be not a reflection, but a true manifestation of His wonderful glory. Day by day as we look upon Him the precious Holy Spirit is remaking us into His image, and the glory He has possessed from eternity past is given to us. What an exciting thought, to realize that as I am recreated to be like Him, His glory in me shines brighter and brighter. It is precisely as Solomon wrote in Proverbs 4:18, “But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
1 Corinthians 15:49 “And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.”
The Most Important Thing
February 24
Read: 1 Corinthians 13
Even though I speak a hundred languages, and converse with the angels, if I don’t have love, I am no better than a blaring horn or clanging cymbal. And if I have incredible revelation from God, and understand every nuance of Scripture, and can reveal mysteries heretofore unknown from the beginning of the world, without love it is meaningless. And although my faith is sufficient to cause a mountain to jump into the sea, if I don’t love, I am nothing at all. Or if I happen to be a great philanthropist and give all I own to care for the poor, or sacrifice my very life for the sake of others, if I do not love I gain nothing from it.
Love suffers interminable injury and insult, and remains kind. Love doesn’t envy the accomplishments, possessions or gifts of others. Love doesn’t blow its own horn. Love is not proud. Love does not behave unruly or uncaringly. Love is more interested in others than in itself. Love is not easily insulted or offended or angered. Love thinks the best of others. Love bears every burden, is trusting, always hopes for and expects the best, and is patient no matter the circumstances.
Love never fails. Prophecy fails, tongues cease, and knowledge vanishes away. When all is said and done, the best we can know and the best we can preach is still insufficient and imperfect. But one day perfection will come, and all our inadequacies will be past.
When I was a child, I saw and understood things as a child. But as I matured, I began to change my childish opinions. As disciples of Christ, we are similar to children. Our understanding is still cloudy and uncertain. But there is coming a day when I will be all grown up, and then shall I understand and be understood.
In the meantime, and for this time, faith, hope and love are important. But even of these three, love is the most important.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 1 Corinthians 13
Even though I speak a hundred languages, and converse with the angels, if I don’t have love, I am no better than a blaring horn or clanging cymbal. And if I have incredible revelation from God, and understand every nuance of Scripture, and can reveal mysteries heretofore unknown from the beginning of the world, without love it is meaningless. And although my faith is sufficient to cause a mountain to jump into the sea, if I don’t love, I am nothing at all. Or if I happen to be a great philanthropist and give all I own to care for the poor, or sacrifice my very life for the sake of others, if I do not love I gain nothing from it.
Love suffers interminable injury and insult, and remains kind. Love doesn’t envy the accomplishments, possessions or gifts of others. Love doesn’t blow its own horn. Love is not proud. Love does not behave unruly or uncaringly. Love is more interested in others than in itself. Love is not easily insulted or offended or angered. Love thinks the best of others. Love bears every burden, is trusting, always hopes for and expects the best, and is patient no matter the circumstances.
Love never fails. Prophecy fails, tongues cease, and knowledge vanishes away. When all is said and done, the best we can know and the best we can preach is still insufficient and imperfect. But one day perfection will come, and all our inadequacies will be past.
When I was a child, I saw and understood things as a child. But as I matured, I began to change my childish opinions. As disciples of Christ, we are similar to children. Our understanding is still cloudy and uncertain. But there is coming a day when I will be all grown up, and then shall I understand and be understood.
In the meantime, and for this time, faith, hope and love are important. But even of these three, love is the most important.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
The Limit of Liberty
February 23
Read: 1 Corinthians 10:23-33
1 Corinthians 10:23 contains the amazing statement, “all things are lawful for me” along with the qualifier, “but all things are not expedient.” Previously, we looked at 1 Corinthians 6:12 and we considered at length the matters of expedience and edification as limits on our liberty. Although all things are lawful, our own conscience places limits on the things we allow into our lives.
In chapter 10, verse 24, we encounter a second limit on our liberty. The limit this time is not our own conscience, but our brother’s. Paul gives the example of meat offered to idols. If there is a brother present who would be grieved by our eating, then we do not eat. It is not a matter of lawfulness, as all things are lawful. But if my brother would be offended by my liberty, then I must limit myself for his sake. To continue to indulge in behavior offensive to my brother, that would cast a stumbling block in his path, is not liberty but abuse. In fact, it’s even worse than that. 1 Corinthians 8:12 tells us that to cause my brother to stumble by exercising my liberty at his expense is not only a sin against him; it is a sin against Christ.
For a contemporary example of this principle, consider for a moment the use of music in the worship service. For many, contemporary music is tasteful and edifying. The use of snare drums and electric instruments is not a hindrance to their worship; in fact, they are convinced it is highly beneficial. For others, the mere mention of such music borders on blasphemy, and would result in their spirits being extremely grieved were it allowed in the service. According to the first principle above, we have liberty to use any type of music we find edifying in our worship service. The second principle, however, requires that we defer to our brother who would be offended, and that we find music edifying to us all.
Paul summarizes the attitude we must cultivate in 1 Corinthians 10:32-33. “Give none offense, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Even as I please all men in all things, no seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they might be saved.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 1 Corinthians 10:23-33
1 Corinthians 10:23 contains the amazing statement, “all things are lawful for me” along with the qualifier, “but all things are not expedient.” Previously, we looked at 1 Corinthians 6:12 and we considered at length the matters of expedience and edification as limits on our liberty. Although all things are lawful, our own conscience places limits on the things we allow into our lives.
In chapter 10, verse 24, we encounter a second limit on our liberty. The limit this time is not our own conscience, but our brother’s. Paul gives the example of meat offered to idols. If there is a brother present who would be grieved by our eating, then we do not eat. It is not a matter of lawfulness, as all things are lawful. But if my brother would be offended by my liberty, then I must limit myself for his sake. To continue to indulge in behavior offensive to my brother, that would cast a stumbling block in his path, is not liberty but abuse. In fact, it’s even worse than that. 1 Corinthians 8:12 tells us that to cause my brother to stumble by exercising my liberty at his expense is not only a sin against him; it is a sin against Christ.
For a contemporary example of this principle, consider for a moment the use of music in the worship service. For many, contemporary music is tasteful and edifying. The use of snare drums and electric instruments is not a hindrance to their worship; in fact, they are convinced it is highly beneficial. For others, the mere mention of such music borders on blasphemy, and would result in their spirits being extremely grieved were it allowed in the service. According to the first principle above, we have liberty to use any type of music we find edifying in our worship service. The second principle, however, requires that we defer to our brother who would be offended, and that we find music edifying to us all.
Paul summarizes the attitude we must cultivate in 1 Corinthians 10:32-33. “Give none offense, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Even as I please all men in all things, no seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they might be saved.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Add Thou Not...
February 22
Read: Deuteronomy 4:1-10
The last act of Moses prior to Israel’s entrance into Canaan was to preach his way through the law. This sermon is recorded as the book of Deuteronomy. In the midst of all the rules and regulations and exhortations to remember and obey, there is one statement which should not be overlooked. Deuteronomy 4:2 says, “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.”
The Jews have historically had trouble with the first part of this command. In their zeal to follow God, they drew lines which God never gave. Much of their disagreement with Jesus was over His refusal to honor the traditions of the elders. These traditions, written to “enhance” the law, ultimately overthrew it. Even today, the Jews give as much credence to their traditions and the teachings of the elders as to the Word of God itself.
The Mishnah and the Talmud are written collections of interpretations, case studies, commentaries and sermons that are frequently used as guidelines for interpreting the Law, or Torah. To the extent they provide additional understanding, they stand in the same place as expository sermons. When they begin to have authority over the revealed Word of God, they have gone too far.
Modern fundamentalists frequently fall victim to the same process. In our desire to be separate and holy (not an unworthy goal), we add things to the Word of God. Every church has its little list of do’s and don’ts equivalent to the old saying “I don’t drink, smoke or chew nor go with girls who do.” When pushed on the biblical relevance of one of these issues, we will invariably end up exactly where the Pharisees did, “But it’s our tradition.” And also like the Pharisees, we are susceptible to falling into the ditch of tradition.
Proverbs 30:6 has a similar warning, “Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” God’s word is pure. It will be vindicated. It will pass through the fire. Our word has no such guarantee. Let’s be careful not to add our own spin to the Scriptures. They are sufficient. If they don’t say it, it doesn’t need to be said. If they do say it, we should proclaim it from the housetops.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Deuteronomy 4:1-10
The last act of Moses prior to Israel’s entrance into Canaan was to preach his way through the law. This sermon is recorded as the book of Deuteronomy. In the midst of all the rules and regulations and exhortations to remember and obey, there is one statement which should not be overlooked. Deuteronomy 4:2 says, “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.”
The Jews have historically had trouble with the first part of this command. In their zeal to follow God, they drew lines which God never gave. Much of their disagreement with Jesus was over His refusal to honor the traditions of the elders. These traditions, written to “enhance” the law, ultimately overthrew it. Even today, the Jews give as much credence to their traditions and the teachings of the elders as to the Word of God itself.
The Mishnah and the Talmud are written collections of interpretations, case studies, commentaries and sermons that are frequently used as guidelines for interpreting the Law, or Torah. To the extent they provide additional understanding, they stand in the same place as expository sermons. When they begin to have authority over the revealed Word of God, they have gone too far.
Modern fundamentalists frequently fall victim to the same process. In our desire to be separate and holy (not an unworthy goal), we add things to the Word of God. Every church has its little list of do’s and don’ts equivalent to the old saying “I don’t drink, smoke or chew nor go with girls who do.” When pushed on the biblical relevance of one of these issues, we will invariably end up exactly where the Pharisees did, “But it’s our tradition.” And also like the Pharisees, we are susceptible to falling into the ditch of tradition.
Proverbs 30:6 has a similar warning, “Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” God’s word is pure. It will be vindicated. It will pass through the fire. Our word has no such guarantee. Let’s be careful not to add our own spin to the Scriptures. They are sufficient. If they don’t say it, it doesn’t need to be said. If they do say it, we should proclaim it from the housetops.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
All Things
February 21
Read:1 Corinthians 6
A wise pastor once told me the two most difficult things about living the Christian life are keeping your balance and waiting on God (I would add to that list maintaining a consistent, disciplined prayer life). The longer I live as a child of God, the more convinced I am of the truth of his statement.
It’s so easy to get out of balance. It’s much like driving a car down the road; there’s a ditch on either side. For example, we must always keep God’s love balanced by His holiness and justice. To go too far on the love side takes us to a place where all will be saved, regardless of what they believe. To go too far on the holiness side results in pharisaical legalism. Both are heresy. Both are ditches waiting to trap the unwary Christian.
In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul, inspired of the Holy Spirit, writes an incredible thing. To the Corinthian believers he says, “All things are lawful unto me.” In one sentence Paul has effectively destroyed the law of commandments and ordinances by which the Jews literally ordered their lives. With one sentence, shrimp came back on the menu, Gentile was no longer synonymous with leper and it was okay to make your bed on the Sabbath. Can’t you hear the Judaizers screaming? You can’t say that! They will never live holy lives! You are making a mockery of God!
