tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84246678883411786042024-03-14T03:37:54.606-07:00Bucket Full of GraceI'm just a guy with a bucket full of Grace. My goal with these writings is to encourage and challenge you to come closer to God through Worship, Bible Study, and Sermon Series. Join my 30 Days of Worship Challenge to get started.Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-84905265438832849362024-03-05T10:23:00.000-08:002024-03-05T10:23:25.306-08:00Prophecy is Greater than Tongues 1 Corinthians 14 Notes<p> <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Prophecy > Tongues Sermon Notes</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-8dafd8c5-7fff-3d65-40df-15ce08ddee9b"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRkqmrR9SrprXugLB4al3jgKXBakldTcgsPLmFxeV3B6tStJk26m4jYelzabGXKWCRBwLsJRi7eAvD6Pu-AzumtSfpydaE8WnJsIeUBYs7WevKEWTFSXHmEdd3XdeU49eVD8KtCl5voze56URFmvjHkKrLaiFHj3PIAPFA1TpNjy5WQGwkcDYcqugB6rI/s400/tongues.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="400" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRkqmrR9SrprXugLB4al3jgKXBakldTcgsPLmFxeV3B6tStJk26m4jYelzabGXKWCRBwLsJRi7eAvD6Pu-AzumtSfpydaE8WnJsIeUBYs7WevKEWTFSXHmEdd3XdeU49eVD8KtCl5voze56URFmvjHkKrLaiFHj3PIAPFA1TpNjy5WQGwkcDYcqugB6rI/w500-h332/tongues.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Open with me to 1st Corinthians 14 and let’s Pray.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">-The Holy Spirit Teaching Us</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">-Unity of the Brethren</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">-To Pursue Love</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 John 1:5 “God is light: in Him there is no darkness at all.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Of all the light [electromagnetic spectrum] that is whizzing around us. Humans can only see what we call visible light, and this light makes up less than 1% of all the light, actually less than 35 ten thousandths of a % of all the light. We see in a mirror dimly but one day we will see Him face to Face. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And so it is with the Holy Spirit Gift of tongues.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> There is some small percentage of the Glory that God is due that I am actually able to give in the English language. But, when praying, it can become overwhelming and we just don’t have the words to express to God what needs to be said, so the Holy Spirit intercedes for us with groaning beyond our understanding… and this exalts God to His True place, this is 100% of the light or 100% of the Glory that He is due. Tongues are important and tongues are a good gift from God than are used to give that 100% Glory TO GOD. But, in this chapter Paul says, prophecy is greater… and we are to seek the greater gifts. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So what is Prophecy, this can be confusing because prophecy in the Old Testament was almost always telling the future, but in the New Testament this word profetaia means words that come with divine inspiration and can do 5 specific things: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1) declaring the purposes of God </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2) exhortation or encouraging the abandonment of sin </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3) comforting the afflicted </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4) revealing hidden truth </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5) foretelling future events</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Notice only 20% of that list is telling the future. Much of New Testament prophecy is forth-telling not foretelling, bringing forth the declaration of God to the people… in a language they can understand and think about and agree with. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, in short, Tongues is spoken TO God to give him that 100% Glory that our human language is incapable of and Prophecy is FROM God to speak His Heart for our building up.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now after Paul writes, the Love Chapter 13, declaring that all these spiritual gifts are nothing if we have not love that the Greatest Commandment is Love! He continues in chapter 14, saying.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, if we weren’t so such sticklers for expository line by line and precept upon precept preaching then we could just stop there and call it a day. But, his whole point that he has been building up to throughout the letter is that the church services in Corinth are a problem, they are a free for all of chaotic mess with everyone speaking in tongues and prophecying loudly over the top of each other, with people bringing feasts for themselves and others starving, with people having Communion then turning around and sleeping with a temple prostitute, the whole issue with separation in the church over whether to eat meat offered to idols or not to, with women who used to be temple prostitutes shouting out questions in the middle of teaching, and Paul has built a case throughout this letter teaching carefully about unity and love and how order and spiritual gifts should be used in general for the building up of the church so that now he can finally get to the </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">specific issue</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> of the disorderly use of the gift of tongues.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you get nothing else from this understand what Paul is saying here very clearly. Tongues is projected TO GOD and Prophecy is projected FROM God. Tongues Glorifies God and therefore builds up the speaker. Prophecy Builds the Hearer. Now, please don’t think that Paul or I are down on tongues that we are against it in any way, here’s what he says:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I want you all to have this blessing of 100% adoration that human language just can’t do in order to build yourself up through Glorifying God FULLY. But, even more I want you to declare the deep things of God to one another, encouraging and comforting each other, revealing hidden truth, and even foretelling what is to come. That builds up everyone who hears it. That is even better. Why is it better?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">7 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">8 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There are doubtless many different languages in the world, and none is without meaning, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">11 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">but if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker a foreigner to me. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">12 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So tongues is a wonderful thing but when you do it around me it makes me feel like a foreigner to you… I don’t know what you are saying so I’m just waiting for you to be done and not getting anything out of it… but when you prophecy, which could be a comforting word, or an exhortation or encouragement, I can hear it and synthesize it with my mind and agree with it. I’m involved in the situation. It becomes a moment where we can have unity together as the body of Christ.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">14 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">15 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">16 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Otherwise, if you give thanks with your spirit, how can anyone in the position of an outsider say “Amen” to your thanksgiving when he does not know what you are saying? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">17 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, those of you that have been in a charismatic or pentecostal movement for some time might think that Paul is anti-tongues here or that I am anti-tongues but check out this next verse.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">18 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Well there it is. It’s not about speaking in tongues or not speaking in tongues, it’s about what is best for building up the church. If Paul feels so strongly that you shouldn’t speak in tongues in the church service but he speaks in tongues more than all of us, where must he be speaking in tongues? It must be in his personal prayer life. So, it’s not that prophecy is better in all circumstances, when you are alone with God overwhelmed with emotion and unable to express in the English language the Glory that He deserves, tongues.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Anecdote: I probably don’t speak in tongues more than all of you, but I have spoken in tongues when overwhelmed and it’s a wonderful thing to Glorify God in that way.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">19 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I think that’s very clear. Tongues is a wonderful gift for your prayer to God but in the church service, let’s prophecy for all these reasons layed out, unless there is an interpretation of the tongues, those who hear it will be foreigners to you and it is unfruitful. But, prophecy, is fruitful for the building up of the church… prophecy again meaning ecplaining the deep things of God, comforting, encouraging, exhortation, etc… Now, here’s the hard part.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">20 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I think that might be Paul’s way of saying, “here’s the hard part.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">21 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In the Law it is written, “By people of strange tongues and by the lips of foreigners will I speak to this people, and even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ok, here is why this begins to be a little tougher to understand. This is a quote from Isaiah 28:11,12 which is not in the Law and Paul knows that Isaiah is not in the Law, the Law is the first 5 books of the bible called the Pentateuch and Isaiah is in a group of writings that Paul would have called The Prophets, so that’s our first conundrum, why did Paul say it is written in the Law? However, if we go back to the Law, specifically Deuteronomy then we can see the context of these verses in Isaiah 21: You see, in Deuteronomy, I think, 28, it talks about curses that will happen to those who do not follow God’s ways, His commands and decrees, and it says a nation with a language that you do not understand will come and invade and basically that every time you hear them speaking that foreign language in your streets it will be a sign to you that you have not followed the Lord.