January 15, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 11

What does it say?
Jesus answered John the Baptist’s question concerning His identity. He commended John, pronounced judgment on the unrepentant, and invited all to come to Him.

What does it mean?
John the Baptist was put in prison for doing what God called him to do. His honest question concerning Jesus’ identity was answered by Jesus’ works, which Isaiah prophesied to be works of the Messiah (Isaiah 35:5-6; 61:1). Jesus commended John as the messenger foretold by Isaiah. Both John and Jesus proclaimed God’s message, yet the majority of that generation were not responsive and would be held accountable in relation to the truth revealed to them. Still, Jesus invited all who would recognize Him as Messiah to come in childlike faith and find rest from sin’s penalty and life’s burdens.

How should I respond?
Life doesn’t always go as you think it should, even when you’re doing exactly what God has directed you to do. Circumstances do not define you. Your identity is found in your relationship to Jesus and your choice to fulfill God’s plan. Have you come to Christ in childlike faith and repentance for salvation? Jesus will answer your questions. He is your closest friend. What situation burdens you? Bring it to Jesus. The majority may reject Christ, but He invites you to find ease, relief, and rest for your soul in Him.

/by

January 14, 2020

,

Read – Genesis 15

What does it say?
God understood when Abram expressed disappointment that he remained childless. The Lord again restated His will and covenant. He also foretold what the years would bring to the future nation.

What does it mean?
Abram and Sarai were distressed about their childless state. God reminded Abram that He was all he needed, but Abram’s response showed his discouragement that the promise of a child from God had not been fulfilled. As Abram poured out his distress, God re-affirmed His covenant, showing His constant care for Abram’s concerns and needs. God caused Abram to fall into a deep sleep, during which he had a vision of the future nation that would come from his offspring. God will fulfill His promise in His time.

How should I respond?
What are you currently waiting on God for? Has it been so long that it seems God has forgotten you? It is easy to think He has answered, ‘No’ when He may be saying, ‘Wait.’ During those times, being patient for God’s answer increases your faith. Like Abram, tell God exactly how you feel. He cares for you enormously and wants to meet your needs in His way and in His time. A deeper knowledge of His Word will always encourage you. Make a list of the verses that admonish you to ‘wait on the Lord’ and memorize them. He never changes, and His promises are true and constant. Continue to trust that God is working out His timeline in your circumstances. He will never fail you.

/by

January 14, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 10

What does it say?
Jesus sent His disciples to preach, heal, and deliver. He prepared them with a warning of persecution and gave assurance of God’s sovereign care and the Holy Spirit’s help.

What does it mean?
As Jesus sent His disciples out, He prepared them for their immediate mission and their lifework after His ascension. Jesus called His followers to put aside their own agenda, identify with Him, and meet the needs of others. Serving Him wholeheartedly meant facing persecution because those who rejected Jesus would reject His followers. Even their strongest ties had to take second place to Jesus. These men would see many come to faith in Christ as God accomplished His plan. The cost of discipleship was great, but the joy of living for God’s purpose led to a triumphant life and God’s reward.

How should I respond?
Christ calls you to give your life to Him and hold all other relationships loosely. Open confession of Christ with a commitment to serve Him may lead to misunderstanding, rejection, and even persecution. Is your commitment to Christ selfless and fearless, or are there situations where you’re intimidated and silent concerning your faith? Fear is banished by confidence in God’s continual presence, and the pain of rejection is abated by your awareness of pleasing Him. Living for Christ requires selflessness and courage, but results in fulfillment and reward. How will you further God’s purpose today?

/by

January 13, 2020

,

Read – Genesis 14

What does it say?
When Sodom was attacked, Abram left immediately to free Lot and the captives.

What does it mean?
Lot had moved from living “toward” the sinful city of Sodom to living in it as a resident. When Sodom came under attack, he and his neighbors were taken prisoner in battle. Abram gathered his servants and allies and successfully rescued all the captives. The king of Sodom desired to reward Abram, who declined the overture, desiring that only God get credit for his wealth. He wanted nothing to do with anything from that wicked city. Instead of accepting riches, Abram paid homage to Melchizedek, introduced in this chapter as a priest of the Most High God.

How should I respond?
Like Lot, it’s impossible for a believer to live close to “the world” without eventually suffering for it. Who in your family or circle of friends is in some type of captivity due to a sinful habit or lifestyle? Are you willing to come to their aid? Ask God for the wisdom and strength to face the challenge. What about you? What temptations inch you closer and closer to thoughts and actions that displease the Lord? It’s impossible to tip-toe around the edge of sin without eventually falling in. Like Abram, keeping the proper distance will give you the proper perspective.

/by

January 13, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 9

What does it say?
Jesus forgave sin, healed and delivered as He interacted with men, women and children. He called Matthew to be a disciple and had dinner with outcasts.

What does it mean?
Throughout this chapter, people put faith in Jesus to meet their needs and the needs of loved ones. One group was so motivated by their conviction that Jesus had power to heal that they went to great effort to get their friend to Him. While raising the ruler’s dead daughter to life and healing the demon-possessed man caused more spectacle, the woman who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment received healing quietly. The friends, the ruler, and the woman came to Jesus convinced that He could and would help them. He responded to each situation in compassion. They looked to Jesus in complete trust and dependence and were not disappointed.

How should I respond?
Faith in Jesus expressed through prayer and worship releases God’s power. Prayer is a wonderful mystery. God is not dependent on our prayers, yet He invites us to pray in faith with expectation that He will act on our behalf. He always answers either yes, no, or wait. What personal situation should you bring to Jesus? Who has God reminded you to pray for? Will you call them today and pray with them, taking them into Jesus’ presence? Each need, whether it seems big or small, will be met with compassion.

/by

January 12, 2020

,

Read – Genesis 13

What does it say?
Abram began the journey back to Bethel as soon as the famine ended. Recurring strife between the herdsmen of Abram and Lot made a parting of ways necessary.

What does it mean?
Abram had grown very rich in Egypt, and now the large herds of Abram and Lot were too much for that area of Canaan. Abram generously and unselfishly gave his younger kinsman first choice of the land, showing his desire for restoring the strained relationship. Lot saw the fertile area around Sodom and selected what seemed the best soil without taking into account the wickedness of the people. Abram continued traveling to Hebron, again building an altar of worship where God re-affirmed His covenant.

How should I respond?
Often, loving your neighbor and family requires sacrifice. In fact, we’re often more generous with acquaintances than with the people we live with! With whom in your family do you have a strained relationship? What opportunity will you have this week to put their needs before your own? When you do, you are fulfilling the second most important commandment in Scripture (Matthew 22:37-40). Will you, like Abram, trust God enough to give up what seems to be “the best”? Keeping the peace may require some sacrifice on your part, but your actions will honor God before your entire family.

/by

January 12, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 8

What does it say?
Jesus healed the sick, calmed the storm, and delivered two demon-possessed men. He warned followers that discipleship is costly.

What does it mean?
Jesus demonstrated authority over sickness, nature, and supernatural beings – authenticating that He is the Messiah promised by the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 53:4). As Jesus revealed His power, He also showed compassion for suffering people, touching them with healing and deliverance. He proved Himself more powerful than the crises of life. Jesus’ love and power can overcome fear of illness, natural calamities, and even supernatural forces.

How should I respond?
Jesus cares for you and has power to help you overcome in any challenging situation you may face. That is life-altering truth. In great love He empathizes with your need. In great authority He stoops to touch you with His power to deliver or be your companion through any disease or danger. What situation has shaken your security? Will you look to Jesus and trust Him with your greatest personal need? You never have reason to doubt God’s care. Jesus has power to change your circumstances if that is best. He also has power to enable you to overcome in your circumstances. Invite Him into your need today.

/by

January 11, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 7

What does it say?
Jesus gave instruction not to judge, but to discern and pray. He spoke of two gates, two trees, and two foundations as He challenged all who heard Him to choose wisely.

What does it mean?
The Sermon on the Mount encouraged the development of discernment and right thinking. While the Law demanded external acts that could lead to a superior or critical attitude, Jesus offered a relationship with Himself and internal renewal by the Holy Spirit leading to wisdom, fruitfulness, and stability. There are different paths to take, different kinds of fruit to bear, and different foundations one can lay, but Christ promised discernment to all who ask for His guidance. The teachings of Jesus are the basis for a successful and meaningful life through wise decision-making and behavior.

How should I respond?
The topics in the Sermon on the Mount are timeless (Matt. 5-7); however, they directly contradict most of the messages in current entertainment and social media. Where does your thinking conflict with Jesus’ teaching? Who is the final authority in your decisions – self, common sense, or Scripture? Ask God to help you grasp what Jesus taught and begin the process of adjusting your thoughts, decisions, and behavior to please Him. You’ll develop greater wisdom and discernment by recognizing and receiving Jesus’ words as the foundation for your life.

/by

January 10, 2022

,

Read – Psalm 6

What does it say?
After weeping all night, David asked God to mercifully deliver his anguished body and soul. God heard David’s cries for help.

What does it mean?
The first penitential psalm shows the agony involved when the full weight of sin is realized through the conviction of the Holy Spirit. The particular sin isn’t named in this undated psalm, but it’s generally thought to be the murder of Uriah after David committed adultery with Bathsheba. David’s words suggest that God allowed him to suffer from a severe illness before he repented. At the same time, enemies were trying to kill him. The physical and mental agony was so intense that David wept all night long – so much that he couldn’t see clearly. He longed to worship God with a clear conscience and restore the intimacy in their relationship. God’s mercy was David’s only assurance that God would answer his prayers and inflict the same kind of conviction on his foes.

How should I respond?
Too often we fail to realize the full weight of our sin. It may feel more like a pinprick than a gaping wound in our spirit. We’re more apt to shed tears over the consequences of sin than its effect on our moment-by-moment fellowship with Christ. Perhaps we seldom feel the agony described in this Psalm because we lack deep intimacy with the Lord to start with. What current sin in your life grieves the heart of God? Don’t trivialize it; turn and face it head on. Allow the convicting power of the Holy Spirit to mercifully be your road back to an abiding relationship with Christ. Will you use Psalm 6 as your personal prayer today?

/by

Start Now: The Power of Prayer and Worship

2022-01-09

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Last week we talked about the power of God’s Word. This is the starting point of the mission of this church. Our mission statement: To Change Our World by Developing Christ Followers who Love God and Love People.

 

We are able to accomplish this mission through six values that undergird everything we do:

  1. A Commitment to Scripture
  2. A Culture of Prayer
  3. A Lifestyle of Worship
  4. Connected in Community
  5. A Heart for Serving
  6. A Passion for Sharing

 

Hebrews 4:14-16 (CSB) Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens—Jesus the Son of God—let us hold fast to our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.

 

1. He has invited us in

Vs 14a Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens—Jesus the Son of God

  • Jesus has stepped into the mediating role between us and God
  • This role provides protection, provision, propitiation

2. He welcomes us as we are

Vs 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin.

  • The high priest of the Old Testament was chosen from among men so could identify with those he represented
  • Jesus allowed Himself to experience all of the temptations and challenges we face
  • Hebrews 5 gives us a picture of this responsibility of a high priest
    Hebrews 5:2 He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he is also clothed with weakness

3. Take advantage of the invitation

Vs 16 Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need

Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.

  • In this verse, we have a description of two elements of our six core values as a church:
  1. Culture of prayer
    1. “let us approach” – we are specifically called to call to Him
  2. Lifestyle of worship
    1. “approach the throne” – this is a clear representation of the awesomeness and holiness of God
  • Thus, we have a call to live in worship

4. Honor Him as a result

Col. 3:22-23 (CSB) Don’t work only while being watched, as people-pleasers, but work wholeheartedly, fearing the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people.

  • Everything we do is an opportunity to honor Him, serve Him, serve others
  • So how can we put this into practice daily:
    • Seek Him daily for our own needs and failings
    • Seek Him daily for opportunities to impact others
    • Answer the call to be used no matter what
    • Give Him the glory for every win
/by

January 9, 2022

,

Read – Psalm 5

What does it say?
David took refuge in the Lord, expecting Him to answer his prayers.

What does it mean?
When David wrote this Psalm, he was hiding from Saul, who thought David wanted his throne. Every morning David asked for God’s help, stayed focused on God’s character, and anticipated God’s deliverance. He learned things about God through hardship that he never would have learned any other way. David’s acceptance of God’s sovereignty and timing became a natural part of his life. This period increased his knowledge of and dependence on God, molding him into the man who became Israel’s greatest and most beloved king.

How should I respond?
God already knows every difficulty you’re facing. Even so, it’s important to take each situation to Him in prayer because it builds your faith and increases your dependence on Him. You may have to resist the urge to take matters into your own hands while you wait, but manipulation has no place in the life of a believer. Choose instead to trust the character of the One in whom you have placed your faith. God will bless, protect, and show favor to His children, even though that doesn’t always look the way we expect it to look. Like David, the Lord may be using this period of waiting to do something in your heart and character that couldn’t happen any other way.

/by

January 8, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 6

What does it say?
Jesus taught His listeners to pray and do good works privately, avoiding public exhibitions. He instructed them to seek God first and trust Him to meet every need.

What does it mean?
Jesus reminded His audience to check their motives, adjust their priorities, and trust God. His followers should adjust their priorities to honor God rather than seek praise through self-promotion. It’s human nature to try to impress other people by publicly displaying good deeds, but even good things are hypocritical when done from wrong motives. Believers should value what endures for eternity. God sees all that is done, is aware of every need, and is trustworthy to reward those who live to honor Him. A believer’s priority is to please God rather than to be seen and praised by others.

How should I respond?
What are you doing in order to make yourself look good to others? It’s exhausting and frustrating when your purpose is to fulfill the expectations of friends and family or to impress other Christians. The practice of your faith is between you and God primarily, not you and others. You honor God when you live before Him, an audience of one, and do works that further the cause of Christ privately, when possible. Trusting and honoring God takes precedence over promoting yourself. What will you do today to honor God? He will give you lasting treasure when your first goal is His glory.

/by

January 7, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 5

What does it say?
Jesus taught the Beatitudes in His Sermon on the Mount and explained how to truly fulfill the Law of God.

What does it mean?
Jesus revealed a new standard for thinking and behavior in every area of life. His teachings explained that being a part of His kingdom meant doing more than keeping religious traditions and outwardly fulfilling the Law. No one who heard the Sermon on the Mount was capable of living up to His teaching without a heart transformed by His righteousness. He explained that godly character would produce happiness and personal joy when faced with hardship, misunderstanding, or persecution. Life lived this way would not be easy, but it would be blessed as well as influential.

How should I respond?
Living for Christ means going beyond keeping up an appearance. His teachings expose wrong motives and thoughts. In which area do you need to respond to Jesus’ teaching: influence, conflict, purity, marriage, forgiveness, love? As you consider relationships with family members, work associates, and friends, you may recognize a specific attitude or behavioral change you need to make. Ask the Lord to give you thinking and desires that align with His teachings. As you replace old self-centered thoughts with godly attitudes, He can then bless you with true joy and lasting happiness.

/by

January 6, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 4

What does it say?
The Holy Spirit led Jesus into the desert where Satan tempted Him. Jesus began to preach, call followers, and heal all kinds of sickness.

What does it mean?
Satan came to Jesus while He was alone with suggestions that, as the Son of God, He could satisfy His physical needs, gain popularity, and obtain world power without suffering. Jesus overcame the temptation because He knew how to apply God’s Word in each situation. The victory completed His preparation for ministry. His preaching and healing ministry included works expected of the Messiah, validating Him as the Savior and causing some to leave their businesses and families to become His disciples. Jesus set the example that faithfulness in private prepares the way for fruitfulness in public.

