{My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount}
I always wonder how Jesus taught the sermon on the mount? Did he just go up to the mountain and start blurting all of this stuff out? Were his disciples asking him topical questions and these were his responses? Did he know that the pharisees were listening, defending their prideful religious behavior by saying "Well it's not like I've committed murder or adultery Jesus. Why are you making me out to be so bad?"
Can't you just imagine that conversation among the disciples and pharisees and this is Jesus' response? This is how I imagine the conversation going down:
Pharisees: Jesus, you're always saying we've broken the commandments, when we haven't. You're always warning us that we're hypocrites, that we only appear to be righteous. How can you accuse us of such a thing when we are working so hard at keeping the Law?
Jesus: 27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
You guys think you're so "good" at keeping the law? Well how about your heart? Have you ever had an impure thought? Have you ever looked at a woman with lustful intent? If so, it's your thought life, the deep recesses of your heart that declare your guilt before the LORD, not just your actions.
Pharisees: Okay, you got us there. Well, I guess we'll just try harder in our own strength not to even let our minds wander. We'll do everything within our own power to stop sinning.
Jesus: Really? You'll do anything. You think that you can just beat sin in your own strength? Okay . . . 29 "If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell."
Do you see Jesus' point here? We can't defeat sin in our own strength. We'd have to mutilate our entire body! We can't be "good enough" on the outside, because even our hearts are deeply sinful.
This issue of sin, religion, try hard, etc is a battle that we can't fight on our own. The act of sinning starts long before the hands, it starts in the heart. We can (and should) take drastic measures against sin. We should be willing to do whatever it takes, to keep our hearts from wandering. But, that still won't be enough. We have to allow Jesus to work in us and through us. We have to rest in His promise of Matthew 11:30 that his yoke is easy, and his burden is light.
That's the beauty of the Cross. We no longer have to fight sin on our own, because the battle has already been won! We can't keep trying harder, because we will never be able to try hard enough. We must accept the grace God has given us through Jesus and the Holy Spirit to pay the penalty of sin and free us from its power.
We don't have to work at being good, because He is good. We don't have to put sin to death, because He was put to death. We don't have to do enough, because He is enough.
We just have to believe, trust, rest, and be thankful.
Showing posts with label Meditation Mondays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Meditation Mondays. Show all posts
Monday, August 6, 2012
Friday, August 3, 2012
Anger: Why We Can't Worship With It
21 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.
23 So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
25 Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. 26 Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny." (Matthew 5:21-26)
Oh Jesus, why are you always making things so hard?! It's so much easier to separate my real life with my church life and pretend like the two have nothing to do with one another.
Are you really trying to tell me that it dishonors you when I'm at church trying "worship" and I have anger in my heart and unresolved issues with my brother or sister? Are you serious? Being angry, speaking insults, and calling someone a fool is the same as murder in your eyes??
Are you saying not having the last 10% of the conversation with friends in the church is a sin against you?
Are you really saying that if I can't be reconciled to my brother, it will be difficult to be reconciled to our Father?
I'm starting to think that the peace we have with others is directly related to the peace we have with you. If we don't have right relationship with our own neighbor, how then oh LORD, can we have right relationship with you?
Is there someone, a brother or sister, a neighbor, a friend, a co-worker you need to be reconciled to? Is there someone in your life you need to have a conversation with? Go and be reconciled first . . . then come and offer your gift.
Let's stop pretending, let's stop gossiping, let's stop letting anger fester. It causes division between one another and most importantly division between us and the LORD. Go and have that hard conversation and worship Him all the more!
23 So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
25 Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. 26 Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny." (Matthew 5:21-26)
Oh Jesus, why are you always making things so hard?! It's so much easier to separate my real life with my church life and pretend like the two have nothing to do with one another.
Are you really trying to tell me that it dishonors you when I'm at church trying "worship" and I have anger in my heart and unresolved issues with my brother or sister? Are you serious? Being angry, speaking insults, and calling someone a fool is the same as murder in your eyes??
Are you saying not having the last 10% of the conversation with friends in the church is a sin against you?
Are you really saying that if I can't be reconciled to my brother, it will be difficult to be reconciled to our Father?
I'm starting to think that the peace we have with others is directly related to the peace we have with you. If we don't have right relationship with our own neighbor, how then oh LORD, can we have right relationship with you?
Is there someone, a brother or sister, a neighbor, a friend, a co-worker you need to be reconciled to? Is there someone in your life you need to have a conversation with? Go and be reconciled first . . . then come and offer your gift.
Let's stop pretending, let's stop gossiping, let's stop letting anger fester. It causes division between one another and most importantly division between us and the LORD. Go and have that hard conversation and worship Him all the more!
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
He IS our Fulfillment
{My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount}
v.17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
This section presents the heart of Jesus’ message, for it demonstrates His relationship to the Law of God. Jesus was not presenting a rival system to the Law of Moses and the words of the Prophets, but a true fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets—in contrast with the Pharisees’ traditions. “The Law and the Prophets” refer to the entire Old Testament.
Fulfill:
a : to put into effect : EXECUTE
b : to meet the requirements of (a business order)
c : to bring to an end
d : to measure up to : SATISFY
v.18 "For truly, I say to you, . . .
I tell you the truth is literally, “Surely (or Verily, KJV) I say to you.” “Surely” renders the word “Amen” (Gr. amēn, transliterated from the Heb. ’āman, “to be firm, true”). This expression, “I tell you the truth,” points to a solemn declaration that the hearers should note. It occurs 31 times in Matthew alone.
. . . until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished."
Jesus’ fulfillment would extend to the smallest Hebrew letter, the “jot” (lit., yôd), and even to the smallest stroke of a Hebrew letter, the “tittle.” In English a jot would correspond to the dot above the letter “i” (and look like an apostrophe), and a tittle would be seen in the difference between a “P” and an “R”. The small angled line that completes the “R” is like a tittle. These things are important because letters make up words and even a slight change in a letter might change the meaning of a word.
Jesus said He would fulfill the Law by obeying it perfectly and would fulfill the prophets’ predictions of the Messiah and His kingdom. But the responsibility of the people was made clear. The righteousness they were currently seeking—that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law—was insufficient for entrance into the kingdom Jesus was offering. The righteousness He demanded was not merely external; it was a true inner righteousness based on faith in God’s Word.
*Thank you Logos for the information above.
Have you, like me, thought that the Old Testament, was well OLD and that Jesus is NEW?? It’s texts like these that remind me, Jesus was not “new”. He is not Plan B. He is not a different way, a better way . . . He IS the way.
Jesus is fulfillment.
All that was taught in the Old Testament points to Him. He doesn’t abolish, he fulfills. Like the missing pieces to the puzzle, he fits it ALL together to see the big picture.
While in Israel, they encouraged us on the last day to rip out the page in our bible that says “Old Testament”. We were taught to see Christ throughout all of the pages in our bible, not just the “new”.
He IS the fulfillment of our OLD Testament and He IS our hope in the NEW!
v.17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
This section presents the heart of Jesus’ message, for it demonstrates His relationship to the Law of God. Jesus was not presenting a rival system to the Law of Moses and the words of the Prophets, but a true fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets—in contrast with the Pharisees’ traditions. “The Law and the Prophets” refer to the entire Old Testament.
Fulfill:
a : to put into effect : EXECUTE
b : to meet the requirements of (a business order)
c : to bring to an end
d : to measure up to : SATISFY
v.18 "For truly, I say to you, . . .
I tell you the truth is literally, “Surely (or Verily, KJV) I say to you.” “Surely” renders the word “Amen” (Gr. amēn, transliterated from the Heb. ’āman, “to be firm, true”). This expression, “I tell you the truth,” points to a solemn declaration that the hearers should note. It occurs 31 times in Matthew alone.
. . . until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished."
Jesus’ fulfillment would extend to the smallest Hebrew letter, the “jot” (lit., yôd), and even to the smallest stroke of a Hebrew letter, the “tittle.” In English a jot would correspond to the dot above the letter “i” (and look like an apostrophe), and a tittle would be seen in the difference between a “P” and an “R”. The small angled line that completes the “R” is like a tittle. These things are important because letters make up words and even a slight change in a letter might change the meaning of a word.
