John 3:16-17
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
16 “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. 17 God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
If you were not a regular churchgoer, you might think that the was only one verse in the Bible … John 3:16. You see it at football games, you know, the guy in the end zone with the rainbow wig holding up the sign that simply says John 3:16. You see it on bumper stickers, billboards, t-shirts. I even have a tie with the words to this scripture.
I am sure that the thought behind this is that John 3:16 would catch someone’s attention enough to get them to open a Bible and read what it says. Maybe the sign or tie would draw a comment and open an opportunity to share God’s love … John 3:16 and more.
What more you ask? John 3:16 is enough. The truth is the whole Bible is one message. From Genesis to Revelation it points to Christ. Praise God we have more than one verse.
One Book … One Message … One Son … One Savior … Jesus Christ.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
LIFT UP JESUS
John 3:9-15
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Nicodemus
9 “How are these things possible?” Nicodemus asked.
10 Jesus replied, “You are a respected Jewish teacher, and yet you don’t understand these things? 11 I assure you, we tell you what we know and have seen, and yet you won’t believe our testimony. 12 But if you don’t believe me when I tell you about earthly things, how can you possibly believe if I tell you about heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone to heaven and returned. But the Son of Man has come down from heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life.
I am guilty. All too often, we spend time lifting up ourselves. I did this or I did that. Or we lift up our ministries. We did these wonderful things … we met these needs.
Who else do we lift up? Our pastors … our churches … our denominations. Don’t get me wrong. Give credit where credit is due. Proper respect for our church leaders and institutions is called for in scripture. My point in all this is too often we take credit when the glory is due the LORD.
“… the Son of Man must be lifted up.” It is a command, not an option.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Nicodemus
9 “How are these things possible?” Nicodemus asked.
10 Jesus replied, “You are a respected Jewish teacher, and yet you don’t understand these things? 11 I assure you, we tell you what we know and have seen, and yet you won’t believe our testimony. 12 But if you don’t believe me when I tell you about earthly things, how can you possibly believe if I tell you about heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone to heaven and returned. But the Son of Man has come down from heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life.
I am guilty. All too often, we spend time lifting up ourselves. I did this or I did that. Or we lift up our ministries. We did these wonderful things … we met these needs.
Who else do we lift up? Our pastors … our churches … our denominations. Don’t get me wrong. Give credit where credit is due. Proper respect for our church leaders and institutions is called for in scripture. My point in all this is too often we take credit when the glory is due the LORD.
“… the Son of Man must be lifted up.” It is a command, not an option.
Monday, April 28, 2008
UNEXPLAINABLE
John 2:23-3:8
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Nicodemus
23 Because of the miraculous signs Jesus did in Jerusalem at the Passover celebration, many began to trust in him. 24 But Jesus didn’t trust them, because he knew human nature. 25 No one needed to tell him what mankind is really like.
1 There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee. 2 After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. “Rabbi,” he said, “we all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you.”
3 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.”
4 “What do you mean?” exclaimed Nicodemus. “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?”
5 Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. 6 Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. 7 So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.”
Hang around people of faith long enough and you will hear about the unexplainable. It may not be as dramatic as the ‘water to wine’ or Lazarus being raised from the dead but God is still performing miracles today. Addicts being set free from their habits … relationships restored after years of bitterness … needs met when the checkbook is in the red … healings when doctors have no clue … or lives changed from sinner to sainthood.
By faith … you don’t try to explain miracles. They happen when you are “born again”.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Nicodemus
23 Because of the miraculous signs Jesus did in Jerusalem at the Passover celebration, many began to trust in him. 24 But Jesus didn’t trust them, because he knew human nature. 25 No one needed to tell him what mankind is really like.
1 There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee. 2 After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. “Rabbi,” he said, “we all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you.”
3 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.”
4 “What do you mean?” exclaimed Nicodemus. “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?”
5 Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. 6 Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. 7 So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.”
Hang around people of faith long enough and you will hear about the unexplainable. It may not be as dramatic as the ‘water to wine’ or Lazarus being raised from the dead but God is still performing miracles today. Addicts being set free from their habits … relationships restored after years of bitterness … needs met when the checkbook is in the red … healings when doctors have no clue … or lives changed from sinner to sainthood.
By faith … you don’t try to explain miracles. They happen when you are “born again”.
Friday, April 25, 2008
SLOW TO BELIEVE
John 2:18-22
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Clears the Temple
18 But the Jewish leaders demanded, “What are you doing? If God gave you authority to do this, show us a miraculous sign to prove it.”
19 “All right,” Jesus replied. “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
20 “What!” they exclaimed. “It has taken forty-six years to build this Temple, and you can rebuild it in three days?” 21 But when Jesus said “this temple,” he meant his own body. 22 After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered he had said this, and they believed both the Scriptures and what Jesus had said.
Do you ever get frustrated when someone you are trying to tell something is hard to convince? You give them the best explanation you can but they just don’t get it. They refuse to believe.
Jesus’ disciples were like this. Slow to believe. Yes, they responded to His call. Yes, they followed him three years. But it was not until after the resurrection that they believed.
