Posts
Introducing the Bible Text – 003
Being God’s Man – Know Your Style
Have you ever told a story that you had to introduce before you could actually tell it? Did you need to set the stage? Good News always brings excitement. What is the most recent good news that you have heard? What is the best news that you have ever heard?
If you were to write a title for your life, what would you like for it to be? How would you like to be remembered after you are gone? Have you studied your family tree to learn about where your ancestors came from?
In this lesson, we are going to observe how each writer begins his Gospel. Each has his own style of writing and unique audience. Knowing your style will be helpful to you as you seek to tell others about Jesus.
Mark’s Title – name given to a literary work. – Mark 1:1
It is the title to the story about the life and teachings of Jesus Christ! Mark’s Gospel is addressed TO THE ROMANS! Even though Jesus was with God the Father in the act of creation, His life on this earth has a beginning. Gospel comes from the Greek word, “Euanggellion.” It means “Good News”. Jesus is the good news about God reaching down to establish an eternal relationship with man! Is there any greater news than being set free from our sins? Mark is the only writer to use the word “Gospel” in his book.
“Jesus” is Greek for “Joshua” which means, “God is salvation.” Christ is Greek for “anointed one” (the Hebrew word is Messiah)! Romans understand “gods” as beings of power so Mark focuses on the power of Jesus as God the man. JESUS IS THE POWER! Mark takes the Roman’s quest for power and presents Jesus as the ultimate solution. We can likewise take the power of the Gospel to change the lives of others so they can find that power in their lives as well.
We can use Mark’s style to reach those around us who are seeking real power in their life. You can also develop that power in your life as you go through “GETTING TO KNOW JESUS.” You will become better equipped to handle the trials and challenges that we all face and you exercise the strength God has given you to deal with those situations.
Luke’s Preface – An introductory statement to start the story. – Luke 1:1-4
Luke employs the style of contemporary historical and technical writers. Luke acknowledges that he is not the first or only person to write about Jesus. He simply sets out to tell the accurate and true story. Luke seeks to inform THE GENTILES! Luke writes to “most excellent Theophilus” which means, “God lover.” This could be a person or anyone who loves God! “Most excellent” recognizes the person as one worthy of honor! Are you a “Theophilus?”
Luke seeks to give his readers a researched and thorough accounting of what Jesus did and taught. By “GETTING TO KNOW JESUS” you are developing an accurate understanding of the life and teachings of Jesus so that you can tell others. Those who love god will love Jesus and are honored!
John’s Prologue – preliminary action foreshadowing a greater event. The Prologue sets the stage so that he can tell you the real story! – John 1:1-18
John’s prologue is more of a theological statement than an introduction. A prologue is an introduction foreshadowing a greater event! John’s Prologue is comprised of three parts which are divided by statements about John the Baptist. John seeks to reach THE LOST! Before time existed, Jesus is! He is the Logos means WORD of God. JESUS IS THE WORD OF GOD! He is present before creation. He is cause, not effect. Jesus is the SON means He is the light who has come to change men’s lives! He changes men’s lives for the better!
John the Baptist is mentioned as an immediate forerunner to proclaim the coming of the Messiah! Jesus gives us the REAL POWER to become sons of God!
The oppression of the church will fail, but Christ’s Church shall prevail! We are born as children of God when we accept Jesus as God’s Son and our Lord and Savior! God, God’s WORD – Jesus has come and lived among us! We are recipients of God’s grace, first by Moses, but far more so by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ!
Matthew’s Genealogy – chart or recorded history of descendents. – Matthew 1:1-17
Jesus has a very important genealogy! Matthew writes to prove Jesus as Messiah TO THE JEWS! Matthew and Luke give the genealogy of Jesus. Matthew follows the legal lineage via Joseph. This will show that Jesus is a true descendant from David. Luke follows the physical lineage of Jesus through Mary. He traces it all the way back to Abraham and Adam. (We are all connected to Jesus.) Matthew mentions Tamar (who prostituted herself with her father-in-law), Rahab (a prostitute and foreigner), Ruth (a foreigner) and Bathsheba (with whom David had an adulterous affair). God can accomplish His divine will even out of man’s fallen state! Matthew shows 3 sets of 14 generations. Jesus’ lineage is an important step in proving that He is the Messiah! It proves He is a descendant of David and Abraham as prophesied.
In similar manner, your genealogy is an important part of your identity. The most important part of your genealogy is whether or not you are a part of the family of God. “GETTING TO KNOW JESUS” will help you grow as a member of God’s family.
CONCLUSION
We are only getting started in our adventure of “Getting To Know Jesus”!
This is only a commentary on the one of the lessons from the Getting To Know Jesus Bible Study Series. To get the full lesson, including the Bible text, commentary and discussion questions, go to http://www.gettingtoknowjesus.org/ and order Getting To Know Jesus - Volume 01
Friday, July 29, 2011
Friday, July 15, 2011
Being God’s Man – Finding Your Audience
Four Writers – One Story 002
Being God’s Man – Finding Your Audience
Everybody has a different way of telling the same story. Because of our different personalities, we approach the same event from a different viewpoint. Police question many witnesses to try to piece together the truth from their combined stories. Likewise, God chose to have four different authors write about the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. In so doing, He gave us four views who Christian leaders have considered to be authentic and reliable. (There are other writers, but their stories do not carry the divine signature. Indeed, some of them are heretics in their writings!)
