Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
I heard this yesterday and it made me think seriously and deeply. In your Christian walk are you a thermometer or a thermostat? Think about this for a moment.
I thermometer measures its environment, tells you if it is hot, cold, or lukewarm. Whereas a thermostat sets the climate or controls the environment, making it either hot, cold, or lukewarm.
So, if I were to ask you which one you are-----what could you honestly tell me? A thermometer is going to go with whatever the environment dictates. Hot, it reads hot; cold, it reads cold; lukewarm, it reads lukewarm!
So, if you are around a group of people telling dirty stories, cursing, do you join in? Do you avoid? Do you leave? Hmmm! Peter said he would never deny Jesus, yet he did 3 times before the cock crowed. Is this you?
OR, are you the thermostat and set the temperature? Do you speak as a Christian - with patience, slow to anger, putting away childish things such as cursing, throwing a fit, yelling out, etc.? Where do you sit in your Christian life?
Things get hard, but we need to 'put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darta of the wicked (evil one).' Ephesians 6:10-16
If you stand as a thermostat we shall endure the temptation, and it will be YOU, ME, that sets the temperature around us. Do not be a thermostat that is weak and wobbles, changing the temperature as the wind moves. James 1:12-18 vs 12 "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he is tried (hath been approved), he shall receive the cn of life, which the Lord hat promised to them that love him."
Do you have on your armour of God? Do you stand strong (with God) in the face of temptation? The final question----ARE YOU A THERMOSTAT or a THERMOMETER?? You have the choice, God gave you choice, now, just make it the right one!! Love you all!!!
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Is there justice? Too many lies!! Too much media!!!!
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
Is there really justice in the world? In America? We should love our brothers and sisters in Christ. We should also love the "lost souls" who do not know Jesus.
The Ferguson episode, the strangling of the man resisting arrest, and what happens? Protests! Okay, justifiable! Violent protests!! UNACCEPTABLE!!! Then in Ferguson the forensic evidence shows Brown was the aggressor, yet we are going to go BLACK vs WHITE! Poor black accosted by white policeman. Huh?
If we all did what was right in God's eyes none of this would have happened! Did you hear about the poor "white waitress" who was killed by 3 black men for her "TIPS"? No, you did not. This all is not a race issue----it is A MEDIA ISSUE!!!
The media picks and chooses what to focus on, stirring up unrest, and then coverage to show how responsible they are. Baloney!!
Blacks kills blacks; whites kills blacks; whites kill whites; and go on and on with any other ethnic group. Our media leads us to believe many false truths. What about Rolling Stones and the UVA incident?
Our world is in turmoil and needs Jesus Christ desperately. Barry Obama said he was going to reverse what Bush was doing wrong; which was too much involvement by the federal government. Huh??? And he is the worst of any president of bring the government into our daily lives.
Then we have ISIS, Al-Quada, Lybia, Iran, Iraq, and on and on. Terrorists, people killing people. Hmmmm!!! Takes us back to Noah's day, when man became so evil God could not stand it anymore. Maybe, just maybe this means Jesus is coming closer to returning. I do hope so. Well, thoughts from a sometimes frustrated Christian who does not understand why we can't all just get along, share the love of Jesus, and do the right thing. If you wish to comment I would enjoy viewing your feedback.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Is there really justice in the world? In America? We should love our brothers and sisters in Christ. We should also love the "lost souls" who do not know Jesus.
The Ferguson episode, the strangling of the man resisting arrest, and what happens? Protests! Okay, justifiable! Violent protests!! UNACCEPTABLE!!! Then in Ferguson the forensic evidence shows Brown was the aggressor, yet we are going to go BLACK vs WHITE! Poor black accosted by white policeman. Huh?
If we all did what was right in God's eyes none of this would have happened! Did you hear about the poor "white waitress" who was killed by 3 black men for her "TIPS"? No, you did not. This all is not a race issue----it is A MEDIA ISSUE!!!
The media picks and chooses what to focus on, stirring up unrest, and then coverage to show how responsible they are. Baloney!!
Blacks kills blacks; whites kills blacks; whites kill whites; and go on and on with any other ethnic group. Our media leads us to believe many false truths. What about Rolling Stones and the UVA incident?
Our world is in turmoil and needs Jesus Christ desperately. Barry Obama said he was going to reverse what Bush was doing wrong; which was too much involvement by the federal government. Huh??? And he is the worst of any president of bring the government into our daily lives.
Then we have ISIS, Al-Quada, Lybia, Iran, Iraq, and on and on. Terrorists, people killing people. Hmmmm!!! Takes us back to Noah's day, when man became so evil God could not stand it anymore. Maybe, just maybe this means Jesus is coming closer to returning. I do hope so. Well, thoughts from a sometimes frustrated Christian who does not understand why we can't all just get along, share the love of Jesus, and do the right thing. If you wish to comment I would enjoy viewing your feedback.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
God? Who is that? Oh, how we have forgotten!!!!
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
There is a radio program called "Back to Genesis" which is a good Bible study each day. I would like to remind you of back to Genesis when God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. Why? Why would God do such a thing. Because of the evil that existed in these towns and the plains around it. The people had no guidance, no stopping point. They were ruthless, violent homosexual to the point they would play with foreign folly and when through just kill them. No big deal. Hmmmm! That is not what God thinks.
The openly gay woman mayor of Houston decided to go after some ministers for "hate" speech, because they actively taught from the BIBLE! In Cleveland, Ohio they are pushing a law where 'transsexuals' may enter the bathroom of their choice. If you feel feminine today use the ladies, later feel masculine use the mens room. How wrong is this?
I can see young inquisitive males and females use this to their advantage. Hmmm, do you think sex crimes may increase in this city?
And to boot, if a business does not open the bathrooms to both sexs they will endure a heavy fine. Wow!! Has mankind lost their minds? Lost good ole common sense? What is going on?
Christians do not hate homosexuals, just the sin. Christians do not hate alcoholics, just the sin. Christians do not hate drug addicts, just the sin. Christians do not hate thieves, just the sin. And we could go on and on. But, if we, as Christians speak out against any of this it is 'hate speech', yet they can call us names, ban our crosses from public view, strip scriptures off building, but this is not hate speech and actions?
Man, do we need God in America and the whole world. Prayer my friend is the answer. Take time to pray for America and the world. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
There is a radio program called "Back to Genesis" which is a good Bible study each day. I would like to remind you of back to Genesis when God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. Why? Why would God do such a thing. Because of the evil that existed in these towns and the plains around it. The people had no guidance, no stopping point. They were ruthless, violent homosexual to the point they would play with foreign folly and when through just kill them. No big deal. Hmmmm! That is not what God thinks.
The openly gay woman mayor of Houston decided to go after some ministers for "hate" speech, because they actively taught from the BIBLE! In Cleveland, Ohio they are pushing a law where 'transsexuals' may enter the bathroom of their choice. If you feel feminine today use the ladies, later feel masculine use the mens room. How wrong is this?
I can see young inquisitive males and females use this to their advantage. Hmmm, do you think sex crimes may increase in this city?
And to boot, if a business does not open the bathrooms to both sexs they will endure a heavy fine. Wow!! Has mankind lost their minds? Lost good ole common sense? What is going on?
Christians do not hate homosexuals, just the sin. Christians do not hate alcoholics, just the sin. Christians do not hate drug addicts, just the sin. Christians do not hate thieves, just the sin. And we could go on and on. But, if we, as Christians speak out against any of this it is 'hate speech', yet they can call us names, ban our crosses from public view, strip scriptures off building, but this is not hate speech and actions?
