'The People That Amazed Jesus Christ.'
Mark 6:1-6.
a) 6:1. He went back to His home town with His Disciples.
b) 6:2. The people did not receive Jesus Christ's Teaching.
c) 6:2. They asked three questions as to:-
1-His source of inspiration.
2-His Wisdom.
3-His Works.
d) 6:4. They, in unbelief, took offense at Him.
e) 6:5. He could do no mighty works there, not even teach, all Jesus Christ did was lay His Hands on a few sick people and heal them.
f) 6:5. Even Jesus Christ went through the pain of having His Ministry rejected.
g) 6:6. He was Amazed because of their unbelief.
h) 6:6. Did He give up? No! He went out to the villages, with His Disciples and taught there.
(Through this QT I learn from The People That Amazed Jesus Christ)
-------------------------------------------
'Remain Alert.'
Proverbs 24:30-34.
a) Three kinds of people who are not alert:-
1-24:30. The lazy.
2-24:30. The devoid of understanding.
3-24:33. The sleepy.
4-24:33. The people who prioritize on resting.
b) The results of not being alert:-
1-24:31. The challenge to work becomes more difficult.
2-24:31. No protection for our life and property.
3-24:33. Poverty.
4-24:33. Increased need.
c) How we should respond to those people who are not alert:-
1-24:32. Look at that situation - do not ignore it, there is a message for us there.
2-24:32. Consider it. Only God can move those people who are not alert - we cannot change them, but we should consider that lifestyle and avoid it.
3-24:32. Receive instruction. We should learn from every situation we come across in life.
(Through this Second one I want to Remain Alert)
------------------------------------------
Chris.
The only people in this whole World who need be devoid of understanding are those who have certain kinds of mental sickness. When people say that they do not understand it is an indication of a communications breakdown of some kind, not a lack of understanding. The Book of Exodus in the Bible tells us that God gives understanding. We can pray for understanding according to the Book of Kings. Job tells us that understanding can come through the experiences of Life. In the Psalms we read that our obedience to God will give us understanding. In Proverbs we are exhorted to concentrate on understanding and to marry a wife who has it. Jesus said that if we listen to His Teaching we get understanding. Through the Bible we find that there are several things that can block our understanding: Religious Bigotry; Sin; Hatred - whether personal or racial; Being strongly self-opinionated and not open to other people's opinions; too much "speaking in tongues". So, if we have a problem understanding, we do not blame another person but we check ourselves. We resolve it through communication. Keep communicating until we understand. There is absolutely no need for people to be devoid of understanding.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Yes, The Lord Is Great!
'Yes, The Lord Is Great.'
Psalm 99:1-5.
a) 99:1. He Reigns.
b) 99:1. He can cause Nations to tremble.
c) 99:1. He sits enthroned between the Cherubim.
d) 99:1. He causes earthquakes.
e) 99:2. He is Great in Zion.
f) 99:2. He is Exalted above all peoples.
g) 99:3. Let all the peoples Praise His Great and Awesome Name.
h) 99:3 & 5. He is Holy.
i) 99:4. He is Mighty King.
j) 99:4. He loves Justice.
k) 99:4. He has established Equity.
l) 99:4. He does what is Just and Right.
m) 99:5. We should Exalt Him and Worship at His Footstool.
(This QT causes me to proclaim Yes, The Lord Is Great)
------------------------------------------
'Christ's Disciples Publicly Acknowledged.'
John 13:35.
a) By this. There is one specific way in which Christ's Disciples will be acknowledged by non believers. This is the only powerful way that the community can be influenced by God's Family, the Church.
b) All people. This is universal, it speaks to rich and poor, male and female, young and old. It speaks to people of all people groups and ethnicities. It speaks to adherents of every religion.
c) Will know. They will be convinced and have an assurance, a realization, an understanding. They will perceive and apprehend clearly and certainly. They will distinguish and discern. They will recognize.
d) That we are Christ's Disciples. Surely proper Christian Discipleship is the Will of God for every Church. I am not writing about a Discipleship Course, but a Discipleship Lifestyle. (This is the only lifestyle for True Believers)
e) If we love one another. This is the simple key evidence of True Believers, we love one another. This is Christ's Standard for His Disciples and therefore His Church and Family. Any group of "christians" or "church" that rejects, or compromises with, this simple Truth, is really not of God.
(This Second one shows me Christ's Disciples Publicly Acknowledged)
--------------------------------------------
Chris.
God's Family. A family is not something natural. It is created and composed, a creative miracle initiated from the Will of God. There are family characteristics, the marks of the individual family, each one having its own special identity. There is family group, all the individual members that make up the one family. There is family health, as one member suffers, all the members suffer with it and as one member is honored, all members rejoice with it. There is family history, most families are interested in their "family tree". There is family leave - special time given by the working place in many European Nations when a family member is sick, compassionate leave is given so that the sick member may be looked after. A family is a living organism not an organization, this is understood by many Asian and Middle Eastern Nations. Many Western Nations have lost the meaning of family - independence rules, therefore selfishness rules and there is a breakdown of family life. This sorely and deeply affects the Western Church and its Vision and Mission. A large organization is not necessarily a "success" in God's eyes. A community is an association of living organisms, having mutual relationships among themselves and to their environment, thus functioning as a unit. The natural extension of a community is communism. Communism is a totalitarian system of government in which a single authoritarian party controls everyone and everything. Their professed aim is to establish a classless society. True Believers need to learn to live as a family, not as a community. A family that reaches out to the World's communities with the Gospel so that the people in the World can, through Jesus Christ, become members of the Family of God.