By learning about each author and his background, we can better understand what he writes, why he writes and make better application of it to our lives. We can also understand how God can use us even though we aren’t like someone else that we look up to. So let’s look at the authors of the four Gospels and see how we can learn more about Jesus’ life from what they wrote. Why did they write the way they did?
None of the four Gospels identify their authors. John doesn’t even mention his name in his Gospel. However, tradition and history have accepted that these words were penned by the men we currently attribute them to and there is insufficient, if any, evidence to say otherwise.
Matthew reminds me that GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES!
Matthew was a tax collector prior to becoming a disciple and later being chosen by Jesus to be an Apostle. He was a Jew who wrote to persuade the Jews that Jesus is the Messiah that had been prophesied in the Old Testament. He will understand the Jewish people and how they think. He will use that knowledge to persuade them that Jesus is the promised Messiah.
Matthew’s gospel approaches the life and teachings of Jesus Christ topically, more than chronologically. It is like a topical study with seven divisions that was written to the Jews proclaiming Jesus is Messiah! He specializes in showing how Jesus fulfilled all of the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. Matthew likes to focus on what Jesus said and taught and is the most quoted of the writers. We find many of the parables.
Matthew is proclaiming that Jesus is the one promised by God who redeems Israel (and all mankind) from their sins! GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES!
Mark Tells Us That JESUS IS A GOD WHO BECAME MAN!
Mark is believed to be John Mark who had accompanied Paul for a season. His gospel reflects the style and personality of Peter and most scholars believe that he got his information and inspiration from Peter.
Romans like power and Mark shows Jesus as a powerful force! Mark’s Gospel was written to the Romans and shows rapidity of action, vividness of detail and picturesque description – Action and Power! Mark’s gospel reads like an action adventure. He rapidly goes from one event to another with no transitions. Jesus is the Son of God!
Mark is less concerned with chronological order and focuses more on what Jesus did! He establishes the power of Jesus as the Son of God. A little extra attention is given to Jesus’ miracles. He also explains many of the Jewish customs that his Roman audience does not understand.
Jesus is a God who became a man! GOD HAS LIVED AMONG US!
Luke declares that JESUS IS A MAN WHO IS GOD!
Luke gives us a Biography written to the Gentiles and declaring Jesus is a man who was God! Luke is a medical doctor who was Paul’s personal physician. Although he will get much of his information from Paul, his medical background leads him to search diligently to ascertain the history of His Story!
Gentiles like knowledge and intellectualism. Luke shows them that this man, Jesus, is God who is living among us. His humanity and power will satisfy the curiosity and interests of the Greeks, who like to consider themselves as intellectuals. Luke gives more focus on His life and His miracles. He gives more detail on birth and only account of childhood. He and Matthew give the genealogy of Jesus. Matthew goes from Abraham to Mary. Luke traces it from Joseph to Adam.
Jesus is a man who is also God! He works mighty miracles over man and nature! AS SUCH, HE HAS MODELED HOW GOD WOULD LIVE IF HE WERE A MAN (HOW WE SHOULD LIVE TO PLEASE GOD)!
John declares that JESUS IS OUR LORD AND SAVIOR!
John, along with his brother, James, were known as “Sons of Thunder.” He was one of the youngest of the Apostles. He didn’t write his Gospel until almost 100 years after Jesus’ birth. John focuses is on who Jesus is and what He did! Mentions “love,” six “I AM’s.” John only covers three weeks of Jesus’ life, but he covers every event on each day of those weeks. He seeks to show Jesus as the only one through which we can be forgiven of our sins.
Jesus is our Lord and Savior! BELIEVE IN JESUS AS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR!
The Gospels give us four authors, four audiences and four styles, but one story. In similar manner, God has given you your particular talents and interests and circle of influence. Your job is not to do my job or do what I do the way I do it. Your job is to use your gifts and abilities to witness to those who are in your circle of influence.
Throughout this life, all that matters is Getting To Know Jesus! We are here to walk with you on a journey through His life and teachings. We look forward to being with you next week. Meanwhile, God Bless and have a great week.
Being God’s Man – Finding Your Audience
Everybody has a different way of telling the same story. Because of our different personalities, we approach the same event from a different viewpoint. Police question many witnesses to try to piece together the truth from their combined stories. Likewise, God chose to have four different authors write about the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. In so doing, He gave us four views who Christian leaders have considered to be authentic and reliable. (There are other writers, but their stories do not carry the divine signature. Indeed, some of them are heretics in their writings!)
By learning about each author and his background, we can better understand what he writes, why he writes and make better application of it to our lives. We can also understand how God can use us even though we aren’t like someone else that we look up to. So let’s look at the authors of the four Gospels and see how we can learn more about Jesus’ life from what they wrote. Why did they write the way they did?
None of the four Gospels identify their authors. John doesn’t even mention his name in his Gospel. However, tradition and history have accepted that these words were penned by the men we currently attribute them to and there is insufficient, if any, evidence to say otherwise.
Matthew reminds me that GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES!
Matthew was a tax collector prior to becoming a disciple and later being chosen by Jesus to be an Apostle. He was a Jew who wrote to persuade the Jews that Jesus is the Messiah that had been prophesied in the Old Testament. He will understand the Jewish people and how they think. He will use that knowledge to persuade them that Jesus is the promised Messiah.