How should I respond?
Everyone has a public image for all to see as well as a private spiritual life that only God knows. Your commitment to godly thoughts and behavior in private will likely determine the influence of your life on others. Daily private victories come through saturating your mind with God’s Word, prayer, and submitting to His will. What tempts you to take matters into your own hands? Don’t panic. Find what God has directed you to do in the Bible and trust Him. When you emerge from the struggle successfully, God will be glorified, and you will have a greater impact on others.

/by

January 5, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 3

What does it say?
John the Baptist prepared for Jesus’ coming by preaching repentance and baptizing. When John baptized Jesus, the Spirit descended, and God the Father spoke.

What does it mean?
John the Baptist courageously preached a radical message of repentance from sin. His ministry prepared God’s people for the Messiah, Jesus. Israel’s leaders thought being Jewish made them acceptable to God, but John preached that a change leading to different thinking and behavior was necessary. Only sorrow for sin can prepare hearts to receive the Savior. When Jesus came for baptism as the sinless Son of God, He identified with every repentant sinner who would be baptized with the Spirit. God the Father and God the Holy Spirit affirmed God the Son as He began His earthly mission.

How should I respond?
Calling for repentance from sin is as much a radical message today as it was in the first century. Have you repented of sin and personally received Jesus’ payment for your sin? When God convicts you of thoughts, words, or actions that are not Christ-like, do you defend yourself or agree with His assessment and confess it? Conviction of sin and repentance prepare the heart to receive Jesus as Savior. Continuing repentance enables you to maintain companionship with Him. What sin causes you sorrow? Will you make the radical choice and determine to turn from it today?

/by

January 4, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 2

What does it say?
The wise men followed the star and worshiped Jesus in Bethlehem. Joseph, Mary, and Jesus fled to Egypt but later returned to live in Nazareth.

What does it mean?
The birth of Jesus brought hope for mankind, but also ignited extreme opposition. Herod felt so threatened by the news of a prophesied king’s birth that he issued a decree to kill any child born around the time the star appeared. But not even Herod had power to stop the Lord from intervening. God honored the astronomers’ desire to find and worship the Messiah they read about in Scripture. God’s warnings then led Joseph and Mary, as well as the wise men, to change their plans, protecting each of them. The Savior’s life was preserved as a result of God’s guidance and their obedience.

How should I respond?
You might think it would be easier to follow the Lord if He sent an angel to tell you exactly what to do in a difficult situation. Well, God still guides and protects us through biblical warnings, commands, and principles. God will give direction as you search the Bible for wisdom and truth in similar situations. Will you make the Word of God your primary resource for decision-making? Listen for repeated impressions from the Spirit; then respond quickly when God intervenes with guidance. God desires to guide you into His plan for your life, but you must be willing to trust Him completely.

/by

January 3, 2022

,

Read – Psalms 3-4

What does it say?
David trusted God to be his deliverer, even though numerous enemies pursued him. He looked to the Lord, who is merciful and righteous, and slept in peace.

What does it mean?
David was on the run from his treacherous son Absalom, who had not only stolen his father’s throne, but had also sought to end his life. Amidst desperate circumstances David’s heart was peaceful enough to get a good night’s sleep. How? He knew he stood on God’s side and had confidence in God’s ability to deliver him. As he lay down for the night, David prayed for relief, choosing to focus on what he knew to be true – his righteous and merciful God listens to and protects His people. A low point in the king’s life became an opportunity to experience the sustaining presence of his Lord.

How should I respond?
Worry and despair can rob you of much needed rest. When you’re in the middle of a sleepless night, you can either focus on the issue keeping you awake, or you can talk to the One who knows you and the problem inside and out. Tell God how you feel, look for reasons to express gratitude, and praise Him for aspects of His character that are especially relevant to the situation. Then release your anxiety to Him and willingly accept however He chooses to act. The peace of God is not a product of changing /by

START HERE: The Power of the Word

­2022-01-02

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Over the past year, we have walked through all 66 books of the Bible to have a baseline understanding of what God’s Word is all about. Ultimately, we discussed the theme of the Bible last week as: “Jesus is the answer for the world today, above Him there’s no other, Jesus is the way.” Over the coming weeks, we are going to talk through our response to that theme and then we will begin a ten-week study of the basic doctrines of the Christian faith. We are going to use the START book as our guide through these series’.

 

THE POWER OF THE WORD

Hebrews 4:12 For the Word of God is living and powerful…

– Inspiration – God breathed out His Word

– Inerrancy – every word is accurate and absolute

– Infallible – absolutely trustworthy, exempt from error

 

Our desires should line up with the desires of God as it relates to His Word.

 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV) All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

 

1. Read what it says

– 16a All Scripture is given by inspiration of God

 

“None of us can ever be fully pleasing to God if we are not willing to be well taught in His Word”[1] – A.W. Tozer

 

  • Reading the Word of God is the only way to discover the Will of God. If you’re trying to discover God’s Will for your life without reading God’s Word for your life, you’re wasting your time.

 

2. Learn what it means

            – 16b …and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof for correction

  • Doctrine – show us what is right
  • Reproof – show us what is wrong
  • Correction – show us how to fix it
  • We do this through personal Bible study, church attendance, group studies, etc.

 

“God did not write a book and send it by messenger to be read at a distance by unaided minds.  He spoke a Book and lives in His spoken words, constantly speaking His words and causing the power of them to persist across the years.”[2]  – A.W. Tozer

 

– Psalm 119:105  Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

– Psalm 119:11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.

 

3. Put it into practice

16c …for instruction in righteousness17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

 

  • Our lives, or more importantly, our success in life is directly dependent on how we put God’s Word into practice in our daily lives
  • If we are not actually applying His Word to life, we not only will fail, we are living in sin

 

James 4:17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

 

“It is one thing to know that the Scripture is the Sword of the Spirit, but it another thing to know how to use it effectively. God expects us to use the Sword, not merely hang it up as a decoration”[3] – Rev. Jerry Falwell

 

I Corinthians 15:3-4 (NKJV) For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.

[1] A.W. Tozer, Jesus, Our Man in Glory, pg. 104

[2] A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God, Aneko Press, June 2015.

[3] Rev. Jerry Falwell, The Start Book, Thomas Road Baptist Church, pg. 33.

/by

January 2, 2022

,

Read – Psalms 1-2

What does it say?
God blesses and watches over the righteous. The Lord’s Anointed King will rule and judge the earth. Wise rulers are blessed and given refuge as they serve and honor Him.

What does it mean?
Psalm 1 offers a stark contrast between the righteous and the wicked. Both are defined by how they spend their time and the outcome of their life’s pursuits. The godly person finds purpose in life by reading and contemplating Scripture instead of listening to ungodly sources of advice. While the watchful eye of the Lord guides those who belong to Him, the one who rejects the Lord has chosen to live outside of His protection. Psalm 2 reveals the future wrath of God’s Son on people who continue to reject Him. Those who are wise find refuge in the Son and serve Him rather than conspire against Him.

How should I respond?
How you spend your time says a lot about you. Would your current pursuits be characterized as godly? Think about how each interest originated. Did you follow the leading of the Holy Spirit after praying and meditating on God’s Word? Or, have people who reject God’s authority in their own lives influenced you? As a follower of Christ, you are covered in His righteousness, giving you a different life and future than those who have rejected Him. Today, determine to pursue only what reflects God’s purpose and the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

/by

January 1, 2022

,

Read – Matthew 1

What does it say?
The angel’s message to Joseph confirmed that Mary was the virgin through whom the Holy Spirit would send the long-awaited Messiah.

What does it mean?
Matthew’s Gospel was written to first century Jews who were waiting for the promised Messiah. Jesus’ ancestry fulfilled the requirement that the Messiah would come from the line of Abraham through King David. Mary’s pregnancy through the Holy Spirit and Jesus’ virgin birth into the household of Joseph proved His Messianic credentials. Matthew presented Jesus as the Christ who was promised in the covenants God made with Abraham and David. Immanuel, God with us, would be born in human flesh for the purpose of saving mankind from their sins.

How should I respond?
Who is Jesus? As Christians, we believe Jesus is the Savior who forgives and delivers us from sin, allowing companionship with Him each moment of every day. Do you claim Jesus as your Savior? If so, your life should demonstrate your love for and faith in Christ. How does His constant presence make a difference in your thoughts, attitudes, and actions? At school and work God gives opportunities for you to identify with Christ. Will you choose to live openly as a follower of Christ today? Who will you tell that Jesus is the Savior?

/by

December 31, 2021

,

Read – Read Malachi 3:13-4:6

What does it say?
It seemed to the righteous that the wicked prospered, and the arrogant were blessed. God heard the righteous, reminding them that they were His treasured possession.

What does it mean?
The largest portions of the books of prophecy in the Old Testament are God’s warnings to the wicked that He will repay them, so when the righteous saw the wicked prosper, they wondered what was happening. It is easy to forget that the world is on God’s time clock – His agenda for punishing the wicked and rewarding the righteous. When the wicked see God at His return, they will be punished; but when those who are righteous see Him, they will rejoice. In the meantime, the Israelites were to remember the Law of Moses and await the Lord’s coming.

How should I respond?
When we see real-world injustice, we expect God should handle it immediately because He sees all things. After all, complex crimes are solved in less than an hour on TV shows – right? We have to remember that God promises us justice … in His time. Write three important words on a note: “I can wait.” Place the note where you can see it. Justice will come in due time – punishments for the wicked, rewards for the righteous, and forgiveness for those who put their trust in God. In the meantime, read the Bible, pray, and wait on God. That’s the essence of true faith.

/by

December 30, 2021

,

Read – Read Malachi 3:7-12

What does it say?
God promised that if Israel would stop robbing Him and give a tenth of all they had to Him, He would bless their farmland and its produce.

What does it mean?
Israel was primarily an agrarian society. The people were farmers and raised livestock. God promised to bless the land itself and their livestock if they would remain faithful to Him and bring an offering of “first fruits” at harvest time. Throughout their history, God caused famines to fall on their land during times of disobedience. In today’s passage we see that the Israelites were skimping on their tithes and offerings. God promised that if they would start giving their harvest and other offerings again, He would bless their land richly. All they had to do was trust Him and obey.

How should I respond?
God does not need our money. The Bible tells us that He owns the cattle on a thousand hills (Ps. 50:10). All the heavens and the earth are His. We give a portion of our income as a form of worship – showing that we are thankful for all He has given to us. We give beyond that to help those in need. Did you know that only 3% of American families who attend church give a portion of their income to God on a regular basis? If giving a portion of your income to God is not part of your budget, revisit your budget, trusting the challenge in today’s passage. Give in faith, and see what God does with your faith.

/by

December 29, 2021

,

Read – Read Malachi 2:17-3:6

What does it say?
The Israelites asked where the God of justice had gone. God responded that He Himself was on His way to His temple; and on that day, the wicked will be judged.

What does it mean?
Despite many cycles throughout Israel’s history of sin – punishment – repentance – salvation, they had yet to learn their lesson. The Lord is a holy, morally pure God and requires the same of His people. The Israelites of Malachi’s day were calling evil “good,” swearing false oaths, oppressing the widows, orphans, workers, and immigrants, and not fearing God. He promised to send a messenger (John the Baptist) to clear the way for God Himself (Jesus Christ) to come and set matters straight by taking the punishment of the wicked on the cross.

How should I respond?
Jesus does not ask us to repay Him for dying on the cross in our place. It would be an impossible debt to pay. Instead, our lives should “pay it forward” as we demonstrate His holy character and express gratitude for taking the punishment for our sins. Scripture teaches that pure religion is helping people in need, not mistreating the innocent (James 1:27). Do you know someone who is in need of help? The love that Jesus Himself showed on the cross should be all the motivation we need. Will you keep your eyes open today for someone who could use your help … and jump in?

/by

December 28, 2021

,

Read – Read Malachi 2:10-16

What does it say?
Israel had acted treacherously against one another and against their wives. Therefore, God stopped accepting their sacrifices.

What does it mean?
Malachi understood that God’s design for marriage was that a husband and wife would form such an intimate bond with each other that they would be as “one flesh” (Gen. 2:24). They sinned against God by breaking their solemn vows to be faithful to each other, love each other, and help each other for a lifetime. Through Malachi, God expressed His displeasure that the Israelites had instead intermarried with people who worshiped false gods – polluting the moral and spiritual purity of Israel and raising a generation of children who may not follow in the ways of the Lord.

How should I respond?
Our nation is only as strong as the homes in it. While Satan wants to destroy marriages and lead children astray, God wants healthy marriages and families that point children toward Him. How often do you pray for the homes in your church and community? Make a list of seven families you know, and then pray for one family each day of the week. Ask God to help marriage vows to be honored deeply and faithfully. Ask Him to bless the children and guide the parents to lead them toward God in everything that is said and done. Who can you ask to pray that your marriage and family will honor God?

/by

December 27, 2021

,

Read – Read Malachi 1:6-2:9

What does it say?
God accused the Israelites of despising His name by offering blind and lame animals as sacrifices.

What does it mean?
God had given Moses many specific laws for Israel and the priests to follow when offering and receiving sacrifices for sin, fellowship, and worship. The hearts of the givers were to be humble and the sacrifices pure – without blemishes or spots. He instructed Israel to give their best to show that they recognized Him as their Lord and God. The people disobeyed, and the priests became apathetic about the purity and majesty of worship, blatantly accepting deficient sacrifices. Because they offended God, He would curse even the things that had been previously blessed.

How should I respond?
Jesus suffered and died as a sacrifice for us. He is our once-and-for-all sin offering without any moral blemish or spot. Because of Jesus, we need not bring a sin offering to church on Sundays. However, we can give things that we value as a form of worship and fellowship. For instance, do you make every effort to give God the best of your time or just what’s left over after your agenda is completed? The next time requests for volunteers conflicts with something you had planned, consider giving that time as if to say, “Here, Lord, this is my best for you.”

/by

Revelation: Let Everyone Come

2021-12-26

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today, we finish up our whirlwind run through the Bible. We’ve taught from all 66 books throughout this past year. While we certainly haven’t touched on every aspect of Scripture, as no ever could, we have spent a great deal of time focusing on the broad themes of Scripture. And so, today, we’ll conclude by revealing the theme of the Book. Not just the theme of the book of Revelation, but the theme of the entire Bible.

Revelation 1:1-3 (CSB) The revelation of Jesus Christ that God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who testified to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, whatever he saw. 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear the words of this prophecy and keep what is written in it, because the time is near.

 

1. Jesus is the Answer

22:16 I, Jesus, have sent my angel to attest these things to you for the churches. I am the root and descendant of David, the bright morning star,

  • Jesus is not only the creator, He is the descendent as well. This fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 11:1
  • The term, “bright morning star,” gives the idea of the soon coming end of night

2. For The World Today

  • We have the invitation of Jesus
    • 22:17a Both the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!”
    • The Spirit’s job is to convict a lost world of their sins and point them to the hope of the Gospel
    • The bride’s job is to tell the world about the Gospel
  • We have a responsibility to Jesus
    • 22:17b Let anyone who hears, say, “Come!”
    • Our individual mandate is to tell others about Jesus and what He’s done for us
  • This opportunity is for everyone
    • 22:17c Let the one who is thirsty come
    • The message of the Gospel is not exclusive to a lucky few, it is available to all
    • 2 Peter 3:9 – “not willing that any should perish”
    • Luke 19:10 – “For the Son of Man came to seek and save that which is lost”
    • John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world…”
  • This opportunity is to be enjoyed now
    • 22:17d Let the one who desires take the water of life freely
    • The hope of Heaven is absolute, but the benefits of believing begin now

3. Above Him there’s no other

22:18-19 I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book. 19 And if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share of the tree of life and the holy city, which are written about in this book.

