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    steve's Blog
          This blog is dedicated to daily Bible study.

    Tue, Mar 31st - 11:05PM

    Luke 3:19,20



    19: But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done,
       20: Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.

     

    Herod was powerful leader and a puppet of the real authority, the Romans, John had to know that reproving Herod would be dangerous.  Did John back down?  No.  The message that John brought to Israel was, repent the kingdom of God is at hand and that included the leaders.  The leaders of Israel from Herod down through the priests was corrupt.  This is the environment that first John and then Jesus launched their ministries in and it is in this environment that they both gave their life.  Notice I said gave their lives.  No one took their lives.  They gave their lives freely. 



    Comment (0)

    Mon, Mar 30th - 11:31PM

    Luke 3:1-18



    1: Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene,
       2: Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.
       3: And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;

     4: As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
       5: Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth;
       6: And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
       7: Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
       8: Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
       9: And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
       10: And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?
       11: He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.
       12: Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?
       13: And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.
       14: And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.
       15: And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not;

     16: John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:
       17: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable.
       18: And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.

     

    What is the message that John preached?  The baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.  Many today teach we don’t need to repent of our sins, don’t be fooled.  Repent means to turn away.  Jesus said we can’t serve two masters.  We can’t serve sin and God at the same time.  Do Christians sin?  Yes we are human and make mistakes but as Christians we have an advocate through which to seek forgiveness of our sins.  As Christians we are no longer servants of sin.  What is the future for those who refuse to repent of their sins and turn to God?  Look at verses 9 and 17.  Don’t be fooled by those who say there is no eternal penalty for sin.  Each and everyone of us will be judged by God someday on the life we lived.  Those who rejected Christ will face the fire unquenchable.



    Comment (0)

    Sun, Mar 29th - 11:49PM

    Luke 2:41-52



    41: Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.
       42: And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.
       43: And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.
       44: But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.
       45: And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.
       46: And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.
       47: And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
       48: And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.
       49: And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?
       50: And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
       51: And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
       52: And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

     

    I must be about my Father’s business.  What a beautiful reply.  Jesus was the Son of God and he came to earth for a purpose.  That purpose was to fulfill the will of His Father.  And the will of his Father was that Jesus offer himself as a sacrifice for our sins.  God has a purpose for each and every one of his children.  We are all to be about our Father’s business.  We are all to be about doing the will of our Father.  The will of the Father is that all might receive the salvation he sent his Son to die for.  Our purpose is to help fulfill this desire of the Father.  Our purpose is to do what is needed to spread the Gospel unto the world that all might hear the good news of salvation through Christ and Christ alone because it is only through Christ that we can have eternal life.



    Comment (0)

    Sat, Mar 28th - 9:02PM

    Luke 2:36-40



     36: And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;
       37: And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
       38: And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
       39: And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
       40: And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

     

    Anna had dedicated her life to serving God since the death of her husband and she was awarded for her faithful service by being allowed to see the Savior.  How many of us truly give God everything?  That truly is a hard question.  The requirements of everyday life take up so much of our lives.  Jobs, family, just the daily things of our lives.  It says Anna never left the temple but served God day and night.  How much could be accomplished for God if Christians just had a small percentage of the dedication Anna had?



    Comment (0)

    Sat, Mar 28th - 1:32AM

    Luke 2:25-35



    25: And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
       26: And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
       27: And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
       28: Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
       29: Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
       30: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
       31: Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
       32: A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
       33: And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
       34: And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
       35: (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

     

    Simeon takes Jesus in his arms and speaks what the Holy Spirit has laid on his heart.  Jesus is to be a light unto the Gentiles and the glory of Israel.  Many will fall and rise because of him.  When Jesus started his ministry he turned the Jewish world upside down.  He disrupted the established religious order.  He preached directly to the lowest of people, often socializing with people the religious leaders would never be seen with.  He healed the sick, lame, blind, deaf, and mute.  People the leaders thought were being punished for their sins.  The most controversial was the fact that Jesus said he came to save not just the Jews but the Gentiles also.  The Jews consider themselves God’s chosen people and the Gentiles as unclean.  For Jesus to say that the Gentiles to will be God’s people was consider blasphemy for the religious leaders.  There were many prophecies in the Old Testament saying the Messiah would reconcile the Gentiles to God.  The religious leaders chose to ignore these.  They enjoyed the power they held over the people and soon would consider Jesus a threat to this power.  They didn’t want a Savior.  They were to wrapped up in the pleasures of their position and the benefits that came with it to surrender to a Savior.  The pleasures and benefits of this world are temporary.  Don’t let the traps of this world keep you from missing out on eternal heavenly awards.  Don’t be deceived without Jesus as your Savior you will never see Heaven.