Matthew’s gospel approaches the life and teachings of Jesus Christ topically, more than chronologically. It is like a topical study with seven divisions that was written to the Jews proclaiming Jesus is Messiah! He specializes in showing how Jesus fulfilled all of the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. Matthew likes to focus on what Jesus said and taught and is the most quoted of the writers. We find many of the parables.
Matthew is proclaiming that Jesus is the one promised by God who redeems Israel (and all mankind) from their sins! GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES!
Mark Tells Us That JESUS IS A GOD WHO BECAME MAN!
Mark is believed to be John Mark who had accompanied Paul for a season. His gospel reflects the style and personality of Peter and most scholars believe that he got his information and inspiration from Peter.
Romans like power and Mark shows Jesus as a powerful force! Mark’s Gospel was written to the Romans and shows rapidity of action, vividness of detail and picturesque description – Action and Power! Mark’s gospel reads like an action adventure. He rapidly goes from one event to another with no transitions. Jesus is the Son of God!
Mark is less concerned with chronological order and focuses more on what Jesus did! He establishes the power of Jesus as the Son of God. A little extra attention is given to Jesus’ miracles. He also explains many of the Jewish customs that his Roman audience does not understand.
Jesus is a God who became a man! GOD HAS LIVED AMONG US!
Luke declares that JESUS IS A MAN WHO IS GOD!
Luke gives us a Biography written to the Gentiles and declaring Jesus is a man who was God! Luke is a medical doctor who was Paul’s personal physician. Although he will get much of his information from Paul, his medical background leads him to search diligently to ascertain the history of His Story!
Gentiles like knowledge and intellectualism. Luke shows them that this man, Jesus, is God who is living among us. His humanity and power will satisfy the curiosity and interests of the Greeks, who like to consider themselves as intellectuals. Luke gives more focus on His life and His miracles. He gives more detail on birth and only account of childhood. He and Matthew give the genealogy of Jesus. Matthew goes from Abraham to Mary. Luke traces it from Joseph to Adam.
Jesus is a man who is also God! He works mighty miracles over man and nature! AS SUCH, HE HAS MODELED HOW GOD WOULD LIVE IF HE WERE A MAN (HOW WE SHOULD LIVE TO PLEASE GOD)!
John declares that JESUS IS OUR LORD AND SAVIOR!
John, along with his brother, James, were known as “Sons of Thunder.” He was one of the youngest of the Apostles. He didn’t write his Gospel until almost 100 years after Jesus’ birth. John focuses is on who Jesus is and what He did! Mentions “love,” six “I AM’s.” John only covers three weeks of Jesus’ life, but he covers every event on each day of those weeks. He seeks to show Jesus as the only one through which we can be forgiven of our sins.
Jesus is our Lord and Savior! BELIEVE IN JESUS AS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR!
The Gospels give us four authors, four audiences and four styles, but one story. In similar manner, God has given you your particular talents and interests and circle of influence. Your job is not to do my job or do what I do the way I do it. Your job is to use your gifts and abilities to witness to those who are in your circle of influence.
Throughout this life, all that matters is Getting To Know Jesus! We are here to walk with you on a journey through His life and teachings. We look forward to being with you next week. Meanwhile, God Bless and have a great week.
Friday, July 8, 2011
How to Weather the Storms of Life
Getting To Know Jesus - Volume 04
Jesus Teaches by Private Explanation - 052
How to Weather the Storms of Life
When is the last time that you cried out for help? Was it a situation at home, work, or out in the community? Was it a health crisis, accident situation, bad news regarding a job, income or financial crisis? Did you get bad news about a spouse, parent or child, relative or close friend?
What do you do when you find yourself in a crisis? Do you loose strength and cry out as one who is totally helpless? Do you toughen up and look to see what you have to do to fight this crisis? Or did you combine the two responses?
In Matthew 8:18, 23-27; Mark 4:35-41 and Luke 8:22-25, Jesus and the Apostles take a boat ride. This ride turns into quite a life-threatening event. Let’s see what Jesus has to teach us about it.
Life Will Encounter Severe Storms – Matthew 8:18, 23-24; Mark 4:35-37; Luke 8:22-23
Jesus and the Apostles are crossing the lake to get to the other side. Jesus may be using this to get a break from the crowd, as well as do some ministry on the east side of the Sea of Galilee. On the way across the lake, they get caught in one of the storms that the sea is known for. These storms come out of the north with very strong winds and churn up the waves to the point of threatening their safety.
There are going to be times in each of our lives when we will encounter a crisis. It may be a marriage problem or a health issue. It could be an accident or a conflict at work or outside the home. The crisis may be related to a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or some other weather related event. To some, it may seem small, but to you, it is a major situation. Regardless of what your “storm” is, life is about dealing with the storms that come and learning how to survive them!
Jesus is Our Source of Security – Matthew 8:25-26; Mark 4:38-39; Luke 8:24-25a
When the storm increases, even the fisherman who are very familiar with the Sea of Galilee become alarmed and afraid. The other Apostles are looking to Peter, Andrew, James and John, trusting that they know how to deal with this. When they become alarmed, that is reason for the others to become alarmed more so!