  • John gives us a warning that we cannot change the message of Christ to suit our own needs or desires
  • This echoes what Deut. 4 and Gal. 1 tell us about changing the message of God

4. Jesus is the Way

22:20-21 He who testifies about these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! 21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone. Amen.

  • In times of desperation, we must always remember it is the hope of the Gospel that leads the way
  • Time is short and Jesus has always been the Way, He is the Way, and He will forever be the Way
/by

December 26, 2021

,

Read – Read Malachi 1:1-5

What does it say?
When Israel asked, “How have you loved us?” God pointed them to how He had treated the Edomites, their wicked neighbors, as a contrast to His love for them.

What does it mean?
God chose to fulfill His covenant through Jacob (Israel) and his family rather than the Edomites – the descendants of Esau. This meant that God treated the Israelites like His own children, which included providing for them, protecting them, and patiently guiding them. In contrast, God largely left the Edomites to the natural consequences of their rebellious decisions. Despite these differences, God’s expectation was the same for both: pursue God humbly and fully, admitting their need for God as the Forgiver of their sins and the provider of love, hope, and life. Even though both would sin, God chose to be extra patient with Jacob and his family to display His mercy to and through them.

How should I respond?
Imagine the difference between growing up in an Edomite home versus growing up in an Israelite home. The Israelite home was full of God’s mercy, grace, and loving patience. By contrast, the Edomite home had little contact with the Lord or experience with His guidance. Which one describes the atmosphere of your home? As a spouse, parent, or child, your daily decisions to either pursue God’s ways or reject them will set the tone for the relationships within your family. What can you do to ensure your home teaches God’s love, provision, protection, and salvation fervently?

/by

December 25, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 14

What does it say?
The Lord will defeat the nations and secure Jerusalem when He comes. The world will worship Him as the One and only Lord and King.

What does it mean?
The last chapter of Zechariah details the events of Christ’s return to Earth and the establishment of His earthly kingdom. At the end of the Tribulation period, Jesus will appear on the same mountain where He was betrayed and from which He ascended, creating a valley for God’s people to escape the nations gathered against them. Christ’s supernatural victory and power over the laws of nature will make it a day like no other. World religions will be abolished in recognition that Jesus Christ is the Lord of lords and the King of kings (Rev. 17:14; 19:16). The Messianic kingdom will be the perfection of what the Lord has always required of His people – to recognize His name above every name, worship Him alone, and live holy lives.

How should I respond?
Christians long for the day when the entire world will worship Jesus as Lord and King. That day will be the completion of what God began in the Garden of Eden – perfect communion with His creation. Growing in spiritual maturity means striving daily to live as His people will live then. In an age of religious tolerance, do you acknowledge the name of Jesus as the only way of salvation (John 14:6)? Since He alone is worthy of our worship, determine today to remove any thought that leads to unholy living.

/by

December 24, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 13

What does it say?
Jerusalem will be cleansed of idols and false prophets. The Lord will refine His people like silver, and they will call on His name.

What does it mean?
Zechariah poetically refers to the blood of Christ as a fountain having the power to spiritually cleanse (Heb. 9:14; 1 John 1:7). Sadly, the Jewish people will largely ignore its existence until His second coming. The sins of idolatry and false prophecies that ensnared Israel for centuries will be met with immediate justice when God’s people finally look to Jesus as their atoning sacrifice. The third of the Jewish nation surviving the horrors of the Tribulation will turn to the Lord and experience a renewal of His covenant – the New Covenant made possible by His blood (Luke 22:20).

How should I respond?
As church-going, Bible-believing followers of Christ, we readily accept Christ’s death as payment for our sin. Jesus’ blood has been applied to our hearts just as the blood of the lamb was during the Passover (Exodus 12:12). Where the blood of Jesus is present, sin should be absent. That doesn’t mean that it removes your ability to do wrong; you still have free will. It does mean, however, that within you is the power to choose not to sin. What temptation seems to trip you up frequently? There is power in the blood of Jesus to cleanse you from that sin and, by faith, keep you in a covenant relationship with Him.

/by

December 23, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 12

What does it say?
The Lord Almighty will shield Jerusalem, making her strong when nations gather against her. The city will mourn after God pours out a spirit of grace and supplication.

What does it mean?
For 70 years these returned exiles had mourned and fasted for all they had lost when Jerusalem fell. Zechariah gave an oracle of yet another battle followed by mourning in the distant future. During the Battle of Armageddon, the Lord will defend Israel against the world’s armies, supernaturally enabling even the weakest among them to defeat their enemies. Why would they mourn after such a great victory? A spiritual awakening will accompany their physical deliverance. God’s Spirit will graciously allow Israel to see Jesus for who He is – the Messiah they rejected and the Savior who led them in battle.

How should I respond?
We naturally grieve over the loss of someone close to us. You might also mourn the changes that accompany the loss of a home or a job. But do you grieve over your sin? Each lie and deception helped nail Jesus to the cross. Each immoral thought or hidden act was a stroke of the hammer. The Lord’s Supper is a remembrance of the price Jesus paid for our sin (Luke 22:19). Those moments of reflection should grieve our hearts, but grief turns to joy, knowing that He is the One who makes us victorious – daily and eternally. Will you allow godly grief over your sin to bring a spiritual renewal today?

/by

December 22, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 11

What does it say?
Israel detested their Shepherd, and He grew weary of them. A worthless shepherd was coming who wouldn’t care for his flock.

What does it mean?
Under the Lord’s instruction, Zechariah acted out the coming of two men as shepherds over a flock – the house of Israel. He prophetically portrayed the coming and rejection of Israel’s Messiah. Aspects of Christ’s earthly ministry, such as His care for Israel’s poor and Judas’ betrayal for 30 pieces of silver, point to the reliability of biblical prophecy. The cruelty of the second shepherd, the Antichrist (John 5:43; 1 John 2:22), demonstrated the consequences of rejecting the Good Shepherd. All of the glorious promises in the previous chapter are delayed until the Messiah’s second coming because Israel rejected Him as their Shepherd.

How should I respond?
Most people who read a daily devotion wouldn’t argue with the validity of Jesus as the Messiah, the Good Shepherd, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. However, true acceptance of the claims of Christ isn’t simply an intellectual agreement with Christian writing and teaching, but an inward conviction that affects how we live each day. We may nod in agreement with the pastor but still fail to live out the things he taught. You will likely face a choice today that will demonstrate either your acceptance or rejection of the Lordship of Christ. Be on guard, listening closely to the voice of the Good Shepherd.

/by

December 21, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 10

What does it say?
The Lord gives rain and a harvest, while idols and diviners gave false comfort. God will compassionately save, gather, and strengthen His people, who will walk in His name.

What does it mean?
The work of rebuilding the temple was made even more difficult by the years of drought brought on by God’s judgment. Zechariah used their concern for their physical well-being to point out why their circumstances were such – they had believed lies instead of God’s prophets. Just as they wouldn’t hesitate to pray for the spring rain necessary for a fall harvest, they should look to the Lord and His promised Messiah if they were going to be a fruitful nation. This Shepherd would also be a mighty warrior, one day leading His people to victory and unity.

How should I respond?
It’s second nature to turn to the Lord when things like a job loss or serious illness threaten our physical well-being. Recognizing threats to your spiritual well-being requires a higher degree of intentionality. How can you navigate a world full of false comfort, deceptive messages, and unfulfilled promises? By following closely behind your Shepherd, Jesus Christ. He not only sees lurking predators, He has already defeated them! Are you in danger of being deceived? What sinful activity is threatening your fruitfulness? Only by looking to the Lord through prayer can its grip be broken.

/by

December 20, 2021

,

Read – Zechariah 9

What does it say?
The Sovereign Lord keeps watch and defends Israel against enemy forces. Her king brings righteousness, salvation, and peace, saving His people as His flock.

What does it mean?
Some of the prophecies in Chapter nine were fulfilled before Christ’s first Advent, while some foretell events that took place in His earthly ministry, and others are still future. Each one points to God’s ability to save, both physically and spiritually. The descriptions of the Lord also run the gamut. He is pictured as Israel’s defender, watchman, king, warrior, and shepherd. The reactions to His second coming are narrowed to two emotions: fear or hope. Only those who have made peace with God by accepting His salvation and righteousness will rejoice when the trumpet announces His arrival.

How should I respond?
What is your first reaction when you think of Jesus’ return to Earth? It’s likely determined by your response to His first coming. If you’ve received Christ as your King, then you can look forward to His return with joyful anticipation. Followers of Christ have the sure hope of salvation, righteousness, and peace with God. Look back over the words describing the Lord in today’s passage. Which one brings you the most comfort in your present circumstances? Until He returns, take hope in His role as the Shepherd who will defend and watch over you.

/by

Jude: Stand Up and Be Counted

2021-12-19

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

The short epistle of Jude is a clear reminder of the importance of being faithful in a time of evil. This letter, written by the brother of Jesus, is one which serves as a wake-up call to the lost, the hypocritical…and the faithful.

Jude 3 (CSB) Dear friends, although I was eager to write you about the salvation we share, I found it necessary to write, appealing to you to contend for the faith that was delivered to the saints once for all.

1. We are called to stand up for what we believe in

“appealing to you to contend for the faith”

  • We are commanded to stand in truth no matter the circumstances, no matter the consequences
  • Evil people are always attempting to corrupt the church and the faithful, we must “contend” for what is right (verses 4-19)

2. We are called to grow in what we believe

Jude 20 But you, dear friends, as you build yourselves up in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit

  • Build (epoikodomeō – to build upon)
  • “Fundamental to such growth is to learn as much as possible of the truth of Scripture and to set one’s life to believe and obey it.” – David Walls[1]
  • “I have yet to meet a strong, fruitful Christian who ignores his Bible.” – Warren Wiersbe[2]

[1] David Walls and Max Anders, I & II Peter, I, II & III John, Jude, vol. 11, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1999), 266.

[2] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 559.


3. We are called to love through what we believe

Jude 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting expectantly for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ for eternal life

  • To keep oneself in “the love of God” is to love Him completely which will lead to us obeying Him completely


4. We are called to help others in their belief

Jude 22-23 Have mercy on those who waver; 23 save others by snatching them from the fire; have mercy on others but with fear, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh

 

5. We are called to spend eternity with Him

Jude 24-25 Now to him who is able to protect you from stumbling and to make you stand in the presence of his glory, without blemish and with great joy, 25 to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority before all time, now and forever. Amen.

  • 3 Groups are addressed here:
  1. The saved who waver
  2. The unsaved who we are called to reach
  3. The lost who may never find Christ

Jude 20-25 But you, dear friends, as you build yourselves up in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting expectantly for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ for eternal life. 22 Have mercy on those who waver; 23 save others by snatching them from the fire; have mercy on others but with fear, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh. 24 Now to him who is able to protect you from stumbling and to make you stand in the presence of his glory, without blemish and with great joy, 25 to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority before all time, now and forever. Amen.

  • He is “able” to protect you if you are growing in Him
  • As a result, He will present us to the Father for promise of eternity
/by

December 19, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 7-8

What does it say?
The people asked God if they should mourn and fast as before. The Lord Almighty instructed them to be just and compassionate, avoiding plots, lies, and oppression.

What does it mean?
Two years after Zechariah’s eight visions, the people asked if they should still observe the ritual days of fasting that they established while in exile to mourn Jerusalem’s fall. For seventy years the days of fasting reminded them of their guilt and God’s judgment on past sin. Like their fathers, they failed to grasp God’s desire for heart change rather than the observance of religious rituals. The Lord’s answer directed them toward obedient attitudes and behaviors that would bring His blessing, causing joyful feasting instead of sorrowful fasting. Enjoying renewed intimacy with the Lord Almighty in their homeland was just a glimpse of what life will be in Jerusalem during the millennial age, when the presence and blessing of Christ will draw people from every nation to Israel.

How should I respond?
Guilt over past sin should be short-lived. Dwelling on it will likely stall your spiritual growth. What sin do you need to move past? Start by asking God for forgiveness, and then take an honest look at how and why the sin occurred. Learn from it so you don’t end up there again. You might never completely forget what happened, but you can direct your thoughts when it comes to mind. Rather than wallow in the failure, focus on the mercy and grace of God that makes a renewed life with Christ possible. As you actively pursue attitudes and behaviors that please the Lord, your sorrow will turn to joyful celebration of your hope in Christ.

/by

December 18, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 6

What does it say?
Zechariah saw a vision of four chariots leave the presence of the Lord to go throughout the earth. Then a crown of silver and gold was made for Joshua, the high priest.

What does it mean?
Zechariah’s eighth vision symbolized God’s final judgment on Israel’s enemies and the beginning of Messiah’s millennial reign. Although they felt safe in Zechariah’s first vision, God’s judgment on Egypt (to the south) and Babylon (to the north) will come suddenly and completely (Rev. 18). The fact that judgment awaits the descendants of these nations indicates continued animosity against the Lord Almighty and His people. Joshua’s coronation as king-priest is symbolic of the crowning of Christ when Israel’s enemies are no more. Civil and spiritual matters will exist harmoniously under His rule.

How should I respond?
When Jesus establishes His earthly kingdom there will be no separation of church and state by anyone’s definition. This future reality should be a present practice for Christians for whom every matter is a spiritual matter. Since our God is also the Creator, each issue in His world is to be viewed from His perspective. How might you be dividing your life into “spiritual” and “secular” categories? Has animosity toward the Bible in our culture swayed your thinking in some area? God’s Word will stand, but His enemies will not. Until that day, strive to see every issue of life through the lens of His Word.

/by

December 17, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 5

What does it say?
Zechariah saw a flying scroll, representing a curse on thieves and liars. He then saw a basket containing a woman, representing wickedness, which was carried off to Babylon.

What does it mean?
The visions in this passage take a sharp turn from the comforting and encouraging visions Zechariah had seen up to this point. The scroll was a reminder that God’s Law, given to Moses on the two tablets, was the moral foundation of Jewish society. Wickedness had no place among God’s people (Deut. 27:9-26). Those attitudes and behaviors were characteristic of ungodly cultures, like Babylon. The fulfillment of these visions is yet to be seen in the Millennium. Israel will be completely purged of anyone who breaks God’s Law, which will mark the time for God’s long-awaited judgment on Babylon and the return of Christ to reign (Rev. 17-20).

How should I respond?
The lives of Christians should be distinguishable from those who do not follow Christ. As our culture moves further away from biblical thought, there should be a widening gap between believers and nonbelievers, yet the distance actually seems to be closing between the two. Scripture doesn’t adjust to the prevailing beliefs of our society. You have to guard against ungodly attitudes that eventually lead to dishonest and immoral behavior. Today, filter every thought through God’s Word and submit each reaction to His Spirit.

/by

December 16, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 4

What does it say?
Zechariah saw a vision of a golden lamp stand and two olive trees. The Lord’s message to Zerubbabel from the vision was, “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit.”

What does it mean?
As Jerusalem’s governor during the rebuilding of the temple, Zerubbabel faced enormous challenges. Zechariah’s fifth vision encouraged the governor to finish what he started, not through military strength or human power, but by the enabling of God’s Spirit. As the olive trees in the vision, Joshua and Zerubbabel represent the offices of priest and king, both of which will be filled by Christ at His return. This vision then, also speaks of Christ’s future reign on Earth. Through the continual enabling power of the Holy Spirit (symbolized by oil throughout Scripture), Israel will be a light, pointing the nations to Christ the Messiah.

How should I respond?
Successful ministry in the 21st century has the same purpose and power source as in Zechariah’s day. Collectively and individually, Christians are to be light in a dark world, pointing other people to the source of light – Jesus. When you surrender completely to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, He enables you in your service to Christ. What is your purpose for volunteering at church or in your community? If it is anything other than pointing others to the Light of the World, stop and examine your motivation.