Psalm 99:1-5.
a) 99:1. He Reigns.
b) 99:1. He can cause Nations to tremble.
c) 99:1. He sits enthroned between the Cherubim.
d) 99:1. He causes earthquakes.
e) 99:2. He is Great in Zion.
f) 99:2. He is Exalted above all peoples.
g) 99:3. Let all the peoples Praise His Great and Awesome Name.
h) 99:3 & 5. He is Holy.
i) 99:4. He is Mighty King.
j) 99:4. He loves Justice.
k) 99:4. He has established Equity.
l) 99:4. He does what is Just and Right.
m) 99:5. We should Exalt Him and Worship at His Footstool.
(This QT causes me to proclaim Yes, The Lord Is Great)
------------------------------------------
'Christ's Disciples Publicly Acknowledged.'
John 13:35.
a) By this. There is one specific way in which Christ's Disciples will be acknowledged by non believers. This is the only powerful way that the community can be influenced by God's Family, the Church.
b) All people. This is universal, it speaks to rich and poor, male and female, young and old. It speaks to people of all people groups and ethnicities. It speaks to adherents of every religion.
c) Will know. They will be convinced and have an assurance, a realization, an understanding. They will perceive and apprehend clearly and certainly. They will distinguish and discern. They will recognize.
d) That we are Christ's Disciples. Surely proper Christian Discipleship is the Will of God for every Church. I am not writing about a Discipleship Course, but a Discipleship Lifestyle. (This is the only lifestyle for True Believers)
e) If we love one another. This is the simple key evidence of True Believers, we love one another. This is Christ's Standard for His Disciples and therefore His Church and Family. Any group of "christians" or "church" that rejects, or compromises with, this simple Truth, is really not of God.
(This Second one shows me Christ's Disciples Publicly Acknowledged)
--------------------------------------------
Chris.
God's Family. A family is not something natural. It is created and composed, a creative miracle initiated from the Will of God. There are family characteristics, the marks of the individual family, each one having its own special identity. There is family group, all the individual members that make up the one family. There is family health, as one member suffers, all the members suffer with it and as one member is honored, all members rejoice with it. There is family history, most families are interested in their "family tree". There is family leave - special time given by the working place in many European Nations when a family member is sick, compassionate leave is given so that the sick member may be looked after. A family is a living organism not an organization, this is understood by many Asian and Middle Eastern Nations. Many Western Nations have lost the meaning of family - independence rules, therefore selfishness rules and there is a breakdown of family life. This sorely and deeply affects the Western Church and its Vision and Mission. A large organization is not necessarily a "success" in God's eyes. A community is an association of living organisms, having mutual relationships among themselves and to their environment, thus functioning as a unit. The natural extension of a community is communism. Communism is a totalitarian system of government in which a single authoritarian party controls everyone and everything. Their professed aim is to establish a classless society. True Believers need to learn to live as a family, not as a community. A family that reaches out to the World's communities with the Gospel so that the people in the World can, through Jesus Christ, become members of the Family of God.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Holy!
'Holy.'
a) Revelation 4:8. Is the Lord God.
b) Matthew 4:5. Is the City of God.
c) Matthew 27:52. Ones were resurrected at the time of Christ's Resurrection.
d) Mark 6:20. John Baptist was.
e) Mark 8:38; Acts 9:22. The Angels that come with Jesus Christ at His Second Coming are.
f) Luke 1:49. Is the Mighty One's Name.
g) Luke 1:70; Acts 3:21. Were the Prophets of old.
h) Luke 1:72. Is God's Covenant.
i) Luke 4:34; John 6:69. Jesus of Nazareth is the Holy One of God.
j) John 17:11. Is our Father in Heaven.
k) Acts 4:27 & 30. Is the Servant Jesus.
l) Acts 9:13 & 32; Romans 1:7; 8:27. Are the members of the Church.
m) Romans 1:2. Are the Scriptures.
n) Romans 7:12. Are God's Law and Commandment.
o) Romans 12:1. Our bodies are to be Living and Holy Sacrifice. Everything we do with our body is to be done as Worship.
p) Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12. Should be our Greetings in the Body of Christ.
q) 1 Corinthians 3:17; Ephesians 2:21. We are God's Holy Temple.
r) 1 Corinthians 7:14. The children of one believing parent are.
s) 1 Corinthians 7:34. Unmarried women should be in both body and spirit.
t) Ephesians 1:4; 5:27; Colossians 1:22. We should be Holy and Blameless before the Lord in love.
u) Ephesians 3:5. The Apostles and Prophets should be.
v) Colossians 3:12. Those people who have been chosen by God are.
w) 2 Timothy 1:9. Our calling is.
x) 1 Peter 1:15-16. We are to be in all our behavior.
y) 1 Peter 2:5. We are a Holy Priesthood.
z) 1 Peter 2:9. We are a Holy Nation.
(This QT speaks to me to be Holy)
----------------------------------------------------
'The True Spiritual Children.'
a) Galatians 4:19. Should be becoming more like Jesus Christ.
b) 1 Corinthians 4:14; 1 John 2:1. Need real spiritual parents.
c) 1 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4. Are in the Faith.
d) Philemon 1:10. Care about and for their spiritual parents.
e) James 1:18. Are born by the Word of Truth.
f) 1 John 2:12. Know that their sins are forgiven on account of the Name of Jesus.
g) 1 John 5:21. Are to keep themselves from idols.
(This Second one shows me about The True Spiritual Children)
----------------------------------------------------
Chris.