    Comment (0)

    Thu, Mar 26th - 11:26PM

    Luke 2:21-24



      21: And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
       22: And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
       23: (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)
       24: And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

     

    According to the law certain things were done after a child was born.  After eight days male babies were circumcised.  Firstborn sons were redeemed before God.  At the end of purification for the mother the parents were to offer a sin offering.  If the parents had money to buy a lamb a lamb would be offered if not they would offer a pair of turtledoves or pigeons.  Mary and Joseph didn’t have the means to offer a lamb.  The book of Luke is known for its details in the life of Jesus.  He goes into detail explaining the birth of Jesus and John.  He explains how Mary and Joseph followed the law for newborn babies.  He also explains in great detail the humble upbringing of Jesus.  There is a point behind these.  In explaining the births of John and Jesus he explains how prophecy was fulfilled.  He verifies that Jesus was born of a virgin and that he is the divine Son of God.  In explaining the humble upbringing of Jesus he shows the nature of Christ.  He wasn’t born to a rich and powerful family.  Jesus lived a humble life in servitude to his Father.  We can never live the perfect life that Christ lived but we can try our best to imitate the life he lived.  He lived his life in perfect humble submission to his Father.  He lived his life doing His Father’s will.  This is the example for all of us.  To live in humble submission to the will of the Father. 



    Comment (1)

    Wed, Mar 25th - 11:10PM

    Luke 2:8-20



     8: And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
       9: And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
       10: And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
       11: For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
       12: And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
       13: And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
       14: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
       15: And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
       16: And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
       17: And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
       18: And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
       19: But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
       20: And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

     

    It is never revealed why these shepherds were chosen to be witness to the birth of the Savior Jesus.  Perhaps just as Jesus was born in such a humble environment it is fitting that the first witnesses of the birth of Jesus should be humble shepherds.  Jesus the Son of God wasn’t born in a palace to royal parents.  He was born in a manger to humble parents.  He bought his ministry to the common people and chose common men to be his disciples.  God doesn’t see man as men do.  God looks at the heart.  God knows the heart of everyone of us.  God doesn’t show favor to men of money and power.  God favors those who are willing to serve him in humility and servitude. 



    Comment (0)

    Tue, Mar 24th - 11:19PM

    Luke 2:1-7



    1: And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
       2: (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
       3: And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
       4: And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
       5: To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
       6: And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
       7: And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

     

    The Son of God, King of Kings, the Savior of the world is born in very humble surroundings.  Jesus was born to simple parents, in a simple place, and grew in a simple environment.  Compare the way Jesus lived his life to some of our religious leaders today.  Perhaps they forgot one of the messages of Jesus was living humbly before God.



    Comment (0)

    Mon, Mar 23rd - 11:45PM

    Luke 1:67-80



    67: And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,
       
    68: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,
       
    69: And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;
       
    70: As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:
       
    71: That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;
       
    72: To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;
       
    73: The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,
       
    74: That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,
       
    75: In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.
       
    76: And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;
       
    77: To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
       
    78: Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,
       
    79: To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
       
    80: And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

     

    Zacharias gave a summary of all the Old Testament prophecy concerning the coming of the Savior.  Then he prophesied how his son John would prepare the way for the coming Savior.  God had a plan.  The birth of John was no accident.  He was sending his Son into the world to redeem the world unto him and John was to prepare the way for his coming.  God has a plan for all of his believers and that plan includes preparing the way for the coming again of Jesus just as John prepared the way for his ministry on earth.  Just as John preached “repent the kingdom of God is at hand” we are to continue the message.  Repent for the return of Jesus is nigh.  For he is coming again for his church and the rest of the world will be judged for their unbelief and rejection of him.

     



    Comment (0)

    Mon, Mar 23rd - 12:45AM

    Luke 1:57-66



     57: Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.
       58: And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.
       59: And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.
       60: And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.
       61: And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name.
       62: And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.
       63: And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.
       64: And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.
       65: And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.
       66: And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

     

    Because of unbelief Zacharias mouth had been closed, because of belief it had been opened.  Zacharias and his wife remained faithful to God and named the baby John as directed by the angel that had visited Zacharias.  We don’t always understand the ways of God or why things happen but we are to remain faithful, obey God and understand he has a plan and our best interest at heart.