Jesus said He would fulfill the Law by obeying it perfectly and would fulfill the prophets’ predictions of the Messiah and His kingdom. But the responsibility of the people was made clear. The righteousness they were currently seeking—that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law—was insufficient for entrance into the kingdom Jesus was offering. The righteousness He demanded was not merely external; it was a true inner righteousness based on faith in God’s Word.
*Thank you Logos for the information above.
Have you, like me, thought that the Old Testament, was well OLD and that Jesus is NEW?? It’s texts like these that remind me, Jesus was not “new”. He is not Plan B. He is not a different way, a better way . . . He IS the way.
Jesus is fulfillment.
All that was taught in the Old Testament points to Him. He doesn’t abolish, he fulfills. Like the missing pieces to the puzzle, he fits it ALL together to see the big picture.
While in Israel, they encouraged us on the last day to rip out the page in our bible that says “Old Testament”. We were taught to see Christ throughout all of the pages in our bible, not just the “new”.
He IS the fulfillment of our OLD Testament and He IS our hope in the NEW!
Monday, June 11, 2012
Prayer Is . . .
{Meditation Monday: My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount}
Prayer. Something I'm passionate about and something I struggle with.
When you mention the word "prayer" feelings of guilt usually arise, because we don't know how, we don't do it enough, we don't understand it, etc. It's an often neglected part of the Christian life, yet essential to spiritual growth, health, and intimacy with the Father.
I'm excited to be thinking on the following verses the rest of this week.
5 “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6 But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
7 “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9 Pray then like this:
“Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
10 Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread,
12 and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
14 For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, 15 but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
I think I could summarize my thoughts on prayer in just 3 words: JUST DO IT. A million things keep us from closing our doors, bending our knees, and talking to God.
So what are some things that keep you from praying?
What are ways that you incorporate prayer into your daily life?
Are there things you enjoy about prayer? Struggle with?
I'll take this week to examine my prayer life and then . . . pray!
Prayer. Something I'm passionate about and something I struggle with.
When you mention the word "prayer" feelings of guilt usually arise, because we don't know how, we don't do it enough, we don't understand it, etc. It's an often neglected part of the Christian life, yet essential to spiritual growth, health, and intimacy with the Father.
I'm excited to be thinking on the following verses the rest of this week.
5 “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6 But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
7 “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9 Pray then like this:
“Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
10 Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread,
12 and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
14 For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, 15 but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
I think I could summarize my thoughts on prayer in just 3 words: JUST DO IT. A million things keep us from closing our doors, bending our knees, and talking to God.
So what are some things that keep you from praying?
What are ways that you incorporate prayer into your daily life?
Are there things you enjoy about prayer? Struggle with?
I'll take this week to examine my prayer life and then . . . pray!
Monday, June 4, 2012
Serving the Poor #1: For an Audience of ONE
Oh boy . . . it's funny how the LORD aligns everything at just the right time. Something has been stirring in me regarding serving the poor. I have literally read 6 books in the past 6 weeks regarding stewardship, giving, and serving the poor.
And now . . . here we are in Matthew 6. I've been waiting to get to this chapter. It addresses all of these areas.
We just read that if we think we can earn righteousness through "doing" then we must "be perfect as our Heavenly Father is perfect" (Matt 5:48)
Jesus tells us in the beatitudes how to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. He tells us who we are & who we're not, who God is& who He's not. He goes on to explain sin. Listen, you don't get in by "being good". Let me just explain how utterly sinful you are, that even your thoughts are sinful, not just your action. Essentially to be good enough to enter into Heaven, you must be perfect.
That should put us flat on the ground! We will never be perfect. Jesus knows that, and that's why He came and died, and invites us to rest in HIS finished work on the cross.
In Chapter 6 He starts telling us not to turn to religious activity either (giving to the needy, prayer, fasting, etc.). If we do these things, let them be from a pure heart, renewed by God, and for NO attention from others.
If we give, if we pray, if we fast . . . it is out of an overflow of love and obedience for the LORD and nothing else.
And that's it. Convicted already by the first verse in Chapter 6.
Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 6:1)
Of course I would read this AFTER I've posted all about our bag sale at Aynesworth. Where I immediately ask . . . oh LORD am I practicing righteousness in front of others to be seen by them??
What are the motives behind this?
Is my heart pure?
Am I wanting to serve you or be seen by others??
I always struggle with this during Serve Dei time. We are to share what we're doing in the city, how we're serving the LORD by serving others, to spur one another on, but in a way that is honoring to God, not boasting in ourselves.
It's easy to do things and (as the next verse says) sound the trumpet for everyone to see!
May it never be that we serve for an audience, to be seen by many.
Let us serve only to glorify you, only for an audience of ONE!
“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Matthew 6:2-4)
And now . . . here we are in Matthew 6. I've been waiting to get to this chapter. It addresses all of these areas.
We just read that if we think we can earn righteousness through "doing" then we must "be perfect as our Heavenly Father is perfect" (Matt 5:48)
Jesus tells us in the beatitudes how to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. He tells us who we are & who we're not, who God is& who He's not. He goes on to explain sin. Listen, you don't get in by "being good". Let me just explain how utterly sinful you are, that even your thoughts are sinful, not just your action. Essentially to be good enough to enter into Heaven, you must be perfect.
That should put us flat on the ground! We will never be perfect. Jesus knows that, and that's why He came and died, and invites us to rest in HIS finished work on the cross.
In Chapter 6 He starts telling us not to turn to religious activity either (giving to the needy, prayer, fasting, etc.). If we do these things, let them be from a pure heart, renewed by God, and for NO attention from others.
If we give, if we pray, if we fast . . . it is out of an overflow of love and obedience for the LORD and nothing else.
And that's it. Convicted already by the first verse in Chapter 6.
Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 6:1)
Of course I would read this AFTER I've posted all about our bag sale at Aynesworth. Where I immediately ask . . . oh LORD am I practicing righteousness in front of others to be seen by them??
What are the motives behind this?
Is my heart pure?
Am I wanting to serve you or be seen by others??
I always struggle with this during Serve Dei time. We are to share what we're doing in the city, how we're serving the LORD by serving others, to spur one another on, but in a way that is honoring to God, not boasting in ourselves.
It's easy to do things and (as the next verse says) sound the trumpet for everyone to see!
May it never be that we serve for an audience, to be seen by many.
Let us serve only to glorify you, only for an audience of ONE!
“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Matthew 6:2-4)
Monday, May 28, 2012
You Have Heard That It Was Said . . .
{Meditation Monday: My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount}
In the beatitudes, Jesus sets up for us a picture of how we become truly blessed . . . by becoming poor in spirit, mourning, meek, hungry and thirsty, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and persecuted. Not the list you were expecting right? I thought you were supposed to find happiness in the American Dream, outer beauty, intelligence, pride, fancy cars, successful careers, money, family, and all that jazz.
We've been taught that those things are what you're supposed to pursue and what you're supposed to delight in, then you can just add on God here and there when you feel like it. Then Jesus enters the scene and flips our entire world upside down. None of these things bring true happiness, this is not the way to being "blessed".
Jesus starts the Sermon on the Mount by reframing our thinking to who God is, who we are, and how we inherit the eternal life. And He knows us so that well, that even after teaching us how to bow low in order to be raised high, we will still turn to our religious way. We will still want to "perform" for God, we still want religion that is outward and shallow, rather than relationship and heart change that is inward.
So he is saying . . . Daughter, if you still think you can be "good enough" to earn eternal life, you don't understand. Let me teach you about trying to "keep" the law:
"You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment. . ." (v.21-22)
"You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart." (v.27-28)
"It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery." (v.31-32)
"You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also." (v.38-39)
"You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. . ." (v.43-44)
"You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (v.48)
So what is Jesus doing? Setting up an impossible religious task? Giving us more law and rule to follow that are impossible?
NO!
He is showing us that if you think you're going to inherit the Kingdom through how you live . . . you've got a long way to go. If you think you can stand in the presence of holiness, that your "deeds", your "I'm a good person" line will work then you know what . . . you better be PERFECT as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Jesus, that's impossible!
EXACTLY.
That's why I died for you. I died, a perfect, complete, sinless, sacrifice so that you would stop trying to "achieve" eternal life, and rest in the finished work of the Cross. Don't look to the law to fulfill you, remember I fulfilled it already? Don't look "doing good deeds" as some kind of heavenly credit, I'm your credit.