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Deuteronomy 28:</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">49 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> will bring a nation against you from far away, from the end of the earth, swooping down like the eagle, a nation whose language you do not understand,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, what’s happening in Isaiah is that the prophet warned the kingdoms of Ephraim and Judah not to reject the Lord but they went against the Lord and against Isaiah saying that he was always precept upon precept and line upon line and here a little and there a little, and Isaiah predicted rightly that when the Assyrians invade it will be a sign to you that you should have listened to that line upon line, precept upon precept, real prophecy from the Lord when you see that God tried to reach you with your own language and you wouldn’t listen you’ll see the sign of not understanding a foreign language when they take over, essentially, I’ll speak through their foreign tongue to you as a sign that you should have listened to the prophecy. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Isaiah 28:</span><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/isaiah/28-11.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">11</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Very well then, with foreign lips and strange tongues God will speak to this people,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/isaiah/28-12.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">12</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> to whom he said, “This is the resting place, let the weary rest”; and, “This is the place of repose”— but they would not listen.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">22 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">23 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If, therefore, the whole church comes together and all speak in tongues, and outsiders or unbelievers enter, will they not say that you are out of your minds?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What I think Paul is getting at here is a bit tricky, he’s saying that just like the Israelites invaded by the Assyrians because they wouldn’t follow the Lord, these people who are unbelievers will not be persuaded to follow the Lord by tongues, it will just be a sign to them in a bad way, a sign that the people in this church are foreigners to them, they will have a reaction to them like that of an invading army and hate your church. I felt like that was a little tricky to unpack but Paul is basically saying, when you speak in tongues in church without a translator it makes everyone uncomfortable.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">24 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">25 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, when you hear the deep mysteries of God, the comfort, the exhortation: the prophecy, in your own language, you are drawn to God, you are able to move from hearing to thinking to mulling over to realizing it is Truth not from man but from God that you are hearing and you are won into the kingdom of God.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><br /></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 3pt 0pt 8pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Orderly Worship</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">26 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">27 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">28 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">29 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">30 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">31 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">32 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">33 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, I don’t know why he limits things to 2 or 3 but maybe the children’s church workers will run out of snacks or something and people get tired and you’ve got to end sometime, I don’t think the specific 2 or 3 really matters as much as having order to your worship, it can’t be a free-for-all where people are shouting over each other and all speaking at the same time and interrupting ending with my favorite verse in this section that my wife and I quote to each other that our God is a God not of confusion but of Peace. That can get you through some tough times, that verse.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pastor Dan did a great job speaking about the women of Corinth a few weeks ago so I would have you reference his remarks about the next section, Paul expresses the importance of order and submission one to another in marriage and there were a lot of problems with that as there are alot of problems with that in our day, but as you know, Paul also clearly spoke of women that had prophetic gifts and teaching gifts and that were leaders in the church, but in this moment, with a bunch of women who were reformed temple prostitutes this is how he could best say this to help the church build each other up, because that’s what it’s about, it’s not about personally what I want or what you feel you should be able to do, it’s about pursuing love with your spiritual gifts to build up the whole church.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As in all the churches of the saints, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">34 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">the women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">35 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">36 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Or was it from you that the word of God came? Or are you the only ones it has reached? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">37 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If anyone thinks that he is a prophet, or spiritual, he should acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a command of the Lord. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">38 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">39 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">40 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But all things should be done decently and in order.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Prayer.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">-Thank you for this teaching</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">-Give us the Gift of Tongues that we could exalt you and glorify you in our daily prayers, that we could give to you the Glory due your name in moments of unspeakable awe.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">-But, even moreso give us the gift of prophecy to uncover and explain the deep things of God, to comfort and encourage one another in the Faith.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">–and above all, show us how to do so with the utmost Love, respect, and orderliness so that we can show that you are not a God of chaos but The God of Peace. Give us peace today and throughout this week that can only come from knowing you through your son Jesus Christ.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Amen.</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-84355409369086693852024-01-31T16:49:00.000-08:002024-02-05T15:22:52.486-08:00Taking God Seriously [sermon on 1st Cor 10]<p> </p><span id="docs-internal-guid-9bccd66c-7fff-867d-cdc8-e0b6e7d71644"><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 24pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Taking God Seriously [1st Corinthians 10]</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 24pt; text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYj426PsHuw9pwulQqdpQBo9YA1pMh1TRknkiHr-e7NFTXh6Ld1fHdkWTJyzrfkBtx8Nux6FjXhGH5Jv054dPGxvxp7-ZXwOb7EkNLWQ3qvHVckc-pIVEObLqZy7Vqc2HvbUNoE947gpv87_Zz1PfIBo_bDupviO6FYBE6g5-6AxhoJOiI6a8bg31XM8E/s2048/pillar%20of%20fire.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYj426PsHuw9pwulQqdpQBo9YA1pMh1TRknkiHr-e7NFTXh6Ld1fHdkWTJyzrfkBtx8Nux6FjXhGH5Jv054dPGxvxp7-ZXwOb7EkNLWQ3qvHVckc-pIVEObLqZy7Vqc2HvbUNoE947gpv87_Zz1PfIBo_bDupviO6FYBE6g5-6AxhoJOiI6a8bg31XM8E/w439-h439/pillar%20of%20fire.png" width="439" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 24pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As we open up to 1 Corinthians 10 today, I want you to notice that there are three verses in this chapter that are fantastic memory verses, they are great for putting on one of those wooden plaques in your house or for posting with a nice background on Facebook… and people will say, “oh that’s so nice.” But what is so much better is diving into the context, into the nuance of meaning of where they come from and what they are really saying about your life and about God and about eternity. So, that’s our goal for today, to take God seriously, to take His word seriously… and to get hopefully a deeper conversation about these verses.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 24pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Memory Verses: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 24pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.</span></p><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">23All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify.</span></h1><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">31Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.</span></h1><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So I want to take being a Christian seriously… and get right into what God is saying to us through Paul. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We will be going through references in Exodus as well as 1st Corinthians 10 today so if you have those ribbons in your bible, this is the perfect time to use them, one ribbon in Exodus and one in 1st Corinthians 10… and we’ll also be getting back into the concept of not eating food that is offered to idols and what that means to us now. But, above all, let’s pray that the Holy Spirit would open our eyes to see and open our ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to us as the people of God.