Man, do we need God in America and the whole world. Prayer my friend is the answer. Take time to pray for America and the world. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
I'm mad at hell and ain't gonna take it no more!!! Christians, Americans, we are under attack!!!!
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
WOW!! Is Satan alive and well with his band of demons attacking the Christians? Yes, yes, yes!!! Not a pretty sight; and we, the people, sit by an watch. Thank heavens a few take action. The conservative Christians must have finally come out to vote. There was a shift in power in our political system. Maybe, just maybe we can get back to God. We need lots of prayer.
The mayor of Houston, Annise Parker, an openly gay lady did attack pastors for what? Read this:
The fury at Parker, who is openly gay, concerns a lawsuit against the city for rejecting citizen petitions toward repealing the city's pro-LGBT equal rights ordinance. Pro bono attorneys on behalf of the city subpoenaed a set of pastors who had been involved in collecting signatures against the city's equal rights ordinance. The subpoenas called on the pastors to submit "all speeches, presentations, or sermons related to the [Houston Equal Rights Ordinance], the Petition, Mayor Annise Parker, homosexuality, or gender identity prepared by, delivered by, revised by, or approved by you or in your possession." FREEDOM OF SPEECH - NOPE - NOT IF IT OFFENDS ONE IN POWER.
Next, We had Al-Quada, then ISIS, and now Khorasan. What is Khorasan? Here is Now I Get It by Katie Couric about the Khorasan. (click on the link).
Take time to listen to it. It is only a couple of minutes long. I ask you again: ARE WE UNDER ATTACK? Yes, we are!!!
Christians and the conservative, Bible believing people are targets of the whole world. What can help? Prayer, prayer, prayer!!!
Does God really hear prayers? You betcha he does. Not only does he hear, but he answers them as well. Use the Muslim obedience to extreme - instead of praying 3 times a day - pray continually - from daylight to dark and in your sleep. God loves you - do you love Him? Enough to be obedience and change the world? Keep the faith my friend. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
WOW!! Is Satan alive and well with his band of demons attacking the Christians? Yes, yes, yes!!! Not a pretty sight; and we, the people, sit by an watch. Thank heavens a few take action. The conservative Christians must have finally come out to vote. There was a shift in power in our political system. Maybe, just maybe we can get back to God. We need lots of prayer.
The mayor of Houston, Annise Parker, an openly gay lady did attack pastors for what? Read this:
The fury at Parker, who is openly gay, concerns a lawsuit against the city for rejecting citizen petitions toward repealing the city's pro-LGBT equal rights ordinance. Pro bono attorneys on behalf of the city subpoenaed a set of pastors who had been involved in collecting signatures against the city's equal rights ordinance. The subpoenas called on the pastors to submit "all speeches, presentations, or sermons related to the [Houston Equal Rights Ordinance], the Petition, Mayor Annise Parker, homosexuality, or gender identity prepared by, delivered by, revised by, or approved by you or in your possession." FREEDOM OF SPEECH - NOPE - NOT IF IT OFFENDS ONE IN POWER.
Next, We had Al-Quada, then ISIS, and now Khorasan. What is Khorasan? Here is Now I Get It by Katie Couric about the Khorasan. (click on the link).
Take time to listen to it. It is only a couple of minutes long. I ask you again: ARE WE UNDER ATTACK? Yes, we are!!!
Christians and the conservative, Bible believing people are targets of the whole world. What can help? Prayer, prayer, prayer!!!
Does God really hear prayers? You betcha he does. Not only does he hear, but he answers them as well. Use the Muslim obedience to extreme - instead of praying 3 times a day - pray continually - from daylight to dark and in your sleep. God loves you - do you love Him? Enough to be obedience and change the world? Keep the faith my friend. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
Think about things in life. Yesterday, through the work of God I was able to witness these things:
1. Part of a man's rent is paid and he was most gracious;
2. A homeless man was given 3 lbs. of nails and he is erecting a structure for the winter- he was very happy;
3. A homeless man was given a new bike to travel around with and he was extremely excited;
4. A homeless family just was able to get an apartment and had bunk beds delivered, from a church, and they were overjoyed.
Then, many people complain because they ate at a restaurant and something was not cooked just right. Or unhappy because they want a new car. Mad because they are in the same position at their job. Upset because someone was given something and they were not. Hmmmm!
What is important to you? Life? Material things? Maybe God, if, and only if you have time?
The most important item we should have on our agenda is GOD, and planting the seeds of salvation for HIS kingdom.
Take time today to do a little soul searching. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Think about things in life. Yesterday, through the work of God I was able to witness these things:
1. Part of a man's rent is paid and he was most gracious;
2. A homeless man was given 3 lbs. of nails and he is erecting a structure for the winter- he was very happy;
3. A homeless man was given a new bike to travel around with and he was extremely excited;
4. A homeless family just was able to get an apartment and had bunk beds delivered, from a church, and they were overjoyed.
Then, many people complain because they ate at a restaurant and something was not cooked just right. Or unhappy because they want a new car. Mad because they are in the same position at their job. Upset because someone was given something and they were not. Hmmmm!
What is important to you? Life? Material things? Maybe God, if, and only if you have time?
The most important item we should have on our agenda is GOD, and planting the seeds of salvation for HIS kingdom.
Take time today to do a little soul searching. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
New Orleans French Quarters Experience
Good morning! It has been a while since my last post. Just want to share an adventure God has taken me on. I am in New Orleans, La. and went down to the French Quarter last night. I did eat at the Gumbo Pot and the food was great. Then my adventure really began.
As I exited to visit the French Quarter I encountered John, who drives a bike taxi and we began a conversation. We exchanged niceties, laughed and joked for a few moments when Nicole arrived. She is another bike taxi driver, and------John's girl friend. In the course of the conversation Nicole is Catholic and John an unbeliever in Jesus, but knows there is a God. I did ask straight away if he knew Jesus and his answer was no. After visiting at length with them I told them I would pray for them and ask anyone else who cares to, to do so also. They are both in college and John is a psychology major. They will make a great couple, they just need the LORD!
Then on down to observe the sights. Came across a magician who had some ladies stumped and amazed. He was really good and I will come back to him later.
My wife asked if I had gone to Pat O'Brians. So, I found my way there and went in. They had 2 piano players who took songs by request and played, sang, and had a good time. I asked what was so good about the place. They said it was the invention of the "Hurricane" drink and they were famous for it. Okay, I tried 1; nice, but the music was the best and now time to leave.
On the way back in the street were tarot card readers, palm readers, etc. and it started to rain. As everyone darted for shelter I came across the magician who has a booking agent and they travel all over the USA hoping for a break into the big time. The magician, John, is good and says he is a believer. After swapping jokes I moved on.
As I passed a couple a voice said "do you have any spare change?" I spun around, said yes I do and then 4 words leaped from my mouth - "Do you know Jesus?" The young man, John said yes, and his friend Amber also said yes. His comment after my question was, "he is the only reason I wake up each day." We visited for a while, I went on my way and down the street, once again I hear, "do you have any spare change?" I turned around again and said, "Do you know Jesus?" And, Kenneth Wayne W. said yes, he is the only reason I wake up each day. I then met Lester and another young lady with a dog. We visited for a while then I was on my way.