If Paul had stopped writing there they probably would have been right. But he didn’t, and they weren’t. The balance is placed in the remainder of the verse. “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” Sure, Paul says, all things are lawful. But friends and neighbors, all things are not helpful. All things are not edifying. All things will not strengthen my walk with Christ. And yes, all things are lawful, but none of those things should be allowed to control our lives. It would be tempting to limit this to things that are addictive, but the meaning is much broader. All things are lawful, but I will allow nothing to control me other than the sweet Spirit of God.
Talk about balance. Paul gives us the recipe for life apart from the law with the Holy Spirit in residence. Let Him guide. Limit yourself to those things that are edifying. You will find yourself in a life more abundant and more powerful than the law could ever give. Enjoy the things God has given you, and let the Holy Spirit, and your own Christian walk, be your guides.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read:1 Corinthians 6
A wise pastor once told me the two most difficult things about living the Christian life are keeping your balance and waiting on God (I would add to that list maintaining a consistent, disciplined prayer life). The longer I live as a child of God, the more convinced I am of the truth of his statement.
It’s so easy to get out of balance. It’s much like driving a car down the road; there’s a ditch on either side. For example, we must always keep God’s love balanced by His holiness and justice. To go too far on the love side takes us to a place where all will be saved, regardless of what they believe. To go too far on the holiness side results in pharisaical legalism. Both are heresy. Both are ditches waiting to trap the unwary Christian.
In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul, inspired of the Holy Spirit, writes an incredible thing. To the Corinthian believers he says, “All things are lawful unto me.” In one sentence Paul has effectively destroyed the law of commandments and ordinances by which the Jews literally ordered their lives. With one sentence, shrimp came back on the menu, Gentile was no longer synonymous with leper and it was okay to make your bed on the Sabbath. Can’t you hear the Judaizers screaming? You can’t say that! They will never live holy lives! You are making a mockery of God!
If Paul had stopped writing there they probably would have been right. But he didn’t, and they weren’t. The balance is placed in the remainder of the verse. “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” Sure, Paul says, all things are lawful. But friends and neighbors, all things are not helpful. All things are not edifying. All things will not strengthen my walk with Christ. And yes, all things are lawful, but none of those things should be allowed to control our lives. It would be tempting to limit this to things that are addictive, but the meaning is much broader. All things are lawful, but I will allow nothing to control me other than the sweet Spirit of God.
Talk about balance. Paul gives us the recipe for life apart from the law with the Holy Spirit in residence. Let Him guide. Limit yourself to those things that are edifying. You will find yourself in a life more abundant and more powerful than the law could ever give. Enjoy the things God has given you, and let the Holy Spirit, and your own Christian walk, be your guides.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
No Other Foundation
February 20
Read: 1 Corinthians 3
Paul, expressing his irritation with the carnality of the Corinthian believers, uses a number of analogies to push his point home. He begins by describing them as babes, dependent on milk and unprepared for solid food (vs. 1-2). He progresses to the idea of husbandmen or farmers, telling them that we are all just God’s helpers. He is the one responsible for any increase (vs. 6-8). Finally, he uses a construction analogy, telling them in vs. 9-11:
“For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.
According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
Paul stresses first that the only foundation is Christ. Jesus is not the best foundation, He is the only foundation. When Paul preached the gospel at Corinth, he was giving them the only possible basis for a relationship with God. Jesus taught the same thing, saying in John 14:6 that He was “the way, the truth, and the life. No man cometh to the father except by me (Jesus).”
The exclusivity of Christ is affirmed again and again in the New Testament by such passages as Acts 4:12, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” And in 1 Timothy 2:5, “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
For those of us who are Christians, who have the proper foundation, Paul goes on to warn us concerning how we build on that foundation. Every work will be tested. Those of the right sort will stand and all others will be burned away. If the foundation is solid, though, even though the works are lost, the soul is secure. The foundation is the key. The only foundation is Jesus Christ.
In Matthew 7, at the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses those whose religion was on the wrong foundation. He said there would come a day when they would cry out to Him, “Lord, Lord!”. His response? I never knew you.
You can have a lot of religion. But if the foundation is wrong, nothing else will matter.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: 1 Corinthians 3
Paul, expressing his irritation with the carnality of the Corinthian believers, uses a number of analogies to push his point home. He begins by describing them as babes, dependent on milk and unprepared for solid food (vs. 1-2). He progresses to the idea of husbandmen or farmers, telling them that we are all just God’s helpers. He is the one responsible for any increase (vs. 6-8). Finally, he uses a construction analogy, telling them in vs. 9-11:
“For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.
According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
Paul stresses first that the only foundation is Christ. Jesus is not the best foundation, He is the only foundation. When Paul preached the gospel at Corinth, he was giving them the only possible basis for a relationship with God. Jesus taught the same thing, saying in John 14:6 that He was “the way, the truth, and the life. No man cometh to the father except by me (Jesus).”
The exclusivity of Christ is affirmed again and again in the New Testament by such passages as Acts 4:12, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” And in 1 Timothy 2:5, “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
For those of us who are Christians, who have the proper foundation, Paul goes on to warn us concerning how we build on that foundation. Every work will be tested. Those of the right sort will stand and all others will be burned away. If the foundation is solid, though, even though the works are lost, the soul is secure. The foundation is the key. The only foundation is Jesus Christ.
In Matthew 7, at the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses those whose religion was on the wrong foundation. He said there would come a day when they would cry out to Him, “Lord, Lord!”. His response? I never knew you.
You can have a lot of religion. But if the foundation is wrong, nothing else will matter.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
No Provision
February 19
Read: Romans 13:1-14
The first seven verses of Romans 13 summarize the believer’s relationship to civil authority. Established after the flood, the civil authorities are the direct representatives of God on earth and we are to obey them. Verses 8-10 remind us of our responsibility to love our neighbors. Verses 11 and 12 are a call to diligence and in verses 13 and 14 we are reminded to keep our walk in Christ at a high standard. The very last half of the last verse of the chapter states, “and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.”
If you’re not paying close attention in your reading, you might pass by this verse without gaining the full import of its teaching. The Word of God here is giving us one of the keys to victorious Christian living, apart from which our lives can become extremely frustrating. We are warned not to make provision for the flesh.
The flesh is that part of us that places its own needs and desires ahead of everything else. It is the combination of all the physical appetites that when kept in proper balance are necessary for life and happiness. When they get out of balance, when we begin to live for the fulfillment of those fleshly desires, our spirit is subdued and we live carnal lives.
I have noticed in my own life that as quickly as I get one element of the flesh properly disciplined, there is another part ready to raise its ugly head in a demand for satisfaction. I concentrate on the second, and the first seems to wiggle loose. This is the same conflict that Paul described in Romans 7 when he wrote, “for I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” It’s a conflict we all deal with, and victory over the flesh tends to come in spurts, especially for the new or less mature believer.
This verse in Romans 13, though, can provide immeasurable help in the battle. It says simply, “make no provision for the flesh.” That is, intentionally and consistently separate yourself from those things that encourage you to lose control. As a simple example, take someone who struggles with overeating. Knowing his own weakness, it is foolish for him to stash chocolate in his desk drawer. He may think he can control his desires, but he has prepared himself to fail. How much wiser would he be to clean out the cupboard, preserving only those things that are healthy, low-calorie and useful to his campaign to subdue the flesh?
There are so many things that fall into this category. We know we struggle with the flesh in a certain area, then we set ourselves up for failure. Take a person who tends to waste time with computer games. How many does he keep a keystroke away? How about a person who has a pornography problem who refuses to put a monitor or filter on his computer? It’s a little hard to believe someone is really serious about living the victorious Christian life when they continuously coddle the enemy.
Today, let’s consider our own weaknesses, and determine where we have made “provision for the flesh”. Let’s clean out our spiritual closets and let God give us the victorious and abundant life He desires for each of us.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
“I will set no wicked thing before my eyes” - Psalm 101:3
Read: Romans 13:1-14
The first seven verses of Romans 13 summarize the believer’s relationship to civil authority. Established after the flood, the civil authorities are the direct representatives of God on earth and we are to obey them. Verses 8-10 remind us of our responsibility to love our neighbors. Verses 11 and 12 are a call to diligence and in verses 13 and 14 we are reminded to keep our walk in Christ at a high standard. The very last half of the last verse of the chapter states, “and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.”
If you’re not paying close attention in your reading, you might pass by this verse without gaining the full import of its teaching. The Word of God here is giving us one of the keys to victorious Christian living, apart from which our lives can become extremely frustrating. We are warned not to make provision for the flesh.
The flesh is that part of us that places its own needs and desires ahead of everything else. It is the combination of all the physical appetites that when kept in proper balance are necessary for life and happiness. When they get out of balance, when we begin to live for the fulfillment of those fleshly desires, our spirit is subdued and we live carnal lives.
I have noticed in my own life that as quickly as I get one element of the flesh properly disciplined, there is another part ready to raise its ugly head in a demand for satisfaction. I concentrate on the second, and the first seems to wiggle loose. This is the same conflict that Paul described in Romans 7 when he wrote, “for I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” It’s a conflict we all deal with, and victory over the flesh tends to come in spurts, especially for the new or less mature believer.
This verse in Romans 13, though, can provide immeasurable help in the battle. It says simply, “make no provision for the flesh.” That is, intentionally and consistently separate yourself from those things that encourage you to lose control. As a simple example, take someone who struggles with overeating. Knowing his own weakness, it is foolish for him to stash chocolate in his desk drawer. He may think he can control his desires, but he has prepared himself to fail. How much wiser would he be to clean out the cupboard, preserving only those things that are healthy, low-calorie and useful to his campaign to subdue the flesh?
There are so many things that fall into this category. We know we struggle with the flesh in a certain area, then we set ourselves up for failure. Take a person who tends to waste time with computer games. How many does he keep a keystroke away? How about a person who has a pornography problem who refuses to put a monitor or filter on his computer? It’s a little hard to believe someone is really serious about living the victorious Christian life when they continuously coddle the enemy.
Today, let’s consider our own weaknesses, and determine where we have made “provision for the flesh”. Let’s clean out our spiritual closets and let God give us the victorious and abundant life He desires for each of us.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
“I will set no wicked thing before my eyes” - Psalm 101:3
Training Faithful Men
February 18
Read: Numbers 27:15-23
The more you learn of Moses, the more you realize just what an extraordinary man of God he was. On this occasion, God told Moses to make his way to the mountain top and look out over the land of Canaan. Because of his disobedience at the waters of Meribah, Moses was not to be allowed to enter into the land. After he had seen the land, Moses was to die, as Aaron had died before him.
It’s not terribly difficult to put yourself in Moses’ thoughts at this point. After 120 years, he was going home. Yet there had to be a bittersweet element as well. Forty years he had led the people of Israel, out of Egypt and through the wilderness, with the promised land held out before them. Now, at the very end, with the land in sight, he was not to be allowed to enter. The nation must go on without him.
It is a testimony to the character of this amazing man of God that no hint of these things enters into the biblical narrative. Instead of lamenting his sentence and pleading with God for a second chance, Moses went in a completely different direction. In verse 16, Moses asks, “Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation. Which may go out before them, and which may go in before them, and which may lead them out; and which may bring them in; that the congregation of the Lord be not as sheep which have no shepherd.”