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pray:</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord, we need you here with us today. As we study your word seriously and strive to become like You. Give us mercy from what we deserve and through your Grace, open our minds and hearts to what you are saying in each of our individual lives. You have brought us to this moment through all sorts of trials and I know you have something special to say to each of us today. I want to say what I hear you saying and I want to do what I see you doing. I really don’t care if it’s my words that bring that into hearts this morning. I want it to be your words and your Word that is the only thing that can truly bring Life. Amen.</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 24pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 CORINTHIANS 10[NASB]</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1For I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea; 2and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea; </span></h1><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Paul is referencing Exodus 13 and 14 when Pharoah let the Israelites go from Egypt, they were led by the Lord in a pillar of cloud and of fire: </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13: </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">21 By day the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. 22 Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people.</span></h1><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">14:</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">19 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then the angel of God, who had been traveling in front of Israel’s army, withdrew and went behind them. The pillar of cloud also moved from in front and stood behind them, </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">20 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">coming between the armies of Egypt and Israel. Throughout the night the cloud brought darkness to the one side and light to the other side; so neither went near the other all night long.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">21 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">22 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">23 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Egyptians pursued them, and all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots and horsemen followed them into the sea. </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">24 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">During the last watch of the night the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> looked down from the pillar of fire and cloud at the Egyptian army and threw it into confusion. </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">25 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He jammed[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2014&version=NIV#fen-NIV-1915b" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">b</span></a><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">] the wheels of their chariots so that they had difficulty driving. And the Egyptians said, “Let’s get away from the Israelites! The </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> is fighting for them against Egypt.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Paul says here, I do not want you to be unaware. This is not just a story. This is who God is. He was and is and ever will be our rescuer, our deliverer, the direction we should go, our Savior from this world that wishes to destroy us, He is our justice and He will see us through to the other side. This is such an important prophetic picture of what it means to be a believer in Christ. Understand and meditate on the leading of the pillar of cloud, really consider the significance of God leading you away from that which has always enslaved you. He will protect you from your past and see you through what seems impossible into His Future… and what we do as believers is follow.</span></p><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3and all ate the same spiritual food; 4and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ. </span></h1><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUd2qIq5BfiZWeFcZzjkpVt-i4S4SBmirw8wtSqj0DfQOas-yXZxLbCL2YettW3r_PGvLYPIvnlZfMBAWVSY61KSh46nL4G0PiHDFSTtcK0gfITzxIpFjwUWn52B9JDeywmXEMGfnquyrsBw3gxmXRXxmBtnAgvm3jb1uSZwYaUi8IbxWfFenUOtk7DzI/s1350/The_Phillip_Medhurst_Picture_Torah_395._Manna_in_the_wilderness._Exodus_cap_16_vv_14-17._Dutch_Bible.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1350" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUd2qIq5BfiZWeFcZzjkpVt-i4S4SBmirw8wtSqj0DfQOas-yXZxLbCL2YettW3r_PGvLYPIvnlZfMBAWVSY61KSh46nL4G0PiHDFSTtcK0gfITzxIpFjwUWn52B9JDeywmXEMGfnquyrsBw3gxmXRXxmBtnAgvm3jb1uSZwYaUi8IbxWfFenUOtk7DzI/w498-h378/The_Phillip_Medhurst_Picture_Torah_395._Manna_in_the_wilderness._Exodus_cap_16_vv_14-17._Dutch_Bible.jpg" width="498" /></a></div><br /></div><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Here Paul is referencing </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Exodus 16:</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> 2 In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron. 3 The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.”</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4 Then the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> said to Moses, “I will rain down bread from heaven for you. The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day. In this way I will test them and see whether they will follow my instructions. 5 On the sixth day they are to prepare what they bring in, and that is to be twice as much as they gather on the other days.”</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And </span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Exodus 17: </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for the people to drink. </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So they quarreled with Moses and said, “Give us water to drink.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Moses replied, “Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you put the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> to the test?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But the people were thirsty for water there, and they grumbled against Moses. They said, “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then Moses cried out to the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, “What am I to do with these people? They are almost ready to stone me.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> answered Moses, “Go out in front of the people. Take with you some of the elders of Israel and take in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile, and go. </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink.” So Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel. </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">7 </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And he called the place Massah[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2017&version=NIV#fen-NIV-1991a" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">a</span></a><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">] and Meribah[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2017&version=NIV#fen-NIV-1991b" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">b</span></a><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">] because the Israelites quarreled and because they tested the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> saying, “Is the </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lord</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> among us or not?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Consider your Christian life here as well… He has rescued you from yourself, from your sin, from your past, and brought you through an impossible gap between you and him, a baptism, which is what going through the Red Sea represents… and you want food and drink, which represents the things of this world. So, He gives you blessings in this world because He loves you… do you complain about what you have? Do you look back to your old life and reminisce about sin and depravity? Will you test the Lord or is that the Lord that will be testing you?</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5Nevertheless, with most of them God was not well-pleased; for they were laid low in the wilderness.[Numbers 14:29-30]</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved.[Numbers 11:4] </span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">7Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written, “T</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">he people sat down to eat and drink</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and stood up to play</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">.”[Exodus 32;6] 8Nor let us act immorally, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in one day.[Numbers 25] </span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9Nor let us try the Lord, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the serpents.[Numbers 21:5-6]</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> 10Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer.[Numbers 16:41-49] </span></h1><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It’s easy to read about these things in the Exodus and Numbers like we’re watching a movie or just listening to a story about people a long time ago. But, I think that what Paul is saying here is that this is the Jewish family tree. This is what you have been grafted into and now it is your family tree. This is their heritage and now it is your heritage. You have been bought with a price bringing you into the family and now the Exodus story is your story. You have been taken out of your bondage to sin and rescued and led through the wilderness and protected from the enemy and brought through the baptism of the water to the other side where you are free indeed from your past and you can begin to really follow the Lord. You are able to have his spiritual food and spiritual drink, which are the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. AND YOU WILL BE TESTED!!! It hasn’t been easy for the Jewish people and it won’t be easy for you. You will be blessed! Be thankful for it! But, you will be tested, you will have trials, you will have persecutions, you will have struggles. Don’t be idolaters, don’t act immorally, don’t grumble…</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">11Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. 