Remember this the next time you are witnessing for Jesus Christ to someone and they don’t get it right away. Our commission is to go and deliver the message. The timing of the outcome lies in God’s sovereignty.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Clears the Temple
18 But the Jewish leaders demanded, “What are you doing? If God gave you authority to do this, show us a miraculous sign to prove it.”
19 “All right,” Jesus replied. “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
20 “What!” they exclaimed. “It has taken forty-six years to build this Temple, and you can rebuild it in three days?” 21 But when Jesus said “this temple,” he meant his own body. 22 After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered he had said this, and they believed both the Scriptures and what Jesus had said.
Do you ever get frustrated when someone you are trying to tell something is hard to convince? You give them the best explanation you can but they just don’t get it. They refuse to believe.
Jesus’ disciples were like this. Slow to believe. Yes, they responded to His call. Yes, they followed him three years. But it was not until after the resurrection that they believed.
Remember this the next time you are witnessing for Jesus Christ to someone and they don’t get it right away. Our commission is to go and deliver the message. The timing of the outcome lies in God’s sovereignty.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
UNDER CONTROL
John 2:13-17
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Clears the Temple
13 It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration, so Jesus went to Jerusalem. 14 In the Temple area he saw merchants selling cattle, sheep, and doves for sacrifices; he also saw dealers at tables exchanging foreign money. 15 Jesus made a whip from some ropes and chased them all out of the Temple. He drove out the sheep and cattle, scattered the money changers’ coins over the floor, and turned over their tables. 16 Then, going over to the people who sold doves, he told them, “Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father’s house into a marketplace!”
17 Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me.”
Jesus was passionate about God’s house and angry about what He found going on there leading up to the celebration of the Passover. He jumped into action, driving the cattle and sheep out of the temple area and turned over the tables of the money changers.
Why is it that Jesus took a different approach with the merchants who were selling doves? He simply told them to leave. Jesus was no less angry with them but He was in control of His anger. The same treatment of the doves as was shown to the sheep and cattle could have harmed, even killed them.
We might have a legitimate reason for getting angry but Jesus shows us that ‘loosing it’ is inappropriate behavior. One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit is self-control. We need to practice using this gift, especially when we are angry.
There are way too many cases of abuse. Don’t lose your temper. Keep it under control of the Holy Spirit.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Clears the Temple
13 It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration, so Jesus went to Jerusalem. 14 In the Temple area he saw merchants selling cattle, sheep, and doves for sacrifices; he also saw dealers at tables exchanging foreign money. 15 Jesus made a whip from some ropes and chased them all out of the Temple. He drove out the sheep and cattle, scattered the money changers’ coins over the floor, and turned over their tables. 16 Then, going over to the people who sold doves, he told them, “Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father’s house into a marketplace!”
17 Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me.”
Jesus was passionate about God’s house and angry about what He found going on there leading up to the celebration of the Passover. He jumped into action, driving the cattle and sheep out of the temple area and turned over the tables of the money changers.
Why is it that Jesus took a different approach with the merchants who were selling doves? He simply told them to leave. Jesus was no less angry with them but He was in control of His anger. The same treatment of the doves as was shown to the sheep and cattle could have harmed, even killed them.
We might have a legitimate reason for getting angry but Jesus shows us that ‘loosing it’ is inappropriate behavior. One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit is self-control. We need to practice using this gift, especially when we are angry.
There are way too many cases of abuse. Don’t lose your temper. Keep it under control of the Holy Spirit.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
NOT MY JOB
John 2:6-12
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Wedding at Cana
6 Standing nearby were six stone water jars, used for Jewish ceremonial washing. Each could hold twenty to thirty gallons. 7 Jesus told the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” When the jars had been filled, 8 he said, “Now dip some out, and take it to the master of ceremonies.” So the servants followed his instructions.
9 When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew), he called the bridegroom over. 10 “A host always serves the best wine first,” he said. “Then, when everyone has had a lot to drink, he brings out the less expensive wine. But you have kept the best until now!”
11 This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him.
12 After the wedding he went to Capernaum for a few days with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples.
Jesus was only an invited guest. We have no idea of His relationship to the host. They could have been relatives, close friends, neighbors or business associates. Whichever relationship, it was not Jesus’ responsibility to provide the wine. What we do know is that Jesus compassionately stepped in to save the host from tremendous embarrassment.
Imagine yourself, father of the bride and they run out of food at her wedding reception. There is not enough champagne to go around for the toast to the bride and groom. How embarrassing!
Jesus steps in and fills the need. Yes, changing water to wine is a miracle but it was His tremendous compassion that showed His glory.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Wedding at Cana
6 Standing nearby were six stone water jars, used for Jewish ceremonial washing. Each could hold twenty to thirty gallons. 7 Jesus told the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” When the jars had been filled, 8 he said, “Now dip some out, and take it to the master of ceremonies.” So the servants followed his instructions.
9 When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew), he called the bridegroom over. 10 “A host always serves the best wine first,” he said. “Then, when everyone has had a lot to drink, he brings out the less expensive wine. But you have kept the best until now!”