Every True Believer is Called by God. There is a function, plan and purpose for every True Believer in the Body of Christ - which is the Church. This Calling is a Holy Calling, so the first evidence of our Holy Calling in our lives is our desire to live a Holy Life. The Second evidence of our Calling as a True Believer is our Obedience to God. If we believe and confess that God is Good then we should have no problem in obeying Him. The Third evidence of our Holy Calling is our desire to participate in the Worship and Sacraments of the Church. The social life of the Church must be secondary to its Worship and Sacraments. The Fourth evidence of our Holy Calling is our Fellowship with other True Believers. We need to have good Fellowship with those people who are one with us in Holy Calling. We should keep our Fellowship free from gossiping and always needy people, we deal with those in Ministry situations and not Fellowships ones. The Fifth evidence of our Holy Calling is our Ministry, one that is bearing Fruit for the Glory and Kingdom of God. Here is where we can meet gossiping and always needy people if we have to, and we can pray for their healing and deliverance.
a) Revelation 4:8. Is the Lord God.
b) Matthew 4:5. Is the City of God.
c) Matthew 27:52. Ones were resurrected at the time of Christ's Resurrection.
d) Mark 6:20. John Baptist was.
e) Mark 8:38; Acts 9:22. The Angels that come with Jesus Christ at His Second Coming are.
f) Luke 1:49. Is the Mighty One's Name.
g) Luke 1:70; Acts 3:21. Were the Prophets of old.
h) Luke 1:72. Is God's Covenant.
i) Luke 4:34; John 6:69. Jesus of Nazareth is the Holy One of God.
j) John 17:11. Is our Father in Heaven.
k) Acts 4:27 & 30. Is the Servant Jesus.
l) Acts 9:13 & 32; Romans 1:7; 8:27. Are the members of the Church.
m) Romans 1:2. Are the Scriptures.
n) Romans 7:12. Are God's Law and Commandment.
o) Romans 12:1. Our bodies are to be Living and Holy Sacrifice. Everything we do with our body is to be done as Worship.
p) Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12. Should be our Greetings in the Body of Christ.
q) 1 Corinthians 3:17; Ephesians 2:21. We are God's Holy Temple.
r) 1 Corinthians 7:14. The children of one believing parent are.
s) 1 Corinthians 7:34. Unmarried women should be in both body and spirit.
t) Ephesians 1:4; 5:27; Colossians 1:22. We should be Holy and Blameless before the Lord in love.
u) Ephesians 3:5. The Apostles and Prophets should be.
v) Colossians 3:12. Those people who have been chosen by God are.
w) 2 Timothy 1:9. Our calling is.
x) 1 Peter 1:15-16. We are to be in all our behavior.
y) 1 Peter 2:5. We are a Holy Priesthood.
z) 1 Peter 2:9. We are a Holy Nation.
(This QT speaks to me to be Holy)
----------------------------------------------------
'The True Spiritual Children.'
a) Galatians 4:19. Should be becoming more like Jesus Christ.
b) 1 Corinthians 4:14; 1 John 2:1. Need real spiritual parents.
c) 1 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4. Are in the Faith.
d) Philemon 1:10. Care about and for their spiritual parents.
e) James 1:18. Are born by the Word of Truth.
f) 1 John 2:12. Know that their sins are forgiven on account of the Name of Jesus.
g) 1 John 5:21. Are to keep themselves from idols.
(This Second one shows me about The True Spiritual Children)
----------------------------------------------------
Chris.
Every True Believer is Called by God. There is a function, plan and purpose for every True Believer in the Body of Christ - which is the Church. This Calling is a Holy Calling, so the first evidence of our Holy Calling in our lives is our desire to live a Holy Life. The Second evidence of our Calling as a True Believer is our Obedience to God. If we believe and confess that God is Good then we should have no problem in obeying Him. The Third evidence of our Holy Calling is our desire to participate in the Worship and Sacraments of the Church. The social life of the Church must be secondary to its Worship and Sacraments. The Fourth evidence of our Holy Calling is our Fellowship with other True Believers. We need to have good Fellowship with those people who are one with us in Holy Calling. We should keep our Fellowship free from gossiping and always needy people, we deal with those in Ministry situations and not Fellowships ones. The Fifth evidence of our Holy Calling is our Ministry, one that is bearing Fruit for the Glory and Kingdom of God. Here is where we can meet gossiping and always needy people if we have to, and we can pray for their healing and deliverance.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Nothing Can Delay God's Time And Purpose!
'Nothing Can Delay God's Time And Purpose.'
Mark 5:21-43.
a) 5:21. Jesus was back on the other side of the lake again and a great crowd gathered around Him. They remembered His Teaching from Just a few hours before.
b) 5:22-23. Jairus, a synagogue leader, came forward and fell face down at the Feet of Jesus. He begged Jesus to come and lay His Hands on his little daughter because she was at the point of death - then she could live.
c) 5:24. Jesus went with Jairus and a large pressing crowd followed them.
d) 5:25-28. The woman who was sick with hemorrhages came to Jesus out of this crowd:-
1-5:25. She was sick for twelve years.
2-5:26. She had been to many physicians for healing.
3-5:26. She had spent all of her money.
4-5:26. She was no better - rather she was worse.
e) 5:27. This woman came up to Jesus and deliberately touched His cloak.
f) 5:28. She had Faith to believe that if she Just touched Jesus' clothes she would be well, yet according to Jewish law Jesus would become defiled by her touch.
g) 5:29. Immediately she was healed.
h) 5:30. Again, immediately, Jesus was aware that Power had gone forth from Him.
i) 5:30. Jesus asked who it was who touched His clothes.
j) 5:31. The Disciples could not understand.
k) 5:32. Jesus was looking around to see who had done it.
l) 5:33. The woman came forward with fear and trembling, fell down before Him and told Him everything.
m) 5:34. The Words that Jesus spoke to her:-
1-Daughter, thereby identifying with her.