Daughter, you have heard that it was said "Work hard at keeping the law to earn your salvation" . . . and I say "Stop working and trust in me".
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
In the beatitudes, Jesus sets up for us a picture of how we become truly blessed . . . by becoming poor in spirit, mourning, meek, hungry and thirsty, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and persecuted. Not the list you were expecting right? I thought you were supposed to find happiness in the American Dream, outer beauty, intelligence, pride, fancy cars, successful careers, money, family, and all that jazz.
We've been taught that those things are what you're supposed to pursue and what you're supposed to delight in, then you can just add on God here and there when you feel like it. Then Jesus enters the scene and flips our entire world upside down. None of these things bring true happiness, this is not the way to being "blessed".
Jesus starts the Sermon on the Mount by reframing our thinking to who God is, who we are, and how we inherit the eternal life. And He knows us so that well, that even after teaching us how to bow low in order to be raised high, we will still turn to our religious way. We will still want to "perform" for God, we still want religion that is outward and shallow, rather than relationship and heart change that is inward.
So he is saying . . . Daughter, if you still think you can be "good enough" to earn eternal life, you don't understand. Let me teach you about trying to "keep" the law:
"You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment. . ." (v.21-22)
"You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart." (v.27-28)
"It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery." (v.31-32)
"You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also." (v.38-39)
"You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. . ." (v.43-44)
"You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (v.48)
So what is Jesus doing? Setting up an impossible religious task? Giving us more law and rule to follow that are impossible?
NO!
He is showing us that if you think you're going to inherit the Kingdom through how you live . . . you've got a long way to go. If you think you can stand in the presence of holiness, that your "deeds", your "I'm a good person" line will work then you know what . . . you better be PERFECT as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Jesus, that's impossible!
EXACTLY.
That's why I died for you. I died, a perfect, complete, sinless, sacrifice so that you would stop trying to "achieve" eternal life, and rest in the finished work of the Cross. Don't look to the law to fulfill you, remember I fulfilled it already? Don't look "doing good deeds" as some kind of heavenly credit, I'm your credit.
Daughter, you have heard that it was said "Work hard at keeping the law to earn your salvation" . . . and I say "Stop working and trust in me".
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Monday, May 21, 2012
Loving the Word
{Why we as Christians should love the Word the most}
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John 1:1
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." John 1:14
The Word was God.
The Word put on flesh and dwelt among us.
Spending time in the Word is the closest thing we have to spending time with Jesus himself. Talking with Him, chatting with Him, sitting with Him over a cup of coffee. God daily invites us to sit with Him, learn from Him, learn about Him, be comforted by Him, challenged by Him, loved by Him.
Just as with any relationship, we can't expect depth and intimacy without time. Time spent sitting with the other person, listening, learning, talking.
I think of my relationship with my father. Can you imagine if I went weeks running errands for him, doing chores around the house, getting my school work done, all the things a child should "do" . . . without ever talking with him? I wouldn't expect a deep relationship with my dad, the kind where I could cuddle up on his lap and he would read to me. And that's what I want! That's what he wants. A daughter who obeys out of delight and love for him. A daughter who talks to her daddy, who loves to listen to his wisdom, walk with him, hug him, and learn from him.
Or I think of my marriage. I can't tell you the number of times I'm cleaning, or organizing something, or folding laundry, or whatever to serve my husband and he says "Will you just come over here and sit with me?". He is thankful for all I'm doing, but really just wants me to be with him.
Intimacy in a relationship isn't developed in doing for, it's developed in being with.
Being still.
Being with.
Being present.
So it is with our Lord. We are not designed to go weeks, months, etc without communing with the Father, without talking with Jesus, without reading the Word. We are designed for intimacy, relationship, and fellowship with the LORD. He beckons us daily.
So do you accept the invitation? To sit with the Word? To sit with the Lord? To connect with Him?
"If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples." (John 15:7-8)
"How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalm 119:103)
"The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is sure,
making wise the simple;
the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is pure,
enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the Lord is clean,
enduring forever;
the rules of the Lord are true,
and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey
and drippings of the honeycomb.
Moreover, by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward." (Psalm 19:7-11)
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John 1:1
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." John 1:14
The Word was God.
The Word put on flesh and dwelt among us.
Spending time in the Word is the closest thing we have to spending time with Jesus himself. Talking with Him, chatting with Him, sitting with Him over a cup of coffee. God daily invites us to sit with Him, learn from Him, learn about Him, be comforted by Him, challenged by Him, loved by Him.
Just as with any relationship, we can't expect depth and intimacy without time. Time spent sitting with the other person, listening, learning, talking.
I think of my relationship with my father. Can you imagine if I went weeks running errands for him, doing chores around the house, getting my school work done, all the things a child should "do" . . . without ever talking with him? I wouldn't expect a deep relationship with my dad, the kind where I could cuddle up on his lap and he would read to me. And that's what I want! That's what he wants. A daughter who obeys out of delight and love for him. A daughter who talks to her daddy, who loves to listen to his wisdom, walk with him, hug him, and learn from him.
Or I think of my marriage. I can't tell you the number of times I'm cleaning, or organizing something, or folding laundry, or whatever to serve my husband and he says "Will you just come over here and sit with me?". He is thankful for all I'm doing, but really just wants me to be with him.
Intimacy in a relationship isn't developed in doing for, it's developed in being with.
Being still.
Being with.
Being present.
So it is with our Lord. We are not designed to go weeks, months, etc without communing with the Father, without talking with Jesus, without reading the Word. We are designed for intimacy, relationship, and fellowship with the LORD. He beckons us daily.
So do you accept the invitation? To sit with the Word? To sit with the Lord? To connect with Him?
"If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples." (John 15:7-8)
"How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalm 119:103)
"The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is sure,
making wise the simple;
the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is pure,
enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the Lord is clean,
enduring forever;
the rules of the Lord are true,
and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey
and drippings of the honeycomb.
Moreover, by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward." (Psalm 19:7-11)
Monday, May 14, 2012
My Prayer Request-Why Not This?
When people ask me "How can I be praying for you?" I'm usually caught off guard. And I begin seeking my selfish heart and start requesting things that I want, need, desire, etc.
But as I learn more and more about God's word, I see things different. A couple of years ago, I studied Paul's prayers in his letters. You know what I noticed? Most of his prayers were not selfish things, but things that would help others know or grow in Christ. He asked for their love and understanding to deepen, for people to be saved, for knowledge and wisdom, for contentment in suffering, etc.
So I thought . . . if I could ask one thing of the LORD, why not let it be this:
"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." (Colossians 4:2-6)
Why not ask people to pray for these things?
Thankful heart.
Open doors.
Clarity and courage to proclaim Him.
Using my time wisely.
Gracious speech.
Wisdom.
Can you think of anything better to ask for?
But as I learn more and more about God's word, I see things different. A couple of years ago, I studied Paul's prayers in his letters. You know what I noticed? Most of his prayers were not selfish things, but things that would help others know or grow in Christ. He asked for their love and understanding to deepen, for people to be saved, for knowledge and wisdom, for contentment in suffering, etc.
So I thought . . . if I could ask one thing of the LORD, why not let it be this:
"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." (Colossians 4:2-6)
Why not ask people to pray for these things?
Thankful heart.
Open doors.
Clarity and courage to proclaim Him.
Using my time wisely.
Gracious speech.
Wisdom.
Can you think of anything better to ask for?
Monday, May 7, 2012
Fulfillment of the Law: Fulfilled by His Grace
My Journey through the Sermon on the Mount
{Matthew 5:17-20}
Fulfill: to carry out, to perform or do, to obey or follow.
Jesus was not coming to teach something new, He was coming to fulfill what was already being taught.
"Christ despised "the traditions of the elders," the religious leaders supposed Him to be a deceiver, going about to destroy the very foundations of piety. Because He threw far more emphasis upon great moral principles than upon ceremonial institutions, many were ready to imagine that He repudiated the entire Levitical system. Because He was the Proclaimer of grace and the Dispenser of mercy, the "Friend of publicans and sinners," the idea became current that He was opposed to the Law." (Pink, A.W. (2011-06-28). An Exposition of The Sermon on The Mount)
Relax: to slacken, to make less strict, weaken, lessen, reduce.