Moses’ primary concern was for the people he had led all these years. He was burdened for the very people who provoked his anger at Meribah, who were indirectly the very reason he could not enter into the promised land. Moses wanted assurance from God that He would not leave them without a shepherd. “Oh, Lord, they need a man to lead them,” was Moses’ only request.
Every man or woman of God should share Moses’ burden. There is not one of us who does not have responsibilities within the kingdom, who is not a leader in one form or another. It may be at church, or at home, or where you work. You are God’s representative somewhere to somebody. Is it your heart that they should see God in your shepherding? Do you grieve at the thought of their being without a godly influence? Are you pleading with God to raise up faithful men and women who, when your time ends, will continue to represent the Lord? Are you doing your part to prepare those men and women?
Writing to apprentice Timothy, the apostle Paul instructed him in 2 Timothy 2:2, “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” Moses’ primary concern was that the work of God go forward and the people of God be guided. He committed much of his time to training his replacement.
Let us ensure that our ministry includes a thought for the future. Who will take our place? And how can we be used of God to prepare them?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Numbers 27:15-23
The more you learn of Moses, the more you realize just what an extraordinary man of God he was. On this occasion, God told Moses to make his way to the mountain top and look out over the land of Canaan. Because of his disobedience at the waters of Meribah, Moses was not to be allowed to enter into the land. After he had seen the land, Moses was to die, as Aaron had died before him.
It’s not terribly difficult to put yourself in Moses’ thoughts at this point. After 120 years, he was going home. Yet there had to be a bittersweet element as well. Forty years he had led the people of Israel, out of Egypt and through the wilderness, with the promised land held out before them. Now, at the very end, with the land in sight, he was not to be allowed to enter. The nation must go on without him.
It is a testimony to the character of this amazing man of God that no hint of these things enters into the biblical narrative. Instead of lamenting his sentence and pleading with God for a second chance, Moses went in a completely different direction. In verse 16, Moses asks, “Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation. Which may go out before them, and which may go in before them, and which may lead them out; and which may bring them in; that the congregation of the Lord be not as sheep which have no shepherd.”
Moses’ primary concern was for the people he had led all these years. He was burdened for the very people who provoked his anger at Meribah, who were indirectly the very reason he could not enter into the promised land. Moses wanted assurance from God that He would not leave them without a shepherd. “Oh, Lord, they need a man to lead them,” was Moses’ only request.
Every man or woman of God should share Moses’ burden. There is not one of us who does not have responsibilities within the kingdom, who is not a leader in one form or another. It may be at church, or at home, or where you work. You are God’s representative somewhere to somebody. Is it your heart that they should see God in your shepherding? Do you grieve at the thought of their being without a godly influence? Are you pleading with God to raise up faithful men and women who, when your time ends, will continue to represent the Lord? Are you doing your part to prepare those men and women?
Writing to apprentice Timothy, the apostle Paul instructed him in 2 Timothy 2:2, “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” Moses’ primary concern was that the work of God go forward and the people of God be guided. He committed much of his time to training his replacement.
Let us ensure that our ministry includes a thought for the future. Who will take our place? And how can we be used of God to prepare them?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Final Answer
February 17
Read: Numbers 22
Numbers 22 tells the well-known story of Balaam and the talking donkey. In it, Balaam is called by the Moabite king Balak to come and curse Israel. A group of noblemen was sent to the prophet offering reward and honor if he would come and do as the king asked.
Balaam had enough discernment to seek God’s counsel in the matter, and in verse 12 we see God’s answer, “And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed.”
That should have been the end of the matter. But Balak, desperately wanting some advantage over Israel, elected to try again. He sent more honorable noblemen and offered very great honor if Balaam would curse Israel. And here Balaam makes his mistake. In verse 19, in effect, he comes and asks God, “Is that your final answer?”
God allowed Balaam to go and bless Israel, but He showed his displeasure with Balaam (v. 22) and sent the angel of the Lord to withstand him in the way. After the donkey spoke and Balaam understood the situation, he knew better than to disobey God again. The nation of Israel was blessed; Balak expressed his displeasure with Balaam and sent him home.
Balaam’s name comes up again in Scripture later. Numbers 31:8, describing Israel’s conquest of the Midianites, concludes with this passage: “Balaam also the son of Beor they slew with the sword.” Balaam the prophet of Jehovah ultimately fell because of his failure to heed the clear direction of God. He wouldn’t take God’s word as final.
In Proverbs 20:25, the Bible tells us: “It is a snare unto a man….after vows to make inquiry.” It is a warning not to second guess God’s decisions and directions. The New Testament version is found in Romans 11:29, “For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.” Once God has spoken, He doesn’t change His mind. Let us be careful not to dig up in doubt that which we buried in faith.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Numbers 22
Numbers 22 tells the well-known story of Balaam and the talking donkey. In it, Balaam is called by the Moabite king Balak to come and curse Israel. A group of noblemen was sent to the prophet offering reward and honor if he would come and do as the king asked.
Balaam had enough discernment to seek God’s counsel in the matter, and in verse 12 we see God’s answer, “And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed.”
That should have been the end of the matter. But Balak, desperately wanting some advantage over Israel, elected to try again. He sent more honorable noblemen and offered very great honor if Balaam would curse Israel. And here Balaam makes his mistake. In verse 19, in effect, he comes and asks God, “Is that your final answer?”
God allowed Balaam to go and bless Israel, but He showed his displeasure with Balaam (v. 22) and sent the angel of the Lord to withstand him in the way. After the donkey spoke and Balaam understood the situation, he knew better than to disobey God again. The nation of Israel was blessed; Balak expressed his displeasure with Balaam and sent him home.
Balaam’s name comes up again in Scripture later. Numbers 31:8, describing Israel’s conquest of the Midianites, concludes with this passage: “Balaam also the son of Beor they slew with the sword.” Balaam the prophet of Jehovah ultimately fell because of his failure to heed the clear direction of God. He wouldn’t take God’s word as final.
In Proverbs 20:25, the Bible tells us: “It is a snare unto a man….after vows to make inquiry.” It is a warning not to second guess God’s decisions and directions. The New Testament version is found in Romans 11:29, “For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.” Once God has spoken, He doesn’t change His mind. Let us be careful not to dig up in doubt that which we buried in faith.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Spiritual Schizophrenia
February 16
Read: James 3:1-18
In context, the discussion in James chapter three concerns our tongues. After lamenting the power of an uncontrollable tongue, in verse 8 James starts to give some examples of things that simply should not be. In verse 10, he writes, “Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.” He follows with examples of a fig tree bearing olives and a fountain yielding both fresh water and salt water. He gets to the point beginning in verses 14-18, when he compares the fruit of a righteous (saved) man to what comes out of a natural (lost) man.
What James is describing here is spiritual schizophrenia. There really should be no such thing as a carnal or worldly Christian. It makes no sense that one who is bought by the blood, indwelt by the Spirit and fed on the Word of God should manifest the same manner of living as one who is lost without God. It is schizophrenic for a man to exhibit the character of both the saved and the lost. It is indicative of a split personality, or, as James writes in chapter one, a man who is double-minded.
But didn’t Paul in Romans chapter seven describe a war between the flesh and spirit, such that sometimes the flesh is in control? Indeed he did, and that conflict is something that Christians deal with until the day we are called home. We all have such a conflict within. The problem is when we begin to see walking in the flesh as normal.
We are incredibly good at rationalizing almost any behavior. The one who has an anger problem will simply decide, “That’s just the way I am” and accept it as something he cannot change. The pornography addict will conclude that “God made the opposite gender attractive, and besides, I’m not hurting anybody.” And he makes no effort to alter his practices. We have become a spiritual schizophrenic when we can claim to be Christian, know there is sin in our lives, and accept it as normal. Such a Christian is destined to live a powerless and frustrating life, dangerous not only to himself but to all around him.
Brethren, these things ought not so to be.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: James 3:1-18
In context, the discussion in James chapter three concerns our tongues. After lamenting the power of an uncontrollable tongue, in verse 8 James starts to give some examples of things that simply should not be. In verse 10, he writes, “Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.” He follows with examples of a fig tree bearing olives and a fountain yielding both fresh water and salt water. He gets to the point beginning in verses 14-18, when he compares the fruit of a righteous (saved) man to what comes out of a natural (lost) man.
What James is describing here is spiritual schizophrenia. There really should be no such thing as a carnal or worldly Christian. It makes no sense that one who is bought by the blood, indwelt by the Spirit and fed on the Word of God should manifest the same manner of living as one who is lost without God. It is schizophrenic for a man to exhibit the character of both the saved and the lost. It is indicative of a split personality, or, as James writes in chapter one, a man who is double-minded.
But didn’t Paul in Romans chapter seven describe a war between the flesh and spirit, such that sometimes the flesh is in control? Indeed he did, and that conflict is something that Christians deal with until the day we are called home. We all have such a conflict within. The problem is when we begin to see walking in the flesh as normal.
We are incredibly good at rationalizing almost any behavior. The one who has an anger problem will simply decide, “That’s just the way I am” and accept it as something he cannot change. The pornography addict will conclude that “God made the opposite gender attractive, and besides, I’m not hurting anybody.” And he makes no effort to alter his practices. We have become a spiritual schizophrenic when we can claim to be Christian, know there is sin in our lives, and accept it as normal. Such a Christian is destined to live a powerless and frustrating life, dangerous not only to himself but to all around him.
Brethren, these things ought not so to be.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Casual Interest
February 15
Read: Acts 24:1-27
After the attack on Paul and his subsequent arrest in Jerusalem, a number of the Jews entered into a conspiracy to murder him. News of the plot came to a nephew, who warned Paul and then the chief captain of the Romans, Claudius Lysias. Not wanting such to happen to a prisoner under his care, the captain prepared a military escort and sent Paul to Felix, the Roman Governor at Caesarea.
After the transfer, the Jews from Jerusalem went before Felix to accuse Paul of rebellion and sedition for his work among the followers of Jesus of Nazareth. Felix listened to both parties, then elected to withhold judgement until Lysias could come down from Jerusalem and give his side of the tale.
Having Paul in prison, Felix decided to entertain himself and his wife by asking Paul to come and preach to them concerning his faith in Christ. Paul’s preaching had an effect, for, in verse 25 we read, “And as he (Paul) reasoned of righteousness, temperance and judgement to come, Felix trembled...”. Felix was clearly convicted, but just as clearly there was no conversion. In verse 26 we read that he kept Paul in prison, hoping someone would pay a bribe for his release. After two years, Felix was replaced by another governor, Festus. And the Bible says that Felix, willing to show the Jews a pleasure, left Paul imprisoned.
People come to church for a variety of reasons. Some are faithful servants of God, who are there to worship and serve Him. Some are dealing with a personal crisis of some kind and looking for possible answers. A third group is simply curious, somehow having gotten the idea that going to church was just good for them and looking for a way to fill up a Sunday morning. And there is final group there strictly for personal motives. Their attendance has nothing to do with God, but with their own personal agenda.
Felix was clearly in that last group. His work had brought him into contact with a Christian, and he was curious. As Paul was at his disposal, he chose to spend a little time researching this strange sect of the Nazarene. He was not, however, prepared for the power of the Gospel. Trembling, he was forced to decide, and he decided against. From that point Paul was simply a hostage to be held or a pawn to be used in his political dealings with the Jews.