2-Your Faith has made you well.
3-Go in Peace.
4-Be healed of your disease.
n) 5:35. Some people came from Jairus' house with news that the daughter was dead.
o) 5:36. Jesus said to Jairus that he was not to fear but rather only Believe.
p) 5:37. Just with Peter, James and John, Jesus came to Jairus' house.
q) 5:38. There was a mourners' loud commotion at the house.
r) 5:39. Jesus went into the house and questioned why? to the mourners.
s) 5:39. Jesus made a statement about the child - she is sleeping.
t) 5:40. Jesus put out all the unbelievers, another word here could be mockers, He just took the parents of the girl and the team then went in to the little girl.
u) 5:41-42. Jesus took her by the hand and told her to get up, then she got up and began to walk around.
v) 5:42-43. The final scene:-
1-The people were overcome with amazement.
2-Jesus strictly ordered that no one should publicize what happened.
3-Jesus told them to give her something to eat.
(Through this QT I understand that Nothing Can Delay God's Time And Purpose, also that God does not only respect specific people and ignore others)
------------------------------------------------------
'The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit.'
Galatians 5:22-23.
a) Is Agape Love.
b) Is received Chara Joy.
c) Is Eirene Peace - a soul state.
d) Is Makrothumia Longsuffering - a patient enduring and persevering.
e) Is Chrestotes Gentleness - Moral goodness, integrity and kindness.
f) Is Agathosune Goodness - Uprightness of heart and life.
g) Is Pistis Faith - A strong conviction in God and Christ, which produces the character of a person who can be relied upon.
h) Is Praotes Meekness - Gentleness and Mildness.
i) Is Egkrateia Temperance - Self control.
(This Second one gives me desire for more of The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit in my life)
-----------------------------------------------------
Chris.
The practical balance of True Spirituality should never be treated as something worldly or sinful. I really enjoy the Word of God and the Life of the Holy Spirit. I enjoy public Worship and private Prayer. I endeavor to maintain a good QT every day and also study God's Word. This is a part of True Spirituality. There is however the practical part of True Spirituality, our friends, our meals, the clothes we wear, our daily life. Both sides of the Balance were evidently important to Christ and they should be to us also. Imbalanced spirituality is a sickness that only a choice to change can cure.
Mark 5:21-43.
a) 5:21. Jesus was back on the other side of the lake again and a great crowd gathered around Him. They remembered His Teaching from Just a few hours before.
b) 5:22-23. Jairus, a synagogue leader, came forward and fell face down at the Feet of Jesus. He begged Jesus to come and lay His Hands on his little daughter because she was at the point of death - then she could live.
c) 5:24. Jesus went with Jairus and a large pressing crowd followed them.
d) 5:25-28. The woman who was sick with hemorrhages came to Jesus out of this crowd:-
1-5:25. She was sick for twelve years.
2-5:26. She had been to many physicians for healing.
3-5:26. She had spent all of her money.
4-5:26. She was no better - rather she was worse.
e) 5:27. This woman came up to Jesus and deliberately touched His cloak.
f) 5:28. She had Faith to believe that if she Just touched Jesus' clothes she would be well, yet according to Jewish law Jesus would become defiled by her touch.
g) 5:29. Immediately she was healed.
h) 5:30. Again, immediately, Jesus was aware that Power had gone forth from Him.
i) 5:30. Jesus asked who it was who touched His clothes.
j) 5:31. The Disciples could not understand.
k) 5:32. Jesus was looking around to see who had done it.
l) 5:33. The woman came forward with fear and trembling, fell down before Him and told Him everything.
m) 5:34. The Words that Jesus spoke to her:-
1-Daughter, thereby identifying with her.
2-Your Faith has made you well.
3-Go in Peace.
4-Be healed of your disease.
n) 5:35. Some people came from Jairus' house with news that the daughter was dead.
o) 5:36. Jesus said to Jairus that he was not to fear but rather only Believe.
p) 5:37. Just with Peter, James and John, Jesus came to Jairus' house.
q) 5:38. There was a mourners' loud commotion at the house.
r) 5:39. Jesus went into the house and questioned why? to the mourners.
s) 5:39. Jesus made a statement about the child - she is sleeping.
t) 5:40. Jesus put out all the unbelievers, another word here could be mockers, He just took the parents of the girl and the team then went in to the little girl.
u) 5:41-42. Jesus took her by the hand and told her to get up, then she got up and began to walk around.
v) 5:42-43. The final scene:-
1-The people were overcome with amazement.
2-Jesus strictly ordered that no one should publicize what happened.
3-Jesus told them to give her something to eat.
(Through this QT I understand that Nothing Can Delay God's Time And Purpose, also that God does not only respect specific people and ignore others)
------------------------------------------------------
'The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit.'
Galatians 5:22-23.
a) Is Agape Love.
b) Is received Chara Joy.
c) Is Eirene Peace - a soul state.
d) Is Makrothumia Longsuffering - a patient enduring and persevering.
e) Is Chrestotes Gentleness - Moral goodness, integrity and kindness.
f) Is Agathosune Goodness - Uprightness of heart and life.
g) Is Pistis Faith - A strong conviction in God and Christ, which produces the character of a person who can be relied upon.
h) Is Praotes Meekness - Gentleness and Mildness.
i) Is Egkrateia Temperance - Self control.