Obedience flows out of belief. If we truly believe, we will obey! We will do what God asks of us and teach it to others.
Exceeds: To surpass, to be superior, to go beyond.
There is a righteousness that exceeds that of “religious” people, it’s beyond external deeds . . . it’s a renewed heart, gifted through grace.
Jesus said He would fulfill the Law by obeying it perfectly and would fulfill the prophets’ predictions of the Messiah and His kingdom. But the responsibility of the people was made clear. The righteousness they were currently seeking—that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law—was insufficient for entrance into the kingdom Jesus was offering. The righteousness He demanded was not merely external; it was a true inner righteousness based on faith in God’s Word (Rom. 3:21-22). This is clear from what follows. (Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (Mt 5:17–20). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.)
Though we are living in the New Covenant where His grace abounds, His law still matters. Obedience that flows from a renewed, thankful, changed heart is beautiful, it is great in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Are you trying to dismiss His law and His commands for your life?
Are you relaxing what is taught in scripture?
Are you trying to attain righteousness through external religion?
If so, stop.
Remember the Cross.
Remember who we are in Christ.
Remember Jesus fulfills the law and we are fulfilled by Him.
Obedience doesn’t earn righteousness, but is a result of righteousness.
His fulfillment of the law is our fulfillment of His grace.
{Matthew 5:17-20}
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished." (v.17-18)
Fulfill: to carry out, to perform or do, to obey or follow.
Jesus was not coming to teach something new, He was coming to fulfill what was already being taught.
"Christ despised "the traditions of the elders," the religious leaders supposed Him to be a deceiver, going about to destroy the very foundations of piety. Because He threw far more emphasis upon great moral principles than upon ceremonial institutions, many were ready to imagine that He repudiated the entire Levitical system. Because He was the Proclaimer of grace and the Dispenser of mercy, the "Friend of publicans and sinners," the idea became current that He was opposed to the Law." (Pink, A.W. (2011-06-28). An Exposition of The Sermon on The Mount)
"Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven." (v.19)
Relax: to slacken, to make less strict, weaken, lessen, reduce.
Obedience flows out of belief. If we truly believe, we will obey! We will do what God asks of us and teach it to others.
"For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." (v.20)
Exceeds: To surpass, to be superior, to go beyond.
There is a righteousness that exceeds that of “religious” people, it’s beyond external deeds . . . it’s a renewed heart, gifted through grace.
Jesus said He would fulfill the Law by obeying it perfectly and would fulfill the prophets’ predictions of the Messiah and His kingdom. But the responsibility of the people was made clear. The righteousness they were currently seeking—that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law—was insufficient for entrance into the kingdom Jesus was offering. The righteousness He demanded was not merely external; it was a true inner righteousness based on faith in God’s Word (Rom. 3:21-22). This is clear from what follows. (Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (Mt 5:17–20). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.)
Though we are living in the New Covenant where His grace abounds, His law still matters. Obedience that flows from a renewed, thankful, changed heart is beautiful, it is great in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Are you trying to dismiss His law and His commands for your life?
Are you relaxing what is taught in scripture?
Are you trying to attain righteousness through external religion?
If so, stop.
Remember the Cross.
Remember who we are in Christ.
Remember Jesus fulfills the law and we are fulfilled by Him.
Obedience doesn’t earn righteousness, but is a result of righteousness.
His fulfillment of the law is our fulfillment of His grace.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Shine Your Light
Meditation Monday: My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount
{Matthew 5:14-16}
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
While working at a public school, I had started a prayer group that met before school once a week to pray for our coworkers, students, community, etc. I had asked another teacher to join because I knew he was a Christian. He responded he wasn’t sure if he would and said “I never tell people I’m a Christian, that way, if I mess up, it doesn’t make God look bad.”
As I’ve been studying through the Sermon on the Mount and thinking about what it means to be salt and light, I can’t help but realize in these passages Jesus says:
You are the salt of the earth . . .
You are the light of the world . . .
As Christians, we get no choice to be salt or light, we are. The only choice we have is whether our salt will be savory or tasteless; whether we hide our lights or shine.
There’s no choice in being salt & light, there’s only duty . . . delightful duty to share who we are and whose we are.
We don’t need to hide our lights from others. It is this light that illuminates and helps guide them through darkness. We do however need to make sure our light isn’t dim and doesn’t flicker.
Perhaps that’s why Jesus words here tell us to shine, to go out and tell AND to make sure our deeds reflect what we say. Our lives should shine as much light as our words. We are to preach Christ to people in word and deed.
If we mingle with darkness, walk in the ways of the world, how can we help others see their way out? Our light is no brighter than theirs!
If we hide our lights, if we’re too afraid to share, how will others ever see? Imagine being in a dark room and trying to help others find their way out, holding your flashlight and never using it! What good is that? How is keeping your light hidden helping others see Christ and His way of life . . . the path that leads to fullness of JOY? (Psalm 16:11)
Don’t you see why it’s so important to “flesh out” our message to the world? Others are walking in pain, darkness, sin, destruction, and death and we have the lamp to light the path to the Way out.
Go! Shine! Live brightly that others might see . . . see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
{Matthew 5:14-16}
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
While working at a public school, I had started a prayer group that met before school once a week to pray for our coworkers, students, community, etc. I had asked another teacher to join because I knew he was a Christian. He responded he wasn’t sure if he would and said “I never tell people I’m a Christian, that way, if I mess up, it doesn’t make God look bad.”
As I’ve been studying through the Sermon on the Mount and thinking about what it means to be salt and light, I can’t help but realize in these passages Jesus says:
You are the salt of the earth . . .
You are the light of the world . . .
As Christians, we get no choice to be salt or light, we are. The only choice we have is whether our salt will be savory or tasteless; whether we hide our lights or shine.
There’s no choice in being salt & light, there’s only duty . . . delightful duty to share who we are and whose we are.
To sprinkle and shine Christ.
We don’t need to hide our lights from others. It is this light that illuminates and helps guide them through darkness. We do however need to make sure our light isn’t dim and doesn’t flicker.
Perhaps that’s why Jesus words here tell us to shine, to go out and tell AND to make sure our deeds reflect what we say. Our lives should shine as much light as our words. We are to preach Christ to people in word and deed.
If we mingle with darkness, walk in the ways of the world, how can we help others see their way out? Our light is no brighter than theirs!
If we hide our lights, if we’re too afraid to share, how will others ever see? Imagine being in a dark room and trying to help others find their way out, holding your flashlight and never using it! What good is that? How is keeping your light hidden helping others see Christ and His way of life . . . the path that leads to fullness of JOY? (Psalm 16:11)
Don’t you see why it’s so important to “flesh out” our message to the world? Others are walking in pain, darkness, sin, destruction, and death and we have the lamp to light the path to the Way out.
Go! Shine! Live brightly that others might see . . . see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Salty People
{My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount}
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet." (Matthew 5:13)
I have been on a journey through the Sermon on the Mount for the past 3 months. Friends, I can't chew on more than 1-2 sentences a week.
This week was no different.
What is the purpose of salt?
Why is it used?
What benefits does it have?
And why, oh, why would Jesus call us "salt of the earth"?
Here are some definitions of salt from my commentaries: flavor, preserve, season, freshen, sweeten to taste
Uses/benefits: means of purification, delays decay or physical corruption
What is the purpose of salt? Why is it used?
"Ministers are to dispense the Word, both Law and Gospel, in such a way as to express the qualities of salt. Now the properties of salt as applied to raw flesh or fresh meats are principally these: first, it will fret and bite, being of a hot and dry nature; second, it makes meat savory to our taste; third, it preserves meat from putrefaction by drawing out of it superfluous moisture.
(Pink, A.W. (2011-06-28). An Exposition of The Sermon on The Mount)
Salt . . .
Frets and bites
Makes a savory taste
Preserves
Frets and Bites
We are to be just like this to the world arounds us. Our message of Christ and Christ crucified may sting (fret/bite) a bit at first. For some, it may be offensive. It may cause pain to hear that they way they do life or understand life is wrong. It may hurt a bit to hear that Jesus is THE only way to eternal life and reconciliation with the Father. The message can be painful in the beginning. But that's okay, salt on flesh stings at first in order to disinfect and fight disease. Pain comes before purification.