11 This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him.
12 After the wedding he went to Capernaum for a few days with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples.
Jesus was only an invited guest. We have no idea of His relationship to the host. They could have been relatives, close friends, neighbors or business associates. Whichever relationship, it was not Jesus’ responsibility to provide the wine. What we do know is that Jesus compassionately stepped in to save the host from tremendous embarrassment.
Imagine yourself, father of the bride and they run out of food at her wedding reception. There is not enough champagne to go around for the toast to the bride and groom. How embarrassing!
Jesus steps in and fills the need. Yes, changing water to wine is a miracle but it was His tremendous compassion that showed His glory.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
MOTHER KNOWS
John 2:1-5
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Wedding at Cana
1 The next day there was a wedding celebration in the village of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, 2 and Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the celebration. 3 The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told him, “They have no more wine.”
4 “Dear woman, that’s not our problem,” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.”
5 But his mother told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”
Have you ever wonder, when you were a child, how Mom knew when you had messed? When you didn’t clean your room or make your bed was the day she would open your door and look in. When you got in trouble at school was they day she would decide to call the teacher. When you got in that fight on the playground, she was sure to be in your path and notice your black eye. It’s a special gift God give mothers. I’ve heard it called Mother’s intuition.
Despite Jesus’ objection, it seems Mary knew it was time. I don’t know if we should call it Mother’s intuition or divine revelation but Mary seems to have known the right time to prompt her son toward the first miracle of His public ministry.
Does this mean Mary knew more than Jesus? I think not! This was an opportunity for Jesus to follow the commandment and demonstrate for us the requirement to honor a parent. The all-knowing Son of God, in His humanness (a man in His mid twenties), followed the prompting of His mother.
No matter the age, the requirement we have to honor our parents never expires.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Wedding at Cana
1 The next day there was a wedding celebration in the village of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, 2 and Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the celebration. 3 The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told him, “They have no more wine.”
4 “Dear woman, that’s not our problem,” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.”
5 But his mother told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”
Have you ever wonder, when you were a child, how Mom knew when you had messed? When you didn’t clean your room or make your bed was the day she would open your door and look in. When you got in trouble at school was they day she would decide to call the teacher. When you got in that fight on the playground, she was sure to be in your path and notice your black eye. It’s a special gift God give mothers. I’ve heard it called Mother’s intuition.
Despite Jesus’ objection, it seems Mary knew it was time. I don’t know if we should call it Mother’s intuition or divine revelation but Mary seems to have known the right time to prompt her son toward the first miracle of His public ministry.
Does this mean Mary knew more than Jesus? I think not! This was an opportunity for Jesus to follow the commandment and demonstrate for us the requirement to honor a parent. The all-knowing Son of God, in His humanness (a man in His mid twenties), followed the prompting of His mother.
No matter the age, the requirement we have to honor our parents never expires.
Monday, April 21, 2008
A LITTLE CONVINCING
John 1:43-50
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The First Disciples
43 The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Come, follow me.” 44 Philip was from Bethsaida, Andrew and Peter’s hometown.
45 Philip went to look for Nathanael and told him, “We have found the very person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His name is Jesus, the son of Joseph from Nazareth.”
46 “Nazareth!” exclaimed Nathanael. “Can anything good come from Nazareth?”
“Come and see for yourself,” Philip replied.
47 As they approached, Jesus said, “Now here is a genuine son of Israel—a man of complete integrity.”
48 “How do you know about me?” Nathanael asked.
Jesus replied, “I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you.”
49 Then Nathanael exclaimed, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God—the King of Israel!”
50 Jesus asked him, “Do you believe this just because I told you I had seen you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.”
It seems that Nathaniel took a little more convincing than some of the other disciples before he would agree to becoming a follower of Jesus Christ. He had some preconceived notions about people who come from Nazareth. In his mind, no one good could come from there.
Are we like Nathaniel? If we are from the city, how do we feel about folks from the country? If we have moved to the suburbs, how do we judge those left in town? What is our opinion of folks from the ‘delta’ … the ‘north’ … Rebels, Bulldogs, Tigers, Eagles, Braves or Delta Devils … Florida, Michigan or California? Don’t we all have some preconceived notions?
Nathaniel needed to be shown a little of the divine nature of Jesus before he would follow. What did it take to convince you that Jesus is the real deal? Was it a “…greater thing…”, a still small voice, or the written Word? Was it a parent, a friend or even a stranger? Was it a special event, a retreat or a revival?
It doesn’t matter, as long as you are convinced. JESUS IS LORD!
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The First Disciples
43 The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Come, follow me.” 44 Philip was from Bethsaida, Andrew and Peter’s hometown.
45 Philip went to look for Nathanael and told him, “We have found the very person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His name is Jesus, the son of Joseph from Nazareth.”
46 “Nazareth!” exclaimed Nathanael. “Can anything good come from Nazareth?”
“Come and see for yourself,” Philip replied.
47 As they approached, Jesus said, “Now here is a genuine son of Israel—a man of complete integrity.”
48 “How do you know about me?” Nathanael asked.
Jesus replied, “I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you.”