My conversations for the evening mostly revolved around Jesus and being a Christian. I was curious about the response John and Kenneth both gave. My question is are they using this answer as a tool, or is it genuine? It does not matter, the seed has been planted, my job is to be the obedient servant and cast forth seeds. God will germinate then an they will grow to be goods seeds or tares. It is all in God's hands now.
Can you straight up ask a person if they know Jesus? I never could, but suddenly those words race to come forth and I am shocked many times as I don't really realize that is where the conversation is headed. Hmmm. A great adventure and I am enjoying it. Want to ride? Come on!!
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
As I exited to visit the French Quarter I encountered John, who drives a bike taxi and we began a conversation. We exchanged niceties, laughed and joked for a few moments when Nicole arrived. She is another bike taxi driver, and------John's girl friend. In the course of the conversation Nicole is Catholic and John an unbeliever in Jesus, but knows there is a God. I did ask straight away if he knew Jesus and his answer was no. After visiting at length with them I told them I would pray for them and ask anyone else who cares to, to do so also. They are both in college and John is a psychology major. They will make a great couple, they just need the LORD!
Then on down to observe the sights. Came across a magician who had some ladies stumped and amazed. He was really good and I will come back to him later.
My wife asked if I had gone to Pat O'Brians. So, I found my way there and went in. They had 2 piano players who took songs by request and played, sang, and had a good time. I asked what was so good about the place. They said it was the invention of the "Hurricane" drink and they were famous for it. Okay, I tried 1; nice, but the music was the best and now time to leave.
On the way back in the street were tarot card readers, palm readers, etc. and it started to rain. As everyone darted for shelter I came across the magician who has a booking agent and they travel all over the USA hoping for a break into the big time. The magician, John, is good and says he is a believer. After swapping jokes I moved on.
As I passed a couple a voice said "do you have any spare change?" I spun around, said yes I do and then 4 words leaped from my mouth - "Do you know Jesus?" The young man, John said yes, and his friend Amber also said yes. His comment after my question was, "he is the only reason I wake up each day." We visited for a while, I went on my way and down the street, once again I hear, "do you have any spare change?" I turned around again and said, "Do you know Jesus?" And, Kenneth Wayne W. said yes, he is the only reason I wake up each day. I then met Lester and another young lady with a dog. We visited for a while then I was on my way.
My conversations for the evening mostly revolved around Jesus and being a Christian. I was curious about the response John and Kenneth both gave. My question is are they using this answer as a tool, or is it genuine? It does not matter, the seed has been planted, my job is to be the obedient servant and cast forth seeds. God will germinate then an they will grow to be goods seeds or tares. It is all in God's hands now.
Can you straight up ask a person if they know Jesus? I never could, but suddenly those words race to come forth and I am shocked many times as I don't really realize that is where the conversation is headed. Hmmm. A great adventure and I am enjoying it. Want to ride? Come on!!
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Monday, March 31, 2014
Q & A's -- PAUL
PAUL
One of the strongest personalities in the New Testament is Paul. Match each person associated with Paul with the proper description about the person.
1. Epaphroditus (Phil 2:25-30) a. tried to quiet the riot in Ephesus
2. Eutychus (Acts 20:9) b. predicted Paul's imprisonment
3. Agabus (Acts 21:10-11) c. ordered Paul beaten
4. Demetrius (Acts 19:24) d. drove Paul's accusers from the
judgment seat
5. Alexander (Acts 19:33-34) e. provided help for missionaries
6. Priscilla (Acts 18:24-26) f. taken to theater during riot
7. Gaius (Acts 19:29) g. opposed Paul's teachings
8. sons of Sceva (Acts 19:14) h. fell from window while Paul
preached
9. Gallio (Acts 18:14-17) i. friend who almost died
10. Lydia (Acts 16:14) j. helped instruct Apollos in the truth
11. Claudius Lysias (Acts 22:23) k. tried to drive evil spirits from a man in the
name of Jesus
One of the strongest personalities in the New Testament is Paul. Match each person associated with Paul with the proper description about the person.
1. Epaphroditus (Phil 2:25-30) a. tried to quiet the riot in Ephesus
2. Eutychus (Acts 20:9) b. predicted Paul's imprisonment
3. Agabus (Acts 21:10-11) c. ordered Paul beaten
4. Demetrius (Acts 19:24) d. drove Paul's accusers from the
judgment seat
5. Alexander (Acts 19:33-34) e. provided help for missionaries
6. Priscilla (Acts 18:24-26) f. taken to theater during riot
7. Gaius (Acts 19:29) g. opposed Paul's teachings
8. sons of Sceva (Acts 19:14) h. fell from window while Paul
preached
9. Gallio (Acts 18:14-17) i. friend who almost died
10. Lydia (Acts 16:14) j. helped instruct Apollos in the truth
11. Claudius Lysias (Acts 22:23) k. tried to drive evil spirits from a man in the
name of Jesus
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Paul, facts to look up
One of the strongest personalities in the New Testament is Paul. Match each person associated with Paul with the proper descriptions about the person.
1. Epaphroditus (Phil 2:25-30) a. tried to quiet the riot in Ephesus
2. Eutychus (Acts 20:9) b. predicted Paul's imprisonment
3. Agabs (Acts 19:24) c. ordered Paul beaten
4. Demetrius (Acts 19:24) d. drove Paul's accusers from the judgment seat
5. Alexander (Acts 19:33-34) e. provided help for missionaries
6. Priscilla (Acts 18:24-26) f. taken to theater during riot
7. Gaius (Acts 19:29) g. opposed Paul's teachings
8. sons of Sceva (Acts 19:14) h. fell from window while Paul preached
9. Gallio (Acts 18:14-17) i. friend who almost died
10. Lydia (Acts 16:14) j. helped instruct Apollos in the truth
11. Claudius Lysias (Acts 22:23) k. tried to drive evil spirits from a man in the
name of Jesus
Enjoy!!!
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
1. Epaphroditus (Phil 2:25-30) a. tried to quiet the riot in Ephesus
2. Eutychus (Acts 20:9) b. predicted Paul's imprisonment
3. Agabs (Acts 19:24) c. ordered Paul beaten
4. Demetrius (Acts 19:24) d. drove Paul's accusers from the judgment seat
5. Alexander (Acts 19:33-34) e. provided help for missionaries
6. Priscilla (Acts 18:24-26) f. taken to theater during riot
7. Gaius (Acts 19:29) g. opposed Paul's teachings
8. sons of Sceva (Acts 19:14) h. fell from window while Paul preached
9. Gallio (Acts 18:14-17) i. friend who almost died
10. Lydia (Acts 16:14) j. helped instruct Apollos in the truth
11. Claudius Lysias (Acts 22:23) k. tried to drive evil spirits from a man in the
name of Jesus
Enjoy!!!
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Bible Questions and Answers
Moses was known as "the lawgiver" for the Israelites. Match these facts about his life.