Savory Taste
However, it shouldn't stop there. After the salt is poured onto the flesh, it begins to make a savory taste. We should be able to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ in a way that causes others to have a good taste in their mouth. One that leaves them craving more. We should share Truth in a way that is flavorful, delightful, and tasty. Not in a way that causes people to spit it out, but in a way that causes them to chew on it more.
Preserves
Salt helps keeps things alive longer. Salt keeps things from decay (corrupting), it can keep from harm, illness, or disease. So just as salt preserves food, we as salt of the earth are to help preserve people. We are to help people along the path of of everlasting by showing them Christ. We are to help keep others from harm, moral decay, spiritual illness or disease by pointing to Christ and His word.
We are salt of the earth. Jesus tells us so. But not all salt stays "salty". The rest of this scripture warns that we are supposed to be the kind of salt that does not lose it's taste. If we don't remain salty, remain fresh and pure ourselves, when we offer our "salt" to others, it will do no good. It will be useless, "thrown out and trampled under feet" as Jesus said. The way we live our life can either be as a preservative for others, or it can be meaningless and thrown out.
We've all come across these kinds of people. Those who talk about the redeeming work of Jesus and yet their lives are anything but redeemed. They lose credibility, people begin to toss them aside, throw out their message, because it is not reputable. It's meaningless. They're salty people who have lost their taste. Their salt is good for nothing.
Friends, will you work hard at protecting your saltiness? Will you remain in Jesus, the ultimate Preserver, so that your salt provides others with a savory taste? Let's be people whose salt has a purpose and good flavor.
Let's be people who allow our salt to sting, savor, and save!
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet." (Matthew 5:13)
I have been on a journey through the Sermon on the Mount for the past 3 months. Friends, I can't chew on more than 1-2 sentences a week.
This week was no different.
What is the purpose of salt?
Why is it used?
What benefits does it have?
And why, oh, why would Jesus call us "salt of the earth"?
Here are some definitions of salt from my commentaries: flavor, preserve, season, freshen, sweeten to taste
Uses/benefits: means of purification, delays decay or physical corruption
What is the purpose of salt? Why is it used?
"Ministers are to dispense the Word, both Law and Gospel, in such a way as to express the qualities of salt. Now the properties of salt as applied to raw flesh or fresh meats are principally these: first, it will fret and bite, being of a hot and dry nature; second, it makes meat savory to our taste; third, it preserves meat from putrefaction by drawing out of it superfluous moisture.
(Pink, A.W. (2011-06-28). An Exposition of The Sermon on The Mount)
Salt . . .
Frets and bites
Makes a savory taste
Preserves
Frets and Bites
We are to be just like this to the world arounds us. Our message of Christ and Christ crucified may sting (fret/bite) a bit at first. For some, it may be offensive. It may cause pain to hear that they way they do life or understand life is wrong. It may hurt a bit to hear that Jesus is THE only way to eternal life and reconciliation with the Father. The message can be painful in the beginning. But that's okay, salt on flesh stings at first in order to disinfect and fight disease. Pain comes before purification.
Savory Taste
However, it shouldn't stop there. After the salt is poured onto the flesh, it begins to make a savory taste. We should be able to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ in a way that causes others to have a good taste in their mouth. One that leaves them craving more. We should share Truth in a way that is flavorful, delightful, and tasty. Not in a way that causes people to spit it out, but in a way that causes them to chew on it more.
Preserves
Salt helps keeps things alive longer. Salt keeps things from decay (corrupting), it can keep from harm, illness, or disease. So just as salt preserves food, we as salt of the earth are to help preserve people. We are to help people along the path of of everlasting by showing them Christ. We are to help keep others from harm, moral decay, spiritual illness or disease by pointing to Christ and His word.
We are salt of the earth. Jesus tells us so. But not all salt stays "salty". The rest of this scripture warns that we are supposed to be the kind of salt that does not lose it's taste. If we don't remain salty, remain fresh and pure ourselves, when we offer our "salt" to others, it will do no good. It will be useless, "thrown out and trampled under feet" as Jesus said. The way we live our life can either be as a preservative for others, or it can be meaningless and thrown out.
We've all come across these kinds of people. Those who talk about the redeeming work of Jesus and yet their lives are anything but redeemed. They lose credibility, people begin to toss them aside, throw out their message, because it is not reputable. It's meaningless. They're salty people who have lost their taste. Their salt is good for nothing.
Friends, will you work hard at protecting your saltiness? Will you remain in Jesus, the ultimate Preserver, so that your salt provides others with a savory taste? Let's be people whose salt has a purpose and good flavor.
Let's be people who allow our salt to sting, savor, and save!
Monday, March 26, 2012
Peacemakers & Persecution
My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount
{Matthew 5:9-12}
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Do you wonder why verse 9 says blessed are the peacemakers and the next 3 verses have to do with persecution?
Could it be that when you're a peacemaker, you aren't seeking peace the way we understand it to be? Perhaps peace doesn't come from silence and people pleasing, but from speaking up and speaking truth?
I have been thinking about this for nearly 2 weeks. Why would God call peacemakers blessed and then give 3 verses following about persecution?
Perhaps it's because as Tim Keller has said, as an ambassador for Christ you should be "both attracting people and repelling people". There were times when Jesus was mocked, ridiculed, harassed. He warned His disciples that they will be hated by the world, just as He was.
But there were also times when it says He grew in favor with men. Same with the New Testament church, they grew in favor, the LORD was adding to their number daily.
So this peacemaker can't mean someone who just gets along with everyone, stays silent, and is a people pleaser. If the peace talked about here is peace between one another, than why would He give warning not to lose heart as we are reviled and persecuted by others? If we're making peace why would we be persecuted?
This peacemaker must be preaching a message of PEACE that is beyond this world.
True peace comes from reconciliation to the Father. Peace in our broken relationship, our sin, our hostility toward God. That is the GOSPEL. It's a GOSPEL of peace between us and God.
Real peacemakers tell others this message of peace.
Some will hear this message of peace and jump with joy, knowing they can have a peace beyond understanding. This peace comes from a right standing with God, righteousness. Others will hear it and think it's ridiculous, judgmental, naive. . . and they will persecute.
But ah . . . remember . . . blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake.
So we are to be peacemakers. To be a peacemaker means we must be willing to ruffle some feathers, say hard things, and be bold for Christ. It's a deeper peace beyond "staying civil" and "not wanting to offend anyone." It's a peace that points others to Christ, that stands for Him even in the face of persecution, because the love is stronger. It's a peace that comes from reconciliation.
Are you willing to be a peacemaker? Even if it's rejecting the peace that comes from "people pleasing"?
So, perhaps this isn't the symbol for peace:
But this is:
"What are you after? Approval of the people OR favor from the King?" -Tim Keller
{Matthew 5:9-12}
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Do you wonder why verse 9 says blessed are the peacemakers and the next 3 verses have to do with persecution?
Could it be that when you're a peacemaker, you aren't seeking peace the way we understand it to be? Perhaps peace doesn't come from silence and people pleasing, but from speaking up and speaking truth?
I have been thinking about this for nearly 2 weeks. Why would God call peacemakers blessed and then give 3 verses following about persecution?
Perhaps it's because as Tim Keller has said, as an ambassador for Christ you should be "both attracting people and repelling people". There were times when Jesus was mocked, ridiculed, harassed. He warned His disciples that they will be hated by the world, just as He was.
But there were also times when it says He grew in favor with men. Same with the New Testament church, they grew in favor, the LORD was adding to their number daily.
So this peacemaker can't mean someone who just gets along with everyone, stays silent, and is a people pleaser. If the peace talked about here is peace between one another, than why would He give warning not to lose heart as we are reviled and persecuted by others? If we're making peace why would we be persecuted?
This peacemaker must be preaching a message of PEACE that is beyond this world.
True peace comes from reconciliation to the Father. Peace in our broken relationship, our sin, our hostility toward God. That is the GOSPEL. It's a GOSPEL of peace between us and God.
Real peacemakers tell others this message of peace.
Some will hear this message of peace and jump with joy, knowing they can have a peace beyond understanding. This peace comes from a right standing with God, righteousness. Others will hear it and think it's ridiculous, judgmental, naive. . . and they will persecute.
But ah . . . remember . . . blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake.