49 Then Nathanael exclaimed, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God—the King of Israel!”
50 Jesus asked him, “Do you believe this just because I told you I had seen you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.”
It seems that Nathaniel took a little more convincing than some of the other disciples before he would agree to becoming a follower of Jesus Christ. He had some preconceived notions about people who come from Nazareth. In his mind, no one good could come from there.
Are we like Nathaniel? If we are from the city, how do we feel about folks from the country? If we have moved to the suburbs, how do we judge those left in town? What is our opinion of folks from the ‘delta’ … the ‘north’ … Rebels, Bulldogs, Tigers, Eagles, Braves or Delta Devils … Florida, Michigan or California? Don’t we all have some preconceived notions?
Nathaniel needed to be shown a little of the divine nature of Jesus before he would follow. What did it take to convince you that Jesus is the real deal? Was it a “…greater thing…”, a still small voice, or the written Word? Was it a parent, a friend or even a stranger? Was it a special event, a retreat or a revival?
It doesn’t matter, as long as you are convinced. JESUS IS LORD!
Friday, April 18, 2008
BROTHER, CHECK THIS OUT
John 1:40-42
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The First Disciples
40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of these men who heard what John said and then followed Jesus. 41 Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means “Christ”).
42 Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, “Your name is Simon, son of John—but you will be called Cephas” (which means “Peter”).
When Andrew found the Messiah, his first reaction was to run and share the news with his brother. It is often difficult to communicate within our own families. Even Jesus experienced this with his brothers. But Andrew had the kind of relationship with his brother where he could bring him good news and his brother would listen.
Simon didn’t only listen. He followed. He followed Andrew to see Jesus and ultimately became a follower of Christ. Andrew led Simon to Jesus and Peter became one of Jesus’ inner circle.
Pray for the ability to have this kind of influence, by word or deed, with those within your families.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The First Disciples
40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of these men who heard what John said and then followed Jesus. 41 Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means “Christ”).
42 Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, “Your name is Simon, son of John—but you will be called Cephas” (which means “Peter”).
When Andrew found the Messiah, his first reaction was to run and share the news with his brother. It is often difficult to communicate within our own families. Even Jesus experienced this with his brothers. But Andrew had the kind of relationship with his brother where he could bring him good news and his brother would listen.
Simon didn’t only listen. He followed. He followed Andrew to see Jesus and ultimately became a follower of Christ. Andrew led Simon to Jesus and Peter became one of Jesus’ inner circle.
Pray for the ability to have this kind of influence, by word or deed, with those within your families.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
AT HIS FEET
John 1:35-39
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The First Disciples
35 The following day John was again standing with two of his disciples. 36 As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” 37 When John’s two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus.
38 Jesus looked around and saw them following. “What do you want?” he asked them.
They replied, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?”
39 “Come and see,” he said. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon when they went with him to the place where he was staying, and they remained with him the rest of the day.
My English teachers always taught me that it was improper to answer a question with a question. These new disciples obviously had different instructors in their language classes.
Jesus asked them, “What do you want?” They answered His question with another question, “Rabbi, where are you staying?”
Jesus never returns to the original question. Obviously He discerned from their question, the answer He needed.
What can we discern from their answer? First they called Him Rabbi, which means teacher. John the Baptist had pointed out Jesus as the Lamb of God. They recognized this as a reference to the promised Messiah. They wanted to learn from the Anointed One. Second, they asked about His residence. They wanted to go with Him, sit at His feet and be taught.
What a wonderful day it will be when all believers get to sit at the feet of the Great Teacher and learn the answers to all our questions. Even greater will be the desire to bow at His feet and worship! Jesus says, "Come and see."
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The First Disciples
35 The following day John was again standing with two of his disciples. 36 As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” 37 When John’s two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus.
38 Jesus looked around and saw them following. “What do you want?” he asked them.
They replied, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?”
39 “Come and see,” he said. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon when they went with him to the place where he was staying, and they remained with him the rest of the day.
My English teachers always taught me that it was improper to answer a question with a question. These new disciples obviously had different instructors in their language classes.
Jesus asked them, “What do you want?” They answered His question with another question, “Rabbi, where are you staying?”
Jesus never returns to the original question. Obviously He discerned from their question, the answer He needed.
What can we discern from their answer? First they called Him Rabbi, which means teacher. John the Baptist had pointed out Jesus as the Lamb of God. They recognized this as a reference to the promised Messiah. They wanted to learn from the Anointed One. Second, they asked about His residence. They wanted to go with Him, sit at His feet and be taught.
What a wonderful day it will be when all believers get to sit at the feet of the Great Teacher and learn the answers to all our questions. Even greater will be the desire to bow at His feet and worship! Jesus says, "Come and see."
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
REVEALED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT
John 1:29-34
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus, the Lamb of God
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 He is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘A man is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’ 31 I did not recognize him as the Messiah, but I have been baptizing with water so that he might be revealed to Israel.”
32 Then John testified, “I saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove from heaven and resting upon him. 33 I didn’t know he was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, ‘The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God.”