There are regular church members who think no more of the gospel and the Savior than Felix. They come for reasons of networking, for political expediency, for social gain. They are occasionally ambushed by the Word of God, but by and large they are immune, having determined to keep their personal autonomy, even at the price of their eternity. They are wrong, but they are unpersuaded. Their destiny is that of the rich man who disdained Lazarus, or the wealthy one who, having accumulated more than he could use, set out to build himself bigger barns. To that one, and all like him, God posed this question: “What shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Acts 24:1-27
After the attack on Paul and his subsequent arrest in Jerusalem, a number of the Jews entered into a conspiracy to murder him. News of the plot came to a nephew, who warned Paul and then the chief captain of the Romans, Claudius Lysias. Not wanting such to happen to a prisoner under his care, the captain prepared a military escort and sent Paul to Felix, the Roman Governor at Caesarea.
After the transfer, the Jews from Jerusalem went before Felix to accuse Paul of rebellion and sedition for his work among the followers of Jesus of Nazareth. Felix listened to both parties, then elected to withhold judgement until Lysias could come down from Jerusalem and give his side of the tale.
Having Paul in prison, Felix decided to entertain himself and his wife by asking Paul to come and preach to them concerning his faith in Christ. Paul’s preaching had an effect, for, in verse 25 we read, “And as he (Paul) reasoned of righteousness, temperance and judgement to come, Felix trembled...”. Felix was clearly convicted, but just as clearly there was no conversion. In verse 26 we read that he kept Paul in prison, hoping someone would pay a bribe for his release. After two years, Felix was replaced by another governor, Festus. And the Bible says that Felix, willing to show the Jews a pleasure, left Paul imprisoned.
People come to church for a variety of reasons. Some are faithful servants of God, who are there to worship and serve Him. Some are dealing with a personal crisis of some kind and looking for possible answers. A third group is simply curious, somehow having gotten the idea that going to church was just good for them and looking for a way to fill up a Sunday morning. And there is final group there strictly for personal motives. Their attendance has nothing to do with God, but with their own personal agenda.
Felix was clearly in that last group. His work had brought him into contact with a Christian, and he was curious. As Paul was at his disposal, he chose to spend a little time researching this strange sect of the Nazarene. He was not, however, prepared for the power of the Gospel. Trembling, he was forced to decide, and he decided against. From that point Paul was simply a hostage to be held or a pawn to be used in his political dealings with the Jews.
There are regular church members who think no more of the gospel and the Savior than Felix. They come for reasons of networking, for political expediency, for social gain. They are occasionally ambushed by the Word of God, but by and large they are immune, having determined to keep their personal autonomy, even at the price of their eternity. They are wrong, but they are unpersuaded. Their destiny is that of the rich man who disdained Lazarus, or the wealthy one who, having accumulated more than he could use, set out to build himself bigger barns. To that one, and all like him, God posed this question: “What shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Rumbling and Grumbling
February 14
Read: Numbers 11:1-20
As Israel traveled through the desert, God provided them with manna on a daily basis. For this manna they had to do no work other than gather it up. Each morning, as they arose, the gift of God lay fresh on the ground, easily available and capable of meeting every nutritional need for the whole nation. Manna was a miracle and a blessing direct from the hand of God.
In Numbers 11, Israel decides that manna is no longer good enough. A percentage of the people, called the mixed multitude, began to wish for the food they had left behind in Egypt. They wanted the variety, the tastes, the delicacies of Egypt. In verse 4, the Bible says they “fell a lusting”. Will somebody please give us a little meat to go with this manna?
In verse 10, we see the responses of both God and Moses. The anger of the Lord was kindled greatly, and Moses also was displeased. The complaining of the people actually reduced Moses to whining, and the first thing the Lord did was take some of His Spirit away from Moses and place on the seventy elders. Then He gave the people their request. For a month, they got meat to eat. They stuffed themselves until they were sick of it.
In Psalm 106:5 the Bible tells of this time, “And he (God) gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.” It is unfortunate but true we in the church have learned little from Israel’s bad example. Week after week God provides us with preachers, musicians, and teachers, using them to supply everything we need for our spiritual well-being. And almost every Sunday, the “mixed multitude” shows up. They will complain that the song service is boring, the preaching is unexciting, or the temperature in the building is uncomfortable. Fed on a diet of television and top forty Christian music, they have “fallen a lusting” after the things of Egypt. And, like Moses, many pastors and Christian leaders have surrendered, giving them what they want.
There are so many lessons here. But the bottom line is pretty clear. Don’t let a few complainers shift your focus to the world. Egypt is not where the blessings reside. Keep your eyes on God, be grateful for His blessings, and follow Him faithfully. And be careful what you lust after, God may give you what you think you want.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Numbers 11:1-20
As Israel traveled through the desert, God provided them with manna on a daily basis. For this manna they had to do no work other than gather it up. Each morning, as they arose, the gift of God lay fresh on the ground, easily available and capable of meeting every nutritional need for the whole nation. Manna was a miracle and a blessing direct from the hand of God.
In Numbers 11, Israel decides that manna is no longer good enough. A percentage of the people, called the mixed multitude, began to wish for the food they had left behind in Egypt. They wanted the variety, the tastes, the delicacies of Egypt. In verse 4, the Bible says they “fell a lusting”. Will somebody please give us a little meat to go with this manna?
In verse 10, we see the responses of both God and Moses. The anger of the Lord was kindled greatly, and Moses also was displeased. The complaining of the people actually reduced Moses to whining, and the first thing the Lord did was take some of His Spirit away from Moses and place on the seventy elders. Then He gave the people their request. For a month, they got meat to eat. They stuffed themselves until they were sick of it.
In Psalm 106:5 the Bible tells of this time, “And he (God) gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.” It is unfortunate but true we in the church have learned little from Israel’s bad example. Week after week God provides us with preachers, musicians, and teachers, using them to supply everything we need for our spiritual well-being. And almost every Sunday, the “mixed multitude” shows up. They will complain that the song service is boring, the preaching is unexciting, or the temperature in the building is uncomfortable. Fed on a diet of television and top forty Christian music, they have “fallen a lusting” after the things of Egypt. And, like Moses, many pastors and Christian leaders have surrendered, giving them what they want.
There are so many lessons here. But the bottom line is pretty clear. Don’t let a few complainers shift your focus to the world. Egypt is not where the blessings reside. Keep your eyes on God, be grateful for His blessings, and follow Him faithfully. And be careful what you lust after, God may give you what you think you want.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
One For All
February 13
Read: Numbers 9:1-14
During the second year of Israel’s journey from Egypt to Kadesh-Barnea, God instructed Moses and the children of Israel to keep the Passover. Moses, having passed on the instructions to the people, was questioned by some men who were ceremonially unclean from contact with a dead body (probably Levites, Leviticus 21:11). Could they take the Passover?
Moses took the question to God, and was told that even those who were unclean or traveling should partake of the Passover just as everyone else. He went on to add a rule concerning even those who were non-Israelites. If there were strangers among them, and they desired to keep the Passover, they were to be allowed to do so. The end of Numbers 9:14 says: “...ye shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger, and for him that was born in the land.”
These instructions are consistent with the typology of the Passover. God passed over the first-born of Israel because of the lamb’s blood applied to the door posts. The blood of the lamb is typical of the blood of Christ, the designated Lamb of God. And Christ is promised to be the Savior of not only the Jews, but the world. He is the Savior of those who are lost in sin, of those who are not ceremonially unclean but utterly unclean. And the inclusion of the stranger is our assurance that the true Passover Lamb was slain for every man.
Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.
Just a servant,
Bro.Tom
Read: Numbers 9:1-14
During the second year of Israel’s journey from Egypt to Kadesh-Barnea, God instructed Moses and the children of Israel to keep the Passover. Moses, having passed on the instructions to the people, was questioned by some men who were ceremonially unclean from contact with a dead body (probably Levites, Leviticus 21:11). Could they take the Passover?
Moses took the question to God, and was told that even those who were unclean or traveling should partake of the Passover just as everyone else. He went on to add a rule concerning even those who were non-Israelites. If there were strangers among them, and they desired to keep the Passover, they were to be allowed to do so. The end of Numbers 9:14 says: “...ye shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger, and for him that was born in the land.”
These instructions are consistent with the typology of the Passover. God passed over the first-born of Israel because of the lamb’s blood applied to the door posts. The blood of the lamb is typical of the blood of Christ, the designated Lamb of God. And Christ is promised to be the Savior of not only the Jews, but the world. He is the Savior of those who are lost in sin, of those who are not ceremonially unclean but utterly unclean. And the inclusion of the stranger is our assurance that the true Passover Lamb was slain for every man.
Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.
Just a servant,
Bro.Tom
Every Joint
February 12
Read: Numbers 4:1-15
Numbers chapter 4 describes the division of labor among the Levites in relation to the tabernacle. Each of the families of the sons of Levi was given specific responsibilities for part of the work. In our text, we see the portions assigned to Aaron and to the sons of Kohath.
To Aaron and his sons belonged the task of caring for the items associated with worship within the tabernacle. Essentially, they were responsible for everything within the inner sanctuary. When it was time to move, they covered and prepared the table of showbread and the golden altar, cleaned up the ashes and gathered and wrapped all the utensils. When everything was ready, the Kohathites were to come and carry it to the next location.
Continuing in chapter 4, we find that God gave similar instructions to the Gershonites and the Merarites. In each case, God was very specific about what each was to do.
It took everyone doing their part to get the tabernacle pulled down and moved. If any family had neglected or left its work undone, the whole nation would have been delayed. They would have been unable to do what God was directing them to do at the time He intended for them to do it. As a result of a few unwilling to perform their roles, God’s work would be hindered and God’s people denied a blessing.
According to the New Testament, the same thing can be said of the local church. God has gifted every church member for a specific task, and it is one of the Holy Spirit’s functions to guide them to their appointed ministry. In Ephesians 4:16, the Bible says Jesus is the head, “From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.“ The body referenced is the church, and every joint is every member. Jesus has put us together and given every member a gift and a task. We must prayerfully seek out our place and then faithfully perform the assigned ministry. If we do not, then we, like the Levites, would be guilty of hindering the work of God and the progress of God’s people.
Are you busy about the Lord’s work? Are you doing the things you should be doing? Are you still wondering what your job might be? James writes, “If any of you lack wisdom, let Him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Let’s find our spot and get in it.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Numbers 4:1-15
Numbers chapter 4 describes the division of labor among the Levites in relation to the tabernacle. Each of the families of the sons of Levi was given specific responsibilities for part of the work. In our text, we see the portions assigned to Aaron and to the sons of Kohath.
To Aaron and his sons belonged the task of caring for the items associated with worship within the tabernacle. Essentially, they were responsible for everything within the inner sanctuary. When it was time to move, they covered and prepared the table of showbread and the golden altar, cleaned up the ashes and gathered and wrapped all the utensils. When everything was ready, the Kohathites were to come and carry it to the next location.
Continuing in chapter 4, we find that God gave similar instructions to the Gershonites and the Merarites. In each case, God was very specific about what each was to do.
It took everyone doing their part to get the tabernacle pulled down and moved. If any family had neglected or left its work undone, the whole nation would have been delayed. They would have been unable to do what God was directing them to do at the time He intended for them to do it. As a result of a few unwilling to perform their roles, God’s work would be hindered and God’s people denied a blessing.