So we are to be peacemakers. To be a peacemaker means we must be willing to ruffle some feathers, say hard things, and be bold for Christ. It's a deeper peace beyond "staying civil" and "not wanting to offend anyone." It's a peace that points others to Christ, that stands for Him even in the face of persecution, because the love is stronger. It's a peace that comes from reconciliation.
Are you willing to be a peacemaker? Even if it's rejecting the peace that comes from "people pleasing"?
So, perhaps this isn't the symbol for peace:
But this is:
"What are you after? Approval of the people OR favor from the King?" -Tim Keller
Monday, March 12, 2012
Blessed are the Merciful
My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount
{Matthew 5:1-7}
We're at a turning point in our beatitudes. The first 3 beatitudes have to do with me, my heart. Looking at my position of lowliness before the Most High God.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
The 4th beatitude has to do with God and His kind of life. How I will live in response to inheriting the Kingdom. Seeking His righteousness.
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for His righteousness, for they shall be satisfied."
The last 3 beatitudes have to do with relationships, with me and how I relate to others. Let's look at verse 7, specifically on that word "mercy".
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."
Once we are in Christ, we are to be merciful to others. To see them as those who are helpless and guilty. Of all the peoples in this world, we should be the most merciful for we have received the most mercy from the most loving God.
"The merciful extend mercy to others, thus demonstrating God’s mercy which has been extended to them." (Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (Mt 5:1–12). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.)
"Mercifulness, then, is a gracious disposition toward our fellow creatures and fellow Christians. It is a spirit of kindness and benevolence which sympathizes with the sufferings of the afflicted, so that we weep with those that weep." (Pink, A.W. (2011-06-28). An Exposition of The Sermon on The Mount (Kindle Locations 508-509). Unknown. Kindle Edition.)
Remember Jesus response to the people? "When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." (Matthew 9:36)
He was not frustrated that others did not understand. He was not angered that they were not perfect. He didn't picket their nightclubs or yell hateful things. He didn't look down his nose at them, he didn't turn them away, shun them, or isolate from them. He saw them and had compassion.
Or as my wise teacher once said, He recognized "They were not the enemy, they were victims of the enemy." We are to extend mercy, to show grace and compassion, for others. We are to offer Christ and pray that they receive relationship with the Father of Mercy.
As an act of gratitude for receiving mercy from our sovereign LORD, we are to share that mercy with others. It is the only response for being saturated in this gift of mercy . . . pouring it out onto others.
"Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful." (Luke 6:36)
{Matthew 5:1-7}
We're at a turning point in our beatitudes. The first 3 beatitudes have to do with me, my heart. Looking at my position of lowliness before the Most High God.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
The 4th beatitude has to do with God and His kind of life. How I will live in response to inheriting the Kingdom. Seeking His righteousness.
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for His righteousness, for they shall be satisfied."
The last 3 beatitudes have to do with relationships, with me and how I relate to others. Let's look at verse 7, specifically on that word "mercy".
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."
Once we are in Christ, we are to be merciful to others. To see them as those who are helpless and guilty. Of all the peoples in this world, we should be the most merciful for we have received the most mercy from the most loving God.
"The merciful extend mercy to others, thus demonstrating God’s mercy which has been extended to them." (Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (Mt 5:1–12). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.)
"Mercifulness, then, is a gracious disposition toward our fellow creatures and fellow Christians. It is a spirit of kindness and benevolence which sympathizes with the sufferings of the afflicted, so that we weep with those that weep." (Pink, A.W. (2011-06-28). An Exposition of The Sermon on The Mount (Kindle Locations 508-509). Unknown. Kindle Edition.)
Remember Jesus response to the people? "When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." (Matthew 9:36)
He was not frustrated that others did not understand. He was not angered that they were not perfect. He didn't picket their nightclubs or yell hateful things. He didn't look down his nose at them, he didn't turn them away, shun them, or isolate from them. He saw them and had compassion.
Or as my wise teacher once said, He recognized "They were not the enemy, they were victims of the enemy." We are to extend mercy, to show grace and compassion, for others. We are to offer Christ and pray that they receive relationship with the Father of Mercy.
As an act of gratitude for receiving mercy from our sovereign LORD, we are to share that mercy with others. It is the only response for being saturated in this gift of mercy . . . pouring it out onto others.
"Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful." (Luke 6:36)
Monday, March 5, 2012
Hunger & Thirst
My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount
{Matthew 5:1-5}
"Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
Hunger: to famish, to crave; a compelling need or desire for food; the painful sensation or state of weakness caused by the need of food.
Thirst: to have a strong desire.
Are you starving for His righteousness?
Do you crave it?
Do you have a strong desire for it?
A need for it?
Are you weak without it?
I have to be honest . . . this verse has been keeping me up at night. It is something that has deeply bothered me, convicted me, and challenged me.
Do we feel this kind of longing for His righteousness? That we feel like we can no longer go on living without it?
As a redeemed people, citizens of heaven, this is how we ought to live! We are to long for, desire, crave, hunger and thirst for His righteousness. It should be such an overwhelming desire in us, one that is even stronger than hunger and thirst for physical food!
When is the last time you even went one day without food or water? Can you imagine the way you would physically feel? The craving, the yearning you'd have?
What if we yearned like that for Christ and His righteousness?
Notice the rest of His verse . . . those who hunger and thirst for His righteousness will be . . . satisfied.
Satisfied: content
Are you struggling to find satisfaction? Contentment? Gladness? Joy?
Perhaps it's because we hunger and thirst for the wrong things? Perhaps we're looking for satisfaction elsewhere. Perhaps there is a higher calling than just temporary satisfaction in worldly things like bread and water?
Will you seek satisfaction in His righteousness with me? Let's be satisfied in Him alone!
"Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." (John 6:35)
"Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14)
"They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights." (Psalm 36:8)
{Matthew 5:1-5}
"Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for His righteousness, for they shall be satisfied."
Hunger: to famish, to crave; a compelling need or desire for food; the painful sensation or state of weakness caused by the need of food.
Thirst: to have a strong desire.
Are you starving for His righteousness?
Do you crave it?
Do you have a strong desire for it?
A need for it?
Are you weak without it?
I have to be honest . . . this verse has been keeping me up at night. It is something that has deeply bothered me, convicted me, and challenged me.
Do we feel this kind of longing for His righteousness? That we feel like we can no longer go on living without it?
As a redeemed people, citizens of heaven, this is how we ought to live! We are to long for, desire, crave, hunger and thirst for His righteousness. It should be such an overwhelming desire in us, one that is even stronger than hunger and thirst for physical food!
When is the last time you even went one day without food or water? Can you imagine the way you would physically feel? The craving, the yearning you'd have?
What if we yearned like that for Christ and His righteousness?
Notice the rest of His verse . . . those who hunger and thirst for His righteousness will be . . . satisfied.
Satisfied: content
Are you struggling to find satisfaction? Contentment? Gladness? Joy?
Perhaps it's because we hunger and thirst for the wrong things? Perhaps we're looking for satisfaction elsewhere. Perhaps there is a higher calling than just temporary satisfaction in worldly things like bread and water?
Will you seek satisfaction in His righteousness with me? Let's be satisfied in Him alone!
"Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." (John 6:35)
"Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14)
"They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights." (Psalm 36:8)
Monday, February 27, 2012
Meek Shall Inherit
My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount
{Matthew 5:1-5}
"Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
In the first 3 beatitudes Jesus is saying in order to enter into the Kingdom, to be comforted, to inherit the earth, we must:
Recognize our nothingness (poor in spirit)
Grieve over our sin (mourn)
Having a humble, teachable heart (meekness)
According to my study resources, meekness or humility here is not just referring to a person’s outward behaviors or relations with fellow men. It’s referring to a mere natural disposition.
It is an inwrought grace of the soul; and the exercises of it are first and chiefly towards God.
It is that temper of spirit in which we accept His dealings with us as good, and therefore without disputing or resisting.
It is having a humble heart towards God, one that does not contend or struggle with Him.
I think meekness is coming to that understanding of “You are God, and I am not.”
Trusting that what He says in His word is true and the circumstances He puts us through are for His good.
Easier said than done.
But really, when you think about it … if He is the Creator of all, the One who has the power to give me life and take it away, and He is sovereign and in control, than why do I struggle so much to trust?