John the Baptist didn’t recognize Jesus as the Messiah from the beginning. It took a Word from God and a visible action before John knew that Jesus was the One whom Israel had been looking for. When the Holy Spirit revealed Jesus, that settled it for John the Baptist. His testimony was set. Jesus was the … “Chosen One of God … the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world.”
Have you allowed the Holy Spirit to settle the issue in your heart? God has given you the Word … The Holy Bible. He has done all the action that needs to be done … The Cross. There is no need to look further. John the Baptist didn’t care what others thought or said about him. He believed what he heard and saw. The Holy Spirit is still settling the issue in the hearts of those seeking the truth. Set your testimony today! “Jesus is the One for me.”
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus, the Lamb of God
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 He is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘A man is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’ 31 I did not recognize him as the Messiah, but I have been baptizing with water so that he might be revealed to Israel.”
32 Then John testified, “I saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove from heaven and resting upon him. 33 I didn’t know he was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, ‘The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God.”
John the Baptist didn’t recognize Jesus as the Messiah from the beginning. It took a Word from God and a visible action before John knew that Jesus was the One whom Israel had been looking for. When the Holy Spirit revealed Jesus, that settled it for John the Baptist. His testimony was set. Jesus was the … “Chosen One of God … the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world.”
Have you allowed the Holy Spirit to settle the issue in your heart? God has given you the Word … The Holy Bible. He has done all the action that needs to be done … The Cross. There is no need to look further. John the Baptist didn’t care what others thought or said about him. He believed what he heard and saw. The Holy Spirit is still settling the issue in the hearts of those seeking the truth. Set your testimony today! “Jesus is the One for me.”
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
THE HEAD
John 1:24-28
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Testimony of John the Baptist
24 Then the Pharisees who had been sent 25 asked him, “If you aren’t the Messiah or Elijah or the Prophet, what right do you have to baptize?”
26 John told them, “I baptize with water, but right here in the crowd is someone you do not recognize. 27 Though his ministry follows mine, I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal.”
28 This encounter took place in Bethany, an area east of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing.
Have you ever been asked, “Where is your church?” I have and my answer is, “My church is __________.”
Maybe it is a ‘discussion’ at business meeting about a proposed change to how something is being done. That long time member tells the new young pastor, “Things are not done like that at my church.”
The first ‘my church’ probably innocently communicates membership. The second may be trying to communicate power, position or ownership. Neither follows the John the Baptist model.
John was the older cousin. His ministry was blazing the trail. When asked about his ‘right’ to baptize, John deferred to Jesus, one not yet publically recognizable; one who is the great head of the church. “It’s not about my right to baptize, I’m not even worthy to serve as His slave.”
When asked about ‘your’ church, recognize whose church it really is. “I worship Jesus at ____________, where I serve Him as ____________”.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Testimony of John the Baptist
24 Then the Pharisees who had been sent 25 asked him, “If you aren’t the Messiah or Elijah or the Prophet, what right do you have to baptize?”
26 John told them, “I baptize with water, but right here in the crowd is someone you do not recognize. 27 Though his ministry follows mine, I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal.”
28 This encounter took place in Bethany, an area east of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing.
Have you ever been asked, “Where is your church?” I have and my answer is, “My church is __________.”
Maybe it is a ‘discussion’ at business meeting about a proposed change to how something is being done. That long time member tells the new young pastor, “Things are not done like that at my church.”
The first ‘my church’ probably innocently communicates membership. The second may be trying to communicate power, position or ownership. Neither follows the John the Baptist model.
John was the older cousin. His ministry was blazing the trail. When asked about his ‘right’ to baptize, John deferred to Jesus, one not yet publically recognizable; one who is the great head of the church. “It’s not about my right to baptize, I’m not even worthy to serve as His slave.”
When asked about ‘your’ church, recognize whose church it really is. “I worship Jesus at ____________, where I serve Him as ____________”.
Monday, April 14, 2008
WHO ARE YOU?
John 1:19-23
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Testimony of John the Baptist
19 This was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders sent priests and Temple assistants from Jerusalem to ask John, “Who are you?” 20 He came right out and said, “I am not the Messiah.”
21 “Well then, who are you?” they asked. “Are you Elijah?”
“No,” he replied.
“Are you the Prophet we are expecting?”
“No.”
22 “Then who are you? We need an answer for those who sent us. What do you have to say about yourself?”
23 John replied in the words of the prophet Isaiah:
John the Baptist was doing something that was shaking up the religious authorities. He had a message from God and unlike those Jewish priests, he was not confining his message to those who showed up in the Temple. John was preaching and prophesying and baptizing wherever he encountered people. The Jewish leaders sent emissaries to him to ask, “Who are you?”.
What about you? How do you share your faith? Where do you share your faith? Does the way you share your faith ever shake things up? Would anyone ever have to ask, “Who are you?”. I hope so.
And I hope your answer would be like John the Baptist. “It’s not about me … I am just “…a voice shouting in the wilderness. ‘Clear the way for the Lord’s coming’…” back again!.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Testimony of John the Baptist
19 This was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders sent priests and Temple assistants from Jerusalem to ask John, “Who are you?” 20 He came right out and said, “I am not the Messiah.”