    Comment (0)

    Sun, Mar 22nd - 1:18AM

    Luke 1:46-56



      46: And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,
    47: And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
       48: For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
       49: For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.
       50: And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.
       51: He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
       52: He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
       53: He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.
       54: He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;
       55: As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.
       56: And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

     

    The Jewish people had been awaiting the arrival of the Messiah for generations.  Mary clearly understood that the child she was carrying was going to be this Messiah.  It is to bad so many were expecting a revival of the Jewish kingdom and didn’t understand the true purpose of the Messiah.  They were looking for the Messiah to overthrow the Roman rule and reestablish the kingdom of David.  Jesus was coming for much more.  His very purpose was to offer himself as a sacrifice for our sins that through his death on the cross we might have forgiveness of sins and that all men, Jew and Gentile alike could come into a true spiritual relationship with the father.  It is through Jesus and only through Jesus that we have access with the Father.  And it is through Jesus and only through Jesus that all that accept him will have the forgiveness of sin and eternal life in heaven. 



    Comment (0)

    Fri, Mar 20th - 6:27PM

    Luke 1:39-45



     39: And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;
       40: And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
       41: And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
       42: And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
       43: And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
       44: For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.
       45: And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.

     

    Mary was blessed because she believed God and allowed herself to be used by God.  Mary was just another of a long list of faithful servants that obeyed God and was used by him.  Yes she was the mother of Jesus but that does not give her any more special significance than any other faithful servant of God.  There is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.  It is Jesus that makes intercession for us before God.  It is only through Jesus that we have salvation and the forgiveness of sins.  Mary or any other long dead saint can not make intercession for us before God.  To try to do so minimizes the sacrifice and the deity of Christ.



    Comment (0)

    Thu, Mar 19th - 9:44PM

    Luke 1:26-38



     26: And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,
       27: To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
       28: And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
       29: And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
       30: And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
       31: And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
       32: He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
       33: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
       34: Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
       35: And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
       36: And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.
       37: For with God nothing shall be impossible.
       38: And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

     

    Can you put yourself in Mary’s shoes?  She was very likely very young, maybe as young as 13 or 14.  An angel appears to her and says she will give birth to the Messiah.  She has to know no one is going to believe she is pregnant by the Holy Ghost.  She risks losing her finance.  She risks being outcast by her family and village.  But what is her reply?  Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.  Other translations say, I am the Lord’s servant.  What a beautiful reply.  Would we be that faithful considering the consequences?  Compare her reply to Sarah’s when she found out she would give birth or to Zacharias when he found out his wife would give birth.  Would we risk all for God?



    Comment (0)

    Wed, Mar 18th - 11:30PM

    Luke 1:5-25



    5: There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.
       6: And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
       7: And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
       8: And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,
       9: According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
       10: And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.
       11: And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
       12: And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
       13: But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
       14: And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.
       15: For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.
       16: And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.
       17: And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
       18: And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.
       19: And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.
       20: And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.
       21: And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple.
       22: And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.
       23: And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.
       24: And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying,
       25: Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.

     

    Zacharias had doubt that his wife in her old age would conceive even though he had prayed for it and the angel Gabriel said it would be so.  We can be sure that the Lord hears the prayer of the righteous.  He might not answer when or how we think he should but we can be sure God has our best interest at heart.  Zacharias and his wife had probably prayed for years for a child but God had a plan.  Zacharias and his wife was given the honor of conceiving the messenger of the Lord.  It is easy to have faith when our prayers are answered right away, it takes a greater deal of faith when the Lord doesn’t answer right away.  We have to remain faithful that the Lord hears our prayer, that he has our best interest at heart, and that God he has a plan for us.  His answer to our prayers might not always be what we expect but he is the God almighty and his will will be done. 



    Comment (0)

    Tue, Mar 17th - 11:22PM

    Luke 1:1-4



     1: Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us,
       2: Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;
       3: It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
       4: That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.