According to the New Testament, the same thing can be said of the local church. God has gifted every church member for a specific task, and it is one of the Holy Spirit’s functions to guide them to their appointed ministry. In Ephesians 4:16, the Bible says Jesus is the head, “From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.“ The body referenced is the church, and every joint is every member. Jesus has put us together and given every member a gift and a task. We must prayerfully seek out our place and then faithfully perform the assigned ministry. If we do not, then we, like the Levites, would be guilty of hindering the work of God and the progress of God’s people.
Are you busy about the Lord’s work? Are you doing the things you should be doing? Are you still wondering what your job might be? James writes, “If any of you lack wisdom, let Him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Let’s find our spot and get in it.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
He Shall Be Blessed!
February 11
Read: Genesis 27:1-33
Genesis 27 is the story of the stolen blessing. Isaac had grown old and half-blind, and he recognized the time of his death was near. So he called his oldest son, Esau, and instructed him to go and kill a deer and prepare a meal for his old father, that Isaac might bless his son before he died. Jacob’s mother, Rebekah, overheard Isaac’s instructions and conspired with Jacob to steal the blessing. Preparing a goat stew and wrapping the skins around Jacob’s wrists and neck, she sent Jacob in to his father. Jacob told Isaac a pack of lies and walked out with a blessing.
The tent flap was still waving from Jacob’s exit when Esau came in with his stew. It didn’t take too long for the two of them to figure out what happened, with the result that Isaac trembled and Esau threatened. In spite of the fact the blessing had been stolen, Isaac lamented in verse 33, “…yea, and he shall be blessed.”
Isaac’s faith was strong; strong enough to be certain that a blessing pronounced, stolen or not, would be honored by God. He didn’t try to talk God out of it, and he refused to try to give Esau what he had already given Jacob. He knew he had asked God in good faith to bless Jacob, and that God would answer his prayer.
Many of us have problems with our prayer life. We ask wavering, even though we know that James said a double-minded man would receive nothing. We often pray as though we’re just reciting a liturgy, our prayers essentially no different than the Catholic’s rosary or the Episcopalian’s Book of Common Prayer. Isaac prayed with faith! He had so much faith that having asked God to bless Jacob he could not bring himself to ask the same things for Esau.
In Matthew chapter 17, a young man possessed of a demon is brought to the disciples. They were unable to help the young man, and his father appealed to Jesus directly. After Jesus cast out the demon, the disciples asked Jesus why they had been unable to do so. Jesus answered thus: “Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.”
Today, pray in faith.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Genesis 27:1-33
Genesis 27 is the story of the stolen blessing. Isaac had grown old and half-blind, and he recognized the time of his death was near. So he called his oldest son, Esau, and instructed him to go and kill a deer and prepare a meal for his old father, that Isaac might bless his son before he died. Jacob’s mother, Rebekah, overheard Isaac’s instructions and conspired with Jacob to steal the blessing. Preparing a goat stew and wrapping the skins around Jacob’s wrists and neck, she sent Jacob in to his father. Jacob told Isaac a pack of lies and walked out with a blessing.
The tent flap was still waving from Jacob’s exit when Esau came in with his stew. It didn’t take too long for the two of them to figure out what happened, with the result that Isaac trembled and Esau threatened. In spite of the fact the blessing had been stolen, Isaac lamented in verse 33, “…yea, and he shall be blessed.”
Isaac’s faith was strong; strong enough to be certain that a blessing pronounced, stolen or not, would be honored by God. He didn’t try to talk God out of it, and he refused to try to give Esau what he had already given Jacob. He knew he had asked God in good faith to bless Jacob, and that God would answer his prayer.
Many of us have problems with our prayer life. We ask wavering, even though we know that James said a double-minded man would receive nothing. We often pray as though we’re just reciting a liturgy, our prayers essentially no different than the Catholic’s rosary or the Episcopalian’s Book of Common Prayer. Isaac prayed with faith! He had so much faith that having asked God to bless Jacob he could not bring himself to ask the same things for Esau.
In Matthew chapter 17, a young man possessed of a demon is brought to the disciples. They were unable to help the young man, and his father appealed to Jesus directly. After Jesus cast out the demon, the disciples asked Jesus why they had been unable to do so. Jesus answered thus: “Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.”
Today, pray in faith.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
The Perfect Law
February 10
Read: Psalm 119:97-104
“These are the commandments, which the Lord commanded Moses for the children of Israel in mount Sinai.” – Leviticus 27:34
This verse marks the end of the book of Leviticus. Finishing a reading of the law, I was so awed I had to stop for a moment and just consider how great is the God who would give such a law to His people 1500 years before Christ. I confess to having sometimes just breezed through the book, not really hearing what God was saying. But this was a different matter. Even the laws on property and servanthood (slavery), completely foreign to western culture, are so just and so right and so perfect. Every piece, every single commandment, is clearly sacred.
My thinking has simply aligned with that of David and Paul. In Romans 7:12, the apostle Paul, even as he was expounding the inadequacy of the law for salvation, states unequivocally that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just and good.” Used for its purpose, to convict sinners of their sin, the law is unassailable and untouchable. David the King also marveled at the law, writing Psalm after Psalm attesting to its power and beauty and truth. In Psalm 119:97 he cries out, “Oh, how love I thy law! It is my meditation all the day.”
Writing about the law God gave to Moses, David and Paul could not help but admire, yeah, even love the word of God. Christian friend, the law came by Moses, by grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. In His name, we have been given the new covenant, the 27 incredible books of the New Testament. What Moses and the law foreshadowed, Christ fulfilled, and the story of that fulfillment and the future of the bride is a story so compelling it is the best selling book of all time.
Now, take a moment and consider your own attitude towards the Word of God. Do you see it as holy, and just, and good? Can you say with all your heart, “Oh, how I love thy law! It is my meditation all the day”?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Psalm 119:97-104
“These are the commandments, which the Lord commanded Moses for the children of Israel in mount Sinai.” – Leviticus 27:34
This verse marks the end of the book of Leviticus. Finishing a reading of the law, I was so awed I had to stop for a moment and just consider how great is the God who would give such a law to His people 1500 years before Christ. I confess to having sometimes just breezed through the book, not really hearing what God was saying. But this was a different matter. Even the laws on property and servanthood (slavery), completely foreign to western culture, are so just and so right and so perfect. Every piece, every single commandment, is clearly sacred.
My thinking has simply aligned with that of David and Paul. In Romans 7:12, the apostle Paul, even as he was expounding the inadequacy of the law for salvation, states unequivocally that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just and good.” Used for its purpose, to convict sinners of their sin, the law is unassailable and untouchable. David the King also marveled at the law, writing Psalm after Psalm attesting to its power and beauty and truth. In Psalm 119:97 he cries out, “Oh, how love I thy law! It is my meditation all the day.”
Writing about the law God gave to Moses, David and Paul could not help but admire, yeah, even love the word of God. Christian friend, the law came by Moses, by grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. In His name, we have been given the new covenant, the 27 incredible books of the New Testament. What Moses and the law foreshadowed, Christ fulfilled, and the story of that fulfillment and the future of the bride is a story so compelling it is the best selling book of all time.
Now, take a moment and consider your own attitude towards the Word of God. Do you see it as holy, and just, and good? Can you say with all your heart, “Oh, how I love thy law! It is my meditation all the day”?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Working Faith
February 9
Read:Acts 9:10-19
A very interesting accompaniment to Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus is the story of Ananias. The Bible doesn’t tell us much about Ananias, simply that he was a disciple at Damascus. But we can surmise a great deal about him from the rest of the story.
Ananias must have been a man on speaking terms with God. He must have been a man of prayer, because when the Lord spoke to Him in a vision, there was no confusion on Ananias’ part about who was talking. The Lord said, “Ananias” and Ananias answered simply, “Behold, I am here, Lord.”
Second, Ananias must have been a man of considerable faith. Directed by God to go and lay hands on Saul of Tarsus, he immediately recognized the name. “Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem.” Ananias knew Saul of Tarsus was a dangerous man, especially to Christians. He voiced his concerns in verses 13 and 14. He certainly had a right to feel as he did. Yet, when the Lord said to him in verse 15, “Go thy way”, that ended the debate. Verse 17 says simply that “Ananias went his way, and did as the Lord had asked.
As nearly as I can tell, Bro. Ananias of Damascus is never mentioned again in Scripture. He rose out of anonymity to do a specific task for God, then withdrew himself backstage. Truly a disciple, he was quick to answer the Lord’s call and willing to do what He asked, even at the hazard of his own life.
Could we pray that God would give us today some of the qualities that Ananias possessed? We certainly could do with a closer relationship with the Father, one in which we have no trouble discerning his voice. Also, God grant us the faith to do His will, no matter what we may think about the pitfalls.
May we all grow a little as a result of our encounter with Ananias of Damascus.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read:Acts 9:10-19
A very interesting accompaniment to Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus is the story of Ananias. The Bible doesn’t tell us much about Ananias, simply that he was a disciple at Damascus. But we can surmise a great deal about him from the rest of the story.
Ananias must have been a man on speaking terms with God. He must have been a man of prayer, because when the Lord spoke to Him in a vision, there was no confusion on Ananias’ part about who was talking. The Lord said, “Ananias” and Ananias answered simply, “Behold, I am here, Lord.”
Second, Ananias must have been a man of considerable faith. Directed by God to go and lay hands on Saul of Tarsus, he immediately recognized the name. “Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem.” Ananias knew Saul of Tarsus was a dangerous man, especially to Christians. He voiced his concerns in verses 13 and 14. He certainly had a right to feel as he did. Yet, when the Lord said to him in verse 15, “Go thy way”, that ended the debate. Verse 17 says simply that “Ananias went his way, and did as the Lord had asked.
As nearly as I can tell, Bro. Ananias of Damascus is never mentioned again in Scripture. He rose out of anonymity to do a specific task for God, then withdrew himself backstage. Truly a disciple, he was quick to answer the Lord’s call and willing to do what He asked, even at the hazard of his own life.
Could we pray that God would give us today some of the qualities that Ananias possessed? We certainly could do with a closer relationship with the Father, one in which we have no trouble discerning his voice. Also, God grant us the faith to do His will, no matter what we may think about the pitfalls.
May we all grow a little as a result of our encounter with Ananias of Damascus.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Church Growth Part II
February 8
Read: Acts 6:1-7
Recently I have done a great deal of studying on discipleship. It seems to be a hot topic currently, and there are many, many books out on how we should do it. As they all claim a biblical foundation, let’s cut out the middle man and see what we might glean from the Bible directly concerning this idea of discipleship.
In Acts 6, we see seven men chosen by the congregation for special work. Often, study Bibles will call these men the first deacons. The church had a ministry that was not getting sufficient attention. Concerned church members brought the problem to the apostles. The apostles called the church body together and explained that they did not have the time to personally oversee this business, as it would distract them from their primary duties of Bible study and prayer. So they empowered the congregation to select men who could do the work for them. In Acts 6:3, they gave specific qualifications for the position. They must be men, of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom. Isn’t it fascinating that they didn’t look for successful businessmen, or wealthy merchants, or proven managers? You know, the church may have considered these things in their decision making. The Bible doesn’t tell us one way or another. But first and foremost were the spiritual qualifications.