21 “Well then, who are you?” they asked. “Are you Elijah?”
“No,” he replied.
“Are you the Prophet we are expecting?”
“No.”
22 “Then who are you? We need an answer for those who sent us. What do you have to say about yourself?”
23 John replied in the words of the prophet Isaiah:
“I am a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Clear the way for the Lord’s coming!’”
John the Baptist was doing something that was shaking up the religious authorities. He had a message from God and unlike those Jewish priests, he was not confining his message to those who showed up in the Temple. John was preaching and prophesying and baptizing wherever he encountered people. The Jewish leaders sent emissaries to him to ask, “Who are you?”.
What about you? How do you share your faith? Where do you share your faith? Does the way you share your faith ever shake things up? Would anyone ever have to ask, “Who are you?”. I hope so.
And I hope your answer would be like John the Baptist. “It’s not about me … I am just “…a voice shouting in the wilderness. ‘Clear the way for the Lord’s coming’…” back again!.
Friday, April 11, 2008
GRACE UPON GRACE
John 1:14-18
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word
14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.
15 John testified about him when he shouted to the crowds, “This is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’”
16 From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word
14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.
15 John testified about him when he shouted to the crowds, “This is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’”
16 From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us.
John Wesley, the noted Christian theologian, taught of one grace, the grace of God, having three complimentary phases:
- Prevenient Grace – the grace of God which goes before and draws us into relationship with Him
- Justifiying Grace – the grace of God which saves us, declares us not guilty, as if we had never sinned
- Sanctifying Grace – the grace of God which makes us perfect in love, guides us away from willful sin, guides us to care for the welfare of others
The Apostle John spoke of this grace of God as “… one gracious blessing after another.” When we think about how much we mess up, how often we fall, there is no question that God’s grace is truly amazing!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
SOME MISS HIM
John 1:6-13
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Christ: The Eternal Word
6 God sent a man, John the Baptist, 7 to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. 8 John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. 9 The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
10 He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. 11 He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. 12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 13 They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
God sent the message ahead, prior to His arrival. John the Baptist witnessed to the coming Messiah. The Jewish nation had heard the prophets proclaim that One would come to save them. Yet when He arrived some missed Him. The true light came but the world didn’t recognize him, his own people (Israel) rejected him.
The problem was not in the message of the forerunner. Neither was it a shortcoming of the light himself. The problem was the condition of the hearts of the people. They had been living in darkness so long that they had come to love the darkness. They enjoyed the way they were living. They were not ready to change.
There were some however who were willing to change … they believed and were reborn. They became children in God’s family.
Not much has changed down through the years. Many still love the darkness and refuse to believe. Others see the light and are willing to leave the darkness … turn from their wicked ways … be born again. I rejoice that God counts you among His children because of your relationship to Jesus Christ.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Christ: The Eternal Word
6 God sent a man, John the Baptist, 7 to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. 8 John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. 9 The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
10 He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. 11 He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. 12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 13 They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
God sent the message ahead, prior to His arrival. John the Baptist witnessed to the coming Messiah. The Jewish nation had heard the prophets proclaim that One would come to save them. Yet when He arrived some missed Him. The true light came but the world didn’t recognize him, his own people (Israel) rejected him.
The problem was not in the message of the forerunner. Neither was it a shortcoming of the light himself. The problem was the condition of the hearts of the people. They had been living in darkness so long that they had come to love the darkness. They enjoyed the way they were living. They were not ready to change.
There were some however who were willing to change … they believed and were reborn. They became children in God’s family.
Not much has changed down through the years. Many still love the darkness and refuse to believe. Others see the light and are willing to leave the darkness … turn from their wicked ways … be born again. I rejoice that God counts you among His children because of your relationship to Jesus Christ.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
THE LIGHT
John 1:1-5
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word
1 In the beginning the Word already existed.
Before God began His creation work on earth, darkness was total. Christ, the eternal Word, brought light to the darkness and it has never been the same since. Our science teaches us that somewhere, the sun is always shining.
In like manner, since Jesus came into my life I have never been in total darkness spiritually. Things may seem dark in your life sometimes but you can always depend on Jesus to bring light to your darkest hour. “Weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
And because Jesus brings you light, you can let your light shine for others. Brighten someone’s life today.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word
1 In the beginning the Word already existed.
The Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He existed in the beginning with God. 3 God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. 4 The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
Before God began His creation work on earth, darkness was total. Christ, the eternal Word, brought light to the darkness and it has never been the same since. Our science teaches us that somewhere, the sun is always shining.
In like manner, since Jesus came into my life I have never been in total darkness spiritually. Things may seem dark in your life sometimes but you can always depend on Jesus to bring light to your darkest hour. “Weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
And because Jesus brings you light, you can let your light shine for others. Brighten someone’s life today.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
JOHN (THE AUTHOR)
John 1:1-5
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word
1 In the beginning the Word already existed.
What do we know about John, the author of the Gospel of John.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word
1 In the beginning the Word already existed.
The Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He existed in the beginning with God. 3 God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. 4 The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
What do we know about John, the author of the Gospel of John.