12</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. </span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I saw a sermon online this week that really resonated with me. The preacher was really revved up about fake Christianity, about coming to church but not really surrendering your life to Christ, about outward godliness but inward selfishness… and the congregation that he was speaking to got wrapped up in the emotion of his words and was cheering and yelling amen and clapping… and he said, “I don’t know why your clapping and cheering right now… I’m talking about you.” </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">You now have the same story as God’s chosen people. Notice, many of them didn’t make it to the promised land, many of them complained and grumbled about the food and the water. They went against Moses and Aaron, they made idols of Gold, and they constantly were turning away and turning back. These things happened as an example for you and for me. They were written for our instruction. Take some time to really meditate on where you are with the Lord. There are things that are trying to make you fall. What are you doing to fight them? Who are you really trusting in? Is it true that as the Psalms say, “Some may trust in horses and some may trust in chariots but we will trust in the name of the Lord?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiik1nhd4-eF3DTzDLBikWU4bD9Xtnfgvf978caSk3pTzjxy4LUDGPpcIM_xYbdypaCZD5ql4xLebghIqLZ9CevntPJea3IjePx3TxVFOXySqzhL-EIzSavPW_EhE9p5YpIRaXUFgUzmuBTZ-XpjfbB0ow1DgXONm8PhK-ToS02FSPFihEE-FBFRgRbBAI/s965/memorize.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="965" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiik1nhd4-eF3DTzDLBikWU4bD9Xtnfgvf978caSk3pTzjxy4LUDGPpcIM_xYbdypaCZD5ql4xLebghIqLZ9CevntPJea3IjePx3TxVFOXySqzhL-EIzSavPW_EhE9p5YpIRaXUFgUzmuBTZ-XpjfbB0ow1DgXONm8PhK-ToS02FSPFihEE-FBFRgRbBAI/w494-h279/memorize.jpeg" width="494" /></a></div><p></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">14Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. 15I speak as to wise men; you judge what I say. </span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Can you really take this word seriously? Let’s read that again… because it might not mean what you used to think it means. You maybe thought it was a mild encouragement that you are tempted by that sin but you won’t be tempted beyond what you are able… but God is seriously saying here you are now just like the Jewish people, what you are going through has a long heritage of my people going through it. I rescued them and they let themselves indulge in their temptations. God says, I’ve seen this before, and I always provide a way out, </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">but you have to be able to endure it</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">you have to flee from idolatry</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">that is flee from putting things between you and the Lord</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. If there is anything between you and the Lord right now, Seriously don’t clap and chear… </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Repent</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, turn from your wicked ways and follow Him. Notice that even as we say this Christian phrase of follow Him we are referencing the following of the cloud that the people of Israel did as Jesus referenced it saying, come follow me… because He always saw the connection when He was calling His disciples.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, Paul is going to get back into the argument about eating food that has been offered to idols and if you missed the sermon I shared on 1st Corinthians 8 about 6 weeks ago, it’s on our website and on YouTube and goes, I think, pretty in depth on the issue, but to quickly recap, we saw in that chapter that this can be applied to all sorts of topics in our current day like anything that you would ask as <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/12/is-it-ok-for-christian-to-sermon-on-1.html" target="_blank">“Is it ok for a Christian to ________?”</a> These are called the non-essentials, which does not mean that they are non-important. They can be very important but they aren’t essential to being a Christian. Here Paul gives an example to us of arguing for an answer on an important non-essential so we should take cues from this if we are going to discuss with anyone these non-essential issues of importance ending with our second popular memory verse… but starting out writing about Communion:</span></p><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">16Is not the cup of blessing which we bless a sharing in the blood of Christ? Is not the bread which we break a sharing in the body of Christ? 17Since there is one bread, we who are many are one body; for we all partake of the one bread. 18Look at the nation Israel; are not those who eat the sacrifices sharers in the altar? 19What do I mean then? That a thing sacrificed to idols is anything, or that an idol is anything? 20No, but I say that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to demons and not to God; and I do not want you to become sharers in demons. 21You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. 22Or do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? We are not stronger than He, are we?</span></h1><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">23All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify. 24Let no one seek his own good, but that of his neighbor.</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, you mean to tell me that you are going to partake in the heritage of the people of God, you are going to take Communion, eating at the Lord’s table as He gave His body and blood on the cross for you and you are going to do this in remembrance of Him with the rest of the believers then you are going to turn around and just do things because they are “ok to do?” because you know the demons are nothing so you are going to indulge in demonic things in moderation? What? Are you stronger than our Lord? Re-read 23-24</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">On the other hand:</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">25Eat anything that is sold in the meat market without asking questions for conscience’ sake; 26</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">for the earth is the</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> L</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">ord</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">’</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">s</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and all it contains</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. 27If one of the unbelievers invites you and you want to go, eat anything that is set before you without asking questions for conscience’ sake. 28But if anyone says to you, “This is meat sacrificed to idols,” do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for conscience’ sake; 29I mean not your own conscience, but the other man’s; for why is my freedom judged by another’s conscience? 30If I partake with thankfulness, why am I slandered concerning that for which I give thanks?</span></h1><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">See, it’s ok to do, until it’s not. Anything that you feel is ok to do, the moment your conscience says, wait a minute, this is iffy. Can you stop and not do that thing? Being able to stop means that the thing is not in control of you, the Lord is in control of you. You don’t want a brother or sister to stumble, you don’t want a non-believer to get the wrong idea, you would much rather show them self-control that doesn’t come from you but from the Lord. So, if you research one of these non-essentials and find that it is “ok to do.” be ready to not do it at the drop of a hat our of love for others.</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Which brings us to an understanding of our last memory verse:</span></p><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 4pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">31Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 32Give no offense either to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God; 33just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit but the profit of the many, so that they may be saved.</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 24pt; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh36xtci7gLQhuHxbzEVFZvCFbNwQCKJcm8usgNJRr54teF4uf23vgBo86ej7mRLLEBBYGSKycP_9hu0fAFp3CnjnW-vTsZC_Orm2VYl0x1VOH8XJhz5_StAfZDkUtRi9y17_eYg57Bd72HxHY4ijrNQi7WgRELqDODbj6-N5FfbVe1mjY5nVrOCJi-b_o/s1000/eat%20or%20drink.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="609" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh36xtci7gLQhuHxbzEVFZvCFbNwQCKJcm8usgNJRr54teF4uf23vgBo86ej7mRLLEBBYGSKycP_9hu0fAFp3CnjnW-vTsZC_Orm2VYl0x1VOH8XJhz5_StAfZDkUtRi9y17_eYg57Bd72HxHY4ijrNQi7WgRELqDODbj6-N5FfbVe1mjY5nVrOCJi-b_o/w457-h609/eat%20or%20drink.jpeg" width="457" /></a></div></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 24pt; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Let’s Pray:</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Father we need you to freshen the Holy Spirit in us right now to help us remember the context of these verses and to apply them to our lives and our situations. As we go about this week, bring up in our minds how we are like the Jewish people, protect us, lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. We know that you will always provide a way out, give the eyes to see it and to take it, and to endure. Renew our love for people, that we would put down our own good for the good of others and not seek our own profit, but the profit of many, so that they may be saved.</span></p><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-3333230712047385932023-12-03T14:37:00.000-08:002023-12-03T14:37:01.002-08:00Is It OK for a Christian to ___________? [Sermon on 1 Cor 8]<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisiNrb1cNnWSqu4tYEkGljn3S860WO59ccWRTxoUi5KGGUF1KKcjvBpWiLBNdNVLeghAuKr7i6a7qXBlpTGGpdFVbUfLAfqlvNDwIIuhiHV2bB_IT9MetH-fw5OpwaPR-STKi3rw5mA6RbB0Ti2eTbrI7cGKrBoLWpvoOL0Ifv3ATPL-v9TZ0vneehcI8/s1150/Is%20it%20ok.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="1150" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisiNrb1cNnWSqu4tYEkGljn3S860WO59ccWRTxoUi5KGGUF1KKcjvBpWiLBNdNVLeghAuKr7i6a7qXBlpTGGpdFVbUfLAfqlvNDwIIuhiHV2bB_IT9MetH-fw5OpwaPR-STKi3rw5mA6RbB0Ti2eTbrI7cGKrBoLWpvoOL0Ifv3ATPL-v9TZ0vneehcI8/w504-h284/Is%20it%20ok.jpeg" width="504" /></a></div><p></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-b80f5925-7fff-7505-4157-be06c105ac8e"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 3pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Is it ok for a Christian to __________?