Why am I not meek and humble when I think of my God who is all powerful?
Why do I know bow low and accept all that He places in my life because He.is.God. ?
Why do I look to other things instead of His word to guide me?
Do I truly accept His dealings with me as good? Without disputing?
Yikes.
Gulp.
If I’m honest, there are somethings that I DO NOT accept as good, and I do more than dispute . . . I grumble!
Perhaps that’s why over and over again in His word, you see God reminding us that it’s the humble, the meek, who get the reward.
“But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6)
“Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor." (Proverbs 3:34)
“For the Lord takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation.” (Psalm 149:4)
Father forgive me for my prideful attitude! I rejoice in what You’ve done for me and for who You are. Help me to become meek, so that I may trust you more and delight in all of your dealings with me.
{Matthew 5:1-5}
"Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
In the first 3 beatitudes Jesus is saying in order to enter into the Kingdom, to be comforted, to inherit the earth, we must:
Recognize our nothingness (poor in spirit)
Grieve over our sin (mourn)
Having a humble, teachable heart (meekness)
According to my study resources, meekness or humility here is not just referring to a person’s outward behaviors or relations with fellow men. It’s referring to a mere natural disposition.
It is an inwrought grace of the soul; and the exercises of it are first and chiefly towards God.
It is that temper of spirit in which we accept His dealings with us as good, and therefore without disputing or resisting.
It is having a humble heart towards God, one that does not contend or struggle with Him.
I think meekness is coming to that understanding of “You are God, and I am not.”
Trusting that what He says in His word is true and the circumstances He puts us through are for His good.
Easier said than done.
But really, when you think about it … if He is the Creator of all, the One who has the power to give me life and take it away, and He is sovereign and in control, than why do I struggle so much to trust?
Why am I not meek and humble when I think of my God who is all powerful?
Why do I know bow low and accept all that He places in my life because He.is.God. ?
Why do I look to other things instead of His word to guide me?
Do I truly accept His dealings with me as good? Without disputing?
Yikes.
Gulp.
If I’m honest, there are somethings that I DO NOT accept as good, and I do more than dispute . . . I grumble!
Perhaps that’s why over and over again in His word, you see God reminding us that it’s the humble, the meek, who get the reward.
“But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6)
“Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor." (Proverbs 3:34)
“For the Lord takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation.” (Psalm 149:4)
Father forgive me for my prideful attitude! I rejoice in what You’ve done for me and for who You are. Help me to become meek, so that I may trust you more and delight in all of your dealings with me.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Mourning Glory
My Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount
{Matthew 5:1-4}
"Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
We have often heard this scripture quoted to those who have just lost a loved one. In an effort to comfort, we call them blessed for mourning. God blesses your sadness.
However, according to my study resources, the meaning for mourn here is “to have a deep sorrow for sin.” It’s "a grief so all encompassing it cannot be hidden."
Why in the world is that a blessing? To feel terrible about what you’ve done?
Do you feel sorry for your sin?
Have you felt a deep sense of grief over your sin?
So here again Jesus is telling us we need to feel so broken, so bankrupt (poor in spirit v.3), and so grief stricken to receive the Kingdom of Heaven and to receive comfort from the Comforter.
He is telling us that those who come filthy, poor, and broken are the ones who will receive forgiveness and eternal life.
Religion teaches us we must clean up our act, walk a straight line, and do it on our own to earn eternal life.
Jesus says it’s poverty in spirit, grief, mourning that leads us to Him in glory.
Mourning is the road to glory.
Are you still trying to earn God’s love?
Are you still so “good” that you think you deserve eternal life?
Stop.
Mourn.
Grieve.
Repent.
See yourself before a holy God and ask yourself again.
If we are so high on our own pedestal, then how can the LORD our God reach down to rescue us?
If we have it all figured out then what need do we have to depend on Him?
The reason this place of mourning is considered “blessed” is because it is the beginning of seeing who we are (or better yet, who we are NOT) in comparison to who God is.
Our mourning helps us to see His glory more clearly.
Will you mourn with me today?
"For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret . . ." (2 Corinthians 7:10)
{Matthew 5:1-4}
"Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
We have often heard this scripture quoted to those who have just lost a loved one. In an effort to comfort, we call them blessed for mourning. God blesses your sadness.
However, according to my study resources, the meaning for mourn here is “to have a deep sorrow for sin.” It’s "a grief so all encompassing it cannot be hidden."
Why in the world is that a blessing? To feel terrible about what you’ve done?
Do you feel sorry for your sin?
Have you felt a deep sense of grief over your sin?
So here again Jesus is telling us we need to feel so broken, so bankrupt (poor in spirit v.3), and so grief stricken to receive the Kingdom of Heaven and to receive comfort from the Comforter.
He is telling us that those who come filthy, poor, and broken are the ones who will receive forgiveness and eternal life.
Religion teaches us we must clean up our act, walk a straight line, and do it on our own to earn eternal life.
Jesus says it’s poverty in spirit, grief, mourning that leads us to Him in glory.
Mourning is the road to glory.
Are you still trying to earn God’s love?
Are you still so “good” that you think you deserve eternal life?
Stop.
Mourn.
Grieve.
Repent.
See yourself before a holy God and ask yourself again.
If we are so high on our own pedestal, then how can the LORD our God reach down to rescue us?
If we have it all figured out then what need do we have to depend on Him?
The reason this place of mourning is considered “blessed” is because it is the beginning of seeing who we are (or better yet, who we are NOT) in comparison to who God is.
Our mourning helps us to see His glory more clearly.
Will you mourn with me today?
"For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret . . ." (2 Corinthians 7:10)
Monday, February 13, 2012
Poor in Spirit
{Matthew 5:1-3}
"Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
Which is it? Why?
Why would Jesus tell us the starting place is a lowly place? A place of poverty? Brokenness? Spiritual bankruptcy? Why would God want us poor?
When we are poor in Spirit, we are brought low. We see God for who He is and we see ourselves for who we are (sinful) and who we are not (righteous).
When we are poor in spirit, we are awakened to see our position before God. A position of lowliness, dust, nothing, poor, spiritually bankrupt, lost, and far off.
A.W. Pink said “To be "poor in spirit" is to realize that I have nothing, am nothing, and can do nothing, and have need of all things. It issues from the painful discovery that all my righteousnesses are as filthy rags. It follows the awakening that my best performances are unacceptable, yea, an abomination to the thrice Holy One. Poverty of spirit evidences itself by its bringing the individual into the dust before God, acknowledging his utter helplessness and deservingness of hell. It is the Spirit emptying the heart of self that Christ may fill it: it is a sense of need and destitution. The one who is poor in spirit is nothing in his own eyes, and feels that his proper place is in the dust before God. {Pink, A.W. (2011-06-28). An Exposition of The Sermon on The Mount (Kindle Locations 241-242). Unknown. Kindle Edition.}
Don’t you see being poor in spirit is a blessing? As long as we think of ourselves more highly that we ought, we are filled with pride and have yet to taste of His grace. When we see ourselves as sinful, we see The Cross more clearly. God is not interested in us trying to clean up our own mess, He is interested in being our cleansing flow.
It is only from this place of emptiness we can be filled by the One who satisifies.
It’s only from this place of brokenness that we can be made whole by the One who heals.
It is only from this lowly place that we can be lifted high.
It’s only from being poor in spirit that we will receive riches in Christ.
Poverty of spirit leads to mourning, humility, hunger, and thirst for God. Poverty leads to gratitude . . . gratitude of His life, His death, His blood, His resurrection, His grace.
It’s this lowly place that leads us to His grace.
“But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. (James 4:6-10)
"Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”As I walk through Jesus’ teaching from the Sermon on the Mount, I see how upside-down His kingdom is. He teaches opposite of what we feel, think, or have been taught to believe. The guy on TV says I’m blessed when I’m healthy, wealthy, and full. Jesus says we’re blessed when we’re poor, mourning, humble, hungry, and thirsty.
Which is it? Why?
Why would Jesus tell us the starting place is a lowly place? A place of poverty? Brokenness? Spiritual bankruptcy? Why would God want us poor?
When we are poor in Spirit, we are brought low. We see God for who He is and we see ourselves for who we are (sinful) and who we are not (righteous).
When we are poor in spirit, we are awakened to see our position before God. A position of lowliness, dust, nothing, poor, spiritually bankrupt, lost, and far off.