Jesus isn’t bothered by the storm. In fact, He’s asleep in the back of the boat as though there is nothing to worry about. This doesn’t make sense to them so they go and put their dilemma on His shoulders. They look to Him to protect them from the threat of drowning.
When the Apostles wake Him, He first rebukes them for being fearful. He knows that this storm is nothing to worry about because He knows the power and will of God. Jesus knows that God will protect Him and them because they have a greater purpose on earth.
When we encounter a trial, storm, difficulty in our lives, God desires for us to bring it to Him and look to Him for protection, deliverance, healing or what ever is necessary to resolve the situation. Indeed, God allows us to go through trials to cause us to look to Him for help, guidance, safety, security and to help us grow as believers.
Responding To God’s Power – Matthew 8:27; Mark 4:40-41; Luke 8:25b
When the Apostles see how easily and calmly Jesus stills the storm and calms the waves, they are utterly amazed. They have seen Him do many different kinds of miracles, but this is the first time they have seen Him exercise power over nature. This will only cause them to recognize that He has power over nature as well as over the diseases and handicaps of people.
Do you remember to thank God for the things He has safely seen you through? Do you ever think to praise Him for protecting you from so much that you never know about? Do you look for and notice the displays of God’s power that are constantly all around us?
CONCLUSION
I find it breathtaking to look at the storm and praise God’s wonderful power. The magnificence of the storms with the peace of His presence in a crisis and the assurance of His salvation, all come together to give me more reason to want to praise Him.
Next week, Jesus is going to meet a man who is possessed with many demons. There is going to be a confrontation and those demons are going to make pigs of themselves! Join us as we learn how to deal with demons and do some more “Getting To Know Jesus”!
Jesus Teaches by Private Explanation - 052
How to Weather the Storms of Life
When is the last time that you cried out for help? Was it a situation at home, work, or out in the community? Was it a health crisis, accident situation, bad news regarding a job, income or financial crisis? Did you get bad news about a spouse, parent or child, relative or close friend?
What do you do when you find yourself in a crisis? Do you loose strength and cry out as one who is totally helpless? Do you toughen up and look to see what you have to do to fight this crisis? Or did you combine the two responses?
In Matthew 8:18, 23-27; Mark 4:35-41 and Luke 8:22-25, Jesus and the Apostles take a boat ride. This ride turns into quite a life-threatening event. Let’s see what Jesus has to teach us about it.
Life Will Encounter Severe Storms – Matthew 8:18, 23-24; Mark 4:35-37; Luke 8:22-23
Jesus and the Apostles are crossing the lake to get to the other side. Jesus may be using this to get a break from the crowd, as well as do some ministry on the east side of the Sea of Galilee. On the way across the lake, they get caught in one of the storms that the sea is known for. These storms come out of the north with very strong winds and churn up the waves to the point of threatening their safety.
There are going to be times in each of our lives when we will encounter a crisis. It may be a marriage problem or a health issue. It could be an accident or a conflict at work or outside the home. The crisis may be related to a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or some other weather related event. To some, it may seem small, but to you, it is a major situation. Regardless of what your “storm” is, life is about dealing with the storms that come and learning how to survive them!
Jesus is Our Source of Security – Matthew 8:25-26; Mark 4:38-39; Luke 8:24-25a
When the storm increases, even the fisherman who are very familiar with the Sea of Galilee become alarmed and afraid. The other Apostles are looking to Peter, Andrew, James and John, trusting that they know how to deal with this. When they become alarmed, that is reason for the others to become alarmed more so!
Jesus isn’t bothered by the storm. In fact, He’s asleep in the back of the boat as though there is nothing to worry about. This doesn’t make sense to them so they go and put their dilemma on His shoulders. They look to Him to protect them from the threat of drowning.
When the Apostles wake Him, He first rebukes them for being fearful. He knows that this storm is nothing to worry about because He knows the power and will of God. Jesus knows that God will protect Him and them because they have a greater purpose on earth.
When we encounter a trial, storm, difficulty in our lives, God desires for us to bring it to Him and look to Him for protection, deliverance, healing or what ever is necessary to resolve the situation. Indeed, God allows us to go through trials to cause us to look to Him for help, guidance, safety, security and to help us grow as believers.
Responding To God’s Power – Matthew 8:27; Mark 4:40-41; Luke 8:25b
When the Apostles see how easily and calmly Jesus stills the storm and calms the waves, they are utterly amazed. They have seen Him do many different kinds of miracles, but this is the first time they have seen Him exercise power over nature. This will only cause them to recognize that He has power over nature as well as over the diseases and handicaps of people.
Do you remember to thank God for the things He has safely seen you through? Do you ever think to praise Him for protecting you from so much that you never know about? Do you look for and notice the displays of God’s power that are constantly all around us?
CONCLUSION
I find it breathtaking to look at the storm and praise God’s wonderful power. The magnificence of the storms with the peace of His presence in a crisis and the assurance of His salvation, all come together to give me more reason to want to praise Him.
Next week, Jesus is going to meet a man who is possessed with many demons. There is going to be a confrontation and those demons are going to make pigs of themselves! Join us as we learn how to deal with demons and do some more “Getting To Know Jesus”!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
How Not to Make Friends (Stand Your Ground)
Jesus Responds to His Accusers - 048
How Not to Make Friends
(Stand Your Ground)
In 1936, Dale Carnegie wrote a book on “How to Win Friends and Influence People”. It has been a best seller ever since and never surpassed in its truths and wisdom. His insights are universal and it is a book that should be read by everyone.