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Well, what do you mean by is it ok? Is it sin? Well as we get into 1 Corinthians 8 today, let’s notice that you can be 100% right and also 100% wrong. You can have the 100% correct theology on a topic but be sinning by applying that theology without love and you can have a 100% wrong theology about something and abstain from it because your conscience tells you to abstain from that thing and you are doing well by following your conscience BUT although abstaining from that thing might not be a sin, you could be sinning by the way that it makes you proud and self-righteous, like you are the Lord and everyone needs to follow your LAW, which is NOT THE CASE. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So what am I saying here? Are you damned if you do and damned if you don’t? Well no, there’s a third option. I think I’m saying, if you ask “Is It OK for a Christian to ________?” Then you’re asking the wrong question. Isn’t that just such a Holy Spirit kind of answer? You ask a question looking for a yes or a no, maybe some nuance to the yes or no, and the answer from the Lord is: “You’re asking the wrong question.” The question should be much more like: </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">How Can I Love My Neighbor</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">?</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DBpLO0fR_kD9IChEhKcyfbzO9xnbb1l6T5qcFnUgwg7vJ0VOuD1IFSXh-RBuLk-9R0aM7SoZSg3KuP-s1EYLX37A5NKMTfkgDPKZol9yS2HQAYNGfe2if4NaNGDLcAl8XDqo7H7RlhKwhBYRyHyafkNB1_7rAEUTCi30yQRg5e2CPOSlCr9bSumdBM8/s1584/41_Mrk_12_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1584" data-original-width="1584" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DBpLO0fR_kD9IChEhKcyfbzO9xnbb1l6T5qcFnUgwg7vJ0VOuD1IFSXh-RBuLk-9R0aM7SoZSg3KuP-s1EYLX37A5NKMTfkgDPKZol9yS2HQAYNGfe2if4NaNGDLcAl8XDqo7H7RlhKwhBYRyHyafkNB1_7rAEUTCi30yQRg5e2CPOSlCr9bSumdBM8/s320/41_Mrk_12_31.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Today I want to offend everyone right where you are, hit you right in the “Is it ok for a Christian to ______?” to help you press in closer to Jesus… who has a LOVE that is so far above and beyond what we can muster that we just can’t ever get there but it should be our lifelong goal to sacrifice our own ambitions and desires and abilities to release our own control and take on His Love, His Righteousness to be clothed in what only He can do, to be Like Him in this strange mysterious Holy Spirit Way, that’s not us, it is getting ourselves to the end of us and bowing down so we can show a glimpse of Jesus to the World.</span></p><h1 style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The concept of a gray area</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">: </span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">After speaking for 3 chapters on sex and being very black and white about it: fornication is sex outside of heterosexual covenant marriage and sex inside marriage is designed by God to be Holy. You can’t get much more black and white than this. So a gray area or non-essential issues are something that is neither sin or holiness in and of itself.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And, it’s good for you to know what is essential and what is a gray area or non-essential because we must never treat what is non-essential as essential and we must never treat what is essential as non-essential.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So some essentials: </span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Who is God?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">The Trinity</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">The Deity of Christ</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">The Atonement</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Salvation by Grace Through Faith</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Love your neighbor as yourself</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you don’t believe in certain things then you are not saved. They are ESSENTIAL. And we use the words essential non-essential carefully here, we’re not saying that non-essential things aren’t important because important is a human word with a human meaning that means important to people. People get all revved up about the non-essentials so they are very important to deal with carefully and to deal with well, but NEVER raise them up to the status of Essential because they are not essential. We can agree to disagree… and actually disagree and still have unity.</span></p><h1 style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Non-Essentials</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Some people raise non-essentials to the level of essentials. “Oh you smoke, you’re goin’ to hell. That’s where all the smoke is ya know.” </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then theres people that take essentials and lower them to non-essentials and say, “yeah, it doesn’t matter if you believe in the trinity or the Resurrection or that it is by Grace that you have been saved through Faith. You’re still saved.” well no… when they do that they are stripping the Gospel of… the Gospel. When you do that there’s nothing to believe in. The Rapture of the church a non-essential. Not everybody believes in a pre-tribulation rapture can you love them anyway? Can you fellowship with people that are wrong? Because I promise you that you are wrong about something and it’s going to be awfully lonely in the church of one where everyone has to believe every non-essential exactly like you believe and it will be only you, and very likely NOT you and Jesus. These things are non-essential but they are important.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, in chapter 8 Paul turns to gray areas/non-essentials and the one in particular that was plaguing the Corinthian church was eating meat that had been offered to idols. Some thought it was wrong and sinful and others thought it was fine. Eating meat offered to idols is not a thing really at all in our day but back then in Corinth it was what was done with most of the meat so it was a big deal. People in Corinth thought that the way you would get a demon was by eating food that had a demon. So they thought the way to get rid of it was to offer meat to a god like Jupiter or Zeus and the god would be so pleased that they would protect them from that demon and eating the god-offered meat would then cleanse them of the demon. So this is the backdrop of where the Corinthians were coming from and when they became believers it was a real and important question to them of whether they should still eat this meat that had been offered to idols like they used to and they were raising this issue from a non-essential to an essential. So, they asked Paul this question in a letter and it made me think, well, we don’t have this specific problem that they had but we have lots of problems like this. So I did sort of a reverse google search to look at what would auto-complete if I typed in “Is it ok for a Christian to …” and here’s the top 20 things that Google thought I might be asking about based on millions of searches of people out in the world.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWEGHsyjspJfu05yTnPr14y3tzeoJn90oy4V_lhxgATdSbbOeQj6d0f7Lel4sPERV8yzV5kCY1ZRmYHZzp4uQvZ6bE-ERKH4q62OzJuosWl3R9FBSP8d9hq8F09H2Qq9CTkLJDyVXOMPS7wEfxH-BJbwcaSL9KY9rvHAYL1XVnJY0DnUZvildV_6kyXYs/s1912/Google-search-curved.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1016" data-original-width="1912" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWEGHsyjspJfu05yTnPr14y3tzeoJn90oy4V_lhxgATdSbbOeQj6d0f7Lel4sPERV8yzV5kCY1ZRmYHZzp4uQvZ6bE-ERKH4q62OzJuosWl3R9FBSP8d9hq8F09H2Qq9CTkLJDyVXOMPS7wEfxH-BJbwcaSL9KY9rvHAYL1XVnJY0DnUZvildV_6kyXYs/w497-h264/Google-search-curved.webp" width="497" /></a></div><p></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 15pt 0pt 0pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Is it ok for Christians to ____________________?</span></h3><ol style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Get tattoos?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Get pierced?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Wear jewelry?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Wear makeup?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">See R-rated movies?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Drink alcohol?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Be cremated?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Dress up in costume?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Celebrate halloween?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Buy a lottery ticket?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Take birth control?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Kiss before marriage?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">To Do Yoga?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Smoke Marijuana?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Play games of chance?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Do Legal Drugs?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Use Social Media?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Work on Saturday?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Own Nice/Expensive Things?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Play video games?</span></p></li></ol><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now you might have strong feelings about some of these. You might have strong feelings about all of these, your conscience might give you an answer immediately that you should not be doing them or you could have strong feelings that those things are fine and would definitely not be sin for you. BUT DON’T RAISE THEM UP TO THE LEVEL OF ESSENTIAL They can be important and still be non-essential. </span></p><br /><h1 style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A Side Note About The Internet:</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">if you are unsure about the sinfulness or righteousness of a gray area, is googling or using AI the right way to find the answer? No, the Word of God, the Holy Spirit, Valued Christian friends that are further along in their walk than you, these are the right way. What the internet says could be one data point for you, it could be a starting point but if you are serious about knowing what actions or desires in you are sinning against the Creator of the Universe and what actions you can do with all holiness and give that activity to the Lord then you can’t just ask Siri or Alexa or Chat-GPT. Holiness is too important for that. Search the scriptures, pray for insight, and seek out the Holy Spirit and those who you trust for the insight they have. We might touch on some of these specific topics today but I should probably get into the actual text of chapter 8 so:</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, Paul turns to a new topic that is perhaps specific to their time and place, the eating of meat that has been sacrificed to idols but can be very instructive for us when we look at other gray areas in the Christian Faith.