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
Showing posts with label ministry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ministry. Show all posts
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
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
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
Where am I?
January 28
Read: Luke 17:11-19
In the book “The Disciple-Making Pastor”, Bill Hull makes a sad statement. On page 222, he writes:
While 50% of the congregation never leaves the come-and-see phase, the happy focus is that the other half will. The psychopathology of not moving from “come and see” I will leave to the analytical.
This is not to say that he advocates abandoning the 50% of the congregation that will not move down the road to discipleship. Earlier, he states very clearly that they are God’s children and part of our ministry. The sadness is that, unfortunately, there is a relatively large number of professed Christians who will never get beyond the Sunday morning church stage.
The story in Luke 17 gives us a similar picture. Jesus, encountering ten lepers standing outside of a village, was moved by their cries to heal them of the dread disease. The Bible says Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priests. As they went, they were cleansed. Imagine the joy and excitement among the group as they realized that each of them was being freed from their awful condition. One of them, a Samaritan, recognizing the wonderful blessing could only have come from God, begins to glorify Him with a loud voice. He turns and comes back to Jesus, throws himself at His feet and begins to thank Him. The other nine walk on.
Jesus asks the rhetorical questions, “Were not ten cleansed? But where are the nine?” Sadly, only one, and he a stranger and heathen, returned to give glory to God.
If you are a Christian today, a born-again believer, you have been healed of a disease far more serious than leprosy. God’s purpose in doing so is much bigger than simply providing an escape hatch for eternity. He wants to make you a disciple of Jesus, one who shares His mission and His character. It baffles me than anyone can be a child of God, born of the Spirit and the blood of Christ, an inheritor of eternal life and the glories of heaven, a partaker of the divine nature, and yet be unwilling to be used of God for His glory. God forbid that I should find myself among the 50% who only take.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Phil 1:6
Truth is Eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
Read: Luke 17:11-19
In the book “The Disciple-Making Pastor”, Bill Hull makes a sad statement. On page 222, he writes:
While 50% of the congregation never leaves the come-and-see phase, the happy focus is that the other half will. The psychopathology of not moving from “come and see” I will leave to the analytical.
This is not to say that he advocates abandoning the 50% of the congregation that will not move down the road to discipleship. Earlier, he states very clearly that they are God’s children and part of our ministry. The sadness is that, unfortunately, there is a relatively large number of professed Christians who will never get beyond the Sunday morning church stage.
The story in Luke 17 gives us a similar picture. Jesus, encountering ten lepers standing outside of a village, was moved by their cries to heal them of the dread disease. The Bible says Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priests. As they went, they were cleansed. Imagine the joy and excitement among the group as they realized that each of them was being freed from their awful condition. One of them, a Samaritan, recognizing the wonderful blessing could only have come from God, begins to glorify Him with a loud voice. He turns and comes back to Jesus, throws himself at His feet and begins to thank Him. The other nine walk on.
Jesus asks the rhetorical questions, “Were not ten cleansed? But where are the nine?” Sadly, only one, and he a stranger and heathen, returned to give glory to God.
If you are a Christian today, a born-again believer, you have been healed of a disease far more serious than leprosy. God’s purpose in doing so is much bigger than simply providing an escape hatch for eternity. He wants to make you a disciple of Jesus, one who shares His mission and His character. It baffles me than anyone can be a child of God, born of the Spirit and the blood of Christ, an inheritor of eternal life and the glories of heaven, a partaker of the divine nature, and yet be unwilling to be used of God for His glory. God forbid that I should find myself among the 50% who only take.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
Phil 1:6
Truth is Eternal - Balthasar Hubmaier
Sharpening Your Shovel
January 24
Text: Galatians 1:15-18
In the letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul gives some light on how he became the great missionary we see in the Scriptures. Add to this the information found in Acts 9, and we can see that Paul didn't simply come to Christ and begin his ministry. Rather, he came to Christ, began to witness for him, and in short order found himself in the Arabian desert, where he stayed for three years. During those three years, God trained Paul for his ministry to the Gentiles. In later years, Paul would refer to that time, saying in Galatians 1:11, "...the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ." The gospel that we see so clearly in Paul's letters was learned at the feet of Jesus in the Arabian wilderness.
Clearly, God was preparing Paul for his ministry. A couple of friends of ours got together one day to dig up a piece of drain line to check for obstructions. One friend, along with two of his sons, arrived on the scene, jumped out of the truck and started digging. The other man, considerably older, got out of his truck, took out his shovel and a file and began to methodically hone the edge of his shovel, making it clean and sharp. After watching the others for a while, he commented, "You boys are working hard, and you're making progress. But I'm going to accomplish more faster because I took time to sharpen my shovel." A few minutes later, satisfied with the condition of his shovel, the man began to dig. And sure enough, he dug faster with less effort, accomplishing a great deal more than the other three. After a few minutes he turned to the others and said, "This is a lesson for you. Time spent sharpening your shovel is never wasted."
An affliction commonly found among Christians is impatience. This is true no matter what the ministry. Whether the nursery, the Sunday school or the mission field, there is some shovel sharpening that will help you be more effective and efficient. Paul, when talking about his time in Arabia, recognized that God had used it for a training ground to prepare him. He spent three years sharpening his shovel.
God has a work for each of us, and He will get us to it in His time. In the meantime, always remember that time spent sharpening your shovel is never wasted.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
"It is not the will to win that's important, but rather the will to prepare to win." - Bobby Knight
Text: Galatians 1:15-18
In the letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul gives some light on how he became the great missionary we see in the Scriptures. Add to this the information found in Acts 9, and we can see that Paul didn't simply come to Christ and begin his ministry. Rather, he came to Christ, began to witness for him, and in short order found himself in the Arabian desert, where he stayed for three years. During those three years, God trained Paul for his ministry to the Gentiles. In later years, Paul would refer to that time, saying in Galatians 1:11, "...the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ." The gospel that we see so clearly in Paul's letters was learned at the feet of Jesus in the Arabian wilderness.
Clearly, God was preparing Paul for his ministry. A couple of friends of ours got together one day to dig up a piece of drain line to check for obstructions. One friend, along with two of his sons, arrived on the scene, jumped out of the truck and started digging. The other man, considerably older, got out of his truck, took out his shovel and a file and began to methodically hone the edge of his shovel, making it clean and sharp. After watching the others for a while, he commented, "You boys are working hard, and you're making progress. But I'm going to accomplish more faster because I took time to sharpen my shovel." A few minutes later, satisfied with the condition of his shovel, the man began to dig. And sure enough, he dug faster with less effort, accomplishing a great deal more than the other three. After a few minutes he turned to the others and said, "This is a lesson for you. Time spent sharpening your shovel is never wasted."
An affliction commonly found among Christians is impatience. This is true no matter what the ministry. Whether the nursery, the Sunday school or the mission field, there is some shovel sharpening that will help you be more effective and efficient. Paul, when talking about his time in Arabia, recognized that God had used it for a training ground to prepare him. He spent three years sharpening his shovel.
God has a work for each of us, and He will get us to it in His time. In the meantime, always remember that time spent sharpening your shovel is never wasted.
Just a servant,
Bro. Tom
"It is not the will to win that's important, but rather the will to prepare to win." - Bobby Knight
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