     

    Luke wasn’t one of the original disciples of Christ, he wasn’t even Jewish but an early Gentile convert.  He was a companion of Paul.  Many critics of the Bible had tried to point out the differences in the Gospels as a point of attack.  The four Gospels was written by four different men to different audiences.  Luke tells the story of Jesus from the perspective of a Gentile.  While Matthew wrote to a Jewish audience so he used terms that a Jew would understand.  Mark addressed his book to the Romans so he wrote in a way that a Roman who didn’t understand Jewish teachings would understand.  John wrote to Jews and Gentiles both.  They are four different men telling the same story in different styles.



    Comment (0)

    Mon, Mar 16th - 11:02PM

    Mark 16:19,20



     19: So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
       20: And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.

    The Lord gave the disciples the Great Commission and they went forth to preach the Gospel after he ascended into heaven.  Jesus ascended into heaven but he will return someday.  Until that time we are to continue to preach the Gospel unto the world.

     



    Comment (0)

    Sun, Mar 15th - 11:39PM

    Mark 16:15-18



    15: And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
       16: He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
       17: And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
       18: They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

     

    Verses 15 and 16 are called the Great Commission.  Jesus directed his disciples to go out and preach the Gospel and anyone that believes shall be saved but anyone who refuses to believe shall be damned.  If you have given your life to Christ then you should consider yourself a disciple of Christ which means you have a part to play in preaching the Gospel.  You might not be a preacher, teacher, or evangelist but you can witness to your family, neighbors, coworkers, and friends.  If you truly love these people wouldn’t you want them to be saved also.  You don’t have to beat them over the head with a Bible let them see God at work in you.  As the saying goes “the only Bible some people will ever read is you.”  In other words let them see the Gospel in you and the way you live your life.



    Comment (0)

    Sat, Mar 14th - 6:36PM

    Mark 16:14



    14: Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.

     

    Jesus appears to the disciples personally and rebukes them for not believing he had risen.  Jesus had promised he would rise again and people had witness him personally after he had risen but they had not believe.  So many today still refuse to believe in Jesus despite the many witnesses.  Jesus was the Son of God, was born of a virgin, did live a sinless life, did die on the cross for our sins, did rise again on the third day, and he will come again for his church and to judge the world.



    Comment (0)

    Sat, Mar 14th - 12:45AM

    Mark 16:12,13



     12: After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.
       13: And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them.

     

    Jesus had said he would return, he had been seen by the women, now he appeared to two on the road and they still refuse to believe.  He would have to appear in person for them to believe.  Many today still refuse to believe.  They don’t believe because they haven’t experience Jesus personally.  Until we experience Jesus personally we don’t  know what he is all about.  Aint you thankful that someone introduced you to him.  Don’t you want the people you care the most about to experience the same kind of relationship that you have with him?  Don’t you want the lost of the world to experience that relationship so they can come out of their life of darkness and into the light?  Will you tell them of that relationship?  Paul says how will they believe unless someone tells them.



    Comment (0)

    Thu, Mar 12th - 11:04PM

    Mark 16:9-11



    9: Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.
       10: And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept.
       11: And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not.

     

    Jesus had said he would rise again, the disciples didn’t believe.  Mary told the disciples she had seen him, they didn’t believe her.  It would take Jesus personally appearing to them for them to believe.  Well Jesus said he will come again, many don’t believe it.  I guess it is going to take them seeing it with their own eyes to believe.   When he does come again it will be to take away his church and the unbelievers will be left behind.  Don’t be one of those left behind to face the judgment of God on this unbelieving world.



    Comment (0)

    Wed, Mar 11th - 11:19PM

    Mark 16:1-8



    1: And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.
       2: And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.
       3: And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?
       4: And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.
       5: And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
       6: And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.
       7: But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.
       8: And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.

     

    Jesus had promised to rise again.  The disciples were hiding and the women were brining spices to his grave.  Had they not heard him say he would rise again?  Jesus promised he would rise again and he did.  Jesus after appearing on the earth for several days left but before he left he promised to come again.  Just as he promised to rise again and did he will return just as he promised.  Will you be ready?  Do you believe he will come again?



    Comment (0)

    Tue, Mar 10th - 11:47PM

    Mark 15:42-47



     42: And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath,
       
    43: Joseph of Arimathaea, and honourable counseller, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.
       
    44: And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.
       
    45: And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph.
       
    46: And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.
       
    47: And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid.