Rather than call these men the first deacons, I prefer to think of them as simply mature disciples of the Jerusalem church. They had obviously been in the church for some time, as it takes longer than a few weeks to recognize the stated qualifications. These men clearly stood out amongst the congregation as men who serious about their service for God and mature in their faith. In the chapters that follow, we see that at least two of them men, Stephen and Philip, were fervent witnesses for the Lord. George Barna (Growing True Disciples, Waterbrook Press, 2001) defined a disciple as a “person committed to becoming and to reproducing spiritually mature zealots for Christ.” Certainly this group embodied that definition to the utmost degree.
As followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, we too are called to be disciples. If we asked the church about you, would you be described as a man “of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, an evangelist?” And if not, then what are you doing to change that? The most important part of Barna’s definition is in the first few words, “a disciple is a person committed to becoming...”. What you are now is not as important as what you are committed to becoming. Please, Lord, make us all like those men in Acts 6, sold out disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Oh, and by the way, there was an additional significant consequence of these six disciples’ service. Look closely at Acts 6:7. After these disciples assumed ministry responsibilities, “the Word of God increased; and the number of disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.” Who’d a thunk it?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Acts 6:1-7
Recently I have done a great deal of studying on discipleship. It seems to be a hot topic currently, and there are many, many books out on how we should do it. As they all claim a biblical foundation, let’s cut out the middle man and see what we might glean from the Bible directly concerning this idea of discipleship.
In Acts 6, we see seven men chosen by the congregation for special work. Often, study Bibles will call these men the first deacons. The church had a ministry that was not getting sufficient attention. Concerned church members brought the problem to the apostles. The apostles called the church body together and explained that they did not have the time to personally oversee this business, as it would distract them from their primary duties of Bible study and prayer. So they empowered the congregation to select men who could do the work for them. In Acts 6:3, they gave specific qualifications for the position. They must be men, of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom. Isn’t it fascinating that they didn’t look for successful businessmen, or wealthy merchants, or proven managers? You know, the church may have considered these things in their decision making. The Bible doesn’t tell us one way or another. But first and foremost were the spiritual qualifications.
Rather than call these men the first deacons, I prefer to think of them as simply mature disciples of the Jerusalem church. They had obviously been in the church for some time, as it takes longer than a few weeks to recognize the stated qualifications. These men clearly stood out amongst the congregation as men who serious about their service for God and mature in their faith. In the chapters that follow, we see that at least two of them men, Stephen and Philip, were fervent witnesses for the Lord. George Barna (Growing True Disciples, Waterbrook Press, 2001) defined a disciple as a “person committed to becoming and to reproducing spiritually mature zealots for Christ.” Certainly this group embodied that definition to the utmost degree.
As followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, we too are called to be disciples. If we asked the church about you, would you be described as a man “of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, an evangelist?” And if not, then what are you doing to change that? The most important part of Barna’s definition is in the first few words, “a disciple is a person committed to becoming...”. What you are now is not as important as what you are committed to becoming. Please, Lord, make us all like those men in Acts 6, sold out disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Oh, and by the way, there was an additional significant consequence of these six disciples’ service. Look closely at Acts 6:7. After these disciples assumed ministry responsibilities, “the Word of God increased; and the number of disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.” Who’d a thunk it?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Church Growth
February 7
Read: Acts 2:32-47
In Acts 2:32-47, the Lord has chosen to give us a glimpse of the very first church. On the Day of Pentecost, the Spirit descended upon them in mass. Peter preached, and about 3000 people got saved, were baptized and added to the church. Talk about church growth! From 120 disciples praying together in the upper room (Acts 1:15) to a local assembly of more than 3000 members in one day! Don’t you know that was an exciting time to be in Jerusalem?
Besides the phenomenal growth, the other thing that should interest us is the activity of the First Baptized Assembly at Jerusalem. In verse 42, the Bible says: “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine (teaching) and fellowship, and in breaking of bread and in prayers.” This church majored on doctrine, fellowship, and prayer. In verse 43 we see a spirit of reverence and of power. In verses 44 and 45, we see how they proved their love one to another. Verse 46 testifies to their unity and their thankfulness (notice they met together every day). Finally, verse 47 says they had an attitude of praise.
To borrow a phrase from the sports announcers, let’s do a quick recap of that. The First Baptized Assembly at Jerusalem was notable for their doctrine, fellowship, prayer, reverence, power, love, unity, thankfulness and worship. Is it any wonder that “the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved?”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: Acts 2:32-47
In Acts 2:32-47, the Lord has chosen to give us a glimpse of the very first church. On the Day of Pentecost, the Spirit descended upon them in mass. Peter preached, and about 3000 people got saved, were baptized and added to the church. Talk about church growth! From 120 disciples praying together in the upper room (Acts 1:15) to a local assembly of more than 3000 members in one day! Don’t you know that was an exciting time to be in Jerusalem?
Besides the phenomenal growth, the other thing that should interest us is the activity of the First Baptized Assembly at Jerusalem. In verse 42, the Bible says: “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine (teaching) and fellowship, and in breaking of bread and in prayers.” This church majored on doctrine, fellowship, and prayer. In verse 43 we see a spirit of reverence and of power. In verses 44 and 45, we see how they proved their love one to another. Verse 46 testifies to their unity and their thankfulness (notice they met together every day). Finally, verse 47 says they had an attitude of praise.
To borrow a phrase from the sports announcers, let’s do a quick recap of that. The First Baptized Assembly at Jerusalem was notable for their doctrine, fellowship, prayer, reverence, power, love, unity, thankfulness and worship. Is it any wonder that “the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved?”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
He must increase...
February 6
Read: John 20:30-31; John 21:20-25
Most Bible scholars put the writing of John’s Gospel at about 90 AD. Placing Jesus’ death on the cross at about 33 AD, and John as the son of Zebedee and a member of Jesus’ original twelve disciples, that makes John a pretty old man by the time the book was written. Beginning life as the son of a fisherman, John was called by Jesus at a relatively young age and discipled three years by the Lord Himself. For approximately sixty years he served the Lord and His church in various capacities, and tradition places him in the city of Ephesus at the time the Gospel was penned. There, the Holy Spirit inspired John to record the life of his Lord, and the aged apostle was used by God to give us one of the most moving and personal accounts in the whole Bible.
It’s clear when we study John’s life that God used an amazing man to record an amazing story. Labled the “Sons of Thunder” by Jesus, John and his brother began their walk with the Lord as anything but the apostles of love. They thundered, they threatened, and they connived, even enlisting their mother in their attempts to gain the highest place. They, with Peter, were privileged to be Jesus’ inner circle. And like Peter, to the mortal eye it looks as though they were born to failure. But God can see where we can’t. And gradually, patiently, marvelously, the “Son of Thunder” became the “Apostle of Love.”
It is in the gospel of John that we see the distance the apostle had traversed. First, from seeking the top spot he had progressed to the point where he would not even include his own name in the book that he wrote. Whenever you see the name John in the Gospel of John, it is a reference to John the Baptist. If the Holy Spirit in divine inspiration forced him to speak of himself, he identified himself simply as the disciple whom Jesus loved. John was very quick to dispel any rumors of his own superiority, making sure that Jesus was accurately quoted, and that he, John, was not exalted. For a signature, he very simply described himself as a witness giving a testimony. And his last words in the gospel concern the things that Jesus did that were not recorded. The aged apostle had come to the point that every wise disciple will someday reach, that it is not about him, but about Jesus. To borrow a phrase, “He must increase, and I must decrease.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: John 20:30-31; John 21:20-25
Most Bible scholars put the writing of John’s Gospel at about 90 AD. Placing Jesus’ death on the cross at about 33 AD, and John as the son of Zebedee and a member of Jesus’ original twelve disciples, that makes John a pretty old man by the time the book was written. Beginning life as the son of a fisherman, John was called by Jesus at a relatively young age and discipled three years by the Lord Himself. For approximately sixty years he served the Lord and His church in various capacities, and tradition places him in the city of Ephesus at the time the Gospel was penned. There, the Holy Spirit inspired John to record the life of his Lord, and the aged apostle was used by God to give us one of the most moving and personal accounts in the whole Bible.
It’s clear when we study John’s life that God used an amazing man to record an amazing story. Labled the “Sons of Thunder” by Jesus, John and his brother began their walk with the Lord as anything but the apostles of love. They thundered, they threatened, and they connived, even enlisting their mother in their attempts to gain the highest place. They, with Peter, were privileged to be Jesus’ inner circle. And like Peter, to the mortal eye it looks as though they were born to failure. But God can see where we can’t. And gradually, patiently, marvelously, the “Son of Thunder” became the “Apostle of Love.”
It is in the gospel of John that we see the distance the apostle had traversed. First, from seeking the top spot he had progressed to the point where he would not even include his own name in the book that he wrote. Whenever you see the name John in the Gospel of John, it is a reference to John the Baptist. If the Holy Spirit in divine inspiration forced him to speak of himself, he identified himself simply as the disciple whom Jesus loved. John was very quick to dispel any rumors of his own superiority, making sure that Jesus was accurately quoted, and that he, John, was not exalted. For a signature, he very simply described himself as a witness giving a testimony. And his last words in the gospel concern the things that Jesus did that were not recorded. The aged apostle had come to the point that every wise disciple will someday reach, that it is not about him, but about Jesus. To borrow a phrase, “He must increase, and I must decrease.”
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Wow and Double Wow!
February 5
Read: John 17:1-26
It is always instructive to read the prayers of Jesus. The when, what and how of Jesus’ personal communications with the Father provide wonderful insights into the purpose and mechanics of prayer. Jesus’ prayer in John 17, though, should be special to every believer, as it is the one identifiable point in Scripture where Jesus prayed for each of us personally.
In John 17:20, Jesus says, “Neither pray I for these (the disciples) alone, but for them which shall believe on me through their word:” When Jesus said, “them which shall believe on me through their word” He meant me and you! We are each and every one of us begotten of the Word of God passed through the disciples. They told someone, who told someone, who told someone, who, two thousand years and only God knows how many generations later, told me. When Jesus prayed that prayer, He prayed for me! So, realizing that this is the Son of God doing the praying, and that it’s highly unlikely that His prayer will not be answered, what did He ask for?
First, He prayed that we might be one with Him and the Father. He prayed that we might enjoy the same relationship that He enjoyed with His Father. Imagine having the same understanding and empathy with God the Father that Jesus had. And Jesus prayed for it!
Second, He prayed that we would ultimately be with Him, and that we might see His glory. Jesus asked the Father that we be permitted to be with Him where He was, and that we might behold Him in the glory He had before the universe was created.
Now, seriously, do you think those prayers are not going to be answered? What an incredible eternity we have in front of us. We will one day be with Him, beholding His glory, and sharing the same relationship with the heavenly Father that Jesus himself has. Wow and double wow! Or as Paul says, Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: John 17:1-26
It is always instructive to read the prayers of Jesus. The when, what and how of Jesus’ personal communications with the Father provide wonderful insights into the purpose and mechanics of prayer. Jesus’ prayer in John 17, though, should be special to every believer, as it is the one identifiable point in Scripture where Jesus prayed for each of us personally.