/by

December 15, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 3

What does it say?
Joshua’s filthy clothes were replaced with clean garments. Just as He took away Joshua’s sin, The Lord will remove Israel’s sins in a single day.

What does it mean?
In Zechariah’s fourth vision, Joshua was on trial before Christ as his Judge and Satan as his prosecutor. As high priest, Joshua symbolically represented Israel’s people; his filthy clothes were evidence of their guilt. The Lord’s willingness to forgive their sin erased any reason for accusations. Their guilt was replaced with His righteousness. By reinstating Israel as a nation of priests, God paved the way for His Servant, Branch, and Stone – the coming Messiah – to do in a single day what generations of sacrifices had been unable to do – cleanse God’s people completely of their sin guilt.

How should I respond?
Have you ever been so dirty that all you could think about was getting washed and putting on clean clothes? That’s the same condition we are in spiritually until we accept God’s forgiveness and trade sin’s guilt for the cleansing and righteousness of Christ. Maybe you think you can gain favor with God by doing good things, but living a moral life won’t fare you any better than trying to obtain righteousness by observing the law as generations of Israelites attempted to do (Rom. 9:30-33). Have you allowed God to remove your “filthy clothes” with all of their shame? If so, Satan has no grounds on which to accuse you! You can stand clean, righteous, and free of guilt before the Lord.

/by

December 13, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 1:7-21

What does it say?
Through a vision, the Lord explained to Zechariah that He would show mercy and give comfort to Jerusalem again.

What does it mean?
The world was at peace, but Israel was still in great distress. The predetermined time of discipline was over, and God’s people needed to experience renewed fellowship with Him. God’s reason for judgment was His deep love for Israel. He went to great lengths to preserve a remnant and protect His covenant. They would again experience His presence and flourish as a nation. God’s discipline would be replaced by His mercy, comfort, and favor. Even though the Gentile nations acted as God’s hand of judgment, they would answer for the extreme cruelty with which they treated His chosen people.

How should I respond?
Parents, teachers, and employers alike can benefit from God’s pattern for discipline. Start with a warning and clearly state the consequences if the unacceptable behavior continues. Do not make idle threats, being careful that the punishment fits the crime. Keeping your accountability to God in mind will help you avoid being overly harsh. The motivation for disciplinary action should be love and concern for the relationships and people involved. Children, particularly, need to be protected from the devastating consequences of foolish actions. Don’t dwell on past behavior when the time of discipline is over. Offer words and actions of comfort and move on.

/by

1, 2, 3 John: Love is the Point

2021-12-12

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today, we will have brief view of 3 important, yet quite small, letters within the New Testament. The Apostle John wrote all three of these letters to deal with significant threats to the church of Jesus Christ. Whether through threat of Gnosticism or the inappropriate, dictatorial actions of Diotrephes (3 John), he knew that any time a follower of Jesus Christ ceases to follow the teachings of Jesus and follows the teachings of man, bad things will happen. John wrote to encourage the church to remain faithful and committed to what they had seen, heard, and experienced.

1 John 1:1-4 What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have observed and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life—2 that life was revealed, and we have seen it and we testify and declare to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us—3 what we have seen and heard we also declare to you, so that you may also have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4 We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete.

 

1. Love is not an option

1 John 4:7-8 Dear friends, let us love one another, because love is from God, and everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 The one who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

  • It is vital for Christians to understand the importance of loving one another when it comes to fellowship as the body of Christ. There is no room for a lack of love.
  • Dan Womack says “Tradition tells us that in his extreme old age when he could no longer minister the word, John was carried into the church and when asked for a word of wisdom, would invariably say, ‘little children, love one another.’”[1]

[1] The Christian Life Bible, Porter Barrington, editor., Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tn., pg 1277.

3 John 11 Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God

 

2. God’s love is absolute

1 John 4:9-10 God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his one and only Son into the world so that we might live through him. 10 Love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice, for our sins.

  • God loved us so very much, He gave His only son for us
  • Without this ultimate display of love, we would be unable love or live
  • Today, there are many who are spending their lives “working their way to Heaven” while all along missing the only way there

1 John 5:13 I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.

  • Our hope of eternal life in Heaven is a direct result of the work of Christ on the cross, not the works of man

 

3. You can’t fake love

1 John 4:11-12 Dear friends, if God loved us in this way, we also must love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God. If we love one another, God remains in us and his love is made complete in us.

  • The power of His presence is manifest through the love we have and the love we show

1 John 4: 14-16 And we have seen and we testify that the Father has sent his Son as the world’s Savior. 15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God—God remains in him and he in God. 16 And we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him.

  • It is impossible to be “one who loves” without embracing that God is love

 

2 John 6 This is love: that we walk according to his commands. This is the command as you have heard it from the beginning: that you walk in love.

  • Our actions are a direct reflection of our love, and our relationship, with God

 

[1] The Christian Life Bible, Porter Barrington, editor., Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tn., pg 1277.

/by

December 12, 2021

,

Read – Read Zechariah 1:1-6

What does it say?
Israel’s forefathers did not listen to the prophets, so the Lord did to them just as their actions deserved.

What does it mean?
Zechariah was among those whom Cyrus the Great allowed to return from captivity to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The foundation was laid, but the rebuilding work had stalled for 16 years. Although they had physically returned to Jerusalem, their hearts had not completely returned to God. As Zechariah began his prophetic ministry, the Lord pointed out the consequences of their parents’ stubborn disobedience. As a result of the captivity, many of those listening had been born in Babylon. Now they had to choose whether they would follow their parents’ rebellious example or heed and Zechariah’s words. If this generation would return to the Lord, they would experience the blessings of their spiritual heritage.

How should I respond?
It’s likely that you’ve experienced the ripple effects of your parents’ choice to either follow or reject Jesus as Savior and Lord. What kind of spiritual heritage do you have? Has your family encouraged your faith, discouraged your walk with the Lord, or simply been indifferent? You have to decide for yourself whether or not you’ll choose to follow Jesus and pay attention to what God says in His Word. How might you be rebelling against something God says is wrong? Will you “return to the Lord” by submitting that part of your heart and mind to Christ right now? That kind of daily submission will help you pass down a heritage of blessing instead of the consequences of disobedience.

/by

December 11, 2021

,

Read – Read Haggai 2:10-23

What does it say?
Haggai urged the people to carefully consider the effects of their disobedience prior to rebuilding the temple. God revealed that He would bless them from that day on.

What does it mean?
Verse 15 marks a turning point for the remnant in Jerusalem. God used Haggai’s final two messages to help the people see that their disobedience prior to work on the temple had rendered their sacrificial worship unacceptable. Their economy still suffered the consequences of the Lord’s correction. Their future would hold the blessings of obedience just as past actions had negatively affected their current circumstances. The correlation between the faithfulness of God’s people and His blessing was worthy of deep thought.

How should I respond?
Disobedience will always affect your relationship with the Lord negatively. In addition, those actions always have consequences. Think carefully about what happened when you previously disobeyed God’s Word. What lessons can be learned from looking back on past faithful obedience versus procrastination and disobedience? Where do you need to improve? Determine to make today a turning point in that area of your life. Commit your work to the Lord and trust Him to guide, direct, and bless “from this day on.”

/by

December 10, 2021

,

Read – Read Haggai 2:1-9

What does it say?
As work on the temple continued, Haggai’s message from the Lord told the people to be strong, to work, and not to fear. This temple would be filled with His glory and peace.

What does it mean?
Many of the people were discouraged with the slow and difficult work of rebuilding the temple. No matter how hard they labored, their efforts would never produce a temple as glorious as Solomon’s. The true glory of the postexilic temple wouldn’t be gold and jewels, but the presence of God through the person of Jesus, who would teach from there during His earthly ministry. Their obedience to build the Lord’s house was a vital part of God’s plan for redemption through the future Messiah. Still future is the day when God’s glory will fill the millennial temple (Ezekiel 43).

How should I respond?
Think about the various ministries with which you are involved at church or in your community. No doubt you want your efforts to impact God’s kingdom. The difficulty comes when you start comparing your God-given work with another ministry. Today’s passage encourages us to stay true to the exact work we have been called to do versus trying to top what someone else is doing or has done in the past. Ask God if your work has been affected by focusing on man-approved results instead of His intended purpose. When God is in the midst of our efforts, He supplies and receives the glory.

/by

December 9, 2021

,

Read – Read Haggai 1

What does it say?
Through the prophet Haggai, the Lord rebuked the Israelites for allowing the temple to lie in ruins and instructed them to continue the rebuilding.

What does it mean?
The book of Haggai recounts the messages from the Lord to the remnant of Israel who returned to Jerusalem’s ruins during the reign of King Darius. Procrastination and misguided priorities led to focusing on themselves while leaving the temple unfinished indicating a problem in their relationship with the Lord. The result was a paradox: no matter how hard they worked, they still struggled with even basic needs. The remnant responded in obedience when they recognized the divine origin of Haggai’s chastisement and their economic instability. The assurance of God’s presence stirred their hearts and motivated them to begin the work.

How should I respond?
What task has the Lord given you recently? Have you obeyed or procrastinated? Anything that hinders your obedience to God is a misplaced priority and harms your fellowship with Him. God might even allow a difficult circumstance to refocus your attention on the things of the Lord. What has gotten in the way of your complete and immediate obedience? Determine to begin each day in His Word, aligning your heart to His and being reassured of His presence. What God-given work do you need to begin today?

/by

December 8, 2021

,

Read – Read Zephaniah 3:9-20

What does it say?
God promised to restore His people, renew their land, and establish His promised kingdom on Earth.

What does it mean?
The last days will actually be a new beginning for Israel. The godly Jewish remnant, along with converted Gentiles, will recognize the Lord as the one true God and serve Him together. All pride, deceit, and fear will be removed from God’s people. Their physical and spiritual restoration will cause the world to recognize Israel’s God as Lord of the earth. The Jewish people will finally come home to a peaceful and prosperous Jerusalem, rejoicing in God’s faithfulness to them despite their rebellious tendencies.

How should I respond?
The last chapter of Zephaniah should give us hope. God never gives up on His children. Your faithfulness to God may vary at different times in your life, but if you know Christ as your Savior, He will never fail you. Are you part of God’s believing, faithful remnant? Then be faithful until He returns. Even a small group of people devoted to the Lord can make a difference in times of moral and spiritual decay. You can choose to be light in a spiritually dark world. What difference will you make for Christ today?

/by

December 7, 2021

,

Read – Read Zephaniah 3:1-8

What does it say?
Zephaniah warned the people of God’s imminent judgment because they rejected correction, refused to trust the Lord, and overlooked corrupt leadership.

What does it mean?
Jerusalem is often referred to as “the Holy City,” but the city Zephaniah knew was far from characterizing God’s holiness. It was impossible to reflect His righteous character without believing His Word or seeking His presence. Despite their shameless corruption and oppression of one another, the Lord was righteous and faithful. He would continue to reveal Himself to His people, but it would be through His just judgment of their disobedience rather than the loving, intimate relationship He desired.

How should I respond?
Before Christians judge the “holy city” too harshly, we should take an inventory of our own lives. If we bear the name of Christ, our character should bear His resemblance. What change would help you to reflect God’s holiness more today than you did yesterday? In what areas do you struggle with obedience? Are you diligently and consistently seeking to know more about Him? Look for how God reveals Himself in Scripture, and then watch for how He demonstrates those traits in and through you. Since God’s character never wavers, neither should ours.

/by

December 6, 2021

,

Read – Read Zephaniah 2:4-15

What does it say?
God promised His care for the remnant of Judah, restoring their fortunes by plundering the nations who had insulted, mocked, and threatened His people.

What does it mean?
In the previous chapter, Zephaniah laid out reasons for God’s judgment on His people. However, mercy would come with His judgment. The Jewish people would indeed go into captivity, but the remnant would eventually return to possess the lands and wealth of the Gentile nations who had mistreated them. The Lord heard every insult, taunt, and threat. If God would discipline His own children for worshiping idols, then He certainly would punish the people who lured them to idols by mocking their God. The wooden idols and false gods of the surrounding nations would prove worthless as the Lord Almighty defended His name and His people.

How should I respond?
As followers of Christ, God is our Defender. Have you ever found yourself defending your biblical convictions or views? He hears every harsh word and mocking tone, and He hears your cries for help. Do you need His defense today? In Psalm 91 God is described as a shelter, refuge, fortress, shield, light, and protector, just to name a few! Read and meditate on Psalm 91, and then make your own list of words describing God from that passage. Which words describe what you need God to be in your life right now? God has always been and will always be the Defender of His people.

/by

1 & 2 Peter: Be Holy

2021-12-05

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Peter was radically transformed during the days following the resurrection of Jesus. He certainly had already seen the power of Christ in the days leading up to the cross, but now he fully understood who Jesus is and what He would accomplish. As a result, Peter was a passionate preacher of the Gospel wherever he went. In these books, Peter writes to the believers to remain faithful to their calling and their decision to believe in Christ. He knew the coming persecution and the temptation to fall away from their faith. He wanted the believers to know how very important is was to remain faithful until the coming of the Lord.

1 Peter 1:14-16 (CSB) As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance. 15 But as the one who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; 16 for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.

 

1. God’s presence in our lives gives us everything we could ever need

2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

  • Often times we believe we don’t have what it takes to “live up” to Biblical standards
  • Clearly, God’s Word says otherwise
  • This is only possible when you embrace the presence of the Holy Spirit within you

2. As a result, we should seek the things ABOVE THIS WORLD

2 Peter 1:5-8 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with goodness, goodness with knowledge, 6 knowledge with self-control, self-control with endurance, endurance with godliness, 7 godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being useless or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

  • As 1 Peter 1:14-16 tells us, we must put our faith into action by seeking to be different
  • This is how we achieve the calling of God in our lives
  • Trying to “fit into the world” will always leave you feeling empty

3. And avoid the things OF THIS WORLD

2 Peter 1:4 By these he has given us very great and precious promises, so that through them you may share in the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world because of evil desire.

  • We have a responsibility to dwell on God’s Word and His promises in order to avoid the temptations of this present age

1 Peter 2:1-5 (CSB) Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, desire the pure milk of the word,, so that by it you may grow up into your salvation, 3 if you have tasted that the Lord is good., 4 As you come to him, a living stone—rejected by people but chosen and honored by God—5 you yourselves, as living stones, a spiritual house, are being built to be a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

  • God’s Word is the key ingredient to the fulfilled life
  • Desiring His Word daily will relieve you of the pressures of the world around you

1 Peter 2:9-10 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

 

 

/by

December 5, 2021

,

Read – Read Zephaniah 1:1-2:3

What does it say?
Zephaniah warned those in Judah who thought the Lord would do nothing, either good or bad. The prophet urged them to seek righteousness and humility.

What does it mean?
Zephaniah’s prophecy begins with a strongly worded warning for the people of Judah regarding areas in which they had failed to follow the Lord. They were more interested in pursuing wealth and personal pleasure than hearing about the bleak future foretold by the Lord’s prophet. Many believed that God simply was not concerned with their lives, thinking He would do neither good nor bad to them. Such mass complacency caused worship of the Lord and seeking His ways to virtually stop. There was hope, however, for the people still obeying God’s commands. The remnant who humbly sought the Lord and righteousness were spared and found shelter, albeit in Babylonian exile.

How should I respond?
The telltale sign of complacency is reaching a place of self-satisfaction while being unaware of glaring issues. The question arises, “How do I know if I’m complacent if I don’t even realize that there’s a problem?” Take a moment to assess your spiritual temperature. Have you become “lukewarm” like the church at Laodicea (Rev. 3:16)? Just as with Judah, they were satisfied with being materially wealthy, but were completely unconcerned about being rich spiritually. Was there a time when your passion for Christ burned hotter than it does today? The remedy for complacency hasn’t changed since the days of Judah: seek the Lord, seek righteousness, and seek humility.