</span></p><br /><h3 dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 15pt 0pt 8pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Food Sacrificed to Idols NLT</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">8 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now regarding your question about food that has been offered to idols. Yes, we know that “we all have knowledge” about this issue. But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. </span></blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I just can’t read this any other way than sarcastic. But it is also such a deep truth. KNOWLEDGE DOES MAKE US FEEL IMPORTANT!!! And we fall into the trap of thinking that it is knowledge, theology, good hermeneutics, good teaching, good bible study and memorization that will strengthen the church but it turns out no! It’s love. This is coming from the guy who teaches the Bible Study Methods Course. That is not what strengthens the church. It’s Love that strengthens the church! As most of you know I’m a math and physics teacher for my day job so I think sometimes in terms of mathematics and I made a graph after discussing this with Pastor Brandon that shows this point so if you’ll allow my nerdiness for a moment.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cnWgaKTOy53eTjU9qA7obsToH68g7uOh9-0J7d8J5QRdJKmT5_n5KquwX1JdOWDYMbQV9iZQH2l1AYGIf4rR8XcpSngqREt5qRrJuBeumnLbgwJkFTTndMHZyQo4UOf-KFBD4EivNswD9OPPERQT_sLNzt4Wfshwlso-1-glAN3dSfGlrGw4ud4ezNs/s2620/Screenshot%202023-12-01%20at%208.09.10%E2%80%AFPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1576" data-original-width="2620" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cnWgaKTOy53eTjU9qA7obsToH68g7uOh9-0J7d8J5QRdJKmT5_n5KquwX1JdOWDYMbQV9iZQH2l1AYGIf4rR8XcpSngqREt5qRrJuBeumnLbgwJkFTTndMHZyQo4UOf-KFBD4EivNswD9OPPERQT_sLNzt4Wfshwlso-1-glAN3dSfGlrGw4ud4ezNs/w494-h297/Screenshot%202023-12-01%20at%208.09.10%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="494" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">You see in this chart, what I think often happens, not always, but VERY often is we start out very high up on the LOVE axis, we love God and we love others and we’re just so thankful for God saving us, and we just want to share that love with everyone, but we don’t really know anything about the bible or about God and we find ourselves googling Is it ok for a Christian to ___________? Because we really have no idea what we should not do, but we really love God so we want to do rightly by Him. But then as we “progress” in our Christian walk we study the bible and we sit under bible teaching and we listen to podcasts and read books and we gain knowledge about God, but that Love Fire that we once had grows cold, we start to get judgy and critical and quite honestly unloving. And it’s at this point that we google things like “Is it ok for a Christian to _______?” because we want ammunition for rebuking someone and verses to quote about why we know with our great knowledge that they are sinning. It doesn’t have to be this way. I would say instead of both groups googling this question what we should all be saying is How can I love my neighbor? Jesus said there are only two commandments, love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and mind and strength and love your neighbor as yourself.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes.</span></blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you are considering a tattoo of a Bible Verse and you determine that it isn’t sinful for you to get one then I would suggest 1 Corinthians 8:2 “Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It is not the person who claims to know all the answers who God knows, it's the person who loves God that God recognizes. This reminds me of Jesus saying well done good and faithful servant and listing the servants acts of love, not what they knew of theology. But the one that thought they knew God, He says depart from me you workers of iniquity for I never knew you. John Calvin said it well that “knowledge is not commendable unless it has been dipped in God’s Love.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It turns out it’s not what you know, it’s who you know, and actually it’s who knows you. It says, “</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes.”</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, what about eating meat that has been offered to idols? Well, we all know that an idol is not really a god and that there is only one God. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There may be so-called gods both in heaven and on earth, and some people actually worship many gods and many lords. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But for us,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 11pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There is one God, the Father,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">by whom all things were created,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and for whom we live.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And there is one Lord, Jesus Christ,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">through whom all things were created,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and through whom we live.</span></p></blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 11pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 12pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, here is the correct theology, when someone offers meat to a false god [an idol], it’s not real, they are just having a barbecue. When we thank OUR Lord for the meat and ask Him to Bless it, that is real. There is such a vastly infinite difference between the meaning of lowercase g god and uppercase G God.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lydia and I read the Psalms together in the morning and it’s really been a wonderful addition to our marriage. Here’s one we read a couple weeks ago.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Psalms 135: 15-18</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22pt; text-indent: -22pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #777a7b; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22pt; text-indent: -22pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #777a7b; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">15</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The idols of the nations are merely things of silver and gold,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-indent: -11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">shaped by human hands.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22pt; text-indent: -22pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #777a7b; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">16</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">They have mouths but cannot speak,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-indent: -11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and eyes but cannot see.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22pt; text-indent: -22pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #777a7b; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">17</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">They have ears but cannot hear,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-indent: -11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and mouths but cannot breathe.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22pt; text-indent: -22pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #777a7b; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">18</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And those who make idols are just like them,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-indent: -11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">as are all who trust in them.</span></p></blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-indent: -11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #121212; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The idols that this meat has been offered to are just objects made by men, men who were made by God. Even if the idol is signifying a demon, guess what: that angel before it fell was MADE by God the Father. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVEtrFMuupg2GFoiBz3sokPjKsLKmGTFDt5HBggxfdhkxGrUs2S1Ksmk1xNIKTmRGjwXWaH8CG3yBhGs8M6uKIo5f4TkcuTBQQn66B4zZN-vn1YsUHNg9cUITNLsUHuNCpM4IsZ6MXfHHfQhYnm-jUzdShA_V0RYv_UO1DjF_nQ2wOI0KYf6ccqucZW2E/s267/false%20idol.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="246" data-original-width="267" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVEtrFMuupg2GFoiBz3sokPjKsLKmGTFDt5HBggxfdhkxGrUs2S1Ksmk1xNIKTmRGjwXWaH8CG3yBhGs8M6uKIo5f4TkcuTBQQn66B4zZN-vn1YsUHNg9cUITNLsUHuNCpM4IsZ6MXfHHfQhYnm-jUzdShA_V0RYv_UO1DjF_nQ2wOI0KYf6ccqucZW2E/w471-h434/false%20idol.jpeg" width="471" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Isaiah the Prophet pointed out the absurdity of false Gods</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -1pt 0pt 0pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -1pt 0pt 0pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">44:13Then the wood-carver measures a block of wood</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and draws a pattern on it.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He works with chisel and plane</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and carves it into a human figure.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He gives it human beauty</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and puts it in a little shrine.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 11pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">14 </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He cuts down cedars;</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">he selects the cypress and the oak;</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">he plants the pine in the forest</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">to be nourished by the rain.