    Although the disciples of Jesus had abandoned him everyone had not.  Joseph was a member of the council and was probably a follower of Christ.  He risked his reputation as a council member to give Jesus a proper burial.  While the disciples were probably in hiding the women that had travelled with the group had remained with Jesus throughout the whole ordeal and would be the first to see Jesus when he arose again.  After the death of Jesus the risk of additional persecution was a very real risk for any of his followers but while others were hiding these people remained faithful to the Lord.  Jesus had promised to rise again and they would soon witness his resurrection. 

     



    Comment (0)

    Mon, Mar 9th - 11:19PM

    Mark 15:33-40



     33: And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.
       34: And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
       35: And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias.
       36: And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down.
       37: And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost.
       38: And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.
       39: And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.
       40: There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;

     

    A heavy curtain hung in front of the Temple room called the Most Holy Place.  The curtain separated God from sinful people.  The room was entered once a year by the high priest to make sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins for the people.  When Jesus died the curtain was torn in two showing that his death for our sins opened the way for us to approach God.  No longer was a high priest required to make intercession for us.  No longer was a high priest required to offer a sacrifice for our sins.  Jesus became our high priest.  He became the sacrifice for our sins.  The Roman centurion recognized that Jesus was the Son of God.  Will you?  All who accept Jesus accepts the sacrifice he made for our sins and all that accept him accept him as our high priest before God.



    Comment (0)

    Sun, Mar 8th - 4:20PM

    Mark 15:24-32



     24: And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.
       25: And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.
       26: And the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS.
       27: And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left.
       28: And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.
       29: And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days,
       30: Save thyself, and come down from the cross.
       31: Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save.
       32: Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him.

     

    The abuse of Christ continues.  He clothes are taken and while he is in suffering in pain he continues to be mocked.  Christ surely could of saved himself if that was his desire but his purpose was to save others not himself.  This is the very purpose for him coming to earth.  To offer himself as a sacrifice for our sins.  He was dying for the very people that were mocking him.  Don’t mock the sacrifice of Christ by denying his purpose for dying on the cross.  He died on the cross so that we may have forgiveness of our sins through his blood which was shed on the cross.  All that confess their sins and seek his forgiveness will have forgiveness of their sins and enter into a relationship with the Father.  It is only through Christ and his death on the cross that we can have a relationship with the Father.



    Comment (0)

    Sat, Mar 7th - 5:58PM

    Mark 15:21-23



     21: And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.
       22: And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull.
       23: And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not.

     

    Jesus was beaten so severely that he was unable to carry his cross so Simon was forced to carry it for him.  Christ took a horrendous amount of punishment and he did it for us.  He took the sins of the world upon himself and suffered that through him we might have the forgiveness of sins.  All that seek him and accept the sacrifice he made for our sins and accept him will have forgiveness of sin and escape the judgment of God but all that refuses this sacrifice will face the coming judgment of God.  You reject Christ you reject the sacrifice he made for us and bear the consequence for refusing his gift of salvation.



    Comment (0)

    Sat, Mar 7th - 1:32AM

    Mark 15:16-20



    16: And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium; and they call together the whole band.
       17: And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head,
       18: And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews!
       19: And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him, and bowing their knees worshipped him.
       20: And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him.

     

    Jesus the Son of God is mocked by the very people he came to save.  What a shame that he is still mocked today, not only by atheist but by people who claim to be his followers.  They mock his sacrifice on the cross with their lies.  Christ gave his life freely on the cross for our sins.  He became the sacrifice for our sins.  He died that we might have salvation.  All who seek him in repentance and accept him as their Lord and Savior can have the forgiveness of sins that he brought for us with his sacrifice on the cross.  All who accepts his gift of salvation will be spared the coming judgment of God.



    Comment (0)

    Thu, Mar 5th - 11:29PM

    Mark 15:6-15



     6: Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.
       7: And there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection.
       8: And the multitude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto them.
       9: But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews?
       10: For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy.
       11: But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.
       12: And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?
       13: And they cried out again, Crucify him.
       14: Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.
       15: And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.

    The Jews knew Jesus was innocent.  Pilate knew Jesus was innocent but still Jesus was sentenced to death.  The Jewish leaders wanted Jesus dead because they saw him as a threat to their power.  Pilate caved to the pressure of the mob.  He was afraid an uproar by the Jews could threaten his position if word reached Rome he couldn’t control his province.  So he sentence Jesus to death to appease the Jews.  How many today continue to sell out Jesus to appease the masses?