/by

December 4, 2021

,

Read – Read Habakkuk 3

What does it say?
Habakkuk’s prayer describes God Himself, dressed as a warrior, coming down from Heaven, and causing the heavens and the earth to tremble at His power.

What does it mean?
There are a number of times in the Bible that God is pictured as the ultimate warrior – establishing His authority over His creation with absolute power. Even neutral bystanders like the sun, moon, mountains, and rivers yield to His power as He moves directly and swiftly toward Israel’s enemies to defeat them. Habakkuk reassured God’s people that even in times of great economic distress, when the crops are dead and there are no livestock, they could rejoice in the God of their salvation. He would be their strength when circumstances reached a point of desperation.

How should I respond?
How are we supposed to be joyful when we face trials (James 1:2-3)? We’re certainly not joyful because we are suffering; the natural reaction to suffering is sorrow. However, the lesson we learn from Habakkuk is this: joy is not found in the circumstances of the moment but in the fact that the God in whom we trust is absolutely powerful and righteous in the universe. Are you facing something that causes feelings of depression or even hopelessness? Change your focus to think about God’s authority and ability to fight on your behalf. How do those thoughts change your perspective today?

/by

December 3, 2021

,

Read – Read Habakkuk 1:12-2:20

What does it say?
Habakkuk questioned why the holy God would use wicked people to punish His people. God told Habakkuk that the righteous person will live by faith.

What does it mean?
When there were no reasonably righteous nations on the earth, God chose the wicked Chaldeans (the Babylonians) to punish the disobedient Israelites. In the end the Chaldeans would face God’s wrath as well. Habakkuk could not understand how God’s holy character could tolerate the evil of the Babylonians, even as his tool of judgment. He must have been thinking, “But, Lord, two wrongs don’t make a right! Now the Chaldeans will overwhelm us with evil.” It was up to Habakkuk and those who sought to be righteous to remain patient and live by faith in the Lord.

How should I respond?
You don’t have to look very hard around your community, country, or world to see bad things going on. It often seems as if there’s no hope for justice or goodness to prevail. You can do two things when you feel this way. First, be patient, knowing that God Himself is just and will punish those who deserve punishment. Their evil will not last forever. Second, determine to do what is right and just – no matter what anyone else is doing. The faith in which we, the righteous, are to live is faith in God to punish the bad and reward the good in His perfect time. How will you demonstrate faith today?

/by

December 2, 2021

,

Read – Read Habakkuk 1:1-11

What does it say?
Habakkuk asked the Lord how long injustice and wickedness would continue in Judah. God responded that He was raising up the Chaldeans as a solution.

What does it mean?
In the early 7th century BC, Judah was a mess. It was in a state of moral and spiritual decline to the point that even laws were pointless because the justice system was corrupt. The prophet Habakkuk questioned how a righteous and fair God could tolerate such systematic and widespread corruption. Sometimes God punishes immediately, but sometimes he waits, allowing extreme wrongdoing. Judah’s sin was well documented, so His judgment by the Babylonians was clearly justified when it came. Whether He is quick or slow to bring about justice, He will always bring about justice in the end.

How should I respond?
Has someone treated you unfairly? What person or group seems to have escaped very bad behavior with little or no punishment? God created us to reflect Who He is. Human nature seeks justice because God is just, but remember…God is also patient. How are you demonstrating patience in your concern for justice? While it’s important to pray for those who are oppressed, we should also pray for the oppressors, no matter how hard that may be. God is not only just and fair, but He is also patient and merciful with those who have behaved badly – that includes us.

/by

December 1, 2021

,

Read – Read Nahum 3

What does it say?
Nahum prophesied that Nineveh would be in ruins with her humiliation exposed for all to see, yet none of the surrounding nations would pity the people of the city.

What does it mean?
The destruction of Nineveh is a reminder that God is the King of all nations, not just those that submit to His authority. Nahum tried to warn the proud, idol-worshipping city by citing the fall of No Amon (Thebes); even the powerful Assyrians couldn’t withstand God’s wrath. Likewise, the Lord would punish Nineveh according to the violence they inflected upon surrounding nations. As a result, they would be no better off than the nations they had brutally conquered with no one to mourn the fallen city.

How should I respond?
Our society is rapidly approaching a post-Christian era – some scholars and theologians say we are already there. What evidence is there? Common beliefs include that there are many roads to Heaven, truth is relative, morals are situational, and mankind’s own reasoning is central. The Lordship of Christ, however, isn’t determined by whether our society believes it to be true – He is King. How often do you pray for our nation? Like the Nineveh of Jonah’s time, pray for national repentance before God judges our country like the Nineveh of Nahum’s time. Ask God to use you to help bring about revival in our country.

/by

November 30, 2021

,

Read – Read Nahum 2

What does it say?
The Lord Almighty was against Nineveh but would restore the majesty of Jacob.

What does it mean?
The Assyrians were fierce warriors and cruel captors amassing great wealth by attacking and pillaging other nations. Now the tables were turned; their brutality would come back on them. The silver and gold they plundered from other nations would be stripped from Nineveh, and her people would flee the city like a flood. Nahum’s prophecy of the destruction of Nineveh by Babylon is similar to the devastation of Jerusalem foretold by other prophets. Jerusalem, however, would one day be restored – to both her land and her God. As an enemy of the Lord, Nineveh had no hope for the future.

How should I respond?
Who comes to mind when you hear the phrase, “enemy of God”? You very likely imagine people who steal, kill, and abuse other people. The image in the mirror probably didn’t come to mind if you are a moral, upstanding citizen. God’s Word lays out a different picture, though. Anyone who hasn’t placed faith in Christ is God’s enemy, alienated from Him (Col. 1:21). As a believer, you act like an enemy of God any time you flirt with the ungodly things of this world (James 4:4.) Jesus’ death, however, offers reconciliation and cleansing for His enemies (Rom. 5:10; Col. 1:22). With what worldly mindset have you become too friendly? What will God see in you today: friend or foe?

/by

November 29, 2021

,

Read – Read Nahum 1

What does it say?
Nahum prophesied the destruction of Nineveh by God’s fierce wrath and His deliverance of Judah from Nineveh’s oppression.

What does it mean?
God had been merciful to the people of Nineveh, previously accepting their repentance and sparing their city. In the 100 years between the time of Jonah and Nahum, however, Nineveh again made themselves the enemies of God. They returned to their wickedness, destroyed Israel’s capital city of Samaria, and invaded Judah. God’s holiness required that Nineveh be judged. Nineveh’s destruction would also free His people from their cruel oppression. God’s just and holy nature is expressed by His wrath on sin. His character is perfectly balanced, patiently giving time for repentance.

How should I respond?
Our understanding of a person’s character is usually one-dimensional: loving, generous, jealous, unkind, and so on. Maybe that’s why it’s so difficult for our finite minds to grasp the character of God – seemingly opposite character traits working in perfect unison. For instance, God’s justice on sin and mercy for the sinner are both seen in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Until Christ’s return, God mercifully gives sinners time to repent, but His holy nature cannot leave the guilty unpunished forever. How will you show God’s love today with those who are in danger of His judgment?

/by

November 28, 2021

,

Read – Read Micah 7

What does it say?
Although no godly people remained in Israel, Micah confessed their sin, accepted the Lord’s punishment, and praised God’s mercy and compassion.

What does it mean?
Jewish society had become as depraved as it could get and suffered the consequences of turning away from the Lord. Micah was certain that God would be faithful to His promise to rescue and restore Israel, but he also recognized that His discipline was necessary to deal with the people’s sins. The prophet acknowledged the nation’s guilt, expressing sorrow over their sinful state. God’s Spirit filled Micah with comfort and hope, assuring him that God would be faithful to forgive. Micah fittingly closed his book by marveling at God’s unfailing, compassionate, long-suffering love for His undeserving people.

How should I respond?
Godly sorrow over sin is becoming rare in our society, even among Christians. No matter how far you have wandered from God, He is waiting patiently to restore you to a close relationship with Him. The first step is to acknowledge the wrongdoing before God. You can have unwavering confidence that if you confess your sins, our merciful, compassionate God is faithful to forgive (1 John 1:9). What consequence of sin is evidence that you’ve strayed from the Lord in some area of your life? /by

November 27, 2021

,

Read – Read Micah 6

What does it say?
What is good, and what does the Lord require? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God.

What does it mean?
The hearts of God’s people were so lost in sin that they had no idea how to rightly relate to Him or to each other. Their arrogance caused God to reject their sacrifices and offerings, blocking intimacy in the relationship. The Lord gave simple instructions: treat each other with fairness, respect, and compassion; be loyal to Him and to each other; and live each day with a genuine attitude of humility. He was asking for a transformation of character – to be more like Him. Until their hearts were right with God, they were just “going through the motions.”

How should I respond?
God’s expectations of His people have not changed. Christians should relate to each other in a Christ-like manner. As scriptural principles transform your thinking, you reflect the character of Christ more and more in your daily life. How have your actions and attitudes this week aligned with what God calls, “good”? Have you treated your family, neighbors, and fellow church members with compassion and fairness? Think and pray about whether you’re trying to please God with outward signs of religion and moral living instead of attitudes that reflect a transformed heart and mind. A right relationship with God requires genuine humility and godly character.

/by

November 26, 2021

,

Read – Read Micah 5

What does it say?
Micah prophesied that a ruler with ancient origins would come from Bethlehem, a small village in Judah. He will majestically lead His people to live in security and peace.

What does it mean?
This passage contains not only prophecy of the Messiah’s future deliverance of Israel from attack by enemy nations, it also foretells specific details of Jesus Christ’s birth almost 300 years before it happened. Micah’s vivid description clearly indicates His identity. Though this ruler would be born in Bethlehem, He has always existed and is the same one who will gather the remnant and reign in majesty forever. As God, Jesus was present at Creation and from eternity past (John 1:1-2). He was born in Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-20). He is the Messiah who will rule Israel forever (Luke 1:32-33).

How should I respond?
Many know Jesus as the baby born in Bethlehem who grew up to be a great teacher and healer. But Scripture tells us so much more: Jesus is God in the flesh. He is Creator, Savior, the Alpha and Omega, the Lion and the Lamb. The fulfillment of prophecy assures us that what the Bible says about Jesus is true. How much time do you set aside to really study the Scriptures that reveal who He is and His purpose for coming into the world? Jesus’ power has always been at work and is at work in your life now. How will you allow His Spirit to reveal Himself in and through your life today?

/by

November 25, 2021

,

Read – Read Micah 4

What does it say?
Micah prophesied the Lord’s rule from Mt. Zion in the last days. Nations will journey there to learn God’s law instead of taking up swords against each other.

What does it mean?
Micah’s prophecy shifted in this chapter from despair to hope. He described Israel as a citadel during the thousand-year reign of Jesus Christ. During this Millennium following the seven-year Tribulation, the temple will be rebuilt in Jerusalem, and Christ will rule the entire world from there. God will gather the weak Israelite believers and make them the foundation for a strong, prominent nation in stark contrast to the state of Israel during Micah’s time. All nations will submit to God’s law and live life accordingly. As a result, poverty and war between nations will cease to exist.

How should I respond?
Watching the nightly news or friends going through difficult struggles can cause a sense of hopelessness. As we study God’s Word, though, it is abundantly clear that believers are to live in hope, not despair. We confidently expect Jesus’ return, when all of our earthly struggles and insecurities will end. Realize, however, that your eternal life began the moment you decided to follow Christ. All the blessings of peace, joy, and love available in Him are available to you now. While your daily struggles are real, maintain hope in the coming of our Lord and live today in His power and peace.

/by

November 24, 2021

,

Read – Read Micah 3

What does it say?
Micah rebuked the leaders and false prophets of Israel for misleading God’s people.

What does it mean?
The leaders and false prophets of Israel had achieved status and wealth by taking money to tell the people what they wanted to hear. They manipulated and misled God’s people by proclaiming blessings to those who paid them and harm to those who did not. They disregarded truth and forgot they were accountable to God for their influence over His people. By contrast, the prophets who truly loved the Lord boldly warned of His punishment if God’s people did not turn back to Him, even though their messages were not well received. God holds leaders to a higher standard of accountability.

How should I respond?
We have access to a variety of Christian teaching through books, videos, social media, and television. How do you decide which influences to follow? The most important thing you can do is invest personal time with the Lord through daily prayer and study of Scripture. You’ll be grounded in truth and better equipped to recognize false teaching and wayward leadership. Some religious teachers try to gain popularity with “loving” words but without enough biblical truth to convict of sin or draw you closer to God. Ask the Lord for discernment before you pick up a new book or turn on a Christian station. God will hold teachers accountable, but it’s our job to search out truth (1 Thess. 5:21).

/by

November 23, 2021

,

Read – Read Micah 2

What does it say?
Micah pronounced woe on the Israelite oppressors. He declared that the Lord would repay evil for evil, but the people told him not to prophesy this way.

What does it mean?
God had miraculously delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt. He gave them freedom, victory, wealth, and a land in which to dwell. Rather than use these generous gifts to care for one other, the wealthy, elite Israelites began to defraud fellow Israelites of their possessions and land in violation of the Mosaic Covenant. Their behavior revealed greedy, materialistic hearts – a problem in God’s people that had to be addressed. His judgment would bring recognition of their sin, cleansing the people and their land.

How should I respond?
God has given each of us physical and spiritual gifts. Perhaps you have a position of influence, or you’ve been blessed with material wealth. Maybe you have a personal testimony that God can use to minister to others. What resources and blessings has the Lord given to you? How can you use those resources to show care for a fellow believer or to show God’s love to an unbeliever? How might you be misusing what God has given? Think and pray, asking God to reveal ways you can use the overflow of your gifts to care for others, and then follow His leading today!

/by

November 22, 2021

,

Read – Read Micah 1

What does it say?
Through visions to Micah, God revealed the destruction coming to Jerusalem and Samaria as the result of Israel’s sin.

What does it mean?
King David had established Jerusalem as the central site for worshiping the Lord almost 300 years before Micah’s time. Throughout the generations, God’s unfathomable power had blessed and protected His chosen people. But they blatantly exchanged worship of the Lord for worship of pagan gods – even in the capitals of Samaria and Jerusalem. Micah’s visions foretold the Lord’s response. Their high places would be annihilated, their cities would be destroyed, and their children would be captured and exiled. The unstoppable power of the sovereign Lord would fight against them rather than for them.

How should I respond?
God still displays His power for His children and against things that oppose Him. His power alone can overcome our sin and remove the things that distract us from trusting Him. How have you seen the power of the Lord in your life? Does unrepentant sin keep you in fear of His power, or can you claim His power as an obedient child? In what situation do you desperately need God’s power to fight for you today? Examine your life for anything that opposes His commands; then determine to rely on His power rather than fight the battle in your own strength (2 Cor. 12:9).

/by

James –  The Call to Maturity

2021-11-21

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

This short but meaningful book was written by James, the brother of Jesus. While James was not always a believer that his half-brother was the Son of God, the Messiah, James did come to believe after he saw the miracle of His resurrection. This book, one of the first written in the New Testament, is directed toward Jewish believers who were scattered everywhere to encourage them to put their faith into action.

James 1:16-18 (CSB) Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 By his own choice, he gave us birth by the word of truth so that we would be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

1. A mature believer has a calm spirit

Vss 19-20 My dear brothers and sisters, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, 20 for human anger does not accomplish God’s righteousness.

  • Our reactions to the actions of others displays our spiritual depth
  • We must respond to the injustices of the world with the kind of spirit which reflects the love of Christ
  • “The pull toward evil we feel when tested—a pull toward anger, striking out, or surrender to passion—does not “come from” God. That is, temptation is not located in the test but in our sin nature’s response to the test. If we realize God intends the test as a “good and perfect gift,” our perspective changes.”[1] – Lawrence Richards

[1] Lawrence O. Richards, The Bible Reader’s Companion, electronic ed. (Wheaton: Victor Books, 1991), 871.