(This Second one gives me desire for more of The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit in my life)
-----------------------------------------------------
Chris.
The practical balance of True Spirituality should never be treated as something worldly or sinful. I really enjoy the Word of God and the Life of the Holy Spirit. I enjoy public Worship and private Prayer. I endeavor to maintain a good QT every day and also study God's Word. This is a part of True Spirituality. There is however the practical part of True Spirituality, our friends, our meals, the clothes we wear, our daily life. Both sides of the Balance were evidently important to Christ and they should be to us also. Imbalanced spirituality is a sickness that only a choice to change can cure.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
A Positive Response To God's Judgment!
'A Positive Response To God's Judgment.'
Psalm 98:7-9.
a) 98:7-8. Those who are rejoicing and trembling:-
1-The Sea.
2-All that fills the sea.
3-The World.
4-All those who live in the World.
5-The floods.
6-The hills.
b) 98:9. The Reason for the rejoicing and trembling: the Presence of the Lord.
c) 98:9. The Purpose of the Lord's Presence here: He is coming to Judge the Earth with Righteousness and Equity.
(This QT reminds me to have A Positive Response To God's Judgment)
-------------------------------------------------------
'Revelation Of God's Secret.'
Colossians 1:26-27.
a) The Secret that has hidden through all past ages from all human beings.
b) The Secret now revealed to God's People.
c) God's Plan is to make known His Secret to His People.
d) It is a Rich and Glorious Secret which He has for all peoples.
e) The Secret is that Christ is in us, which means that we will share in the Glory of God.
(This Second one stimulates my heart for Mission - Revelation Of God's Secret)
-------------------------------------------------------
Chris.
The World is Created by God. There are still many evidences of His Creation, the World is full of Creator's evidential Hand. Sometimes I meet depressed people who say morbidly that they want to leave this World and go to Heaven. These people have lost their correct thinking and focus in life, they are deceived by their hurts or difficult environment. The World is Created by God and will, one day, be Judged by Him. If we are True Believers this coming judgment should cause us to Rejoice, for we know that this judgment will precede our Eternal Bliss.
Psalm 98:7-9.
a) 98:7-8. Those who are rejoicing and trembling:-
1-The Sea.
2-All that fills the sea.
3-The World.
4-All those who live in the World.
5-The floods.
6-The hills.
b) 98:9. The Reason for the rejoicing and trembling: the Presence of the Lord.
c) 98:9. The Purpose of the Lord's Presence here: He is coming to Judge the Earth with Righteousness and Equity.
(This QT reminds me to have A Positive Response To God's Judgment)
-------------------------------------------------------
'Revelation Of God's Secret.'
Colossians 1:26-27.
a) The Secret that has hidden through all past ages from all human beings.
b) The Secret now revealed to God's People.
c) God's Plan is to make known His Secret to His People.
d) It is a Rich and Glorious Secret which He has for all peoples.
e) The Secret is that Christ is in us, which means that we will share in the Glory of God.
(This Second one stimulates my heart for Mission - Revelation Of God's Secret)
-------------------------------------------------------
Chris.
The World is Created by God. There are still many evidences of His Creation, the World is full of Creator's evidential Hand. Sometimes I meet depressed people who say morbidly that they want to leave this World and go to Heaven. These people have lost their correct thinking and focus in life, they are deceived by their hurts or difficult environment. The World is Created by God and will, one day, be Judged by Him. If we are True Believers this coming judgment should cause us to Rejoice, for we know that this judgment will precede our Eternal Bliss.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Preparation For And Fulfillment Of The Way!
'Preparation For And Fulfillment Of The Way.'
Mark 1:9-39.
a) 1:9. The Baptism of Jesus Christ by John.
b) 1:10-11. The Affirmation of Christ by the Holy Spirit and the Father.
c) 1:12. The initial Leading of the Holy Spirit.
d) 1:13. The Victory of Jesus over Satan.
e) 1:14-15. The clear Message of Jesus Christ.
f) 1:16-20. The Calling of Jesus Christ on people's lives.
g) 1:21-22. The wonderful Teaching Ministry of Jesus Christ.
h) 1:23-28. The wonderful deliverance Ministry of Jesus Christ.
i) 1:29-31. The Family Ministry of Jesus Christ.
j) 1:32-34. The Public Ministry of Jesus Christ.
k) 1:35. The Prayer Life of Jesus Christ.
l) 1:36-38. The wide boundaries of Jesus Christ.
m) 1:38-39. The Clear Vision of Jesus Christ.
(Through this QT, Preparation For And Fulfillment Of The Way, I learn the importance of preparation for Ministry. It is not just a question of seminary education (which is important), but also: Baptism - a submitted and obedient life. Affirmation of our calling by God - it is not just a job. The humility of being led by the Holy Spirit. A clearly victorious life over Satan)
--------------------------------------------------------
'Jesus Christ - The True Vine.'
John 15:1-8.
a) 15:1. Jesus Christ declares His Identity. The True Vine.
b) 15:2. Jesus Christ declares the identity of the True Believer.
c) 15:3. Jesus Christ declares the method of Purification for Believers.
d) 15:4. Jesus Christ declares the True Believer's way to Fruitfulness.
e) 15:5-7. Jesus Christ declares the necessity of the True Believer's abiding in Him:-
1. 15:5-In order for the True Believer to be fruitful.
2. 15:6-In order to continue in the Mercy of God.