However, there are times when winning others to your viewpoint is fruitless. There are some people whose hatred for you and what you believe is so severe that the only solution is to confront and expose them with their attitudes. Trying to win them is a waste of energy.
In Matthew 12:34-50; Mark 3:31-35 and Luke 8:19-21, Jesus continues His comments on the Pharisees. He is not going to make any friends in this discourse! But again, it is not His fault that they are so opposed to Him as to be unwilling to consider whether His claims are true. Can you believe that there are actually some people who will reject Jesus, even to His face? How do we handle people like that today?
Expose Their Hypocrisy – Matthew 12:34-37
Jesus realizes that the Pharisees, in general, feel threatened by Him. They like having power over the people, and Jesus is undermining that power. Instead of embracing Him, they have chosen to hate and oppose Him. In less than two years, they will be key figures in crucifying Him.
Since He knows that He will not win them (with the exception of Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea) His only alternative is to expose them for the hypocrites that they are. They accused Him of being a demon. Now He tells them that they will be judged by their own words! You cannot always allow your opponents to continue unopposed!
Jesus doesn’t address their attitude towards Him, but instead exposes their double standard, especially in their relationship to God. There will be times when we will have to expose the hypocrisy of those who are opposed to our message. Don’t back down from your faith in God!
Warn Them of the Consequences of Denial – Matthew 12:38-45
The Pharisees ask Jesus for a sign with the suggestion that they will believe Him if they get what they want. Jesus replies that they have already had many signs and still don’t believe. They want to deny rather than accept the truth. Jesus claims that foreigners are more open to the truths of God than they are. When the church is established, gentiles will be as open, if not more so, to the Gospel than the Jews.
When we become opposed to someone or something, it is much harder to listen and consider their views. The Pharisees are unwilling to even consider Jesus’ claims or recognize the signs that He has already given. They are adamant in their opposition to Him and His teachings. If they don’t accept what they have already seen, they will not accept more if they were to see it.
Remember Who Our Real Friends Are – Matthew 12:46-50; Mark 3:31-35; Luke 8:19-21
Again, Jesus’ family comes to speak to Him. Earlier, they were concerned about Him being so busy helping other people that they thought He wasn’t in control of Himself. The suggestion is that they thought He was mentally unstable. This time, they aren’t trying to “take charge of Him”, but they would like to talk. I wonder what they have to say!
Jesus responds that His true family consists of those who follow God’s will. They will want to believe in Him and follow His teachings. That includes you and me and would exclude any “family” members who don’t choose to believe that He is God’s Son, our Lord and Savior.
There may be situations where your family isn’t nearby or they don’t share your values. In that case, your “family” becomes those who do share your values, activities, and proximity. That doesn’t mean you don’t have contact with real family members but that we recognize those closest to us as those who will be there for us if a crisis occurs.
What kind of a friend are you? Do you care about others? Do you do things to help others around you when they have needs? A good way to make friends is to be a friend. Your church is most likely your closest circle of friends. Consider how you can build this circle of friends by inviting others to come to Jesus and join your circle of fellowship.
CONCLUSION
When you are witnessing to others about Jesus, be courteous, respectful and polite. If they reject your witness, then let them go into the hands of God. It is not your job to make them believe, but to try to persuade them to investigate and accept Jesus for themselves.
Next week, Jesus is going to teach us something about gardening. It is a parable that has some very strong lessons for you and me to live by. Join us and we will do some more “Getting To Know Jesus”!
How Not to Make Friends
(Stand Your Ground)
In 1936, Dale Carnegie wrote a book on “How to Win Friends and Influence People”. It has been a best seller ever since and never surpassed in its truths and wisdom. His insights are universal and it is a book that should be read by everyone.
However, there are times when winning others to your viewpoint is fruitless. There are some people whose hatred for you and what you believe is so severe that the only solution is to confront and expose them with their attitudes. Trying to win them is a waste of energy.
In Matthew 12:34-50; Mark 3:31-35 and Luke 8:19-21, Jesus continues His comments on the Pharisees. He is not going to make any friends in this discourse! But again, it is not His fault that they are so opposed to Him as to be unwilling to consider whether His claims are true. Can you believe that there are actually some people who will reject Jesus, even to His face? How do we handle people like that today?
Expose Their Hypocrisy – Matthew 12:34-37
Jesus realizes that the Pharisees, in general, feel threatened by Him. They like having power over the people, and Jesus is undermining that power. Instead of embracing Him, they have chosen to hate and oppose Him. In less than two years, they will be key figures in crucifying Him.
Since He knows that He will not win them (with the exception of Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea) His only alternative is to expose them for the hypocrites that they are. They accused Him of being a demon. Now He tells them that they will be judged by their own words! You cannot always allow your opponents to continue unopposed!
Jesus doesn’t address their attitude towards Him, but instead exposes their double standard, especially in their relationship to God. There will be times when we will have to expose the hypocrisy of those who are opposed to our message. Don’t back down from your faith in God!