2. A mature believer is in a constant state of resetting

Vss 21-25 Therefore, ridding yourselves of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, humbly receive the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 Because if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like someone looking at his own face in a mirror. 24 For he looks at himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of person he was. 25 But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer who works—this person will be blessed in what he does.

  • “ridding” (apotithēmi) – laying aside or taking off
  • This is a continual process in the life of the believer
  • “Too often Christians view a sermon as an interesting moral or theological lecture. We need to do something other than sitting and listening.”[1] – Thomas Lea

[1] Thomas D. Lea, Hebrews, James, vol. 10, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1999), 265.

  • Luke 11:28 He said, “Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it.”

3. A mature believer speaks wisely

Vs 26 If anyone thinks he is religious without controlling his tongue, his religion is useless and he deceives himself.

  • James had a keen understanding of the power of the tongue. This may have had to do with his critical spirit towards Jesus in John 7.
  • It is vital that believers understand how the tongue can either be a force for good or force of destruction
  • Matthew 12:34 Brood of vipers! How can you speak good things when you are evil? For the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.
  • Matthew 12:37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.

4. A mature believer cares for others

Vs 27 Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

  • Two clear markers of the life of the believer: Love others and Love God
/by

November 21, 2021

,

Read – Read Jonah 4

What does it say?
Jonah became angry at God’s compassion toward Nineveh. The Lord provided a vine to give Jonah shade, but then sent a worm to chew the vine, causing it to wither.

What does it mean?
God has the right to show mercy to anyone He chooses. God chose to show kindness to the Assyrians in Nineveh by forgiving them. He explained His mercy to Jonah in a poignant way by comparing Jonah’s anger over the destruction of the vine to his lack of compassion for Nineveh. God owes no one mercy or grace; all people have sinned (Rom. 3:23) and deserve to be punished (Rom. 6:23). Mercy is an underserved pardon from the penalty of sin, and grace is an undeserved gift of God’s kindness. God is both righteous and merciful without any contradiction.

How should I respond?
Since God is both righteous and merciful, shouldn’t we, who are made in His image, also live righteously and mercifully? Someone will likely offend you today by some- thing that is said or done. It might be a slight offense or a great one. On the one hand, you are right to be offended because you recognize, as does God, that sin is wrong, and it hurts. You also have the obligation, as one who has been forgiven, to forgive those who offend you. Will you “turn the other cheek” today and offer forgiveness (Matt. 5:38-41)?

/by

November 20, 2021

,

Read – Read Jonah 3

What does it say?
Jonah preached to the people of Nineveh that God was about to destroy their city because of their great sin. God forgave them when they repented in dust and ashes.

What does it mean?
The Assyrians did not just confess with their mouths that they were sinners; they showed it by their actions – dressing in sackcloth and throwing ashes on their heads. These cruel and violent people recognized their evil ways and sought God’s forgiveness when Jonah delivered God’s message. Their sudden repentance may seem odd, but it uncovers an important truth: sin hardens the human heart until wakened from moral sleep by the conviction of God’s Word. Their full repentance appeased God’s wrath.

How should I respond?
God designed us to recognize sin, turn from it, and seek His forgiveness. When we willfully continue in a particular sin, subtle changes take place in our conscience and thought processes. Over time, we become oblivious to the harm sin causes. Saying, “sorry” then heading right back into our sin does not reverse the effects or appease God. True repentance is the result of seeing ourselves through God’s eyes – sinners in need of forgiveness. What troublesome habit or sin-hardened friend comes to mind? How will your actions demonstrate that you’ve turned away from sin? Who will you tell about God’s forgiveness today?

/by

November 19, 2021

,

Read – Read Jonah 2

What does it say?
Jonah prayed, praising God from inside the belly of a great fish. The Lord commanded the fish to spit Jonah out on dry ground.

What does it mean?
Jonah experienced the discipline of God when he disobeyed His clear command. He realized he was in the process of dying after being swallowed by the giant fish God miraculously prepared for the task. Jonah likened the belly of the fish to the “pit” or “Sheol” – the place of the dead from which there is no escape. In his moment of greatest despair, Jonah’s thoughts turned again to the Lord. The same God who had punished Jonah was the only One who could save him. In return for God’s salvation, all Jonah could offer was obedience and gratitude.

How should I respond?
The hardest thing to do after we’ve sinned or made a really poor choice is to admit it – especially to the One we have hurt most. We often try to hide from our sin, or even lie about it, just to avoid the consequences and the blow to our pride! Thankfully, no one is better at forgiving than God. The Bible tells us that nothing can separate His children from His love (Rom. 8:38-39). Why wait until you reach a point of personal despair? Is there a sin you need to confess to God? Talk to Him directly, accept His pardon, and keep your thoughts centered on Him throughout the day.

/by

November 18, 2021

,

Read – Read Jonah 1

What does it say?
God instructed Jonah to preach against the people of Nineveh, but Jonah boarded a ship to flee the other way.

What does it mean?
Nineveh was the capital city of Assyria in the early 8th century BC. It is located on the Tigris River in what is now northern Iraq. The Assyrians were a ruthless, warlike people in Jonah’s day, conquering much of the Mesopotamian Valley and Israel. They were the most violent and cruel nation in Jonah’s age. However, Jonah’s reluctance to preach against the Assyrians in their capital city was not due to any fear he had of their violence. Rather, he knew that God is a merciful God, and even when He is angry, He is ultimately looking for a way to forgive sinners. Jonah sailed over 1200 miles west instead of traveling 600 miles east to share God’s mercy with the people of Nineveh.

How should I respond?
God does not show mercy just to those who are “pretty good” but also to those who are “pretty bad.” Who has treated you or someone you love cruelly? If God wanted to show mercy to the Assyrians in Jonah’s day, it stands to reason that He would show mercy to your greatest enemy too. He might even want to use you to help that person repent and turn toward the God of all forgiveness. Yesterday’s devotion was a challenge to pray for someone who has hurt you. Will you stop right now to pray for that person again?

/by

November 17, 2021

,

Read – Read Obadiah 1:1-21

What does it say?
God pronounced a death sentence on the Edomites.

What does it mean?
As descendants of Esau, the Edomites were distant relatives of the Israelites through Jacob. Edom had historically suffered with pride and had been unkind to the Israelites through the centuries. The Edomites refused to let the Israelites pass through their territory in the days of Moses (Num. 20:14-21). When Babylonian armies captured and destroyed Jerusalem, the Edomites gloated and sent scavengers to loot what was left of the city. God’s promise to destroy the Edomites completely as a nation was fulfilled when Arab invaders conquered Edom in the 5th century B.C. By the end of the 1st century A.D., even the Edomites who escaped to other places disappeared from history.

How should I respond?
We often feel that divine justice has been served when those we dislike face calamity. However, God calls us to be more gracious and mature than that. What would happen if, instead of gloating when our enemies suffer, we took the opportunity to help meet their needs? Perhaps they would be gently and genuinely led to God and eventually would no longer be our “enemies.” Jesus tells us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matt. 5:44). Take a few minutes each day this week to pray for someone who bothers you, and see what God does in your heart.

/by

November 16, 2021

,

Read – Read Amos 9

What does it say?
Amos proclaimed that God would shake the house of Israel, but He would not totally destroy the house of Jacob.

What does it mean?
God announced a judgment on Israel so severe that the nation would almost be wiped out of existence. Those who had been unfaithful to God’s covenant and rebelled against His standards of morality would find no hiding place. However, there was hope for the Jewish remnant who had submitted to God’s authority. In God’s sifting process, the righteous would be separated from the wicked. God promised the restoration of the house of David, the return of the exiles, and repair of broken places. Ultimately, God’s people will be firmly and forever established in the land He has given them.

How should I respond?
God’s judgment on nations that reject His standard of righteousness is clearly shown throughout the writings of the Old Testament prophets. Because our nation has increasingly adopted laws and lifestyles that violate His Word, many believers feel that God’s judgment is inevitable. However, there is still hope for revival in our nation, but only if we, as individuals, choose the blessings of obedience rather than the judgment that must come from disobedience. As believers, our faith is in Christ, our standard is God’s Word, and our hope is in God’s promises. Keep in mind that revival begins in the heart of one person. What will you do to be that person where you live?

/by

November 15, 2021

,

Read – Read Amos 8

What does it say?
God showed Amos a basket filled with ripe fruit symbolizing Israel. There would be a famine of hearing the words of the Lord in Israel.

What does it mean?
God’s pleading with Israel to return to Him had come to an end. Like summer fruit that is ripe for eating, God’s people were ripe for judgment. Along with continued prosperity had come spiritual poverty. Throughout the nation’s history, God had used famine and drought as a means to draw His people back to Him. This famine would involve more than a lack of food – it would be a spiritual famine of hearing from God. God’s guidance and revelation of Himself through the prophets would be replaced by His silence. Since they had rejected God’s Word, there would be no comforting words from Him.

How should I respond?
Sadly, there is a famine in our nation for the Word of God – not from lack of access, but from neglect. Even many of God’s people are biblically illiterate. As a result, our nation embraces and approves practices that are diametrically opposed to God’s Word. As a believer, rebellion against or neglect of God’s Word diminishes the desire to know and obey Him. How have you responded to God’s voice? Do you have a hunger for God’s Word and a thirst to know Him more? A commitment to read the Bible daily is the first step to coming out of a spiritual drought.

/by

Hebrews – Stay Committed

2021-11-14

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

The book of Hebrews is one of the key books within the New Testament which speaks to the universal problem of individuals falling away from their commitment to Christ because of the noise and distractions of their circumstances. This book has a clear and convincing message of the superiority of Christ. While the book was aimed at a group of first century Jewish Christians, it is also aimed squarely at those within the 21st century as well.

 

Hebrews 3:1-4 (CSB) Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession. 2 He was faithful to the one who appointed him, just as Moses was in all God’s household. 3 For Jesus is considered worthy of more glory than Moses, just as the builder has more honor than the house. 4 Now every house is built by someone, but the one who built everything is God.

Hebrews is a critical reminder to Stay Committed

1. Christ’s promises are absolute

Vs 6a But Christ was faithful as a Son over his household.

  • The writer points out the difference between Moses and Jesus in that Jesus was the SON
  • Moses was a servant “in all God’s household” but Jesus was “over His household”

 

2. Our commitment is not

Vs 6b And we are that household if we hold on to our confidence and the hope in which we boast.

  • Key word is “if” because this is clearly a warning to remain faithful to our following of Christ
  • The writer wants to make sure the message is clear…we must stay committed to Christ

Vss 7-11 Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: Today, if you hear his voice, 8 do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness, 9 where your ancestors tested me, tried me, and saw my works 10 for forty years. Therefore I was provoked to anger with that generation and said, “They always go astray in their hearts, and they have not known my ways.” 11 So I swore in my anger, “They will not enter my rest.”

  • Thomas Lea states, “Hardening the heart takes place whenever someone rejects God’s call or instructions.”[1]
  • “I was provoked to anger” is a direct quote from the Holy Spirit that our actions indeed have consequences

[1] Thomas D. Lea, Hebrews, James, vol. 10, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1999), 47.

3. Stay committed in your trust in God

Vs 12 Watch out, brothers and sisters, so that there won’t be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.

  • Warren Wiersbe says, “The emphasis in Hebrews is that true believers have an eternal salvation because they trust a living Saviour who constantly intercedes for them. But the writer is careful to point out that this confidence is no excuse for sin.”[1]
  • The writer of Hebrews was pointing back to the decisions, actions and consequences of those who wandered in the wilderness for 40 years because of their lack of trust in God

[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 288–289.

4. Develop relationships which will help you grow

Vs 13 But encourage each other daily, while it is still called today, so that none of you is hardened by sin’s deception.

  • The clear message is that we must strengthen each other in our quest to stay committed
  • Isolation will lead to separation

5. Christ’s promises are absolute!

Vs 14 For we have become participants in Christ if we hold firmly until the end the reality that we had at the start.

  • The Christian life is not a job that can be accomplished part-time
  • The commitment Christ has made to us is one which cannot falter
  • But, we must always remember, our commitment must not falter either

 

 

John Dungey says, “The Lord Jesus Christ is God’s final word and man’s only Savior”[1]

[1] The Christian Life Study Bible, Edited by Porter Barrington, Thomas Nelson Publ, Nashville, Tn, pg 1235.

/by

November 14, 2021

,

Read – Read Amos 7:1-9

What does it say?
The Lord relented after showing Amos visions of judgment by locusts and fire. In a third vision, God set a plumb line in Israel saying, “I will spare them no longer.”

What does it mean?
A plumb line is a simple but timeless builder’s tool. By tying a weight to the end of a string, a builder can make sure that a wall under construction is straight and “true to plumb.” It can also indicate whether a building has settled unevenly into the ground and is in need of repair or demolition. God’s Law was like a plumb line – the perfect standard upon which the nation of Israel had been built. Israel’s faithfulness to God was now found lacking when compared to His righteous requirements. The Lord, their Builder, would have to tear down what had become crooked.

How should I respond?
The world has many ways of misleading us as to how we determine right from wrong. You may believe your life is pleasing to God in comparison to current culture. However, God’s measure of what is right and wrong is clearly explained in the Bible and does not change with time or depend on our circumstances. We should compare our lives only to God’s perfect, righteous standard. In what area of your life have you allowed the world’s standards to influence your thinking or behavior? When God’s Word is the only standard by which you measure, your life will be “true to plumb.” /by

November 13, 2021

,

Read – Read Amos 6

What does it say?
Amos pronounced woe on those who were complacent and secure, even while they ignored God’s law.

What does it mean?
Times were economically good for the nation of Israel, especially for the upper classes of society. Prosperity caused the nation’s leaders to become very comfortable, focusing on luxurious lifestyles and ignoring those about them in need. The Jews had seen God judge their neighbors, but they mistakenly believed that He would spare them for the same sins. Their false sense of security was the result of placing faith in their own wealth instead of in God Himself. Amos warned Israel that living comfortably with their sins was not pleasing to the Lord.

How should I respond?
We have become a nation obsessed with our own wealth. Even a little prosperity can turn into an unhealthy desire for more. It seems to be a part of human nature to forget about our reliance on God when all our needs are met and our lives feel under control. God, however, is the Provider of all we have. Difficult times often serve as a healthy reminder to look to God to provide our daily needs. What blessings might have caused you to trust in your resources rather than in God Himself? Let God’s provision increase your faith and trust in Him today. The Lord is always involved and always in control.

/by

November 12, 2021

,

Read – Read Amos 5

What does it say?
Amos lamented the fall and exile of Israel. Perhaps the Lord God Almighty would show mercy to the remnant of Joseph who sought Him, loved what was good, and hated evil.

What does it mean?
Some Jews mistakenly believed that performing ritual sacrifices would keep God from punishing them, even though they consistently did things He called evil. They said that God was among them, yet their treatment of His Law and one another did not reflect His presence. The nation would be punished and sent into exile. In spite of the coming judgment, there was hope for anyone who turned from evil and chose to do good. Amos made the choice clear: individuals could continue to seek evil and be destroyed, or seek the Lord and live.

How should I respond?
Israel’s misguided beliefs are similar to some beliefs today. Our nation supports many practices which go directly against God’s commands and scriptural principles, yet we want to claim His presence and blessing. God still holds nations accountable for their actions – a sobering thought when we see the sin around us. However, God also still honors individuals who willingly turn to Him. In what area of your life are you seeking something other than God? Do you pursue godly things regularly or only when it’s convenient? Abundant life is found in obediently seeking the Lord, daily.