3. 15:7-In order to experience with confidence answered Prayer.
f) 15:8. Jesus Christ declares the way for the True Believer to Glorify the Father is to be fruitful and to prove our discipleship.
(Through this Second one I am challenged by Jesus Christ - The True Vine)
--------------------------------------------------------
Chris.
Being prepared for ministry is something that all potential Ministers need to be. This is not just a job - it is a high calling. The great majority of Ministers need to be trained in seminary, but before entering seminary they need to prove their character and ability in one Local Church for at least 3-4 years. Seminaries should not be too eager to recruit everyone. There needs to be a clear interview process which includes all aspects of life - not just Bible knowledge alone. There needs to be physical and mental health checks for every applicant. After Graduation there needs again to be a submitted and obedient life in a Local Church Ministry. The seminary and Local Church leaders should confirm this candidate for Ministry is affirmed by God, that the candidate is able to be led by the Holy Spirit and has a victorious life over Satan. Maybe this way would produce fewer Ministers but it would produce Ministers of Biblical standard. Maybe today there are too many low grade and struggling Churches, simply because the Ministers are not properly prepared.
Mark 1:9-39.
a) 1:9. The Baptism of Jesus Christ by John.
b) 1:10-11. The Affirmation of Christ by the Holy Spirit and the Father.
c) 1:12. The initial Leading of the Holy Spirit.
d) 1:13. The Victory of Jesus over Satan.
e) 1:14-15. The clear Message of Jesus Christ.
f) 1:16-20. The Calling of Jesus Christ on people's lives.
g) 1:21-22. The wonderful Teaching Ministry of Jesus Christ.
h) 1:23-28. The wonderful deliverance Ministry of Jesus Christ.
i) 1:29-31. The Family Ministry of Jesus Christ.
j) 1:32-34. The Public Ministry of Jesus Christ.
k) 1:35. The Prayer Life of Jesus Christ.
l) 1:36-38. The wide boundaries of Jesus Christ.
m) 1:38-39. The Clear Vision of Jesus Christ.
(Through this QT, Preparation For And Fulfillment Of The Way, I learn the importance of preparation for Ministry. It is not just a question of seminary education (which is important), but also: Baptism - a submitted and obedient life. Affirmation of our calling by God - it is not just a job. The humility of being led by the Holy Spirit. A clearly victorious life over Satan)
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'Jesus Christ - The True Vine.'
John 15:1-8.
a) 15:1. Jesus Christ declares His Identity. The True Vine.
b) 15:2. Jesus Christ declares the identity of the True Believer.
c) 15:3. Jesus Christ declares the method of Purification for Believers.
d) 15:4. Jesus Christ declares the True Believer's way to Fruitfulness.
e) 15:5-7. Jesus Christ declares the necessity of the True Believer's abiding in Him:-
1. 15:5-In order for the True Believer to be fruitful.
2. 15:6-In order to continue in the Mercy of God.
3. 15:7-In order to experience with confidence answered Prayer.
f) 15:8. Jesus Christ declares the way for the True Believer to Glorify the Father is to be fruitful and to prove our discipleship.
(Through this Second one I am challenged by Jesus Christ - The True Vine)
--------------------------------------------------------
Chris.
Being prepared for ministry is something that all potential Ministers need to be. This is not just a job - it is a high calling. The great majority of Ministers need to be trained in seminary, but before entering seminary they need to prove their character and ability in one Local Church for at least 3-4 years. Seminaries should not be too eager to recruit everyone. There needs to be a clear interview process which includes all aspects of life - not just Bible knowledge alone. There needs to be physical and mental health checks for every applicant. After Graduation there needs again to be a submitted and obedient life in a Local Church Ministry. The seminary and Local Church leaders should confirm this candidate for Ministry is affirmed by God, that the candidate is able to be led by the Holy Spirit and has a victorious life over Satan. Maybe this way would produce fewer Ministers but it would produce Ministers of Biblical standard. Maybe today there are too many low grade and struggling Churches, simply because the Ministers are not properly prepared.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Christ's Will Being Established During Challenging Times
'Christ's Will Being Established During Challenging Times.'
Mark 5:1-20.
a) 5:1. The boat journey eventually completed, the lesson Jesus gave to the Disciples was already learned.
b) 5:2-5. The only person who came to meet Christ and the disciples was a demonized man. In the traditions of Bible lands, evil spirits lived among the graves.
c) 5:8. Jesus commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man.
d) 5:6-7. This man was in very tormented state. The unclean spirits recognized the Power of Jesus Christ.
e) 5:9. The man could not properly respond to Jesus Christ - he was so confused and under the influence of evil spirits. It is possible that he had been frightened or maltreated by roman soldiers in the past.
f) 5:10-13. Christ cast out all the evil spirits and they were cast into the sea.
g) 5:14 & 16. The testimony of the Gentile pig farm workers, no Jew would have farmed pigs.
h) 5:15. The demonized man was totally healed.
i) 5:17. The people were afraid, they begged Jesus Christ to leave.
j) 5:18. The healed man really wanted to follow Jesus Christ and His Disciples.
k) 5:19. Jesus Christ told the man what to do, this was decapolis, "Ten towns" - all of them Gentile towns, Jesus knew that he would never physically go there, he sent this man on mission.
l) 5:20. The man obeyed Jesus, many people were Blessed. The whole purpose of Jesus Christ Crossing the sea with His Disciples was that one man's life be changed and healed and that man could start on the road of Discipleship, evangelizing the Gentiles.