- His parents were Zebedee and Salome, his brother was James
- He was a fisherman by trade
- Before following Jesus he was one of the disciples of John The Baptist
- One of the twelve disciples, along with Peter and James, one of Jesus’ inner circle
- Wrote five books in the New Testament, Gospel of John; 1st, 2nd and 3rd John; Revelation
In one place (John 21:20), he referred to himself as “… the disciple whom Jesus loved.” There was something special in the relationship between Jesus and John. While you and I may never have the opportunity, as John did at the Last Supper, to lean on Jesus’ side, we can draw closer to Jesus through daily study of The Word.
Tomorrow, we will look at the prologue to the Gospel of John; “Christ, The Eternal Word.”
Monday, April 07, 2008
JOHN, THE GOSPEL
John 1:1-5
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word
1 In the beginning the Word already existed.
We begin a new journey today, through the Gospel of John. First some comments about the book:
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Prologue: Christ, the Eternal Word
1 In the beginning the Word already existed.
The Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He existed in the beginning with God. 3 God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. 4 The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
We begin a new journey today, through the Gospel of John. First some comments about the book:
- Purpose: to prove that Jesus is the Son of God; all who put their faith in Him will gain eternal life
- Author: John (more about him tomorrow)
- Written: about A.D. 85-90
- Central theme: Jesus’ love, the great love of God
From the Life Application Bible commentary, “Being aware of God’s love is a great motivator for change. His love is not given in exchange for our efforts; his love frees us to really live. Have you accepted that love?”
As we journey through John, let’s see how often we are confronted with this love.
Friday, April 04, 2008
THE GOOD NEWS REVEALED
Romans 16:25-27
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul’s Final Instructions
25 Now all glory to God, who is able to make you strong, just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has revealed his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time. 26 But now as the prophets foretold and as the eternal God has commanded, this message is made known to all Gentiles everywhere, so that they too might believe and obey him. 27 All glory to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, forever. Amen.
As Paul closes his letter to the Romans, he reminds them that the Good News message of Jesus Christ is the same message which the prophets foretold. “…the only wise God … the eternal God …”, the God to whom all glory is due, put a plan in place for all who might believe and obey to be saved.
That is Good News for today! That is Good News for you!
NOTE: We conclude our walk through the book of Romans today, a walk that began back in January. I pray these Gospel Pearls have in some small way, made you day better … your walk with the Lord closer. I am looking forward to beginning a new journey next week. I pray you will continue to walk with us.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul’s Final Instructions
25 Now all glory to God, who is able to make you strong, just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has revealed his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time. 26 But now as the prophets foretold and as the eternal God has commanded, this message is made known to all Gentiles everywhere, so that they too might believe and obey him. 27 All glory to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, forever. Amen.
As Paul closes his letter to the Romans, he reminds them that the Good News message of Jesus Christ is the same message which the prophets foretold. “…the only wise God … the eternal God …”, the God to whom all glory is due, put a plan in place for all who might believe and obey to be saved.
That is Good News for today! That is Good News for you!
NOTE: We conclude our walk through the book of Romans today, a walk that began back in January. I pray these Gospel Pearls have in some small way, made you day better … your walk with the Lord closer. I am looking forward to beginning a new journey next week. I pray you will continue to walk with us.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
THE TEAM
Romans 16:21-23
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul’s Final Instructions
21 Timothy, my fellow worker, sends you his greetings, as do Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater, my fellow Jews.
22 I, Tertius, the one writing this letter for Paul, send my greetings, too, as one of the Lord’s followers.
23 Gaius says hello to you. He is my host and also serves as host to the whole church. Erastus, the city treasurer, sends you his greetings, and so does our brother Quartus.
Paul now acknowledges his ministry team. We don’t know the role all these team members played. We do know that Gaius was providing the facility where the church gathered and Tertius was Paul’s secretary.
Your pastor works most effectively when the team is working with him. He is not alone. The team, both lay and other clergy persons, carry forward the work began by Paul and others in the 1st century church.
In the work of the Lord Jesus Christ, there should be no Lone Ranger. Even the Lone Ranger had Silver (his horse), Tonto (his Indian partner) and Scout (Tonto’s horse).
What is your role on the team?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul’s Final Instructions
21 Timothy, my fellow worker, sends you his greetings, as do Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater, my fellow Jews.
22 I, Tertius, the one writing this letter for Paul, send my greetings, too, as one of the Lord’s followers.
23 Gaius says hello to you. He is my host and also serves as host to the whole church. Erastus, the city treasurer, sends you his greetings, and so does our brother Quartus.
Paul now acknowledges his ministry team. We don’t know the role all these team members played. We do know that Gaius was providing the facility where the church gathered and Tertius was Paul’s secretary.
Your pastor works most effectively when the team is working with him. He is not alone. The team, both lay and other clergy persons, carry forward the work began by Paul and others in the 1st century church.
In the work of the Lord Jesus Christ, there should be no Lone Ranger. Even the Lone Ranger had Silver (his horse), Tonto (his Indian partner) and Scout (Tonto’s horse).
What is your role on the team?
