"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage
John 3:22-4:3
He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30 (NKJV)
In John's Gospel we regularly find epithets of profound truth. As stories are told, we not only get the facts, we also get the meaning -- the implications -- the results of what Jesus says and does. Therefore, the study of the Gospel of John yields great insights into God's purposes and His intentions.
This passage today speaks of the comparison between Jesus and John the Baptist in their "baptizing ministry." John makes some very important observations about Jesus that are key to all ministry.
Ours is a day of inflated egos, of bold vision, of building of empires. There are some fantastic things going on today in the church world. There is word of entire MOVEMENTS being birthed. This is great and grand in terms of advance of the Kingdom of God. We must applaud and encourage such great things. In fact, it is the desire of all of us to participate more fully in these grand things.
However, we must be careful that human ego not rule the day. Powerful individual persona can be the sentinel characteristic of some of the works of today. In fact, it has even been said that certain national leaders have risen to the level of "Christian rock stars."
The example of John must speak to us. "I MUST DECREASE -- SO THAT HE CAN INCREASE."
The Puritans spoke of "performing to an audience of ONE." There is also another aspect to this picture. There is only one who appears on the stage! There is only one who we adore and follow. His name is Jesus!
In all our advance and in all our accomplishments, this must remain as our singular vision.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Thursday, May 3, 2012
The Wonder of It All
"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage
John 3:1-21
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (NKJV)
This short passage contains one of the most widely quoted Scripture verses in the entire Bible. John 3:16 is a precious and valuable summarization of the Good News. God sent His Son Jesus for the saving of all those who would believe!
This familiar truth is like a finely cut diamond. We would do well to not rush on to other passages thinking that we have exhausted the greatness in our over-familiarity. Let's look more closely at a bit of the context.
We find in adjoining verses beautiful facets of gospel truth.
1. SALVATION IS OF GOD. Vs. 13 says that our "believing and receiving" did not begin by our desire for God or our efforts to reach Him. It started by HIS INITIATIVE when He came down to us - He descended. So YOU WERE CHOSEN BY GOD! What a wonderful truth. He first personally came after YOU!
2. JESUS CAME ON A RESCUE MISSION. Some may wonder how a loving God could condemn men to eternal hell. Vs. 17 says that Jesus does not condemn, but rather man is ALREADY under condemnation. God does not create our guiltiness. Instead, He offers a means of escape - of deliverance in Christ.
3. THE ESSENCE OF FAITH IS "SEEING". Vss. 14-15 describes a miracle of forgiveness and deliverance that happened underM Moses' leadership in the Old Testament. During a plague of disease, Moses fashioned a golden serpent as a symbol of the coming Messiah and placed it on a pole. All who LOOKED AT this golden serpent were healed. The essence of faith is not conduct or works or even ideologies. The essence of faith is SEEING. Just look on Jesus.
One of the most wonderful and blessed aspects of Bible truth s that it is inexhaustible. We may read and re-read this great passage and each time gain greater insight into the wonder of salvation in Christ.
John 3:1-21
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (NKJV)
This short passage contains one of the most widely quoted Scripture verses in the entire Bible. John 3:16 is a precious and valuable summarization of the Good News. God sent His Son Jesus for the saving of all those who would believe!
This familiar truth is like a finely cut diamond. We would do well to not rush on to other passages thinking that we have exhausted the greatness in our over-familiarity. Let's look more closely at a bit of the context.
We find in adjoining verses beautiful facets of gospel truth.
1. SALVATION IS OF GOD. Vs. 13 says that our "believing and receiving" did not begin by our desire for God or our efforts to reach Him. It started by HIS INITIATIVE when He came down to us - He descended. So YOU WERE CHOSEN BY GOD! What a wonderful truth. He first personally came after YOU!
2. JESUS CAME ON A RESCUE MISSION. Some may wonder how a loving God could condemn men to eternal hell. Vs. 17 says that Jesus does not condemn, but rather man is ALREADY under condemnation. God does not create our guiltiness. Instead, He offers a means of escape - of deliverance in Christ.
3. THE ESSENCE OF FAITH IS "SEEING". Vss. 14-15 describes a miracle of forgiveness and deliverance that happened underM Moses' leadership in the Old Testament. During a plague of disease, Moses fashioned a golden serpent as a symbol of the coming Messiah and placed it on a pole. All who LOOKED AT this golden serpent were healed. The essence of faith is not conduct or works or even ideologies. The essence of faith is SEEING. Just look on Jesus.