(This QT challenges me through seeing Christ's Will Being Established During Challenging Times)
------------------------------------------------------
'Maintaining Our Freedom In Christ By His Grace.'
a) Leviticus 26:13 & 44-45. God is the One Who:-
1-Releases us from slavery to the world system.
2-Breaks our bondage.
3-Enables us to walk with heads held high.
b) 1 John 3:1. God has lavished His Great Love on us and called us His Children.
c) Ephesians 3:10. God completely understands everything and wants to reveal that through His Church, we are His Church.
d) Leviticus 26:3. God expects us to be obedient to His Word.
e) Leviticus 26:14-15. God expects us not to be disobedient to His Word.
f) Proverbs 10:9. If we walk in integrity, we walk securely.
g) Leviticus 26:4-12. The result of obedience to God's Word:-
1-26:4-5 & 10. Abundance of food.
2-26:5-6. Peace and safety.
3-26:7-8. Victory over our enemies.
4-26:9. Population growth, of Nation or Church.
5-26:11-12. A close relationship with God.
h) 1 Corinthians 10:11. We are to learn from God's past dealings with His People.
I) 2 Peter 1:3. God gives to us everything we need for life and godliness.
j) 2 Timothy 4:18. God will rescue us, in His Way, from every evil attack.
k) Romans 6:12. God wants us to follow the correct style of life.
l) 1 Corinthians 10:13. God promises us victory over temptation.
m) Leviticus 26:16-17. If we live in disobedience to God, and yet we are church goers, we will live a miserable life.
n) Leviticus 26:40-45. We can be restored in Freedom in Christ if we humble ourselves and repent when we need to.
o) Matthew 7:21. We need to be those people who desire to live in the Will of God and not their own.
p) Philippians 3:7-14. We need to maintain Holy goals for our lives.
(Through this Second one I am exhorted to keep Maintaining My Freedom In Christ By His Grace)
-------------------------------------------------------
Chris.
Peace and Safety are Promises of God to those people who obey Him. There are many "care givers" in life, both in family and in Church. Being a care giver is such an important role. Parents of families who are good care givers can generally see the good results in the lives of their children and spouses. "Care givers" in the Church can also see the people that they care for and about growing in God and being Blessed. Those people who are well cared for love the people who care for them. Who ever we are, if there are no real "care givers" in our lives, then our lives become miserable, weak and lonely. My main point, however, is this: "care givers" should never become controllers. Apostle Paul is our great example of a Church "care giver" and yet he wrote that he never wanted to control any one, just love them, help them and be a "care giver". "Controllers" are disqualified by God from being "care givers". We can give advice, we can share God's Words and Principles, but we should never force or impose our will on another person, that is really wrong. It produces no Peace and Safety, rather - fear and insecurity. Good "care givers" produce Peace and Safety.
Mark 5:1-20.
a) 5:1. The boat journey eventually completed, the lesson Jesus gave to the Disciples was already learned.
b) 5:2-5. The only person who came to meet Christ and the disciples was a demonized man. In the traditions of Bible lands, evil spirits lived among the graves.
c) 5:8. Jesus commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man.
d) 5:6-7. This man was in very tormented state. The unclean spirits recognized the Power of Jesus Christ.
e) 5:9. The man could not properly respond to Jesus Christ - he was so confused and under the influence of evil spirits. It is possible that he had been frightened or maltreated by roman soldiers in the past.
f) 5:10-13. Christ cast out all the evil spirits and they were cast into the sea.
g) 5:14 & 16. The testimony of the Gentile pig farm workers, no Jew would have farmed pigs.
h) 5:15. The demonized man was totally healed.
i) 5:17. The people were afraid, they begged Jesus Christ to leave.
j) 5:18. The healed man really wanted to follow Jesus Christ and His Disciples.
k) 5:19. Jesus Christ told the man what to do, this was decapolis, "Ten towns" - all of them Gentile towns, Jesus knew that he would never physically go there, he sent this man on mission.
l) 5:20. The man obeyed Jesus, many people were Blessed. The whole purpose of Jesus Christ Crossing the sea with His Disciples was that one man's life be changed and healed and that man could start on the road of Discipleship, evangelizing the Gentiles.
(This QT challenges me through seeing Christ's Will Being Established During Challenging Times)
------------------------------------------------------
'Maintaining Our Freedom In Christ By His Grace.'
a) Leviticus 26:13 & 44-45. God is the One Who:-
1-Releases us from slavery to the world system.
2-Breaks our bondage.
3-Enables us to walk with heads held high.
b) 1 John 3:1. God has lavished His Great Love on us and called us His Children.
c) Ephesians 3:10. God completely understands everything and wants to reveal that through His Church, we are His Church.
d) Leviticus 26:3. God expects us to be obedient to His Word.
e) Leviticus 26:14-15. God expects us not to be disobedient to His Word.
f) Proverbs 10:9. If we walk in integrity, we walk securely.
g) Leviticus 26:4-12. The result of obedience to God's Word:-
1-26:4-5 & 10. Abundance of food.
2-26:5-6. Peace and safety.
3-26:7-8. Victory over our enemies.
4-26:9. Population growth, of Nation or Church.
5-26:11-12. A close relationship with God.
h) 1 Corinthians 10:11. We are to learn from God's past dealings with His People.
I) 2 Peter 1:3. God gives to us everything we need for life and godliness.
j) 2 Timothy 4:18. God will rescue us, in His Way, from every evil attack.
k) Romans 6:12. God wants us to follow the correct style of life.
l) 1 Corinthians 10:13. God promises us victory over temptation.
m) Leviticus 26:16-17. If we live in disobedience to God, and yet we are church goers, we will live a miserable life.
n) Leviticus 26:40-45. We can be restored in Freedom in Christ if we humble ourselves and repent when we need to.
o) Matthew 7:21. We need to be those people who desire to live in the Will of God and not their own.
p) Philippians 3:7-14. We need to maintain Holy goals for our lives.