Warn Them of the Consequences of Denial – Matthew 12:38-45
The Pharisees ask Jesus for a sign with the suggestion that they will believe Him if they get what they want. Jesus replies that they have already had many signs and still don’t believe. They want to deny rather than accept the truth. Jesus claims that foreigners are more open to the truths of God than they are. When the church is established, gentiles will be as open, if not more so, to the Gospel than the Jews.
When we become opposed to someone or something, it is much harder to listen and consider their views. The Pharisees are unwilling to even consider Jesus’ claims or recognize the signs that He has already given. They are adamant in their opposition to Him and His teachings. If they don’t accept what they have already seen, they will not accept more if they were to see it.
Remember Who Our Real Friends Are – Matthew 12:46-50; Mark 3:31-35; Luke 8:19-21
Again, Jesus’ family comes to speak to Him. Earlier, they were concerned about Him being so busy helping other people that they thought He wasn’t in control of Himself. The suggestion is that they thought He was mentally unstable. This time, they aren’t trying to “take charge of Him”, but they would like to talk. I wonder what they have to say!
Jesus responds that His true family consists of those who follow God’s will. They will want to believe in Him and follow His teachings. That includes you and me and would exclude any “family” members who don’t choose to believe that He is God’s Son, our Lord and Savior.
There may be situations where your family isn’t nearby or they don’t share your values. In that case, your “family” becomes those who do share your values, activities, and proximity. That doesn’t mean you don’t have contact with real family members but that we recognize those closest to us as those who will be there for us if a crisis occurs.
What kind of a friend are you? Do you care about others? Do you do things to help others around you when they have needs? A good way to make friends is to be a friend. Your church is most likely your closest circle of friends. Consider how you can build this circle of friends by inviting others to come to Jesus and join your circle of fellowship.
CONCLUSION
When you are witnessing to others about Jesus, be courteous, respectful and polite. If they reject your witness, then let them go into the hands of God. It is not your job to make them believe, but to try to persuade them to investigate and accept Jesus for themselves.
Next week, Jesus is going to teach us something about gardening. It is a parable that has some very strong lessons for you and me to live by. Join us and we will do some more “Getting To Know Jesus”!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
How to Treat Others
Jesus Eulogizes John the Baptist - 045
(The following lesson is based on Getting To Know Jesus lesson 045 in Getting To Know Jesus - Volume 04)
How to Treat Others
I recently celebrated my sixtieth birthday. Knowing Sylvia’s pendant to celebrate such events, especially “milestones” with some flare, I asked for a birthday party in lieu of anything else. What I got was about 120 friends gathering together to celebrate my birthday. I have never had a party like that thrown for me.
Included in the event was a dinner with lots of good food. We all laughed. They also presented a photo collage on PowerPoint that gave a brief overview of my life.
One of the things realized was that this was a celebration of my life and what I meant to others before I died. Funerals are somewhat similar, except the person had died.
Jesus had just been questioned by some of John the Baptist’s followers who were inquiring for John about whether Jesus was the Messiah. After answering their question, Jesus takes the opportunity to say a few things about John the Baptist. Even in this event, there are lessons for us!
Challenge Errant Thinking – Matthew 11:7-10; Luke 7:24-27
Jesus begins by expressing the Jewish contemporary opinion of John. He does not do it as a put down, but merely a neutral observation. He reiterates what the most people were expecting of John. Then He presents the truth.
Be careful what you SAY
Even Christians get involved in errant rhetoric. Political bashing, criticizing of other Christians or Christian organizations, etc. is not constructive to our Christian witness.
Seek to REASON, not ARGUE
We can’t reach those who are engaged in sexual immorality, drug addicts, or people who condone sinful activities if we just all out attack them. We must show them that we understand what they are thinking, explain where that thinking comes from and then point out its fallacies.
Speak the TRUTH in LOVE
We do want to be able to explain God’s way in a manner that the other person will understand and not feel like they are being attacked.
Speak Well of Others – Matthew 11:11-15; Luke 7:28-30
Jesus goes on to tell the people that there has never been a spokesman for God as great as John the Baptist. When you think of men like Abraham, David, Isaiah, Elijah, Elisha and Jeremiah, that is quite a statement.
Don’t put OTHER people DOWN
When I hear someone putting someone else down, my nature is to think less of the one talking than of the one they are talking about. We don’t build ourselves up by putting others down, but by speaking about the good in other people’s lives.
Find the GOOD in other people and COMMEND them for it
Mom said, “If you have nothing good to say, say nothing.” Will Rogers said that he never met a man he didn’t like. We need to look for the good in others and speak that good to them and about them. That will make other think good of us also.
Don’t Reject God’s Anointed – Matthew 11:16-19; Luke 7:31-35
Jesus reflects on how some Jews are trying to Him into a mold that He doesn’t fit. Rather than seeing who He is in God, they are trying to tell Him whom He can or cannot be.
Don’t criticize other CHRISTIANS
It is a dangerous thing when we start to criticize other Christians just because they believe or worship different. There are so many people going to hell who need the clear message of salvation that we don’t have time to waste criticizing how others do it. If they are doing something that is not Scriptural, go to them in private. Don’t talk behind their back.
The law by which you JUDGE is the law by which you will be JUDGED
It is likewise unwise to criticize another person for how they are doing their job, managing their money, treating their spouse or raising their children just because you don’t like how they are doing it.