1. Father -in - law (Ex 18:1) a. Eleazar
2. wife (Ex 18:2) b. Korah
3. son (Ex 18:3) c. Moab
4. sister (Ex 15:20) d. Jethro
5. brother (Ex 4:14) e. Gershom
6. king (Ex 6:11) f. Aaron
7. nephew (Ex 6:25) g. Joshua
8. held up Moses' hands (Ex 17:12) h. Hur
9. rebelled against Moses (Num 16:1-3) i. Pharaoh
10. successor (Deut 31:14) j. Miriam
11. death place (Deut 34:5) k. Zipporah
1. Father -in - law (Ex 18:1) a. Eleazar
2. wife (Ex 18:2) b. Korah
3. son (Ex 18:3) c. Moab
4. sister (Ex 15:20) d. Jethro
5. brother (Ex 4:14) e. Gershom
6. king (Ex 6:11) f. Aaron
7. nephew (Ex 6:25) g. Joshua
8. held up Moses' hands (Ex 17:12) h. Hur
9. rebelled against Moses (Num 16:1-3) i. Pharaoh
10. successor (Deut 31:14) j. Miriam
11. death place (Deut 34:5) k. Zipporah
Friday, March 21, 2014
Got Moses?!? Do you know Moses?
Fill in each blank with the correct answer about Moses.
1. Moses fled from Egypt because he had _________ (Ex. 2:12-15).
2. Moses was looking at a ___________when a voice told him to take off his shoes (Ex 3:2-5).
3. ____________ plagues fell on Egypt (Ex 7-11).
4. Moses instituted the __________ feast (Ex 12:3-14).
5. God used __________ by day and a ________ by night to escort his people out of Egypt (Ex 13:21).
6. God fed the Israelites with _________ in the wilderness (Ex. 16:15).
7. On Mount Sinai, Moses received two stone tablets containing the _____________(Ex. 20).
8. God told Moses to __________ to get water (Ex. 17:6).
9. Jethro told Moses how to ________ to help Moses judge the people (Ex 18:1-21).
10. Moses was ________ years old when he died (Deut. 34:7).
11. Moses was buried by ______________(Deut. 34:6).
1. Moses fled from Egypt because he had _________ (Ex. 2:12-15).
2. Moses was looking at a ___________when a voice told him to take off his shoes (Ex 3:2-5).
3. ____________ plagues fell on Egypt (Ex 7-11).
4. Moses instituted the __________ feast (Ex 12:3-14).
5. God used __________ by day and a ________ by night to escort his people out of Egypt (Ex 13:21).
6. God fed the Israelites with _________ in the wilderness (Ex. 16:15).
7. On Mount Sinai, Moses received two stone tablets containing the _____________(Ex. 20).
8. God told Moses to __________ to get water (Ex. 17:6).
9. Jethro told Moses how to ________ to help Moses judge the people (Ex 18:1-21).
10. Moses was ________ years old when he died (Deut. 34:7).
11. Moses was buried by ______________(Deut. 34:6).
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Bible --Locations
Locations: Many of us can pinpoint highlights in our lives by recalling places. Match each place with the important thing that happened there.
1. Jerusalem a. altar to an unknown god (Acts 17:23)
2. Lydda b. Philip preached and many turned to Jesus (Acts 8:5)
3. Joppa c. first Christian church (Acts 8:1)
4. Caesarea d. Ethiopian saved (Acts 8:26-28)
5. Samaria e. place where Jesus prayed (Matt 26:36)
6. Gaza desert f. Saul visited by Ananias (Acts 9:10-18)
7. Damascus g. Aenaeus healed (Acts 9:32-33)
8. Antioch h. Stephen stoned (Acts 7:58-60)
9. Gethsemane i. Tabitha raised (Acts 9:36)
10. Jerusalem j. Cornelius lived here (Acts 10:1)
11. Athens k. followers called Christians first (Acts 11:26)
1. Jerusalem a. altar to an unknown god (Acts 17:23)
2. Lydda b. Philip preached and many turned to Jesus (Acts 8:5)
3. Joppa c. first Christian church (Acts 8:1)
4. Caesarea d. Ethiopian saved (Acts 8:26-28)
5. Samaria e. place where Jesus prayed (Matt 26:36)
6. Gaza desert f. Saul visited by Ananias (Acts 9:10-18)
7. Damascus g. Aenaeus healed (Acts 9:32-33)
8. Antioch h. Stephen stoned (Acts 7:58-60)
9. Gethsemane i. Tabitha raised (Acts 9:36)
10. Jerusalem j. Cornelius lived here (Acts 10:1)
11. Athens k. followers called Christians first (Acts 11:26)
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Bible Questions -- Legal Matters
Match each name with the proper legal term.
1. Moses (Gen. 49:10) a. advisor to lawgiver
2. Deborah (Judg. 4:4) b. deputy of Achaia
3. Jethro (Ex: 18:1-26) c. doctor of law
4. Solomon (I Kings 3:28) d. freed prisoner
5. Gamaliel (Acts 5:34) e. The condemned
6. God (Gen. 18:25) f. lawgiver
7. Gallio (Acts 18:12) g. lawyer
8. Paul (Acts 26:22) h. prophetess-judge
9. Jesus (Matt. 20:18) i. Judge of all
10. Barabbas (John 18:40) j. wise judge
11. Zenas (Titus 3:13) k. witness
I hope you gain some Biblical knowledge through this Q & A drill. Have a blessed day.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
1. Moses (Gen. 49:10) a. advisor to lawgiver
2. Deborah (Judg. 4:4) b. deputy of Achaia
3. Jethro (Ex: 18:1-26) c. doctor of law
4. Solomon (I Kings 3:28) d. freed prisoner
5. Gamaliel (Acts 5:34) e. The condemned
6. God (Gen. 18:25) f. lawgiver
7. Gallio (Acts 18:12) g. lawyer
8. Paul (Acts 26:22) h. prophetess-judge
9. Jesus (Matt. 20:18) i. Judge of all
10. Barabbas (John 18:40) j. wise judge
11. Zenas (Titus 3:13) k. witness
I hope you gain some Biblical knowledge through this Q & A drill. Have a blessed day.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Friday, March 14, 2014
JUDGES
Judges have been essential in keeping conflict down. Fill in each blank with the name of the judge involved.
1. ________wanted to be made judge in order to take the throne from his father (2 Sam 15:4)
2. ________is a judge of the widows declared the psalmist (Ps. 68.5)
3. Jesus told a story about a judge and a __________ (Luke 18:2-5)
4. ________ is the Judge of the quick and the dead according to Paul (Acts 10:42)
5. ________ said he would not be the judge of words, names, and Jewish law (Acts 18:15)
6. ________ wore himeelf out serving as a judge for all the Israelites (Ex. 18:13-14)
7. ________ was a woman judge (Judge 4:4)
8. Moses decreed that the _________ would serve as judge in the case of a slayer and the revenger of blood (Num 35:24)
9. The Israelites pleaded with Moses for a _________ to judge the people (I Sam 8:5)
10. _______ built a porch for the throne where he could judge the people (I Kings 7:7)
11. Pilate told the _________ to serve as their own judge of Jesus ( John 18:31)
1. ________wanted to be made judge in order to take the throne from his father (2 Sam 15:4)
2. ________is a judge of the widows declared the psalmist (Ps. 68.5)
3. Jesus told a story about a judge and a __________ (Luke 18:2-5)
4. ________ is the Judge of the quick and the dead according to Paul (Acts 10:42)
5. ________ said he would not be the judge of words, names, and Jewish law (Acts 18:15)
6. ________ wore himeelf out serving as a judge for all the Israelites (Ex. 18:13-14)
7. ________ was a woman judge (Judge 4:4)
8. Moses decreed that the _________ would serve as judge in the case of a slayer and the revenger of blood (Num 35:24)
9. The Israelites pleaded with Moses for a _________ to judge the people (I Sam 8:5)
10. _______ built a porch for the throne where he could judge the people (I Kings 7:7)
11. Pilate told the _________ to serve as their own judge of Jesus ( John 18:31)
Thursday, March 13, 2014
LAUGHTER in the BIBLE!