A.W. Pink said “To be "poor in spirit" is to realize that I have nothing, am nothing, and can do nothing, and have need of all things. It issues from the painful discovery that all my righteousnesses are as filthy rags. It follows the awakening that my best performances are unacceptable, yea, an abomination to the thrice Holy One. Poverty of spirit evidences itself by its bringing the individual into the dust before God, acknowledging his utter helplessness and deservingness of hell. It is the Spirit emptying the heart of self that Christ may fill it: it is a sense of need and destitution. The one who is poor in spirit is nothing in his own eyes, and feels that his proper place is in the dust before God. {Pink, A.W. (2011-06-28). An Exposition of The Sermon on The Mount (Kindle Locations 241-242). Unknown. Kindle Edition.}
Don’t you see being poor in spirit is a blessing? As long as we think of ourselves more highly that we ought, we are filled with pride and have yet to taste of His grace. When we see ourselves as sinful, we see The Cross more clearly. God is not interested in us trying to clean up our own mess, He is interested in being our cleansing flow.
It is only from this place of emptiness we can be filled by the One who satisifies.
It’s only from this place of brokenness that we can be made whole by the One who heals.
It is only from this lowly place that we can be lifted high.
It’s only from being poor in spirit that we will receive riches in Christ.
Poverty of spirit leads to mourning, humility, hunger, and thirst for God. Poverty leads to gratitude . . . gratitude of His life, His death, His blood, His resurrection, His grace.
It’s this lowly place that leads us to His grace.
“But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. (James 4:6-10)
Monday, February 6, 2012
Crowd or Disciple?
The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus longest sermon or piece of teaching. It is His words to His disciples, the crowd, and the religious people of the day. Jesus is not only teaching in this sermon, He is also reteaching. He is giving a more accurate view of who God is and who we are in response to that.
Much of what the religious leaders of the day had done was distort the character of God. They had made people take up “religious activity” rather than know and rest in the Truth about our Heavenly Father. Jesus is about to shift their paradigm, not only with what He teachers, but the way He teaches it.
He is teaching to His disciples, He knows the crowd is listening, and He is rebuking the religious people. All in the same sermon.
He knows His audience. He knows who’s listening, who’s learning, who’s watching from afar, and who’s waiting to pounce.
“Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying…” (Matthew 5:1-2)
There were crowds, and then there were disciples.
Do you notice that Matthew made it a point to make a distinction between “the crowds” and “disciples”. Not all who were gathered, listening to Jesus, were His followers.
Crowd: audience
Disciple: A learner, one who follows one’s teaching. A disciple was not only a pupil, but an adherent, hence they are spoken of as imitators of their teacher.
Which are you?
Are you like the disciples who came to Him?
Do you come close to God?
Do you follow to glean from His words? To listen, and learn?
Do you imitate Christ out of a grateful heart?
OR
Are you like the crowd?
Watching from a distance?
Watching the show, listening, but never entering in?
Waiting for spectacular but have yet to come close enough to see Jesus face to face?
It’s easy to be a part of the crowd. You can blend in, you can seem like you’re a part of the movement, you can play the part. But remember . . . the crowd is fickle. At first, watching, following, it seems as if they could even be disciples. The crowd rejoiced, shouting “Hosanna”, during the Triumphal Entry, and days later that same crowd screamed “crucify him!”
Let’s step out of the crowd and into relationship. Let’s become a disciple. Not one who plays church or looks the part, but one who is sold out to following Christ. Complete surrender, complete trust, complete pursuit of our Teacher.
Let people know us not by the crowd we sit in, but by the One we imitate. Let’s come close to our teacher, let His word change us so our lives display what we believe!
Much of what the religious leaders of the day had done was distort the character of God. They had made people take up “religious activity” rather than know and rest in the Truth about our Heavenly Father. Jesus is about to shift their paradigm, not only with what He teachers, but the way He teaches it.
He is teaching to His disciples, He knows the crowd is listening, and He is rebuking the religious people. All in the same sermon.
He knows His audience. He knows who’s listening, who’s learning, who’s watching from afar, and who’s waiting to pounce.
“Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying…” (Matthew 5:1-2)
There were crowds, and then there were disciples.
Do you notice that Matthew made it a point to make a distinction between “the crowds” and “disciples”. Not all who were gathered, listening to Jesus, were His followers.
Crowd: audience
Disciple: A learner, one who follows one’s teaching. A disciple was not only a pupil, but an adherent, hence they are spoken of as imitators of their teacher.
Which are you?
Are you like the disciples who came to Him?
Do you come close to God?
Do you follow to glean from His words? To listen, and learn?
Do you imitate Christ out of a grateful heart?
OR
Are you like the crowd?
Watching from a distance?
Watching the show, listening, but never entering in?
Waiting for spectacular but have yet to come close enough to see Jesus face to face?
It’s easy to be a part of the crowd. You can blend in, you can seem like you’re a part of the movement, you can play the part. But remember . . . the crowd is fickle. At first, watching, following, it seems as if they could even be disciples. The crowd rejoiced, shouting “Hosanna”, during the Triumphal Entry, and days later that same crowd screamed “crucify him!”
Let’s step out of the crowd and into relationship. Let’s become a disciple. Not one who plays church or looks the part, but one who is sold out to following Christ. Complete surrender, complete trust, complete pursuit of our Teacher.
Let people know us not by the crowd we sit in, but by the One we imitate. Let’s come close to our teacher, let His word change us so our lives display what we believe!
Monday, January 30, 2012
Meditation Mondays: Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount
I often choose one book to study deeply for a few months at a time. In the past it’s been Romans, Ephesians, 1 &2 Samuel, and Ruth. I give myself absolutely no timeline. Sometimes I’ll read through the entire book each day, sometimes I’ll read a verse a week. I have no end time either. For someone who is usually caught up in checking the boxes, this brings me great freedom and delight to studying and read the bible this way.
I strive to be in the Word daily, but I get so much more out of studying the bible slower and meditating on it throughout the week. I find the the slower I go, the deeper His word implants into my heart and renews my mind.
So in January I found myself asking a lot of people “What do you go through with people who are new believers? A curriculum? Scripture? A book? I must have asked 20 people, okay or the whole staff at the church, and got lots of responses.
That’s when I realized, why wouldn’t I go through exactly what Jesus took His disciples through, His own words! I decided to spend time studying the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) for the next few months.
So for the next few Mondays, my hope and goal is to write about what I’m learning as I journey through the Sermon on the Mount. I’ll call it Meditation Mondays.
Meditation: continued or extended thought; reflection; contemplation. The Eastern philosophy of meditation is to empty your mind. The biblical philosophy is to fill it . . . with God's word, with truth, to transform and renew your thinking (Romans 12:1-2)
I will post what I’m learning from Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount and what I will be thinking about and reflecting on for that week.
Come back and visit on Mondays and share what you are meditating on for the week! Or better yet, join me on the journey and read along in Matthew 5-7.
“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.” (Psalm 1:1-2)
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1:8)
How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:9-11)
I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word. (Psalm 119:15-16)
I strive to be in the Word daily, but I get so much more out of studying the bible slower and meditating on it throughout the week. I find the the slower I go, the deeper His word implants into my heart and renews my mind.
So in January I found myself asking a lot of people “What do you go through with people who are new believers? A curriculum? Scripture? A book? I must have asked 20 people, okay or the whole staff at the church, and got lots of responses.
That’s when I realized, why wouldn’t I go through exactly what Jesus took His disciples through, His own words! I decided to spend time studying the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) for the next few months.
So for the next few Mondays, my hope and goal is to write about what I’m learning as I journey through the Sermon on the Mount. I’ll call it Meditation Mondays.
Meditation: continued or extended thought; reflection; contemplation. The Eastern philosophy of meditation is to empty your mind. The biblical philosophy is to fill it . . . with God's word, with truth, to transform and renew your thinking (Romans 12:1-2)
I will post what I’m learning from Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount and what I will be thinking about and reflecting on for that week.
Come back and visit on Mondays and share what you are meditating on for the week! Or better yet, join me on the journey and read along in Matthew 5-7.
“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.” (Psalm 1:1-2)
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (Joshua 1:8)
How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:9-11)
I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word. (Psalm 119:15-16)
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