In John 17:20, Jesus says, “Neither pray I for these (the disciples) alone, but for them which shall believe on me through their word:” When Jesus said, “them which shall believe on me through their word” He meant me and you! We are each and every one of us begotten of the Word of God passed through the disciples. They told someone, who told someone, who told someone, who, two thousand years and only God knows how many generations later, told me. When Jesus prayed that prayer, He prayed for me! So, realizing that this is the Son of God doing the praying, and that it’s highly unlikely that His prayer will not be answered, what did He ask for?
First, He prayed that we might be one with Him and the Father. He prayed that we might enjoy the same relationship that He enjoyed with His Father. Imagine having the same understanding and empathy with God the Father that Jesus had. And Jesus prayed for it!
Second, He prayed that we would ultimately be with Him, and that we might see His glory. Jesus asked the Father that we be permitted to be with Him where He was, and that we might behold Him in the glory He had before the universe was created.
Now, seriously, do you think those prayers are not going to be answered? What an incredible eternity we have in front of us. We will one day be with Him, beholding His glory, and sharing the same relationship with the heavenly Father that Jesus himself has. Wow and double wow! Or as Paul says, Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
On Holy Ground
February 3
Read: John 13:1-20
Every time I reach John 13 in my Bible reading, I always feel as though I have stepped onto holy ground. The ever burning bush of Jesus’ last night with the disciples prior to the cross always makes me want to take off my shoes, bow down, and worship. Here in the Gospel of John is the record of the last Passover, when Jesus washed the feet of the disciples and left them explicit instructions to follow His example. Here, in John 13:34-35, we receive the royal command to love one another and a description of the distinctiveness it would bring us as His disciples.
Going on, we see Judas leaving to accomplish the betrayal, then in chapter 14, the wonderful words, “Let not your heart be troubled...” Jesus proclaims the exclusivity of the gospel in John 14:6, then gives the wonderful promise of the Spirit. He leaves His peace and gives us the wonderful analogy of the vine and the branches. This section, from John 13 to John 17, is what He told the disciples at the last supper, and includes wonderful promises of prayer and comfort and even the high priestly prayer of Christ, when He prayed for each of us.
Has your Bible reading ever brought you to a point where you sit hushed, savoring each word and breathing out praise with every verse? I’m afraid that too often I come to the Word as a duty rather than a temple, and I rush through my daily chapters, mostly missing the blessings my wonderful heavenly Father intended me to receive.
Today, let’s try to pray our way through the Scriptures. It really doesn’t matter where you’re reading. God’s Word has something special for you each and every day. No matter which way you look, it’s holy ground.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: John 13:1-20
Every time I reach John 13 in my Bible reading, I always feel as though I have stepped onto holy ground. The ever burning bush of Jesus’ last night with the disciples prior to the cross always makes me want to take off my shoes, bow down, and worship. Here in the Gospel of John is the record of the last Passover, when Jesus washed the feet of the disciples and left them explicit instructions to follow His example. Here, in John 13:34-35, we receive the royal command to love one another and a description of the distinctiveness it would bring us as His disciples.
Going on, we see Judas leaving to accomplish the betrayal, then in chapter 14, the wonderful words, “Let not your heart be troubled...” Jesus proclaims the exclusivity of the gospel in John 14:6, then gives the wonderful promise of the Spirit. He leaves His peace and gives us the wonderful analogy of the vine and the branches. This section, from John 13 to John 17, is what He told the disciples at the last supper, and includes wonderful promises of prayer and comfort and even the high priestly prayer of Christ, when He prayed for each of us.
Has your Bible reading ever brought you to a point where you sit hushed, savoring each word and breathing out praise with every verse? I’m afraid that too often I come to the Word as a duty rather than a temple, and I rush through my daily chapters, mostly missing the blessings my wonderful heavenly Father intended me to receive.
Today, let’s try to pray our way through the Scriptures. It really doesn’t matter where you’re reading. God’s Word has something special for you each and every day. No matter which way you look, it’s holy ground.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Is Satan Your Enemy?
February 3
Read: John 12:1-11
In this passage, the Pharisees, already intent on killing Jesus, add Lazarus to the hit list. And why were they so upset with Lazarus? John 12:11 says, “because that by reason of him (Lazarus) many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.”
Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead. A number of people had witnessed the miracle, and word had spread throughout the region. Can you imagine how many people must have asked Lazarus, “Is it true? Did Jesus really bring you back from the dead?” In every case, Lazarus must have answered with enthusiasm, “He did indeed.” Then they asked other witnesses. And no matter who they asked, the answer came back the same. This Lazarus, who was dead, is now alive. And many believed on Jesus.
Ephesians 2:1 says “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins:”. To quicken means to “make alive”. We who were dead are made alive. Just as Lazarus was raised physically, so Jesus has made us alive spiritually. And just as Lazarus’s everyday life was a testimony to the grace and power of God, so should our lives be also.
The Scribes and Pharisees saw their kingdoms crumbling, and they held both Jesus and Lazarus responsible. Does Satan hold you responsible for the crumbling of his kingdom? Is the strength of your testimony such that God can use it to rip souls from Satan and his minions? Do you have an enemy determined to destroy you?
Let’s hope so.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: John 12:1-11
In this passage, the Pharisees, already intent on killing Jesus, add Lazarus to the hit list. And why were they so upset with Lazarus? John 12:11 says, “because that by reason of him (Lazarus) many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.”
Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead. A number of people had witnessed the miracle, and word had spread throughout the region. Can you imagine how many people must have asked Lazarus, “Is it true? Did Jesus really bring you back from the dead?” In every case, Lazarus must have answered with enthusiasm, “He did indeed.” Then they asked other witnesses. And no matter who they asked, the answer came back the same. This Lazarus, who was dead, is now alive. And many believed on Jesus.
Ephesians 2:1 says “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins:”. To quicken means to “make alive”. We who were dead are made alive. Just as Lazarus was raised physically, so Jesus has made us alive spiritually. And just as Lazarus’s everyday life was a testimony to the grace and power of God, so should our lives be also.
The Scribes and Pharisees saw their kingdoms crumbling, and they held both Jesus and Lazarus responsible. Does Satan hold you responsible for the crumbling of his kingdom? Is the strength of your testimony such that God can use it to rip souls from Satan and his minions? Do you have an enemy determined to destroy you?
Let’s hope so.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
What a Testimony!
February 2
Read: John 9:1-41
John chapter 9 is the story of a man healed by Jesus and the controversy that resulted. Although subject to ridicule and slander, the man adamantly maintained that Jesus had healed him, and that Jesus was from God. In v. 25 he proclaims to the Pharisees, “Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.”
Later, in vs. 30-33, his confidence grown, the man marvels that the Pharisees cannot see the simple truth that since Jesus did things that no man has ever done, He must be from God. In v. 33, he sums it up, saying, “If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.”
Although the Pharisees rejected the testimony of the healed blind man, I tend to believe there were many others who did not. His testimony was simple and powerful. I was blind, and now I see. As simple as it is, there is power in it. So too is there power in the testimony of any life touched by Jesus. Recently, we have begun some of our services by asking one of our brothers or sisters to give his or her personal testimony. In every case, it is evident that there is great spiritual power in the testimony of a changed life. In every case, we can say with the blind man, I was blind, and now I see.
God wants to use the testimony of our changed lives to change others. We should pray for opportunities to share the work God has done in our lives with those who do not know Him. Some will reject and ridicule, but some will hear with a heart prepared to receive Him. That’s what Jesus meant when He said that we would be His witnesses.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Read: John 9:1-41
John chapter 9 is the story of a man healed by Jesus and the controversy that resulted. Although subject to ridicule and slander, the man adamantly maintained that Jesus had healed him, and that Jesus was from God. In v. 25 he proclaims to the Pharisees, “Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.”
Later, in vs. 30-33, his confidence grown, the man marvels that the Pharisees cannot see the simple truth that since Jesus did things that no man has ever done, He must be from God. In v. 33, he sums it up, saying, “If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.”
Although the Pharisees rejected the testimony of the healed blind man, I tend to believe there were many others who did not. His testimony was simple and powerful. I was blind, and now I see. As simple as it is, there is power in it. So too is there power in the testimony of any life touched by Jesus. Recently, we have begun some of our services by asking one of our brothers or sisters to give his or her personal testimony. In every case, it is evident that there is great spiritual power in the testimony of a changed life. In every case, we can say with the blind man, I was blind, and now I see.
God wants to use the testimony of our changed lives to change others. We should pray for opportunities to share the work God has done in our lives with those who do not know Him. Some will reject and ridicule, but some will hear with a heart prepared to receive Him. That’s what Jesus meant when He said that we would be His witnesses.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Right Hand, Left hand
February 1
Read: Matthew 6:1-8
When I arrived at church this evening, I noticed immediately someone had repaired a broken swing in the playground. It has been broken for about five weeks, and I intended to get to it, but it just hadn’t happened yet.
Well, apparently I was not the only one concerned, and sometime today a very kind and caring person took the initiative to buy a part and repair the chain. I praise the Lord for their diligence and their faithfulness, and I thank the Lord for caring church members. In our next service, if I remember it, I may mention it. I will say I don’t know who did the repair, but God does, and He never forgets a cold drink of water given in His name. I will not mention Matthew 6:1-8, but I’ll be thinking about it.
In this passage, the Bible talks about doing alms. Alms are good works of any kind. They almost always include giving of some sort but the subject is not limited to giving. The Word says, “...when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward.” Jesus’ teaching here is that we can do the right thing for the wrong reason. If we do what we do to be seen of and receive glory from men, we will get what we want. But...that’s all the reward we can expect. In the other hand, in verses 3 and 4, we are told: “...when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: that thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.” If no one knows who did the deed, then who gets the glory? God alone. And that’s the point. We have nothing that He did not provide, and why should we be rewarded for using God’s stuff?
It will be interesting to see if the person who did the repairs makes sure that others know it. If they do, then they will have gotten what they seek. How much better to receive our reward of our Father which seeth in secret?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Truth is Eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
Read: Matthew 6:1-8
When I arrived at church this evening, I noticed immediately someone had repaired a broken swing in the playground. It has been broken for about five weeks, and I intended to get to it, but it just hadn’t happened yet.
Well, apparently I was not the only one concerned, and sometime today a very kind and caring person took the initiative to buy a part and repair the chain. I praise the Lord for their diligence and their faithfulness, and I thank the Lord for caring church members. In our next service, if I remember it, I may mention it. I will say I don’t know who did the repair, but God does, and He never forgets a cold drink of water given in His name. I will not mention Matthew 6:1-8, but I’ll be thinking about it.
In this passage, the Bible talks about doing alms. Alms are good works of any kind. They almost always include giving of some sort but the subject is not limited to giving. The Word says, “...when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward.” Jesus’ teaching here is that we can do the right thing for the wrong reason. If we do what we do to be seen of and receive glory from men, we will get what we want. But...that’s all the reward we can expect. In the other hand, in verses 3 and 4, we are told: “...when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: that thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.” If no one knows who did the deed, then who gets the glory? God alone. And that’s the point. We have nothing that He did not provide, and why should we be rewarded for using God’s stuff?