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
1. Where did people laugh at Jesus? (Mark 5:40)
2. Who laughed when she was told she would have a child when she was past the childbearing age? (Gen. 18:11-15)
3. Who did Jesus say shall laugh? (Luke 6:21)
4. To whom did Isaiah say, "The virgin the daughter of Zion hath laughed thee to scorn"? (2 Kings 19:21)
5. Who laughed at Nehemiah for rebuilding the Jerusalem wall? (Neh 2:19)
6. Who laughed when told he would have a son when he was 100 years old? (Gen 17:17)
7. Who said everyone who saw him laughed him to scorn? (Ps 22:7)
8. Who did Solomon say would laugh at calamity? (Prov. 1:26)
9. Who did David say the LORD would laugh at? (Ps 37:12-13)
10. What did the Preacher say was better than laughter? (Eccl. 7:3)
Enjoy and have a blessed day.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
1. Where did people laugh at Jesus? (Mark 5:40)
2. Who laughed when she was told she would have a child when she was past the childbearing age? (Gen. 18:11-15)
3. Who did Jesus say shall laugh? (Luke 6:21)
4. To whom did Isaiah say, "The virgin the daughter of Zion hath laughed thee to scorn"? (2 Kings 19:21)
5. Who laughed at Nehemiah for rebuilding the Jerusalem wall? (Neh 2:19)
6. Who laughed when told he would have a son when he was 100 years old? (Gen 17:17)
7. Who said everyone who saw him laughed him to scorn? (Ps 22:7)
8. Who did Solomon say would laugh at calamity? (Prov. 1:26)
9. Who did David say the LORD would laugh at? (Ps 37:12-13)
10. What did the Preacher say was better than laughter? (Eccl. 7:3)
Enjoy and have a blessed day.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Trust Jesus - Step 7 part A
Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
You have receive Jesus as your savior; you now have eternal life, you are on a new spiritual adventure with Jesus being your guide and navigator. Jesus is now the LORD of your life.
When we confessed Jesus as our savior it means we trust Him to direct and guide our every step. If we are going the wrong direction we will feel a nudging inside, this is the Holy Spirit that God, that Jesus left with us to help us navigate through troubled water into calm seas and steady our course.
John 15: 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
Jesus is our LORD.
John 13: 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am.
Thomas, the doubter said Jesus is his Lord and his God. Can you say this as well?
Paul says this about Jesus:
The Lord of the age - 1 Corinthians 2: 8 None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
The Lord of peace - 2 Thessalonians 3: 16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
1 Timothy 6: 15 which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
Jesus has earned the right to direct your life. How? More study in the next lesson.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
You have receive Jesus as your savior; you now have eternal life, you are on a new spiritual adventure with Jesus being your guide and navigator. Jesus is now the LORD of your life.
When we confessed Jesus as our savior it means we trust Him to direct and guide our every step. If we are going the wrong direction we will feel a nudging inside, this is the Holy Spirit that God, that Jesus left with us to help us navigate through troubled water into calm seas and steady our course.
John 15: 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
Jesus is our LORD.
John 13: 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am.
Thomas, the doubter said Jesus is his Lord and his God. Can you say this as well?
Paul says this about Jesus:
The Lord of the age - 1 Corinthians 2: 8 None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
The Lord of peace - 2 Thessalonians 3: 16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
1 Timothy 6: 15 which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
Jesus has earned the right to direct your life. How? More study in the next lesson.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Be Faithful to a Church - Step 6 part C
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
Why do I need to be faithful to a church? I don't like to go where everyone is looking at me, judging me, and I feel uncomfortable!! Well, Jesus taught in Matthew 28:19-20 that the church's mission is to "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
We should want to: 1-share eternal life with the world; 2-baptize new believers; 3-teach the Bible; 4-enjoy ministry in Christ's name; 5-give our money, time, and talents.
If you were to commit right now; who is your pastor? who is your teacher? where is your church?
The word "church" means what to you? A building, a place, a body of people?
Think about why you need to be faithful to your church. List some, write them down on a piece of paper, place them where you can view them daily. Follow the mission of the church.
Church is the body of Jesus Christ - not a building, not the woods, not under a bridge, it is you, it is me, it is our brothers and sisters in Christ.
And just what is our mission? It is to share the good news of the Bible and Jesus Christ with others. Psalm 122:1 "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord."
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Why do I need to be faithful to a church? I don't like to go where everyone is looking at me, judging me, and I feel uncomfortable!! Well, Jesus taught in Matthew 28:19-20 that the church's mission is to "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
We should want to: 1-share eternal life with the world; 2-baptize new believers; 3-teach the Bible; 4-enjoy ministry in Christ's name; 5-give our money, time, and talents.
If you were to commit right now; who is your pastor? who is your teacher? where is your church?
The word "church" means what to you? A building, a place, a body of people?
Think about why you need to be faithful to your church. List some, write them down on a piece of paper, place them where you can view them daily. Follow the mission of the church.
Church is the body of Jesus Christ - not a building, not the woods, not under a bridge, it is you, it is me, it is our brothers and sisters in Christ.
And just what is our mission? It is to share the good news of the Bible and Jesus Christ with others. Psalm 122:1 "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord."
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Be faithful to a church - Step 6 - Part B
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
The last lesson ended with receive instruction and the privilege of fellowship. Today we will begin with worshiping locally. Look at Colossians 3:16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
What happens when you worship? Grow in wisdom---how? By psalms, hymns, songs from the Spirit, and singing to God with WHAT in your hearts? GRATITUDE!!
Lastly, you have opportunities within your church to serve others. Romans 12:
The last lesson ended with receive instruction and the privilege of fellowship. Today we will begin with worshiping locally. Look at Colossians 3:16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
What happens when you worship? Grow in wisdom---how? By psalms, hymns, songs from the Spirit, and singing to God with WHAT in your hearts? GRATITUDE!!
Lastly, you have opportunities within your church to serve others. Romans 12:
6 Having
then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us,
whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
What is being said here? We all have different gifts. We need to minister or teach. We need to give, be good stewards in our decisions, show mercy and be cheerful. We all have different gifts and we need to utilize these gifts to the fullest. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
What is being said here? We all have different gifts. We need to minister or teach. We need to give, be good stewards in our decisions, show mercy and be cheerful. We all have different gifts and we need to utilize these gifts to the fullest. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Be faithful to a church - Step 6 part A
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
Step 6 - Be Faithful to a church - huh? I thought we should be faithful to God. Yes, however, Jesus established the church while He was on earth to unite Christians as a spiritual family. Matthew 16: 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
Step 6 - Be Faithful to a church - huh? I thought we should be faithful to God. Yes, however, Jesus established the church while He was on earth to unite Christians as a spiritual family. Matthew 16: 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
18 And
I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will
build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
The word "church" means "called out ones." The church is made up of people who have been called out to follow Jesus. The term church is used to refer to all believers, and more specifically, the local group of believers.
Many say, I don't have to go to church to believe. This is so true, we can be believers and not attend a church, however, the reason for a church is to join with others for Biblical instruction, fellowship, worship and service. For discussion now here is Acts 2:
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
The word "church" means "called out ones." The church is made up of people who have been called out to follow Jesus. The term church is used to refer to all believers, and more specifically, the local group of believers.