     



    Comment (0)

    Wed, Mar 4th - 11:17PM

    Mark 15:1-5



      1: And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate.
       2: And Pilate asked him, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answering said unto him, Thou sayest it.
       3: And the chief priests accused him of many things: but he answered nothing.
       4: And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how many things they witness against thee.
       5: But Jesus yet answered nothing; so that Pilate marvelled.

     

    Why didn’t Jesus answered for himself?  First, Jesus had no desire to defend himself.  He was giving his life up freely.  He was the Son of God no one could take his life from him unless he gave it up willing.  Besides the very reason Jesus came to earth was to give his life for us.  Next, the Jews had already decided to kill Jesus they weren’t interested in what he had to say.  Their rebellion to God had harden their hearts to the truth. 



    Comment (0)

    Tue, Mar 3rd - 11:14PM

    Mark 14:66-72



     66: And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest:
       
    67: And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth.
       
    68: But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew.
       
    69: And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is one of them.
       
    70: And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilaean, and thy speech agreeth thereto.
       
    71: But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.
       
    72: And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.

    Peter was probably very scared at this point.  He had just seen Jesus arrested and treated harshly and was probably afraid he might receive the same treatment if he admitted to being a follower of Jesus.  It is easy being a follower of Christ when things are going good.  It is when things are not going good when we are put to the test.  It is when we are scared or find ourselves in a tough spot that God expects us to turn to him.  Unlike Judas Peter repented of his sins and became the leader Jesus knew he could be.  Peter never denied Christ again and would later give his life for the Gospel.

     



    Comment (0)

    Mon, Mar 2nd - 11:07PM

    Mark 14:53-65



     53: And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him were assembled all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes.
       54: And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.
       55: And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none.
       56: For many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not together.
       57: And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying,
       58: We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.
       59: But neither so did their witness agree together.
       60: And the high priest stood up in the midst, and asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?
       61: But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?
       62: And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
       63: Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What need we any further witnesses?
       64: Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death.
       65: And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: and the servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.

     

    The Jewish leaders had already decided to put Christ to death but even after deciding to put him to death they couldn’t get their false accusations straight.  They even got the story about the temple wrong.  Jesus never said he would destroy the temple.  He said destroy it and he will rebuild it in three days.  The temple was destroyed in A.D. 70 but the temple that Jesus established was the temple built not with human hands but the temple of our hearts.  Jesus rose after three days.  We are the temple of God.  Jesus answered that he is the Christ and they will see him sitting on the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven.  Just think Jesus is coming back someday to gather his church and the world will be judged.  The very men that abused and judged and condemned Christ will be judged by him.



    Comment (0)

    Sun, Mar 1st - 11:09PM

    Mark 14:43-50



    43: And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders.
       44: And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely.
       45: And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to him, and saith, Master, master; and kissed him.
       46: And they laid their hands on him, and took him.
       47: And one of them that stood by drew a sword, and smote a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.
       48: And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me?
       49: I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled.
       50: And they all forsook him, and fled.

     

    Jesus is betrayed by a kiss by one of his own disciples.  How many today claim to be working for Christ but are actually enemies of the Gospel.  The good news of Christ is that he died for our sins on the cross that through his blood on the cross all that seek him can have forgiveness of sins and be saved from the judgment of God.  If any preach any thing other than salvation through Christ they are enemies of Christ rather they claim to be followers or not.  They are modern Judas betraying Christ once again.



    Comment (0)

    Sun, Mar 1st - 12:53AM

    Mark 14:32-42



     32: And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray.
       33: And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy;
       34: And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch.
       35: And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.
       36: And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.
       37: And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour?
       38: Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
       39: And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words.
       40: And when he returned, he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy,) neither wist they what to answer him.
       41: And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
       42: Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand.

     

    Jesus was in a great deal of sorrow.  Why?  Was he trying to get out of the task ahead of him?  Of course not.  He was about to fulfill his task for coming to earth.  To fulfill this task he had to take the sins of the world upon himself and suffer God’s wrath for us.  Jesus prayed that God’s will be done not his.  I believe every word written in the Bible has a purpose.  This is written for our purpose.  In the toughest times we have to turn to God and say his will be done not ours.  Turn all things over to God.



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    About Me

    Name: steven collier
    ChristiansUnite ID: steven
    Member Since: 2007-04-07
    Location: , Georgia, United States
    Denomination: Evangelical Christian
    About Me: Isaiah 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.

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