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
KEEP WATCH
Romans 16:17-20
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul’s Final Instructions
17 And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. 18 Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. 19 But everyone knows that you are obedient to the Lord. This makes me very happy. I want you to be wise in doing right and to stay innocent of any wrong. 20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
As Paul closes his letter to the church at Rome, his appeal to them was specific to two areas … divisions and false teaching.
God forgive us if we are a people who practice separation. Max Lucado referred to this separation in football terms. He talked about the church that ‘huddles’ to themselves, focusing more on their ideas, practices or traditions rather than serving Christ our Lord.
God forgive us if we sit under false teaching. God has given us His Word. It is accurate and it is complete. The church that compromises on the Word and fails to teach what ‘thus says the Lord” is a church which is does not please the Lord.
Does Paul’s appeal speak to believers today? Is this Word relevant to the church in the 21st century? Yes, we still need to heed this appeal a be obedient to the Lord.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul’s Final Instructions
17 And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. 18 Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. 19 But everyone knows that you are obedient to the Lord. This makes me very happy. I want you to be wise in doing right and to stay innocent of any wrong. 20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
As Paul closes his letter to the church at Rome, his appeal to them was specific to two areas … divisions and false teaching.
God forgive us if we are a people who practice separation. Max Lucado referred to this separation in football terms. He talked about the church that ‘huddles’ to themselves, focusing more on their ideas, practices or traditions rather than serving Christ our Lord.
God forgive us if we sit under false teaching. God has given us His Word. It is accurate and it is complete. The church that compromises on the Word and fails to teach what ‘thus says the Lord” is a church which is does not please the Lord.
Does Paul’s appeal speak to believers today? Is this Word relevant to the church in the 21st century? Yes, we still need to heed this appeal a be obedient to the Lord.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
UNITY AMONG THE BELIEVERS
Romans 16:1-16
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul Greets His Friends
1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. 2 Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God’s people. Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me.
3 Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. 4 In fact, they once risked their lives for me. I am thankful to them, and so are all the Gentile churches. 5 Also give my greetings to the church that meets in their home.
Greet my dear friend Epenetus. He was the first person from the province of Asia to become a follower of Christ. 6 Give my greetings to Mary, who has worked so hard for your benefit. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews, who were in prison with me. They are highly respected among the apostles and became followers of Christ before I did. 8 Greet Ampliatus, my dear friend in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbanus, our co-worker in Christ, and my dear friend Stachys.
10 Greet Apelles, a good man whom Christ approves. And give my greetings to the believers from the household of Aristobulus. 11 Greet Herodion, my fellow Jew. Greet the Lord’s people from the household of Narcissus. 12 Give my greetings to Tryphena and Tryphosa, the Lord’s workers, and to dear Persis, who has worked so hard for the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, whom the Lord picked out to be his very own; and also his dear mother, who has been a mother to me.
14 Give my greetings to Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers and sisters who meet with them. 15 Give my greetings to Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and to Olympas and all the believers who meet with them. 16 Greet each other in Christian love. All the churches of Christ send you their greetings.
I started to abbreviate these verses. Their message seemed so repetitive. But we remember that “All scripture is good for instruction…”.
Note that in this male dominated culture, Paul is quick to recognize the works and contributions of females among his friends. Note that Paul’s circle of friends includes both Jews and Gentiles. They also include various nationalities, obvious from the variations of the names. Paul ministered to and counted among his friends, a diverse group of believers.
I pray for the church, that it will return to the unity exhibited in Paul and the early church.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul Greets His Friends
1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. 2 Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God’s people. Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me.
3 Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. 4 In fact, they once risked their lives for me. I am thankful to them, and so are all the Gentile churches. 5 Also give my greetings to the church that meets in their home.
Greet my dear friend Epenetus. He was the first person from the province of Asia to become a follower of Christ. 6 Give my greetings to Mary, who has worked so hard for your benefit. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews, who were in prison with me. They are highly respected among the apostles and became followers of Christ before I did. 8 Greet Ampliatus, my dear friend in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbanus, our co-worker in Christ, and my dear friend Stachys.
10 Greet Apelles, a good man whom Christ approves. And give my greetings to the believers from the household of Aristobulus. 11 Greet Herodion, my fellow Jew. Greet the Lord’s people from the household of Narcissus. 12 Give my greetings to Tryphena and Tryphosa, the Lord’s workers, and to dear Persis, who has worked so hard for the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, whom the Lord picked out to be his very own; and also his dear mother, who has been a mother to me.
14 Give my greetings to Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers and sisters who meet with them. 15 Give my greetings to Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and to Olympas and all the believers who meet with them. 16 Greet each other in Christian love. All the churches of Christ send you their greetings.
I started to abbreviate these verses. Their message seemed so repetitive. But we remember that “All scripture is good for instruction…”.
Note that in this male dominated culture, Paul is quick to recognize the works and contributions of females among his friends. Note that Paul’s circle of friends includes both Jews and Gentiles. They also include various nationalities, obvious from the variations of the names. Paul ministered to and counted among his friends, a diverse group of believers.
I pray for the church, that it will return to the unity exhibited in Paul and the early church.
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