One of the most wonderful and blessed aspects of Bible truth s that it is inexhaustible. We may read and re-read this great passage and each time gain greater insight into the wonder of salvation in Christ.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
FOUND
"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage
John 1:29-51
He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, "We have found the Messiah..." John 1:41
The following day Jesus wanted to go to Gallilee and He found Phillip... John 1:43
Phillip found Nathaniel and said to him, "We have found Him..." John 1:45
Men FOUND Jesus. Jesus FOUND men. Men FOUND their friends and brought them to Jesus. This is the drama of John Chapter One. It is a story of discovery and delight.
Do you remember when you FOUND Jesus? Also, do you remember who you told about your discovery? In the thrill of new-found faith you wanted learn more about Him and to let that light shine on those nearest you.
It is wonderful to consider that Jesus had already been pursuing you! Not only did you find Him, He FOUND you. He called Simon by a new name (vs. 42). He told Nathaniel what he had been doing hours before their encounter. Jesus already knew him! Even now, as you seek the Lord, He is already ahead of you preparing the way.
John 1:29-51
He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, "We have found the Messiah..." John 1:41
The following day Jesus wanted to go to Gallilee and He found Phillip... John 1:43
Phillip found Nathaniel and said to him, "We have found Him..." John 1:45
Men FOUND Jesus. Jesus FOUND men. Men FOUND their friends and brought them to Jesus. This is the drama of John Chapter One. It is a story of discovery and delight.
Do you remember when you FOUND Jesus? Also, do you remember who you told about your discovery? In the thrill of new-found faith you wanted learn more about Him and to let that light shine on those nearest you.
It is wonderful to consider that Jesus had already been pursuing you! Not only did you find Him, He FOUND you. He called Simon by a new name (vs. 42). He told Nathaniel what he had been doing hours before their encounter. Jesus already knew him! Even now, as you seek the Lord, He is already ahead of you preparing the way.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
He Opened Their Eyes
"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage
Luke24:13-53
But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him. Luke 24:16
Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him... Luke 24:31a
And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scripture. Luke 9:45
Walking with Jesus is not a static matter of learning a set of rules or truths and then slavishly following them. Instead it is a dynamic relationship of growth and depth of understanding - of hearing and following the intimate working of the voice of God in Scripture and in the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
There was a season in which the disciples had to walk in darkness. They did not understand, but instead they had to walk in pure trust and faith. Then there came a moment in which their eyes were opened and they saw more clearly WHAT GOD WAS DOING. It was what we might call an "Ah-ha" moment. By the sovereign work of God their eyes were opened.
God delights to lead us in this way. There are seasons in which it seems the path is cloudy - yet we continue to walk. Then, in a moment, God shows us His hand. If we walk with Him through this process, we will grow. And in growing, we will be prepared for the next step in His plan. So, TRUST, WAIT, and allow God to open your eyes - wider and wider.
Luke24:13-53
But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him. Luke 24:16
Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him... Luke 24:31a
And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scripture. Luke 9:45
Walking with Jesus is not a static matter of learning a set of rules or truths and then slavishly following them. Instead it is a dynamic relationship of growth and depth of understanding - of hearing and following the intimate working of the voice of God in Scripture and in the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
There was a season in which the disciples had to walk in darkness. They did not understand, but instead they had to walk in pure trust and faith. Then there came a moment in which their eyes were opened and they saw more clearly WHAT GOD WAS DOING. It was what we might call an "Ah-ha" moment. By the sovereign work of God their eyes were opened.
God delights to lead us in this way. There are seasons in which it seems the path is cloudy - yet we continue to walk. Then, in a moment, God shows us His hand. If we walk with Him through this process, we will grow. And in growing, we will be prepared for the next step in His plan. So, TRUST, WAIT, and allow God to open your eyes - wider and wider.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
They Remembered His Words
"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage
Luke 23:44-24:12
And they remembered His words. Luke 24:8 (NKJV)
This is a very short verse that speaks volumes. Luke 23 and 24 is about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. It is also about the incredible roller-coaster ride of emotions and experience that unfolded in the lives of His followers.
Obviously, the center of this story is the sufferings of Jesus. But as this drama went forward, the disciples were thrown into confusion. The last verse of chapter 23 and first of chapter 24 tell us the story of a small group of women.