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">15 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then he uses part of the wood to make a fire.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">With it he warms himself and bakes his bread.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then—yes, it’s true—he takes the rest of it</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and makes himself a god to worship!</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He makes an idol</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and bows down in front of it!</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">16 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He burns part of the tree to roast his meat</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and to keep himself warm.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He says, “Ah, that fire feels good.”</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">17 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then he takes what’s left</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and makes his god: a carved idol!</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He falls down in front of it,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">worshiping and praying to it.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">“Rescue me!” he says.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">“You are my god!”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">18 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Such stupidity and ignorance!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Their eyes are closed, and they cannot see.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Their minds are shut, and they cannot think.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">19 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The person who made the idol never stops to reflect,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">“Why, it’s just a block of wood!</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I burned half of it for heat</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and used it to bake my bread and roast my meat.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">How can the rest of it be a god?</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Should I bow down to worship a piece of wood?”</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 11pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">20 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The poor, deluded fool feeds on ashes.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 11pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He trusts something that can’t help him at all.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Yet he cannot bring himself to ask,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">“Is this idol that I’m holding in my hand a lie?”</span></p></blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The people doing this are not really worshiping an actual God but a created thing. There is only one God and Creator and He is the One who created EVERYTHING and One Lord that is Jesus Christ, so… in a sense Paul is saying here is the 100% right theology. It is ok for a Christian to eat meat offered to an idol… and the people on the one side of the argument are like YES! Take That! Yeah! And they are dancing around high fiving. However… oh no, there’s a however…</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">7 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">However, not all believers know this. Some are accustomed to thinking of idols as being real, so when they eat food that has been offered to idols, they think of it as the worship of real gods, and their weak consciences are violated. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">8 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It’s true that we can’t win God’s approval by what we eat. We don’t lose anything if we don’t eat it, and we don’t gain anything if we do.</span></blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I look at this as sort of how Paul feels the debate should go. First there was the 100% correct theology side. There is only one God so those idols aren’t real, so it doesn’t matter if we just eat the meat. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But, the rebuttal is, but not everyone knows this, so imagine what people will think if they think they are worshiping that god through eating the meat. I mean, if it doesn’t matter whether we eat it or not then why don’t we just not?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But you must be careful so that your freedom does not cause others with a weaker conscience to stumble. </span></blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now this is Love which goes way beyond being correct in your theology. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For if others see you—with your “superior knowledge”—eating in the temple of an idol, won’t they be encouraged to violate their conscience by eating food that has been offered to an idol? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">11 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So because of your superior knowledge, a weak believer[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+8&version=NLT#fen-NLT-28499b" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">b</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">] for whom Christ died will be destroyed. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">12 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And when you sin against other believers[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+8&version=NLT#fen-NLT-28500c" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">c</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">] by encouraging them to do something they believe is wrong, you are sinning against Christ. </span></blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Wow, that escalated quickly. Love is so important that it trumps being correct. The real question is not is it ok for a Christian to eat meat offered to idols, it’s how can I love my neighbor, and it is SO important to love your neighbor that Paul says if you encourage a weak believer to eat the meat and violate their conscience then that believer, whom Christ died for will be destroyed, you are sinning against them and sinning against Christ! The Law of Love is So important. Paul finishes this section with what he might do himself in this situation:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So if what I eat causes another believer to sin, I will never eat meat again as long as I live—for I don’t want to cause another believer to stumble.</span></blockquote><p> <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So he gave the correct theological framework but concludes that if me doing a thing that is ok for me to do causes a brother to stumble then I will just not ever do it as long as I live… that’s love.</span></p><p> <span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It is easy for a Christian to say, “I answer to God and God alone” and to ignore his brother or sister. It is true we will answer to God and God alone, but we will answer to God for how we have treated our brother or sister.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDtM1vG9Ky-1-5bZxLPzW8q1EXY1yxfmz_xnsCuaolJ9-pi7rsmKdQq_P8w3XTQF_Lz4XdnejgTEWK43P5D13PxDzyGwNXwxugXtXuAyO-DBx6OH7639wmthK9FrZx4PdkGcG_661J82aB70jrD5PbVXDmU3vdlKKmMqt_yufC25t4pDEuhE2mvVglmw/s540/stumble.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="540" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDtM1vG9Ky-1-5bZxLPzW8q1EXY1yxfmz_xnsCuaolJ9-pi7rsmKdQq_P8w3XTQF_Lz4XdnejgTEWK43P5D13PxDzyGwNXwxugXtXuAyO-DBx6OH7639wmthK9FrZx4PdkGcG_661J82aB70jrD5PbVXDmU3vdlKKmMqt_yufC25t4pDEuhE2mvVglmw/w496-h330/stumble.jpeg" width="496" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A final note about this: “</span><span style="color: #004161; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lest I make my brother stumble</span><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">:” At the same time, the issue is making a </span><span style="color: #004161; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">brother stumble</span><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> – and stumble over an issue that has direct relevance to the brother in question. Paul would never allow this principle to be a way for a legalist to make demands and bind a Christian walking in liberty.</span></p><p><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In </span><a href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Galatians+2&t=NKJV" style="background-color: transparent; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #004161; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Galatians 2</span></a><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, Paul describes a situation where Peter made Gentiles think they had to come under Jewish customs and laws to be saved. Peter did this through his association and approval of some legalists. Paul rebuked Peter strongly because of this. Even if the legalists from a Jewish background had said to the Gentiles, “Your lack of obedience to our customs stumbles us. We are stumbled brothers. You must do what we want,” Paul would have replied, “</span><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">You</span><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> are not stumbled, because you aren’t being tempted to sin through their actions. Your </span><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">legalism</span><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> is being offended. Out of love, I will never act in a way that might tempt you to sin, but I don’t care at all about offending your legalism. In fact, I’m happy to do it!”