CONCLUSION
What you say about others will come back to what others say about you and how they treat you! Remember the Golden Rule? Are you someone who is often talking about others in an uncomplimentary way or are you someone who always defends the underdog and builds other people up?
In Getting To Know Jesus - 046, we are going to get some insights on Jesus’ attitude towards women. The Women’s Lib movement needs to join us as we look into this matter.
(The following lesson is based on Getting To Know Jesus lesson 045 in Getting To Know Jesus - Volume 04)
How to Treat Others
I recently celebrated my sixtieth birthday. Knowing Sylvia’s pendant to celebrate such events, especially “milestones” with some flare, I asked for a birthday party in lieu of anything else. What I got was about 120 friends gathering together to celebrate my birthday. I have never had a party like that thrown for me.
Included in the event was a dinner with lots of good food. We all laughed. They also presented a photo collage on PowerPoint that gave a brief overview of my life.
One of the things realized was that this was a celebration of my life and what I meant to others before I died. Funerals are somewhat similar, except the person had died.
Jesus had just been questioned by some of John the Baptist’s followers who were inquiring for John about whether Jesus was the Messiah. After answering their question, Jesus takes the opportunity to say a few things about John the Baptist. Even in this event, there are lessons for us!
Challenge Errant Thinking – Matthew 11:7-10; Luke 7:24-27
Jesus begins by expressing the Jewish contemporary opinion of John. He does not do it as a put down, but merely a neutral observation. He reiterates what the most people were expecting of John. Then He presents the truth.
Be careful what you SAY
Even Christians get involved in errant rhetoric. Political bashing, criticizing of other Christians or Christian organizations, etc. is not constructive to our Christian witness.
Seek to REASON, not ARGUE
We can’t reach those who are engaged in sexual immorality, drug addicts, or people who condone sinful activities if we just all out attack them. We must show them that we understand what they are thinking, explain where that thinking comes from and then point out its fallacies.
Speak the TRUTH in LOVE
We do want to be able to explain God’s way in a manner that the other person will understand and not feel like they are being attacked.
Speak Well of Others – Matthew 11:11-15; Luke 7:28-30
Jesus goes on to tell the people that there has never been a spokesman for God as great as John the Baptist. When you think of men like Abraham, David, Isaiah, Elijah, Elisha and Jeremiah, that is quite a statement.
Don’t put OTHER people DOWN
When I hear someone putting someone else down, my nature is to think less of the one talking than of the one they are talking about. We don’t build ourselves up by putting others down, but by speaking about the good in other people’s lives.
Find the GOOD in other people and COMMEND them for it
Mom said, “If you have nothing good to say, say nothing.” Will Rogers said that he never met a man he didn’t like. We need to look for the good in others and speak that good to them and about them. That will make other think good of us also.
Don’t Reject God’s Anointed – Matthew 11:16-19; Luke 7:31-35
Jesus reflects on how some Jews are trying to Him into a mold that He doesn’t fit. Rather than seeing who He is in God, they are trying to tell Him whom He can or cannot be.
Don’t criticize other CHRISTIANS
It is a dangerous thing when we start to criticize other Christians just because they believe or worship different. There are so many people going to hell who need the clear message of salvation that we don’t have time to waste criticizing how others do it. If they are doing something that is not Scriptural, go to them in private. Don’t talk behind their back.
The law by which you JUDGE is the law by which you will be JUDGED
It is likewise unwise to criticize another person for how they are doing their job, managing their money, treating their spouse or raising their children just because you don’t like how they are doing it.
CONCLUSION
What you say about others will come back to what others say about you and how they treat you! Remember the Golden Rule? Are you someone who is often talking about others in an uncomplimentary way or are you someone who always defends the underdog and builds other people up?
In Getting To Know Jesus - 046, we are going to get some insights on Jesus’ attitude towards women. The Women’s Lib movement needs to join us as we look into this matter.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Muslim Extremism and Bullying Exposed
Muslim Extremism and Bullying Exposed. While I believe that Pastor Terry Jones used bad judgment in burning the Quran recently, I am even more appalled at the reaction of the Muslims. Jones, in his symbolic defining of the Quran as a book that advocates anti-Christian beliefs, succeeded in exposing the evil of the Muslim religion. Why are the Muslims rioting and killing innocent people? Why aren’t the Muslim leaders condemning that behavior? Christianity has never condoned the outright murder of non-Christians. We don’t force people to become Christians, but instead, through love and gentle persuasion, we offer others an opportunity to find the forgiveness of sin, hope and eternal life that we have. The Muslim Quran teaches that Christians and Jews are infidels who should be killed. They carry out all kinds of executions and suicide bombings to intimidate people into allowing them to have their way. Somewhat like the ACLU, they use threats and terrorism to push their agenda on others. That is nothing but bullying. Why aren’t the Muslim leaders condemning Muslims for killing the UN workers and other Christians? Why don’t the Muslims condemn the burning of the Holy Bibles that were taken to Iran by United States soldiers for their personal use? They want us to play by their rules, but they have no respect for our rules, our freedom or even our religion. Pastor Jones did not kill any Muslims. He did not advocate the killing of Muslims. He only expressed his displeasure with the teachings of the Quran by burning one copy of the book. Muslims, in turn have murdered a dozen UN workers and thousands of Christians, and have rioted and demonstrated in an attempt to bully the rest of the world into complying to Muslim Law. Muslims do not control the world or dictate law for the rest of the world. Jesus Christ is King and He dictates law for all regardless of race or place. All of the kingdoms and nations of the earth will never have more power, territory or outreach than Jesus Christ and is Kingdom, the Church. No government will last as long as the Church has lasted. In the United States, you can be a Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, atheist or any religion in the United States (a Christian nation), but you can’t be a Christian in a Muslim country. If Muslims want the right to their views, it is only logical that they must also allow and respect our views. God Bless America!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Welcome Home
Welcome Home
The son thought he knew more than dad so he insisted on getting his share of the inheritance and leaving home so he wouldn’t have to listen to or obey his father any more. Off he went, far from home, far from his father’s wisdom and instruction. He spent his money like it was a never-ending supply. He had wild parties with immoral girls and other friends. He did what he thought would make him happy, until the money ran out.