/by

November 11, 2021

,

Read – Read Amos 4

What does it say?
Israel ignored God’s continued warnings to return to Him even though He withheld food and rain, sending locusts and plagues instead.

What does it mean?
Israel ignored God’s warnings and correction like a rebellious child. They repeatedly refused to return to the Lord in spite of the difficulties He sent their way. God had even given them scriptural warnings that He would use these exact chastisements when His people disobeyed (Lev. 26; Deut. 28-29; 1 Kings 8). God would have been perfectly just to punish Israel at any point, but He mercifully chose to give them more time to repent. Still, they lived their lives as they saw fit, oblivious to God and unaware that time was up. Israel had to prepare to meet their God and face even harsher judgment.

How should I respond?
One of the many ways God shows His love is through His patience when we disobey. However, we aren’t guaranteed multiple chances to turn from sinful disobedience without experiencing the Lord’s chastisement. God wants you to follow Him because you love Him, but He won’t hesitate to get your attention through difficulty if you persist in sin. Are you prepared to meet God as an obedient child? What area of rebellion needs to be corrected in your life today? The Lord is patiently waiting to forgive you. Will you return that part of your heart to Him right now?

/by

November 10, 2021

,

Read – Read Amos 3

What does it say?
Even though the Lord chose the people of Israel out of all the families of the earth, He declared, “They do not know how to do right.”

What does it mean?
God had selected Israel for a unique relationship. They were the people through whom the Messiah would come into the world. Throughout their history, He had also provided His prophets to warn and guide them. However, the people had not kept His laws or heeded the prophets and were now at the point that they could no longer distinguish right from wrong. Hosea compared Israel’s relationship with God to two people trying to walk in sync, yet not agreeing on which path to take – it was an impossible task.

How should I respond?
It is impossible for two people to be close to each another if they disagree on important issues in life; the same is true of our relationship with God. When we sin, our relationship with Him suffers because we’re choosing to walk out of sync with Him. Since the Bible is the only true measure for knowing right from wrong, it is the only reliable guide for maintaining a close personal relationship with Christ. What area of disobedience has you on a path other than God’s plan? Walking in sync with God starts with one step of obedience followed by another.

/by

November 9, 2021

,

Read – Read Amos 1-2

What does it say?
Amos prophesied God’s coming judgment on Judah, Israel, and neighboring nations.

What does it mean?
God’s patience with the rebellious nations of Israel, Judah, and their neighbors, had run out. The listing of each nation’s sin demonstrated the Lord’s continued patience. God’s people must have wholeheartedly agreed as they listened to God’s coming judgment on their pagan neighbors. Rather than face their own sin, they mistook God’s patience as His being unconcerned with their behavior and continued to disobey God’s law. However, His judgment would be impartial.

How should I respond?
We easily recognize when others disobey God. The more difficult task is turning our gaze inward and identifying our own rebellion against Him. Unencumbered fellowship with Christ starts by recognizing any sin that has crept into your life. Before pointing fingers at someone else, examine your heart for a similar sinful attitude, and then deal with your disobedience by asking for God’s forgiveness and putting the sin behind you. How might you be judging a fellow believer’s sin while minimizing your own? Admit any areas God brings to mind so that your relationship with Him can be as it should be.

/by

November 8, 2021

,

Read – Read Joel 3

What does it say?
The Lord will restore Judah and Jerusalem and judge the nations at the Valley of Jehoshaphat for their mistreatment of Israel.

What does it mean?
Joel described a future day of worldwide judgment, the last great battle of the Tribulation (Rev. 14 and 16). The Sovereign Lord speaks to the nations who will gather to do battle against Israel. He also announces a message for His chosen people, Israel; the “day of the Lord,” will be a day of deliverance, restoration, and blessing. For those nations who have treated Israel with violence and contempt, that day is a day of God’s wrath and judgment. During that time, the nation of Israel will recognize their covenant-keeping Lord who will dwell with them as their King in Zion, the holy city.

How should I respond?
Those who have trusted Jesus Christ do not need to fear the “day of the Lord.” Your decision to receive Christ is the most important decision you will ever make. One day the door to salvation will close, and then it will be too late. Have you settled the matter with your Creator? Those who think they are “good enough” need to take a serious look at what God’s Word says. There are two options: separation from God or the offer of salvation. Both are forever. What choice have you made?

/by

Philemon – Restoration Is Of God

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

In this very short, but powerful letter, Paul underscores the value of restoration within the body of Christ. Too often, believers are quick to cast people aside because of their actions. Here, Paul writes of the importance of taking another look at restoring relationships which have been broken. Onesimus had been a slave in the household of Philemon, and it is believed had run away after stealing from his master. Onesimus arrived in Rome and was led to Christ through Paul’s ministry. In this letter, Paul is sending Onesimus back to Philemon to right the wrong, but he wanted to ensure Philemon received Onesimus, not as a thief but as a brother in Christ.

1. Love is the key to doing what is right

Philemon 4-7 I always thank my God when I mention you in my prayers, 5 because I hear of your love for all the saints and the faith that you have in the Lord Jesus. 6 I pray that your participation in the faith may become effective through knowing every good thing that is in us for the glory of Christ. 7 For I have great joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.

  • Philemon was a man of great charity and had been a blessing to the body of Christ
  • Yet, Paul knew Onesimus was in dangerous territory in returning to Philemon because of his actions while serving Philemon
  • Paul reminded Philemon of the importance of a Christ-like love

 

2. Restoration requires grace

Philemon 8-11 (CSB) For this reason, although I have great boldness in Christ to command you to do what is right, 9 I appeal to you, instead, on the basis of love. I, Paul, as an elderly man and now also as a prisoner of Christ Jesus, 10 appeal to you for my son, Onesimus., I became his father while I was in chains. 11 Once he was useless to you, but now he is useful both to you and to me.

  • Grace is a gift granted that is undeserved
  • Paul is encouraging Philemon to forgive and show grace to Onesimus

Philemon 8-9 (NLT) That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do. 9 But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you.

 

3. God will never give up on anyone

Philemon 15-22 For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, 16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. 17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would me. 18 And if he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. 19 I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it—not to mention to you that you owe me even your very self. 20 Yes, brother, may I benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. 21 Since I am confident of your obedience, I am writing to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say. 22 Meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, since I hope that through your prayers I will be restored to you.

  • “welcome” (vs17) – proslambanō
  • To accept; receive; grant one access into one’s heart
  • Paul was not simply asking Philemon to forgive and restore Onesimus as a slave
  • He was asking Philemon to forgive, restore and recognize who Onesimus is in the body of Christ
/by

November 7, 2021

,

Read – Read Joel 2

What does it say?
Joel announced an even greater devastation of Judah coming in the future by a large army. Joel urged the people to repent to avoid judgment and receive blessing.

What does it mean?
The locust invasion seems to merge with a preview of a future invasion by a large army from the North. Judah had been unfaithful to the Lord’s covenant and would experience judgment through invasions by Assyria and Babylon. Nations as well as individuals face God’s judgment when they choose to rebel and ignore His warnings. When a nation or an individual turns back to Him, God responds in mercy and grace. His promise to restore the years the locusts have eaten is an encouragement to God’s people that He will restore what was destroyed and pour out His Spirit on them.

How should I respond?
Many Christians find it difficult to move beyond the guilt of one period of time or the regret for a particular sin. To reassure us, God gives us many examples in Scripture of men who had “wasted years” and regrets for their sin against God and man (Moses, David, and Paul). But these men repented, put their sins behind them, and moved for- ward to accomplish the work God gave them to do. In the same way, God encourages us to move beyond the past and trust His promise that “there is no condemnation” for those who are in Christ (Romans 8:1). How will you put the past regrets and guilt behind you and focus on His promise to restore your “wasted years”?

/by

November 6, 2021

,

Read – Read Joel 1

What does it say?
Joel described the locust plague that devastated the land of Judah. The prophet urged repentance in view of the coming day of the Lord, the day of God’s judgment.

What does it mean?
Although the description of the locust devastation is grim, God was using this plague and drought to warn Judah of a far worse disaster to come. An appeal to wake up, to mourn, and to repent was issued to all groups of people, including drunkards, priests, and farmers. The nation’s sin had stained their daily offerings, dishonored God, and resulted in mere ritualistic observances that He detested. Once again, Judah’s gracious and compassionate God warned His people of coming judgment and gave them an opportunity to repent. The day of the Lord was near, but deliverance was still possible.

How should I respond?
The purpose of a hotel wake-up call is to get the guest moving so he doesn’t miss a flight or appointment. A similar thing happens in your Christian life. Daily challenges can distract you from responding to God’s wake-up calls through the promptings of His Spirit within you. As a result, you lose awareness of His working in your life and miss the incredible blessing of cooperating with Him in His plan. Neglecting your relationship with the Lord will leave you with an indifferent heart that has nothing to give. Has God tried to get your attention? How will you respond to your wake-up call?

/by

November 5, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 14

What does it say?
Hosea admonished Israel to return to the Lord, ask for His forgiveness, and forsake other gods. The righteous person walks in the Lord’s ways, which are right.

What does it mean?
Hosea closed his book by laying out a roadmap for returning to the Lord. Genuine repentance required recognizing their sin, admitting it by asking for God’s forgiveness, and changing their ways. Just as Hosea exercised grace with Gomer, instead of his legal right to divorce her for unfaithfulness, the Lord would be gracious when the righteous remnant of Israel returned to Him. Restoring the relationship would allow God’s people to again praise their God and grow in His love. The wise and discerning in Israel would learn from Hosea’s example with Gomer and choose to live by God’s righteous standards.

How should I respond?
You make the choice each day whether or not you’ll be among the wise and discerning who choose to live by the principles in God’s Word. Such a life calls for the discernment to recognize when you’ve stepped out of bounds and the humility to freely admit it to God as sin and ask for His forgiveness. True repentance, however, doesn’t stop with, I’m sorry. You can be sorry without changing how you think or live. The purpose of repentance is to restore a right relationship with your heavenly Father. What path is taking you away from Him? Hosea’s roadmap still works today. Will you follow it?

/by

November 4, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 13

What does it say?
Israel had no king, rulers, or wisdom to save them from the guilt of sin, so God Himself would ransom and redeem them from the power of death.

What does it mean?
Time after time, the children of Israel begged God for help, but then they turned to idols after He satisfied their need. Instead of responding with gratitude and changed hearts, Israel quickly forgot about the Lord’s deliverance and resumed sinning with increased fervor. They didn’t acknowledge the Lord’s daily provision or His divine plan for dealing with sin’s penalty through sacrifice. God documented each rebellion against His authority and recorded each refusal to recognize His goodness. God’s people were racking up a sin debt, and only He could provide a ransom for them.

How should I respond?
How strong is your faith when times are good? Do you live in the same God awareness when stress levels decrease as when you’re begging God to intervene in the wee hours of the morning? We tend to resume life as usual as soon as the pressure is off, which may include a resumption of sinful thoughts or habits. In order to protect your heart from ingratitude, try keeping a prayer journal to record how God answers those desperate cries for help. Go over them regularly, thanking God both privately and publicly. Any rebellion against God’s authority will start to make you oblivious to His goodness.

/by

November 3, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 12

What does it say?
Hosea urged Israel to return to God, maintain love and justice, and wait for the Lord.

What does it mean?
Hosea outlined Israel’s spiritual history to remind them of where they came from and to whom they belonged – the Lord God Almighty! They had abandoned proper worship of God, turning instead to Egypt and Assyria for national stability. Their efforts were as ridiculous as trying to eat the wind. Continuing to provoke God this way meant paying the price for sin through judgment rather than God-ordained sacrifice. Hosea presented a simple solution: return, maintain, and wait. Returning to God meant repentance, then maintaining a godly lifestyle by replacing lies and violence with love and justice. Waiting on God involved trusting Him for the security they were so desperately pursuing.

How should I respond?
One of the hardest things to do when life gets off kilter is to wait. Human nature wants to fix the situation immediately. We forget that ‘wait’ is a verb; it’s not sitting idly, but trusting expectantly, choosing not to act until God instructs you to do so. Waiting is made easier when you have unassailable confidence in the One you are waiting on. That kind of trust is the product of faith, built by turning to the Lord and maintaining a life that pleases Him. As you wait, mentally walk through your history to remind yourself how God has provided and cared for your family in the past. Any attempt to find stability or security by your own efforts will fall short. Wait on the Lord God Almighty – always!

/by

November 2, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 11

What does it say?
Israel was determined to turn from the Lord even though He had loved, taught, healed, led, and fed them. Would God’s people return to Egypt because they refused to repent?

What does it mean?
The relationship perspective between God and Israel shifts from husband and wife to father and child. The imagery brings to mind a father providing for and teaching his young child. God’s guidance and protection of His people had been evident throughout their history; even surrounding nations feared the God of Israel. But because Israel stubbornly refused to listen to His warnings, they were lured away by the images those nations worshiped (Ex. 23:32-33). They couldn’t recognize the reality of God’s loving intervention as long as they insisted on having their own way. Still, their compassionate, Holy Father would discipline, not destroy, His ungrateful, disobedient children.

How should I respond?
Many in our society would say that perception is reality. We can agree that what you believe to be true seems very real, but perceptions can change quickly, while truth is constant. Today’s passage warns that our view of reality will be skewed any time we insist on having our own way rather than faithfully obeying God’s Word. What personal agenda might you be stubbornly insisting upon? Any plan or path that doesn’t line up with Scripture will lure you away from your loving heavenly Father.

/by

November 1, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 10

What does it say?
Israel would reap the Lord’s unfailing love if they would seek Him by sowing righteousness instead of wickedness.

What does it mean?
Israel had remained in the depths of depravity since the shocking incident with the priest’s concubine in Gibeah (Judges 19). But shock eventually gave way, and evil slowly became prevalent throughout Jewish society. How? God’s people sowed wickedness instead of righteousness. Over time, the once fruitful vine of Israel turned into hard ground, growing only weeds and thorns. The fruit of their actions deceived them into thinking that military strength could replace God’s presence. Hosea’s solution to their sin problem was echoed by other prophets of his time, “Seek the Lord” (Isa. 55:6; Amos 5:6).

How should I respond?
You don’t have to live in an agricultural society to understand the natural laws of planting and harvesting: a pumpkin seed cannot produce a tomato. In the same way, spiritual laws govern whether good or bad fruit is produced in your life (Gal. 5:19-23). What bad fruit has resulted from allowing evil of some kind to be planted in your heart and mind? Today’s passage is both a warning against becoming accustomed to sin and a call to seek the Lord. Good, spiritual fruit is the product of sowing seeds that please the Spirit, not your sinful nature (Gal. 6:7-10). What kind of fruit will you produce today?

/by

Titus – The Change Order

2021-10-31

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

The book of Titus, along with 1 & 2 Timothy, is one of the pastoral epistles. Paul wrote the letter for the purpose of encouraging sound doctrine, right living, and good church practices among the followers of Christ. He also clearly underscores what he wrote to Timothy in how leaders within the church are to act. It was written around 63 or 64 A.D.

Titus 3:1-11 (CSB) Remind them to submit to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, 2 to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people. 3 For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved by various passions and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another. 4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared, 5 he saved us—not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy—through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 6 He poured out his Spirit on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life. 8 This saying is trustworthy. I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed God might be careful to devote themselves to good works. These are good and profitable for everyone. 9 But avoid foolish debates, genealogies, quarrels, and disputes about the law, because they are unprofitable and worthless. 10 Reject a divisive person after a first and second warning. 11 For you know that such a person has gone astray and is sinning; he is self-condemned.

1. We have a calling to be different in a difficult world

Vss 1-2 Remind them to submit to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, 2 to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people.