Many say, I don't have to go to church to believe. This is so true, we can be believers and not attend a church, however, the reason for a church is to join with others for Biblical instruction, fellowship, worship and service. For discussion now here is Acts 2:
42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Think about these verses and the next lesson with continue with instruction, fellowship and worship. Love you all.43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Learn to Pray - Step 5 - Part C
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
We are step 5 and the "T" and "S" of the acrostic A C T S. The "T" is for thanksgiving, where we express gratitude to God for specific acts. Look at 1 Thessalonians 5:(KJV) 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
So, when should we give thanks? All the time, in everything. Can you think of things to be thankful for in the following areas: spiritual blessings, people, physical blessings, and material blessings?
The "S" for supplication. What IS supplication? Supplication is the Bible by the Hebrew translates into
a request or petition. Petition is asking God for your needs. Look at John 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Read these words: IF ye ABIDE in ME - stipulations - what you want will not automatically be granted unto you. It goes on to say: MY WORDS ABIDE IN YOU -- check it out. Many people want to say the Bible says if I ask it will be given - well, yes, but read before that - there are guidelines. Abide in Christ!!!!!
If you abide in Christ, then read Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
We are step 5 and the "T" and "S" of the acrostic A C T S. The "T" is for thanksgiving, where we express gratitude to God for specific acts. Look at 1 Thessalonians 5:(KJV) 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
So, when should we give thanks? All the time, in everything. Can you think of things to be thankful for in the following areas: spiritual blessings, people, physical blessings, and material blessings?
The "S" for supplication. What IS supplication? Supplication is the Bible by the Hebrew translates into
a request or petition. Petition is asking God for your needs. Look at John 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Read these words: IF ye ABIDE in ME - stipulations - what you want will not automatically be granted unto you. It goes on to say: MY WORDS ABIDE IN YOU -- check it out. Many people want to say the Bible says if I ask it will be given - well, yes, but read before that - there are guidelines. Abide in Christ!!!!!
If you abide in Christ, then read Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Now please take time to list 3 personal requests, and during your prayer time present them to God. Also, pray for others, if you know their specific needs write them down, place them in your memory and pray for them. Please remember what prayer is. It is simply talking to your best friend, God, and He hears all. Practice talking to God daily, wherever you are, whenever you can, at any time. It does not have to be loud, on the street corner so all may see. This is very personal, between you and God; make it so!!!
The elements of prayer are: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Now please take time to list 3 personal requests, and during your prayer time present them to God. Also, pray for others, if you know their specific needs write them down, place them in your memory and pray for them. Please remember what prayer is. It is simply talking to your best friend, God, and He hears all. Practice talking to God daily, wherever you are, whenever you can, at any time. It does not have to be loud, on the street corner so all may see. This is very personal, between you and God; make it so!!!
The elements of prayer are: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Monday, February 3, 2014
Learn to pray - Step 5 - part B
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
Did you read the Lord's prayer and really think about the words? Do not just say them in rote repetition, but actually think about the words.
Did you read the Lord's prayer and really think about the words? Do not just say them in rote repetition, but actually think about the words.
Why should we pray continually? 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)17 Pray without ceasing.
And what does this mean? We quit our jobs, have a prayer closet, get on our knees and just pray, pray, pray? No, not at all. It simply means we pray, in our mind because got hears us, while driving, eating, at work, all the time, anywhere. It is easy. You can do it.
There is an acrostic ACTS for prayer: A= adoration; C= confession; T= thanksgiving; S= supplication .
Let's break it down. Adoration is praise - focusing on who God is.
Psalm 145:3 Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
Psalm 147:1 Praise ye the Lord: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely.
5 Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.
We should spend time in praise. Read Psalm 100 and 150; you can use it as a prayer back to God.
Confession: this is acknowledging your sins before God in order to receive forgiveness. We establish a relationship with God when we accepted Jesus as our savior for eternal life. This relationship will never be broken, however we can hinder it. How so? by our unconfessed sins.
Psalm 66:18 "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the LORD will not hear me."
So what do we do? Pretty simple - confess the sin, receive His promise of cleansing (John 1:9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world."
Claim victory over temptation. 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Take time to ask God to reveal any unconfessed sins. Write them down for only you and God is see, ask forgiveness and claim His promise of forgiveness.
We will finish T and S (thanksgiving and supplication) tomorrow. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Learn to pray - Step 5 - part A
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
How do you pray? How do I pray? Well, let me ask this----how do you visit with another person, a friend, family member, or new acquaintance? The best way to get to know someone is to visit with him/her-----often. This is what God wants from us, to visit, to develop a close relationship.
How do you pray? How do I pray? Well, let me ask this----how do you visit with another person, a friend, family member, or new acquaintance? The best way to get to know someone is to visit with him/her-----often. This is what God wants from us, to visit, to develop a close relationship.
1 Chronicles 28:9 New King James Version (NKJV)
9 “As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the Lord
searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If
you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will
cast you off forever.
Jeremiah 24:7 "And I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord." This is talking to the ones who will become followers of Jesus Christ.
When we talk to God---this is prayer! Prayer is a conversation; it is sharing with someone who cares, although you cannot see Him, you can rest assured He is there. How did Jesus pray? Read below.
Mark 1:35 Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.
So how did Jesus pray? He went out to where? A solitary place! And what did He do? Prayed!
Now is Luke 18 verse 1 "Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,......" And if you will continue to read this chapter this is a parable about a judge and a widow. The widow was wanting justice and kept coming back until the judge became weary and finally gave in. We need to be as diligent in our prayer as the widow was with the judge--continual prayer.
On in Luke Jesus shares in parables about praying - well worth the read.
Then the disciples as Jesus to teach them something. Look at Luke 11:1 "Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”"
The disciples wanted Jesus to teach them how to pray. The next verse begins the Lord's prayer. Here it is:
2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
4 And forgive us our sins,
For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.”
Jeremiah 24:7 "And I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord." This is talking to the ones who will become followers of Jesus Christ.
When we talk to God---this is prayer! Prayer is a conversation; it is sharing with someone who cares, although you cannot see Him, you can rest assured He is there. How did Jesus pray? Read below.
Mark 1:35 Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.
So how did Jesus pray? He went out to where? A solitary place! And what did He do? Prayed!
Now is Luke 18 verse 1 "Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,......" And if you will continue to read this chapter this is a parable about a judge and a widow. The widow was wanting justice and kept coming back until the judge became weary and finally gave in. We need to be as diligent in our prayer as the widow was with the judge--continual prayer.
On in Luke Jesus shares in parables about praying - well worth the read.
Then the disciples as Jesus to teach them something. Look at Luke 11:1 "Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”"
The disciples wanted Jesus to teach them how to pray. The next verse begins the Lord's prayer. Here it is:
2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
4 And forgive us our sins,
For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.”
Do not just say this prayer, but read it and think about it---break down line by line--word by word. It is really awesome. So often we just say it without thinking.
Next lesson - why should we pray continually?
In Christ's Love and Grace
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Friday, January 31, 2014
Study you Bible - Step 4 - Part C
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
Memorize; Look at Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Here is a good scripture to memorize. You have God's word in your heart so that you MIGHT NOT sin.
Meditate: Don't just read God's word and then say you have completed you mission, you read the word of God today. Did you "word call" or did you really "READ?"
JOSHUA 1:8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
Meditate on God's word; then you will be prosperous and successful. Oh, I will be rich and live in a big nice house and drive a nice car? No, prosperous - you will grow in God's word and bring others to salvation. The rewards you receive on earth are but for a short time; the rewards you build for the kingdom of God are eternal.