(Through this Second one I am exhorted to keep Maintaining My Freedom In Christ By His Grace)
-------------------------------------------------------
Chris.
Peace and Safety are Promises of God to those people who obey Him. There are many "care givers" in life, both in family and in Church. Being a care giver is such an important role. Parents of families who are good care givers can generally see the good results in the lives of their children and spouses. "Care givers" in the Church can also see the people that they care for and about growing in God and being Blessed. Those people who are well cared for love the people who care for them. Who ever we are, if there are no real "care givers" in our lives, then our lives become miserable, weak and lonely. My main point, however, is this: "care givers" should never become controllers. Apostle Paul is our great example of a Church "care giver" and yet he wrote that he never wanted to control any one, just love them, help them and be a "care giver". "Controllers" are disqualified by God from being "care givers". We can give advice, we can share God's Words and Principles, but we should never force or impose our will on another person, that is really wrong. It produces no Peace and Safety, rather - fear and insecurity. Good "care givers" produce Peace and Safety.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Give Praise To God!
'Give Praise To God.'
Psalm 98:4-6.
a) 98:4. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the Earth.
b) 98:4. Break forth into joyous song and sing praises.
c) 98:5. Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre and the sound of melody.
d) 98:6. With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord.
(This QT encourages me to Give Praise To God)
--------------------------------------------------------
'Prioritize Correctly.'
a) Matthew 6:19-20. There is a big temptation amongst believers in affluent lands to store up money and belongings, especially at times of financial restriction. This is very clearly happening today. Many Church people are being deceived and losing their money to "trusted" friends and relationships are breaking up. Now is the time to invest wholesomely in the Kingdom of God. As well as this, there are people who secretly prioritize incorrectly in their hearts, they have no Joy in the Lord.
b) 1 Timothy 4:7-8. These are days in which we prioritize excessively caring for our health, again, this is a disease of the affluent lands, it is proper to care for ourselves in the matter of health - but not to the extreme. It has nothing to do with spirituality, rather it is to do with fear of death. This Scripture exhorts us to Discipline ourselves for the purpose of Godliness. Few people in the churches of affluent lands want to discipline themselves, rather they want to bless themselves and make excuses for themselves. They are consumers in a distorted form of democratic and independent "christianity", where Christ becomes merely a "supplier of needs". Self discipline and discipleship are very necessary in the church today. We need to be more godly, that is profitable for all things. Remember that we live in the Light of Eternity.
c) Matthew 6:24-25. No one can serve two masters, there is no peace in serving two masters. As we yield ourselves to any wrong master, that master will begin to control us increasingly. It is not "addiction", it is simply being controlled by the wrong master. Serve the Lord and then we do not have to be anxious.
(This Second one urges me strongly to Prioritize Correctly)
--------------------------------------------------------
Chris.
Money is not the only thing that God has given us to invest, He has given us many things that He wants us to be good stewards of and to invest well. How we invest so often determines our lifestyle and peace. Here are some of the things that God has given us to invest into His Kingdom: Time, Talents, Spiritual Gifts, Compassion, Hospitality, Ourselves. Let us increase our investments as we are able in 2007. Where our treasure is - there our heart will follow.
Psalm 98:4-6.
a) 98:4. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the Earth.
b) 98:4. Break forth into joyous song and sing praises.
c) 98:5. Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre and the sound of melody.
d) 98:6. With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord.
(This QT encourages me to Give Praise To God)
--------------------------------------------------------
'Prioritize Correctly.'
a) Matthew 6:19-20. There is a big temptation amongst believers in affluent lands to store up money and belongings, especially at times of financial restriction. This is very clearly happening today. Many Church people are being deceived and losing their money to "trusted" friends and relationships are breaking up. Now is the time to invest wholesomely in the Kingdom of God. As well as this, there are people who secretly prioritize incorrectly in their hearts, they have no Joy in the Lord.
b) 1 Timothy 4:7-8. These are days in which we prioritize excessively caring for our health, again, this is a disease of the affluent lands, it is proper to care for ourselves in the matter of health - but not to the extreme. It has nothing to do with spirituality, rather it is to do with fear of death. This Scripture exhorts us to Discipline ourselves for the purpose of Godliness. Few people in the churches of affluent lands want to discipline themselves, rather they want to bless themselves and make excuses for themselves. They are consumers in a distorted form of democratic and independent "christianity", where Christ becomes merely a "supplier of needs". Self discipline and discipleship are very necessary in the church today. We need to be more godly, that is profitable for all things. Remember that we live in the Light of Eternity.
c) Matthew 6:24-25. No one can serve two masters, there is no peace in serving two masters. As we yield ourselves to any wrong master, that master will begin to control us increasingly. It is not "addiction", it is simply being controlled by the wrong master. Serve the Lord and then we do not have to be anxious.
(This Second one urges me strongly to Prioritize Correctly)
--------------------------------------------------------
Chris.
Money is not the only thing that God has given us to invest, He has given us many things that He wants us to be good stewards of and to invest well. How we invest so often determines our lifestyle and peace. Here are some of the things that God has given us to invest into His Kingdom: Time, Talents, Spiritual Gifts, Compassion, Hospitality, Ourselves. Let us increase our investments as we are able in 2007. Where our treasure is - there our heart will follow.
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