  • “submit” – willingness to do what doesn’t come naturally
    • Romans 13 – Submit to authorities
    • 1 Timothy 2:1-2 – Pray for authorities
    • Acts 5:29 – But never compromise – “We ought to obey God rather than men”
  • Contrasts between bad and good in verse 2
    • Slander (bloss-fo-ME-o) = to speak against someone in such a way as to harm or injure their reputation[1]
    • Galatians 5 – Kindness, Gentleness

 

Vss 9-11 But avoid foolish debates, genealogies, quarrels, and disputes about the law, because they are unprofitable and worthless. 10 Reject a divisive person after a first and second warning. 11 For you know that such a person has gone astray and is sinning; he is self-condemned.

 

2. Our calling comes from our changing

Vss 3-5 For we too were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved by various passions and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, detesting one another. 4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared, 5 he saved us—not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy—through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

  • Vs 3 For we too were once…
  • “enslaved” – We were slaves to our former selves
    • Romans 6:20 – For when you were slaves of sin
  • Vs 4 But when…
    • Romans 6:22 – But now, since you have been set free from sin and have become enslaved to God

 

3. This change leads to our hope

Vss 6-7 He poured out his Spirit on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life.

  • Because of what Christ did for us all, we have been made right with Him
  • “justified” – to declare someone as being made righteous
  • “salvation” is a legal term describing a guilty person before the bar who is then pronounced blameless by the judge. This does not mean the individual has been found guiltless. Instead, it means that the person has been released from guilt, his offense paid for. All of this is by God’s grace, apart from human merit.[2] – Knute Larson

 

Vs 8 This saying is trustworthy. I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed God might be careful to devote themselves to good works. These are good and profitable for everyone.

  • The practice of good works is the logical outcome of a true apprehension of the grace of God.[3] – Edmond Hiebert

 

[1] Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1964–)

[2] Knute Larson, I & II Thessalonians, I & II Timothy, Titus, Philemon, vol. 9, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000), 383.

[3] D. Edmond Hiebert, “Titus,” in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Ephesians through Philemon, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, vol. 11 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1981), 447.

/by

October 31, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 9

What does it say?
God would reject His people and turn from them, causing their root to wither.

What does it mean?
Like Gomer, Israel’s unfaithfulness took her from blessing to poverty and from privilege to humiliation. God’s people worshiped Baal as the provider of their plentiful harvest and numerous children when both were actually blessings from the Lord. Without God’s favor there would be no grain to thresh, no grapes or olives to press, and no children to cherish. Just as Gomer ended up on the slave block, filthy and mistreated, Israel would be driven from the land that provided everything they needed, defiled before the Lord. The tender affection God felt toward Israel was altered by their unfaithfulness, yet His covenant commitment never changed. His rescue would eventually come, but not before they suffered horrific consequences.

How should I respond?
We can become so accustomed to God’s blessings that we lose sight of exactly how His favor permeates our daily lives. Taking His provision for granted is the first step toward ingratitude and a wayward heart. When your relationship with Christ is unhindered, you recognize Him as the Giver of everything good (James 1:17). How might you have misdirected the credit for something God has done? What Christian privileges do you need to express gratitude for today (Eph. 1:4-14)? Start a list of God’s blessings to keep in your Bible. Take time to thank the Lord as you add to it regularly. Gratitude produces a proper perspective and a faithful heart.

/by

October 30, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 8

What does it say?
Even though God’s people said they acknowledged Him, they forgot that He was their Maker and rejected His law as something alien.

What does it mean?
Israel and Judah still saw themselves as God’s people, but it didn’t translate into personal or national life. People rejected what was good, and they did as they saw fit without seeking the Lord’s counsel. God’s law had become so unfamiliar that it seemed strange, yet religious ritual was a cultural habit. Without His law as the central focus of daily life, their façade of worship had no substance. They even set national policy without giving any thought to the Lord’s approval. All attempts to find security through self-sufficiency would prove as futile as trying to sow the wind.

How should I respond?
Children are completely dependent upon their parents to provide all their needs, but as kids get older, they become more capable. By the time they reach the teen years, some rebel against parental help and stop caring about their approval at all. In spiritual terms, maturity doesn’t mean self-sufficiency. Reliance on our heavenly Father acknowledges that He is more capable of providing for our needs than we are. Does your current thinking show a tendency toward self-sufficiency or God-sufficiency? How will you demonstrate dependence on the Lord?

/by

October 29, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 7

What does it say?
God longed to redeem His people, but they did not search for Him. They spoke lies about Him and sought help from nations who deceived them.

What does it mean?
Israel’s failure to seek the Lord resulted in a national lack of discernment and dulling of their senses. From the lens of his own marital heartache, Hosea described Israel’s passion as an oven hot for sin; their self-realization as an aging man unaware of death; their naiveté as a dove easily lured into a trap; and their character as an unreliable weapon. Instead of being faithful to the Lord, they established national policies that turned everywhere for help except to the Most High. Instead of turning to God for redemption, Israel arrogantly believed lies made up by their senseless hearts.

How should I respond?
Most self-help books begin with personal awareness. The problem is that we can often be convinced of almost anything – whether it is true or not. True self-awareness comes through God-awareness, not from our own reasoning (Jer. 17:9). Self-deception might be more comfortable for a time, but it isn’t productive in the long run. Before you read your Bible each day, ask the Lord to show you one true thing about Him and one true thing about yourself. As you do, your discernment will be broadened, your spiritual senses will be heightened, and your passion for Christ will be increased.

/by

October 28, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 5-6

What does it say?
Hosea announced God’s judgment against Israel and Judah – He would withdraw Himself from His people.

What does it mean?
Israel remained on trial as an unfaithful wife, and now Judah stumbled with them. The Lord put His people on the witness stand, approaching the defendant as a prosecuting attorney. Rather than help their case, Israel’s arrogance confirmed their guilt. Pride would indeed go before their fall (Prov. 16:18). The Lord, now acting as their Judge, handed down the sentence – Israel would no longer enjoy His favor or presence. As war with other nations came, they would offer sacrifices. However, they approached God’s altar like a good luck charm rather than with sincerity. The Lord would remain distant until their hypocrisy ended, and they turned to Him in genuine repentance.

How should I respond?
Nothing reveals our own hypocrisy faster than a sudden crisis. What was the last bit of news that sent you into a tailspin? Maybe a relationship ended, or your finances were adversely affected. Did you turn to God in that moment? If so, what was your attitude? Arrogance leads you to think you deserve His blessings. Hypocrisy tries to win His favor through a flurry of religious activity, but without sincerity. Genuine faith, however, causes humility before the Lord – trusting and obeying because of Who He is, not what He can do for you personally. Live today in the presence of the Lord…just because.

/by

October 27, 2021

,

Read – Read Hosea 4

What does it say?
The Lord’s charge against Israel: there was no faithfulness, love, or acknowledgment of God in the land of Israel. They were without knowledge or understanding of His Law.

What does it mean?
The foundations on which Jewish society were formed had collapsed. The source of the problem could be traced to their lack of knowledge and understanding regarding God’s Law, which the priests no longer taught or modeled. Priests, prophets, and the people violated the Ten Commandments routinely. With no moral standard to live by, the people gave in to sensuality – completely eroding religious, family, and community life as established by God. The covenant was broken. Israel in no way characterized the name, “God’s people.”

How should I respond?
Today’s passage is as relevant to 21st century America as it was to Israel in Hosea’s time. The many similarities are cause for alarm. Our culture has turned its back on God, embracing instead any idea that pushes the boundaries of morality. Godly values will be upheld only to the extent that Christians desire to know His Word. What role do biblical principles play in your everyday life? The difference between believers and the world will only widen as time goes on. Determine now to be a Christian of substance, not in name only.

/by

October 26, 2021

,

Read – Hosea 3

What does it say?
Hosea was instructed to love his adulterous wife as the Lord loved the Israelites.

What does it mean?
The freedom Gomer sought through promiscuity led her into the bondage of slav- ery. Although Hosea must have been deeply shamed and grieved, he purchased Gomer back, assuring her that he would be fully devoted to her as before. Through his marriage, Hosea gained a fuller understanding of the depth of love the Lord had for His wayward, undeserving people. Israel no longer appreciated God’s blessings, just as Gomer had taken Hosea’s love, provision, and protection for granted. Hosea’s reconciliation with his wife pictures the Lord’s future restoration of Israel, which will be marked by His love and favor.

How should I respond?
Young adults who’ve grown up in church are leaving in record numbers. While it’s incumbent upon the church to understand the range of reasons, a few results from a 2011 Barna poll are quite revealing. Christian views on science, sexuality, and world religions feel stifling to this generation in view of today’s culture. In a nutshell, they are searching for freedom from biblical mandates. Independence from God, however, brings bondage not freedom (John 8:34-36). True freedom is only found through a relationship with Jesus, whose death and resurrection delivered us from slavery to sin. Who has God put on your mind today? How will you show them God’s unconditional love?

/by

October 25, 2021

,

Read – Hosea 2

What does it say?
The Lord rebuked Israel as His unfaithful wife. After a time of judgment, He will restore their covenant and say, “You are my people”; and they will say, “You are my God.”

What does it mean?
With Hosea’s marriage as the backdrop, the Lord charged Israel with adultery. The wording resembles a legal proceeding. In this courtroom, God was the wronged spouse as well as the prosecutor and judge. Israel pursued false gods, attributing her provision and protection to Baal rather than to the Lord. The legal illustration stops short of a divorce proceeding as God called them to repent and mercifully laid out a plan for the restoration of their covenant relationship. Israel’s disobedience caused them to temporarily forfeit the intimacy of their relationship, along with God’s bless- ings.

How should I respond?
Today’s text is an illustration of the covenant relationship between Jesus and New Testament believers (Romans 9:24-26; 1 Peter 2:10). If you’re honest, you would probably admit to thinking more about the implications of Christ’s faithfulness to you than your fidelity to Him. Yet God’s expectation of us as His covenant people has not changed. What has God brought to your mind concerning your lack of faithfulness to Him? Allow Him to search your heart for any sin that is blocking complete intimacy in your relationship (Ps. 139:23-24). Then, turn to Jesus, your Advocate (1 John 2:1).

/by

2 Timothy – Finish Strong!

2021-10-24

Charles Billingsley

 

2 Timothy 4:6-8 NKJV
6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.

1. Fight the Good Fight and Live your Life with No Retreats

2 Timothy 2:3
You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

W.I.N. – What’s Important Now

A. Choose your Battles Carefully 

B. Stay Prepared for Battle 

Ephesians 6:12b
“but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places”

C. Fight from your Knees

2. Keep the Faith and Live your Life with No Regrets 

2 Timothy 2:6-7
6 The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.

2 Timothy 2:15
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

A. Faithfulness in the work

2 Timothy 3:12-15
12 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

2 Corinthians 11:24-28
24 From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; 26 in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; 27 in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness— 28 besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.

2 Timothy 4:17a
But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear.

B. Faithfulness to the word 

2 Timothy 4:1-5
1 I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

3. Finish Strong and Finish your Race with No Reserves 

A. Stay Alert – Don’t get Distracted by Something, or Someone!  

B. Stay the course! 

1. Fight the Good Fight and Live your Life with No Retreats
2. Keep the Faith and Live your Life with No Regrets
3. Finish Strong and Finish your Race with No Reserves 

4. Focus on the Reward

2 Timothy 4:8
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.

/by

October 24, 2021

,

Read – Hosea 1

What does it say?
Under the instruction of the Lord, the prophet Hosea married Gomer and had children.

What does it mean?
The book of Hosea beautifully pictures God’s redeeming love for Israel. Hosea’s family life was a living illustration of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The Lord knowingly sent His prophet into a marriage that would cause heartache through Gomer’s unfaithfulness – just as God foreknew Israel would prove unfaithful to Him. The names of Gomer’s children reflect the judgment, distance, and lack of affection that had come to characterize Israel’s relationship with the Lord. God’s covenant promises to Abraham, however, are not conditional or irrevocable (Gen. 12:1-3). He will yet keep His promise to bless Israel, restoring His people to their land and to Himself.

How should I respond?
Throughout the New Testament the relationship between Christ and the church is pictured as a bride and groom. As believers, we have entered into a covenant relationship with the Lord (Eph. 2:11-22). Although the permanence of the relationship is never in question, you may feel distant from Him at times. Jesus never withdraws from us; some form of rebellion on our part is always to blame. What words currently describe your relationship with Christ? What might be in the way of experiencing His tender affection? God is ever faithful, even when our fidelity to Him falters.

/by

October 23, 2021

,

Read – Daniel 12

What does it say?
Israel will experience great distress, deliverance, and resurrection of the dead.

What does it mean?
The promise of Israel’s ultimate deliverance must have consoled Daniel, even as he tried to make sense of it all. In answer to his questions, the angel explained that good and evil would continue until the end of time, but Daniel was to continue living for God. Even though Daniel would die before all these things happened, the angel promised that he would be resurrected and would receive a reward for faithfulness. Daniel was given the responsibility of recording this prophecy for future generations. As he wrote it all down, Daniel had to live with the burden of what his loved ones would face … but he knew he could trust God with their future.

How should I respond?
There are multitudes trusting the Lord as persecution of God’s people increases all over the world. You may not understand why such evil exists, but you can continue living to honor Christ and persevere to accomplish the work He has given you. How will you live each day as you wait for God to bring human history to a conclusion? Will you seek understanding by maintaining companionship with God and studying Scripture? God promises deliverance, resurrection, and reward to all the faithful whose names are written in the Book of Life. You can trust your future to our faithful God.

/by

October 22, 2021

,

Read – Daniel 11

What does it say?
Daniel’s messenger revealed Israel’s persecution under Persian, Greek, and Roman rulers. He spoke of a king who would declare himself to be god at the end of time.

What does it mean?
The content of this chapter was future to Daniel, but much of it is history to us. The messenger from God continued to give Daniel understanding of what was ahead for Israel. History corroborates the accuracy of the message, but beginning in verse 36, events are foretold that have not yet happened. In the final seven years of history, a ruler will reject Christ and set up a one-world religion with himself as god. From Jerusalem he will seek to conquer the world, but he will fail. Daniel’s prophecy is a reminder that God is all-knowing, all-powerful, and sovereign over history. Ultimately, wickedness will not prevail.

How should I respond?
Does some difficulty have you baffled and confused? Are you wondering what God’s will is in the situation? The Lord knows your future just as surely as He knows the future of human history. Sometimes it appears the wicked are winning, but this pas- sage reminds us that God will have the last word in all earthly matters. You can have unswerving confidence in Christ, regardless of your circumstances. This doesn’t mean bad things won’t happen, but God knows what is going on and He is with you. You win when you trust God, confident of His presence and provision throughout your difficulty.

/by

October 21, 2021

,

Read – Daniel 10

What does it say?
God gave a vision that overwhelmed Daniel, but God’s messenger strengthened him.

What does it mean?
Under Cyrus, Israel’s captivity had come to an end, and many Jewish exiles had returned to reoccupy Jerusalem. But God revealed to Daniel that Israel’s future would continue to be filled with conflict. This news caused him to mourn and put everything aside in order to seek God and pray. God responded to Daniel’s prayer by sending a vision and His messenger who explained future events and gave him encouragement. The prince of Persia and prince of Greece are thought to be Satan’s demons, who oppose God’s messengers. The angel pulled back the earthly curtain and gave Daniel a view of spiritual activity triggered by the prayer of God’s people.

How should I respond?
Prayer is spiritual warfare activated by those who love God (Eph. 6:12; 18). Because the Lord hears and responds when we call on Him, we should be motivated to talk with Him in both good times and bad. How would you describe your communication with God? You may never know what spiritual activity your prayers have prompted or the hidden battles being fought on your behalf. God will give you strength to pray and continue praying as you look to Him and wait for His answer. Commit to consistently attend the battle and persist in prayer for God’s will.

/by