It will be interesting to see if the person who did the repairs makes sure that others know it. If they do, then they will have gotten what they seek. How much better to receive our reward of our Father which seeth in secret?
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Truth is Eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
More Than Enough
January 31
Read: Exodus 36:1-7
“For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much.” - Exodus 36:7
Sometimes, the cultural, time, and language distances between us and the Bible are almost too far to span. As residents in an incredibly materialistic society, Biblical statements on riches and money seem to bounce off us like Styrofoam pellets off plexiglass. We read about how God’s people gave, allow any principles involved to be diluted by our cultural filters, and learn nothing. In an effort to make some of it stick, let’s dig a little deeper.
First, notice who is doing the giving. This is the nation of Israel, fresh out of Egypt, wandering from place to place with no more than they could carry on their backs or on pack animals. Yes, they had spoiled the Egyptians (Exodus 12:35-36), but they still couldn’t have had much. In spite of it, when it came time to build the tabernacle and its furnishings, God simply told Moses to ask the people to give. Exodus 25:1-8 tells what they are to give, and how they are to give. Notice also, God was only interested in the one who would give “willingly of his heart” (v. 2).
Moses repeated God’s command in Exodus 35:5, “Take ye from among you an offering unto the Lord: whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it, an offering of the Lord: gold, and silver, and brass...” In verse 21, we see the response, “And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord’s offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments.” Wow. No strident pleas, no offers of special prizes or blessings, no slick advertising campaigns, just a simple appeal to the Lord’s people. Notice there was no compulsion involved. You simply had to have a willing heart and something to give.
And the people gave. By our standards, these people had nothing. Most of us have enough clothes in our closets to cloth 100 of these people. We spend more on our pets than they ever saw in their entire lives. And still, the word of God says, “they gave.” And how they gave. In chapter 36 and verse 3 it says they gave, and they gave, and they gave, until, in verses 4 and 5, we read:
“And all the wise men, that wrought all the work of the sanctuary, came every man from his work which they made; and they spake unto Moses, saying, The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work, which the Lord commanded to make. And Moses gave commandment and they caused it to be proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the sanctuary. So the people were restrained from bringing. For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much.”
The people gave, and gave, and gave. They dug through all the saddlebags, they searched the chests and purses. They dug through the jewelry boxes, and they gave. They gave so much that the workers came to Moses and said, “Tell them to stop.”
I look forward to the day when I hear a Christian worker stand up and say to God’s people, “Stop giving, it is more than enough.”
God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply. - Hudson Taylor
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Truth is Eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
Read: Exodus 36:1-7
“For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much.” - Exodus 36:7
Sometimes, the cultural, time, and language distances between us and the Bible are almost too far to span. As residents in an incredibly materialistic society, Biblical statements on riches and money seem to bounce off us like Styrofoam pellets off plexiglass. We read about how God’s people gave, allow any principles involved to be diluted by our cultural filters, and learn nothing. In an effort to make some of it stick, let’s dig a little deeper.
First, notice who is doing the giving. This is the nation of Israel, fresh out of Egypt, wandering from place to place with no more than they could carry on their backs or on pack animals. Yes, they had spoiled the Egyptians (Exodus 12:35-36), but they still couldn’t have had much. In spite of it, when it came time to build the tabernacle and its furnishings, God simply told Moses to ask the people to give. Exodus 25:1-8 tells what they are to give, and how they are to give. Notice also, God was only interested in the one who would give “willingly of his heart” (v. 2).
Moses repeated God’s command in Exodus 35:5, “Take ye from among you an offering unto the Lord: whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it, an offering of the Lord: gold, and silver, and brass...” In verse 21, we see the response, “And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord’s offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments.” Wow. No strident pleas, no offers of special prizes or blessings, no slick advertising campaigns, just a simple appeal to the Lord’s people. Notice there was no compulsion involved. You simply had to have a willing heart and something to give.
And the people gave. By our standards, these people had nothing. Most of us have enough clothes in our closets to cloth 100 of these people. We spend more on our pets than they ever saw in their entire lives. And still, the word of God says, “they gave.” And how they gave. In chapter 36 and verse 3 it says they gave, and they gave, and they gave, until, in verses 4 and 5, we read:
“And all the wise men, that wrought all the work of the sanctuary, came every man from his work which they made; and they spake unto Moses, saying, The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work, which the Lord commanded to make. And Moses gave commandment and they caused it to be proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the sanctuary. So the people were restrained from bringing. For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much.”
The people gave, and gave, and gave. They dug through all the saddlebags, they searched the chests and purses. They dug through the jewelry boxes, and they gave. They gave so much that the workers came to Moses and said, “Tell them to stop.”
I look forward to the day when I hear a Christian worker stand up and say to God’s people, “Stop giving, it is more than enough.”
God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply. - Hudson Taylor
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Truth is Eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
Thy Word is Truth
January 30
Read: Luke 24:13-27
In my personal Bible study, I almost always take time to read from both the Old and New Testaments. I will usually read the New Testament twice for each single reading of the Old, but that is simply because of its relation to our time. We do live in the age of the church, and the New Testament is written to us specifically.
We would be wrong, though, to neglect the Old Testament. So much of the New is simply not understandable without the background of the Old. Additionally, Jesus pointed out a number of times that the primary subject of the Old Testament was Jesus Himself. In Luke 24:25-26, He was critical of the disciples for failing to recognize the connection. In verse 27, it says of Jesus that, “...beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.”
Man, how would you have liked to be present for that Bible study? Yet, even as we marvel at what it must have been like to have Jesus explaining the Old Testament, we must recognize that we have been extended the same privilege. As Christians, we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Jesus, speaking of the Spirit, said “...He will guide you into all truth (John 16:13)...” The author and interpreter of the Bible is the Holy Spirit. It is His job to teach us the Scriptures.
I have heard a number of people comment disparagingly on the Old Testament, as if it didn’t belong to us or we couldn’t understand it. At number of New Testament Scriptures testify to the falsehood of that opinion. Consider Luke 24:27 above. Then add to it John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth.” Then John 5:39 “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me.” And Romans 15:4, “...whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Every one of these is a reference to the Old Testament!
Think about it. The Old Testament testifies of Jesus, was given for our learning, and was written by the very same Holy Spirit that lives inside us. To neglect our study of the Old Testament is to neglect 3/5 of the inspired Word of God. Don’t even think about it.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Truth is eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
Read: Luke 24:13-27
In my personal Bible study, I almost always take time to read from both the Old and New Testaments. I will usually read the New Testament twice for each single reading of the Old, but that is simply because of its relation to our time. We do live in the age of the church, and the New Testament is written to us specifically.
We would be wrong, though, to neglect the Old Testament. So much of the New is simply not understandable without the background of the Old. Additionally, Jesus pointed out a number of times that the primary subject of the Old Testament was Jesus Himself. In Luke 24:25-26, He was critical of the disciples for failing to recognize the connection. In verse 27, it says of Jesus that, “...beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.”
Man, how would you have liked to be present for that Bible study? Yet, even as we marvel at what it must have been like to have Jesus explaining the Old Testament, we must recognize that we have been extended the same privilege. As Christians, we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Jesus, speaking of the Spirit, said “...He will guide you into all truth (John 16:13)...” The author and interpreter of the Bible is the Holy Spirit. It is His job to teach us the Scriptures.
I have heard a number of people comment disparagingly on the Old Testament, as if it didn’t belong to us or we couldn’t understand it. At number of New Testament Scriptures testify to the falsehood of that opinion. Consider Luke 24:27 above. Then add to it John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth.” Then John 5:39 “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me.” And Romans 15:4, “...whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Every one of these is a reference to the Old Testament!
Think about it. The Old Testament testifies of Jesus, was given for our learning, and was written by the very same Holy Spirit that lives inside us. To neglect our study of the Old Testament is to neglect 3/5 of the inspired Word of God. Don’t even think about it.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Truth is eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
Look Up!
January 29
Read: Luke 21:25-28
I’m not sure exactly how the thought process began, but recently I was struck by something that may or may not have real significance. My wife came home from the store recently and had purchased several boxes of a particular product. She explained how she had trouble finding it in the store, and that when she did find it she felt like she should buy extra. Shortly afterwards, I tried to replenish my coffee supply, only to discover that the store was out (temporarily, I hope). My immediate thought was that when it came in, I would buy several cans. And then last week, while traveling, I found a product my mother had been looking for literally for years. Of course I bought more than one.
Realizing that we are not hoarders by nature, I was struck by the similarity between these incidents and what we had experienced while on the foreign mission field. Everywhere we went, we carried a shopping list in our heads and a net bag in our pocket. One never knew when one might run across such delicacies as toilet paper and peanut butter, and it paid to be prepared. The thought crossed my mind, “Is it possible that we as a country are sliding toward third-world status?” As an untrained observer, I’m not sure any conclusions I might draw about the matter will hold water, but the idea makes me a little uneasy, and puts me on guard watching for other signs.
In Luke 21, Jesus instructed the disciples concerning some signs they should be watching for. He lists a number of things that will occur prior to His return, and then He warns them to be watching. “When these things begin to come to pass,” He says, “then look up, and lift your heads, for your redemption draweth nigh.”
Brothers and sisters, Jesus is coming again. The world situation and the biblical signs are so aligned as to convince most of us that it could happen at any moment. The Bible pronounces a special blessing on those who are watching and waiting when He does come (Luke 12:35-38). Similar to the situation in the grocery store, what we see about us is no guarantee that what we are expecting will occur. But it certainly should have us on guard.
Listening for the shout.
Bro. Tom
Truth is Eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
Read: Luke 21:25-28
I’m not sure exactly how the thought process began, but recently I was struck by something that may or may not have real significance. My wife came home from the store recently and had purchased several boxes of a particular product. She explained how she had trouble finding it in the store, and that when she did find it she felt like she should buy extra. Shortly afterwards, I tried to replenish my coffee supply, only to discover that the store was out (temporarily, I hope). My immediate thought was that when it came in, I would buy several cans. And then last week, while traveling, I found a product my mother had been looking for literally for years. Of course I bought more than one.
Realizing that we are not hoarders by nature, I was struck by the similarity between these incidents and what we had experienced while on the foreign mission field. Everywhere we went, we carried a shopping list in our heads and a net bag in our pocket. One never knew when one might run across such delicacies as toilet paper and peanut butter, and it paid to be prepared. The thought crossed my mind, “Is it possible that we as a country are sliding toward third-world status?” As an untrained observer, I’m not sure any conclusions I might draw about the matter will hold water, but the idea makes me a little uneasy, and puts me on guard watching for other signs.
In Luke 21, Jesus instructed the disciples concerning some signs they should be watching for. He lists a number of things that will occur prior to His return, and then He warns them to be watching. “When these things begin to come to pass,” He says, “then look up, and lift your heads, for your redemption draweth nigh.”
Brothers and sisters, Jesus is coming again. The world situation and the biblical signs are so aligned as to convince most of us that it could happen at any moment. The Bible pronounces a special blessing on those who are watching and waiting when He does come (Luke 12:35-38). Similar to the situation in the grocery store, what we see about us is no guarantee that what we are expecting will occur. But it certainly should have us on guard.
Listening for the shout.
Bro. Tom
Truth is Eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
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