This sounds like too many of our young people for ages. Most teenagers develop a time when they don’t want to be under their parent’s control any more. Some stick it out until college, career and marriage takes them away. However, too many simply rebel and get into doing drugs, having sex outside of marriage or sneaking out at night, etc. The worst part of it all is what they do to themselves in their quest for independence.
When the money ran out, so did his friends. Hunger can drive a man to do a lot that he would not consider doing otherwise. This young man took a job doing something that would have been absolutely detestable at home. He fed the pigs. After a short period of this unpleasant living, the son realizes that dad was a whole lot smarter than he thought.
Sooner or later, the rebellious teenager or young adults learn that dad was a whole lot smarter than they thought he was. It is amazing how much fathers learn between the time that their sons turn 18 to the time they turn 25. Some return to their parents and seek forgiveness and restoration. Others self-destruct or let their pride and pain keep them from reestablishing their relationship with their parents.
The young man in our story decided that he needs to return home, ask forgiveness and get a job working for his father. When dad sees him coming, he runs with excitement, greets his dirty son with ragged clothes. The father has some really nice clothes brought to his son and prepares a feast. He is so glad to have his son back that he wants to celebrate. Even though the son admits he isn’t worthy, that doesn’t matter to the father. He is simply glad to know his son is alive, safe and back home.
That is how God is with us. When we rebelled and thought we knew more than He does, He allowed us the freedom to leave His provision and caring instruction and strike out on our own. When we got full of the devil and realized that it wasn’t what the world made it out to be, our father was waiting to welcome us back home.
God loves you too much to leave you in your sin. No matter what you have done in the past, He will forgive you if you come to Him, confess your sins and acknowledge that Jesus Christ died on the cross for you so you could be forgiven. If you will come to faith in Jesus, God will wrap His heavenly arms around you, love you and celebrate that you are now back in fellowship with Him.
Those of you who know your Bibles will recognize the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-24. Just remember how excited God was when you chose Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Share God’s love and excitement with someone else. They are looking for Jesus’ love also.
The son thought he knew more than dad so he insisted on getting his share of the inheritance and leaving home so he wouldn’t have to listen to or obey his father any more. Off he went, far from home, far from his father’s wisdom and instruction. He spent his money like it was a never-ending supply. He had wild parties with immoral girls and other friends. He did what he thought would make him happy, until the money ran out.
This sounds like too many of our young people for ages. Most teenagers develop a time when they don’t want to be under their parent’s control any more. Some stick it out until college, career and marriage takes them away. However, too many simply rebel and get into doing drugs, having sex outside of marriage or sneaking out at night, etc. The worst part of it all is what they do to themselves in their quest for independence.
When the money ran out, so did his friends. Hunger can drive a man to do a lot that he would not consider doing otherwise. This young man took a job doing something that would have been absolutely detestable at home. He fed the pigs. After a short period of this unpleasant living, the son realizes that dad was a whole lot smarter than he thought.
Sooner or later, the rebellious teenager or young adults learn that dad was a whole lot smarter than they thought he was. It is amazing how much fathers learn between the time that their sons turn 18 to the time they turn 25. Some return to their parents and seek forgiveness and restoration. Others self-destruct or let their pride and pain keep them from reestablishing their relationship with their parents.
The young man in our story decided that he needs to return home, ask forgiveness and get a job working for his father. When dad sees him coming, he runs with excitement, greets his dirty son with ragged clothes. The father has some really nice clothes brought to his son and prepares a feast. He is so glad to have his son back that he wants to celebrate. Even though the son admits he isn’t worthy, that doesn’t matter to the father. He is simply glad to know his son is alive, safe and back home.
That is how God is with us. When we rebelled and thought we knew more than He does, He allowed us the freedom to leave His provision and caring instruction and strike out on our own. When we got full of the devil and realized that it wasn’t what the world made it out to be, our father was waiting to welcome us back home.
God loves you too much to leave you in your sin. No matter what you have done in the past, He will forgive you if you come to Him, confess your sins and acknowledge that Jesus Christ died on the cross for you so you could be forgiven. If you will come to faith in Jesus, God will wrap His heavenly arms around you, love you and celebrate that you are now back in fellowship with Him.
Those of you who know your Bibles will recognize the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-24. Just remember how excited God was when you chose Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Share God’s love and excitement with someone else. They are looking for Jesus’ love also.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)