What are the four purposes of God's word?
God's word is profitable for: 1) doctrine; 2) point out a fault; 3) conviction of sin; 4) correction of error; 5) instruction in righteousness.
Five ways to learn God's word - they will fit on a hand: H - hear; R - read; S - study; M-memorize; M-meditate.
Find a good time each day you can spend in studying God's word and then be there consistently as was Daniel. Let Psalm 119:18 "Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of they law."
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Study your Bible -- Step 4 -- Part B
Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
We have studied that God's word has specific purposes, has doctrine, and points out fault (convicts us) and today we will see that when we are convicted we are also corrected Psalm 119 gives directions, but looking at verse 9 "How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word." What is this verse telling us?
How can you be cleansed? Take heed to the Word, the Bible. God's word helps us behave accordingly, to His word, and the Bible is our food spiritually. We will not grow in Christ if we don't feed daily from the word. Jeremiah 15:16 says, "Thy words were found, and I did eat them." Did he eat them physically, no, but he did spiritually.
We have to take hold of the Bible, hear it, study it, talk about it, meditate on it, and memorize or paraphrase (accurately) the Bible.
LISTEN: Romans 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Listen to sermons, listen to Bible studies, and take notes on what you hear.
READ: 1 Timothy 4:13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Read your Bible daily, even if it is just a verse or a daily devotional, but read the word.
STUDY: 2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Study the word and apply it to your life. Let the moral teachings of the Bible guide you in your steps. You have to study, find stories that are interesting and as you read them, imagine them in your mind.
Next study will be Memorize and Meditate, then review. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
We have studied that God's word has specific purposes, has doctrine, and points out fault (convicts us) and today we will see that when we are convicted we are also corrected Psalm 119 gives directions, but looking at verse 9 "How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word." What is this verse telling us?
How can you be cleansed? Take heed to the Word, the Bible. God's word helps us behave accordingly, to His word, and the Bible is our food spiritually. We will not grow in Christ if we don't feed daily from the word. Jeremiah 15:16 says, "Thy words were found, and I did eat them." Did he eat them physically, no, but he did spiritually.
We have to take hold of the Bible, hear it, study it, talk about it, meditate on it, and memorize or paraphrase (accurately) the Bible.
LISTEN: Romans 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Listen to sermons, listen to Bible studies, and take notes on what you hear.
READ: 1 Timothy 4:13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Read your Bible daily, even if it is just a verse or a daily devotional, but read the word.
STUDY: 2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Study the word and apply it to your life. Let the moral teachings of the Bible guide you in your steps. You have to study, find stories that are interesting and as you read them, imagine them in your mind.
Next study will be Memorize and Meditate, then review. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Friday, January 24, 2014
Study Your Bible - Step 4 - part A
Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
God's desire is to have an intimate, personal relationship with you. You are not just an acquaintance or distant relative - you are His child. This relationship will be increased and become stronger by studying the Bible as more and more is revealed to you.
Hebrews 4:12 says that God's word is quick and powerful. This means the Bible is more than a book, more than words on a page. It is more that words spoken in ancient times. The Bible is relevant; it addresses the needs of today.
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
God's word has specific purpose as mentioned above. Also, God's word is helps us in doctrine.
Jeremiah 31:3 The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.
Also Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
God's word will point out our faults and convict us of sin and provide instructions on how to live.
Ephesians 4:26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
Wow! Does this hit us all right between the eyes!! Anger! Stealing! Work! Unwholesome talk! Speak of things that will benefit so we don't grieve the Holy Spirit. Wow! Powerful words.
More to share tomorrow.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
God's desire is to have an intimate, personal relationship with you. You are not just an acquaintance or distant relative - you are His child. This relationship will be increased and become stronger by studying the Bible as more and more is revealed to you.
Hebrews 4:12 says that God's word is quick and powerful. This means the Bible is more than a book, more than words on a page. It is more that words spoken in ancient times. The Bible is relevant; it addresses the needs of today.
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
God's word has specific purpose as mentioned above. Also, God's word is helps us in doctrine.
Jeremiah 31:3 The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.
Also Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
God's word will point out our faults and convict us of sin and provide instructions on how to live.
Ephesians 4:26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
Wow! Does this hit us all right between the eyes!! Anger! Stealing! Work! Unwholesome talk! Speak of things that will benefit so we don't grieve the Holy Spirit. Wow! Powerful words.
More to share tomorrow.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Share Jesus with Others - Step 3 - part B
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
Take time to reflect either on paper or out loud the following.
First - my life before Jesus was..........
Then, how I receive Jesus was........
Finally, Jesus makes my life more meaningful because......
The follow verses are good verses to help you explain to unbelievers the good news of eternal life. You may want to pick up you Bible and underline or make notes of these verses.
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
Romans 2:4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?
Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 10:9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Romans 10:13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Why should you share Jesus with others?
Whom do you know who needs to receive Jesus?
Share your testimony with someone this week.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Take time to reflect either on paper or out loud the following.
First - my life before Jesus was..........
Then, how I receive Jesus was........
Finally, Jesus makes my life more meaningful because......
The follow verses are good verses to help you explain to unbelievers the good news of eternal life. You may want to pick up you Bible and underline or make notes of these verses.
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
Romans 2:4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?
Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 10:9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Romans 10:13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Why should you share Jesus with others?
Whom do you know who needs to receive Jesus?
Share your testimony with someone this week.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
New Believers - Step 3 - part A
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
You know we all enjoy sharing good things we learn or know. Weddings, baby arrivals, a new product to help in everyday living, etc. We will be excited about it and tell everyone we know. WELL>>>>
As a CHRISTIAN we have some exciting, very exciting, very very exciting news! Oh, and what is that? We have life-changing news of eternal life. We will want to share this information with others, uh, but how. I don't want to be one of those obnoxious Bible thumpers. You won't! You are not the driver of your vessel anymore, the Holy Spirit is.
God will open the doors, water the seed you cast forth, and guide your every step--all you have to do is let Him have the wheel.
When Andrew met Jesus, his first inclination was to bring Simon, his brother to meet Jesus. John 1:
40 One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. 41 He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated, the Christ). 42 And he brought him to Jesus.
Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah.[a] You shall be called Cephas” (which is translated, A Stone){or Peter}.
For you and I as Christians, witnessing is not an option. Jesus commanded His followers to witness, to tell others. When we witness to others we need to share some of our personal testimony and share scripture.
What is your personal testimony? Don't make it a book -- tell it like it is to the point. Your testimony should reflect your life before receiving Jesus; how you received Jesus; and the difference Jesus has made in your life (life is more meaningful).
Paul's testimony - Acts 22:3-21 - turn in your Bibles and read this account (or click on link).
Take a moment to reflect on your life before receiving Jesus. Write it down, read it, and rejoice that Jesus is in your life. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
You know we all enjoy sharing good things we learn or know. Weddings, baby arrivals, a new product to help in everyday living, etc. We will be excited about it and tell everyone we know. WELL>>>>
As a CHRISTIAN we have some exciting, very exciting, very very exciting news! Oh, and what is that? We have life-changing news of eternal life. We will want to share this information with others, uh, but how. I don't want to be one of those obnoxious Bible thumpers. You won't! You are not the driver of your vessel anymore, the Holy Spirit is.
God will open the doors, water the seed you cast forth, and guide your every step--all you have to do is let Him have the wheel.