Here's the crux of the story: they were operating from what they saw. They were taking appropriate steps in view of what had happened. They had forgotten the words of Jesus. It is amazing how, in the light of current circumstances, we can so quickly ignore what God has clearly spoken to us. Isn't it amazing how we remember what God said AFTER days of going up and down in our fear, anxiety, and, discouragement.
So HERE'S THE WORD: God has everything under control. He is moving according to His plan. There will be a moment soon when the lights will come on in your heart and you will see, you will remember, "God always told me He would be with me through times like this." He is still on the throne. His word is sure.
Luke 23:44-24:12
And they remembered His words. Luke 24:8 (NKJV)
This is a very short verse that speaks volumes. Luke 23 and 24 is about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. It is also about the incredible roller-coaster ride of emotions and experience that unfolded in the lives of His followers.
Obviously, the center of this story is the sufferings of Jesus. But as this drama went forward, the disciples were thrown into confusion. The last verse of chapter 23 and first of chapter 24 tell us the story of a small group of women.
Here's the crux of the story: they were operating from what they saw. They were taking appropriate steps in view of what had happened. They had forgotten the words of Jesus. It is amazing how, in the light of current circumstances, we can so quickly ignore what God has clearly spoken to us. Isn't it amazing how we remember what God said AFTER days of going up and down in our fear, anxiety, and, discouragement.
So HERE'S THE WORD: God has everything under control. He is moving according to His plan. There will be a moment soon when the lights will come on in your heart and you will see, you will remember, "God always told me He would be with me through times like this." He is still on the throne. His word is sure.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
A Glimpse at God's Heart
"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage
Luke 15:1-32
I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7 (NKJV)
It is always important when we can get a glimpse of God's heart. It is good to do the will of God. It is fantastic to hear the Word of God. It is beneficial to understand the plans of God. But is of highest value to know the heart of God.
What gives our God the greatest pleasure? What causes heaven to rock with joy? The answer shows us much about God's perspective on our world and our predicament.
Conventional wisdom teaches us that "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." According to this perspective, we would rejoice over those who are wise enough and good enough to not need deliverance or restoration. They avoided the pitfalls and walked the straight and narrow.
God sees our world from a completely different point of view. By His estimation, we all are in deepest need of forgiveness and reconciliation. His work in this world is not the gathering and refinement of the holy. His work is a RESCUE MISSION aimed at the dying.
Such redemptive action lies at the heart of our God. It is the heart of Jesus. It is the message of the Cross.
Luke 15:1-32
I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7 (NKJV)
It is always important when we can get a glimpse of God's heart. It is good to do the will of God. It is fantastic to hear the Word of God. It is beneficial to understand the plans of God. But is of highest value to know the heart of God.
What gives our God the greatest pleasure? What causes heaven to rock with joy? The answer shows us much about God's perspective on our world and our predicament.
Conventional wisdom teaches us that "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." According to this perspective, we would rejoice over those who are wise enough and good enough to not need deliverance or restoration. They avoided the pitfalls and walked the straight and narrow.
God sees our world from a completely different point of view. By His estimation, we all are in deepest need of forgiveness and reconciliation. His work in this world is not the gathering and refinement of the holy. His work is a RESCUE MISSION aimed at the dying.
Such redemptive action lies at the heart of our God. It is the heart of Jesus. It is the message of the Cross.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
The Majesty of God
"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage
Luke 9:28-50
And they were all amazed at the majesty of God... Luke 9:43 (NKJV)
Two things had just occurred: one on the mountain top and one in the town. Both are vital in a full relationship with God. One reaches upward in face-to-face encounter with God. It changes us - transforms us. We commune with eternal things.
The second dimension takes us into powerful ministry to a world full of need. Jesus casts a demon out of a young boy! It is in this dimension that we can see God's power released on earth.
It is when these two "directional ministries" - upward and outward - are taking place that the majesty of our great God causes many to marvel at His goodness.
May it happen in your life today!
Luke 9:28-50
And they were all amazed at the majesty of God... Luke 9:43 (NKJV)
Two things had just occurred: one on the mountain top and one in the town. Both are vital in a full relationship with God. One reaches upward in face-to-face encounter with God. It changes us - transforms us. We commune with eternal things.
The second dimension takes us into powerful ministry to a world full of need. Jesus casts a demon out of a young boy! It is in this dimension that we can see God's power released on earth.
It is when these two "directional ministries" - upward and outward - are taking place that the majesty of our great God causes many to marvel at His goodness.
May it happen in your life today!
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