When Andrew met Jesus, his first inclination was to bring Simon, his brother to meet Jesus. John 1:
40 One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. 41 He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated, the Christ). 42 And he brought him to Jesus.
Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah.[a] You shall be called Cephas” (which is translated, A Stone){or Peter}.
For you and I as Christians, witnessing is not an option. Jesus commanded His followers to witness, to tell others. When we witness to others we need to share some of our personal testimony and share scripture.
What is your personal testimony? Don't make it a book -- tell it like it is to the point. Your testimony should reflect your life before receiving Jesus; how you received Jesus; and the difference Jesus has made in your life (life is more meaningful).
Paul's testimony - Acts 22:3-21 - turn in your Bibles and read this account (or click on link).
Take a moment to reflect on your life before receiving Jesus. Write it down, read it, and rejoice that Jesus is in your life. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Publicly declare your faith - step 2 part c
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
In the new testament new believers were baptized. Let's look at Acts 2:37, 38, 41,48
37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Look at these verses. 37 the people are asking for direction. Their question, as should be ours -- 'what shall we do?' Peter replied: repent and what?? be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for???? The remission of sins. Then what? Receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
So, in obedience, these people were baptized, they praised God and added to the church. (church meaning the body of believers-not a building).
Baptism expresses our love for Jesus. John 14:21 "Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them." (Jesus speaking)
Baptism depicts two things: (1) What Jesus did for you--He died for your sins, was buried, and came back to life (1 Corinthians 15:3-4); and (2) You died to an old way of life and have been raised to live a new life in Jesus. (Romans 6:3-4)
baptism involves 4 things: (1) the right person- a believer; (2) the right reasons-obedience and declaration of your new faith; (3) the right method; (4) the right authority (Acts 2:41-47)
What does one need for baptism? 1. Believe in Jesus Christ for salvation; 2. make a public commitment; (3) request to be baptized.
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
In the new testament new believers were baptized. Let's look at Acts 2:37, 38, 41,48
37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Look at these verses. 37 the people are asking for direction. Their question, as should be ours -- 'what shall we do?' Peter replied: repent and what?? be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for???? The remission of sins. Then what? Receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
So, in obedience, these people were baptized, they praised God and added to the church. (church meaning the body of believers-not a building).
Baptism expresses our love for Jesus. John 14:21 "Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them." (Jesus speaking)
Baptism depicts two things: (1) What Jesus did for you--He died for your sins, was buried, and came back to life (1 Corinthians 15:3-4); and (2) You died to an old way of life and have been raised to live a new life in Jesus. (Romans 6:3-4)
baptism involves 4 things: (1) the right person- a believer; (2) the right reasons-obedience and declaration of your new faith; (3) the right method; (4) the right authority (Acts 2:41-47)
What does one need for baptism? 1. Believe in Jesus Christ for salvation; 2. make a public commitment; (3) request to be baptized.
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Monday, January 20, 2014
Publicly declaring your faith - part B
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
Last session we stopped when Jesus came out of the water and God said this is my son of whom I am well pleased. Jesus had been baptized by John the Baptist.
Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Last session we stopped when Jesus came out of the water and God said this is my son of whom I am well pleased. Jesus had been baptized by John the Baptist.
Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20 Teaching
them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I
am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
We are baptized in obedience to Jesus' command. Baptism is not a requirement of being saved, it is in obedience to God. Jesus was baptized in obedience to God--Matthew 3:
We are baptized in obedience to Jesus' command. Baptism is not a requirement of being saved, it is in obedience to God. Jesus was baptized in obedience to God--Matthew 3:
13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.
14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
What is baptism all about? Think about this, write down in your words what you believe and we will continue and discuss this further in the next session.
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
What is baptism all about? Think about this, write down in your words what you believe and we will continue and discuss this further in the next session.
Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Friday, January 17, 2014
Publicly declaring your faith - step 2 part A
Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
Let us continue on with step 2. Jesus wants new believers to declare publicly their faith in Him.
Matthew 10: 32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
Let us continue on with step 2. Jesus wants new believers to declare publicly their faith in Him.
Matthew 10: 32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
Jesus was a carpenter, and when carpenters do not want a nail to come out they clinch in by bending the tip of it over. Then the nail won't come out. Professing Jesus openly and publicly is like clinching a nail. And how do you do this? You can declare this before the whole church or before whomever you are with at the time of salvation.
The more traditional way of doing this is by Baptism - this declares ones faith openly and publicly. Plus, you are being obedient to God. If we follow what Jesus said, John tells us in 1 John: 3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.
Why Baptism? Matthew 28:19-20 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Jesus was a carpenter, and when carpenters do not want a nail to come out they clinch in by bending the tip of it over. Then the nail won't come out. Professing Jesus openly and publicly is like clinching a nail. And how do you do this? You can declare this before the whole church or before whomever you are with at the time of salvation.
The more traditional way of doing this is by Baptism - this declares ones faith openly and publicly. Plus, you are being obedient to God. If we follow what Jesus said, John tells us in 1 John: 3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.
Why Baptism? Matthew 28:19-20 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20 Teaching
them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I
am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Jesus first set this example in Matthew 3: 13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. 14 But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?”
15 Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented.
16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Jesus first set this example in Matthew 3: 13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. 14 But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?”
15 Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented.
16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
If you will note, John the Baptist knew this was the Messiah and what did he say? John said he needed to be Baptized by Jesus. And Jesus' response? Jesus basically said, no, John had to baptize Him to fulfill all righteousness. John knew - Jesus was being obedient to the Father and when John baptized Jesus what happened?
Just as Jesus came up out of the water - the heaven was opened, the Spirit of God came down as a dove and then what? A voice from heaven says: "This is my Son, whom I love, with him I am well pleased."
This is being in obedience with God, doing what HE asks, whether it be baptism or in our daily walk.
Tomorrow part 2 of publicly declaring our faith.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
SALVATION - STEP 1- PART B
Your assurance is based on the Spirit of God. To further assure you of your salvation. God has sent living, daily proof of your relationship. As an official seal is placed on a contract between two individuals to guarantee the contract's validity, so God has given a seal (guarantee) of His promise to you.
Ephesians 1: 13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.
The seal given by God as a guarantee of His promise is what? The Holy Spirit!
The Holy Spirit at work within you is indisputable proof of your salvation. The Holy Spirit's work in your life will bring changes. Some changes will be gradual; some will be instant. The inward and outward changes that result are the final proof of your salvation.
2 Corinthians 5: 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!
Questions: What changes have you seen in your life since you committed it to Jesus Christ?
God back through parts A and B, your assurance is based on THE _________, ________, _______, ________ OF GOD. (what 4 things are your assurance) Word of God, Promises of God, Character of God, Spirit of God.
Love you all. Stay in the word. Step 2 tomorrow.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
Ephesians 1: 13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.
The seal given by God as a guarantee of His promise is what? The Holy Spirit!
The Holy Spirit at work within you is indisputable proof of your salvation. The Holy Spirit's work in your life will bring changes. Some changes will be gradual; some will be instant. The inward and outward changes that result are the final proof of your salvation.
2 Corinthians 5: 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!
Questions: What changes have you seen in your life since you committed it to Jesus Christ?
God back through parts A and B, your assurance is based on THE _________, ________, _______, ________ OF GOD. (what 4 things are your assurance) Word of God, Promises of God, Character of God, Spirit of God.
Love you all. Stay in the word. Step 2 tomorrow.
In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny
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