</span></p><p><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, gray areas are what they are. They are gray areas. They are places for grace on one another, not for legalism. I can make a great argument that tattoos are ok for Christians, but wouldn’t that argument be easy if the tattoo was deliberately designed for witnessing Christ to people? A conversation starter? A commemoration of the verse that means the most to you? If you are getting the tattoo in order to love people that’s really different. If you are playing games of chance with your children to keep them off of screens and get them interacting with the world around them and with their family in a friendly but competitive way, learning strategy and how to think clearly and carefully, you are playing those games of chance out of love. If you are buying a bunch of lottery tickets and flaunting them in front of your Christian brother begging them to join you in the gambling, who had a gambling addiction, that’s messed up[replace that with alcohol or legal drugs or anything else addictive]. That’s more than messed up, it’s a horrible sin against your brother and against the Lord. It’s the motives, the heart that God sees, not just the action. The legalist sees the action, the weak believer sees the action, let’s strengthen one another in the Word of God but so much more so, let’s build the church with Love for one another. After all, they will know we are Christians by our love.</span></p><p><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So go ahead and ask your brothers and sisters “is it ok for a Christian to ______________? Ask that question of the bible and of the Holy Spirit and of your Elders” But ask yourself “how can I love my neighbor?” Because in the end you will be judged not on your theology but on how you loved…</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9yvceyUmmLUPrZoRKdks3YEWFUCK-uRtLTVmFWbcepMaEio6zsuMVeyjz7J9cfCQoCcY5nWwaOdgVh3K9HYc6TjAvFjrrDtdBy72lDNbokljKae94teYxEeKzYbk6tp1aabIBntUUI7s95NRVe_e5BFjoGqcy0aRpAq6xp5AsdBwjOWMItNdTC3AiFE/s1920/pray.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9yvceyUmmLUPrZoRKdks3YEWFUCK-uRtLTVmFWbcepMaEio6zsuMVeyjz7J9cfCQoCcY5nWwaOdgVh3K9HYc6TjAvFjrrDtdBy72lDNbokljKae94teYxEeKzYbk6tp1aabIBntUUI7s95NRVe_e5BFjoGqcy0aRpAq6xp5AsdBwjOWMItNdTC3AiFE/w500-h281/pray.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div><p></p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Prayer</span></h1><p><span style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Father, we need your Holy Spirit. There are alot of gray areas and we want to Love you like when we first met you first and foremost, not ever losing our first love, but we want to also show our love to you by studying your word and getting to know you more and more… so help us not to slide down into an unloving attitude toward others but show us the unity that you can bring us to, discussing your word and lifting one another up. We don’t ever want to be a stumbling block but we also don’t want to be an enabler of legalism so we need your Holy Spirit to give us discernment that can only come from you, not the internet, not the AI, but you, who gives us every good gift and has a plan for our lives. Help us Lord, for your Love to increase in us. Amen.</span></p><p></p><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #414042; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-35538921651649283552023-10-21T10:33:00.006-07:002023-11-08T14:52:43.699-08:00We Have the Mind of Christ: Sermon on 1st Corinthians 2:1-16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rPiU3B97be66bkfW-dvlMg5hamUtsozGvGcBIg9xb1tC-VNLhDGmIUVjBpMv1AdtU9vmxFUJjqguFXpfZA5PyooKrhkQRWAIqXchY48NWoTH7EcNee90DJbtlKQnmjH20H32Fypu-OBxmaNKHtM7fdFRsPff2HprxdJmhDG-0v_tL8b_woVgH4gi5K8/s612/mind%20of%20christ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="504" height="571" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rPiU3B97be66bkfW-dvlMg5hamUtsozGvGcBIg9xb1tC-VNLhDGmIUVjBpMv1AdtU9vmxFUJjqguFXpfZA5PyooKrhkQRWAIqXchY48NWoTH7EcNee90DJbtlKQnmjH20H32Fypu-OBxmaNKHtM7fdFRsPff2HprxdJmhDG-0v_tL8b_woVgH4gi5K8/w471-h571/mind%20of%20christ.jpg" width="471" /></a></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-c50521db-7fff-7bb0-1a20-93c3539e7014"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 3pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Foolishness of Preaching</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As Paul continues the subject that he started in chapter 1, the subject of the cross of Jesus Christ, to the Greeks foolishness, to the Jews a stumbling block, but to us it's the power of God to Salvation.</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 20pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Anecdote</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I heard a story about a preacher named Dr. Ironside who was speaking and giving his testimony about how Jesus had saved him at an outdoor event in San Francisco and at the end of the event a man came up to Dr. Ironside and handed him his card. And Dr. Ironside recognized the name on the card, it was a man who was a well known socialist at the time, known specifically for his agnosticism[which is basically a philosophical belief that we can’t know truth], in fact he was going around and lecturing in Universities on his version of agnosticism and ridiculing the bible and Christianity in general and on the back of the card there was a challenge for Dr. Ironside to come the following Sunday at 4 o’clock and debate the man in an open forum on the topic of Agnosticism vs. Faith in God. So Dr. Ironside stepped again to the podium still with a few hundred people there that hadn’t left yet and read to everyone the card with the challenge to come debate Agnosticism vs. Faith in God. And he said, I would like to accept the challenge to do this debate, on this condition.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcvVHt06dJNn_peNHYkJdTE1jAPsFW9kO2yex7y_yvd7WeGhCxhmb3cFOk7FFl_ryKJ4JslsAiJoDMkPlO1b3GnIeYiehWGKOD4y0xHF5CEYiQyRHITu5YQlc9SuhiqDUaXqPLe03OHXQZNAQpS5y0xHIbGY28e8vF4ntZjg_ywFtjAtX_TLfslhqJv8/s850/quote-god-is-looking-for-broken-men-who-have-judged-themselves-in-the-light-of-the-cross-of-henry-allen-ironside-66-27-26%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="850" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcvVHt06dJNn_peNHYkJdTE1jAPsFW9kO2yex7y_yvd7WeGhCxhmb3cFOk7FFl_ryKJ4JslsAiJoDMkPlO1b3GnIeYiehWGKOD4y0xHF5CEYiQyRHITu5YQlc9SuhiqDUaXqPLe03OHXQZNAQpS5y0xHIbGY28e8vF4ntZjg_ywFtjAtX_TLfslhqJv8/w503-h237/quote-god-is-looking-for-broken-men-who-have-judged-themselves-in-the-light-of-the-cross-of-henry-allen-ironside-66-27-26%20(1).jpg" width="503" /></a></div><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This man must bring with him one man whose life had been destroyed by alcohol and wild living and had really come to the end of the road of his life but went to hear one of the lectures on Agnosticism and as a result found his life was changed and is now living a worthwhile life. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Or, if he will bring one woman whose life was destroyed by prostitution and drugs and all and by going to one of his lectures on Agnosticism has been transformed and is now living a wonderful clean life.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And, Dr. Ironside promised to bring with him that Sunday at 4pm, 100 men whose lives have been transformed in just this way and 100 women whose lives have been transformed by the Spirit of God working through biblical teaching. And he would have these 200 people on stage with him as he debated the man.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And the fellow standing there just shook his head and walked away knowing that he couldn’t produce one who had been helped by the philosophy of agnosticism, the wisdom of the world, it doesn’t change lives, it doesn't lift the fallen. And let’s be clear, the preaching of Dr. Ironside or me or Pastor Brandon or any teacher isn’t what does it either, it’s the Spirit of God that comes in and is the only thing that can really change us, making us Born Again… Born from Above.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Let’s Pray:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Father help us today. We need our helper, the Holy Spirit to be with us during this service. Take out the words that are from me and from this world so that only your words are left. We want to hear from You today. Only You have the bread of life that we need. In Jesus Name, Amen.</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 20pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">To Corinth</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We are in a series on the book of 1st Corinthians in our church for as long as it takes going verse by verse studying God’s Word so open up to 1st Corinthians chapter 2 with me today.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1k4dBxlab6w0u010SnIwjxbV4mUVXiTVy2nFk1_oP1jxl1g1zCuTIByzyEDlQlPH5AI-AbrevSxbkPJk6AtPSHN9UkXALO_rvPMwna1jBTJbqaH8akycqH-TnKVHiFXDquOSsYIn7gAes0UMbKRdzF36oWrDSW9VmP5-pb_tGVPgHYgruN94ZhrzLBo0/s770/athens-areopagus-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="458" data-original-width="770" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1k4dBxlab6w0u010SnIwjxbV4mUVXiTVy2nFk1_oP1jxl1g1zCuTIByzyEDlQlPH5AI-AbrevSxbkPJk6AtPSHN9UkXALO_rvPMwna1jBTJbqaH8akycqH-TnKVHiFXDquOSsYIn7gAes0UMbKRdzF36oWrDSW9VmP5-pb_tGVPgHYgruN94ZhrzLBo0/w500-h297/athens-areopagus-1.webp" width="500" /></a></div><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">At the time that Paul was writing to the Corinthians, Greece was known for its philosophers at the Ariopagus and its worldy wisdom and Paul is writing to the Corinthians about the wisdom of this world and how by it the world knew not God, but God chose by the foolishness of preaching to bring man to the understanding of His saving power and His saving Grace. As a person who gets to preach, I love that phrase, “through the foolishness of preaching.” God’s Spirit can do work on us right now through the foolishness of preaching, so let’s dive into verse 1.</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 20pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Text</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 6pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What is the testimony of God? That He so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, who died on the cross bearing the sins of the world. That God had laid on Him the iniquities of us all, in order that through His gift to us we might receive Eternal Life and might know what it is to live in fellowship with God. That it is possible to know God and live in fellowship with God because of what Jesus did for us. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It was typical in Corinth for people to come and speak or lecture or preach. They were called Sophists or wisdom tellers. And the Sophist would come with a carefully spun story, with clever ways of articulating a message, to attract a crowd and gain a following, it was the Social Media clickbait of its day, remember to follow and subscribe for more awesome wisdom content just like this… But, Paul says, I deliberately DID NOT DO THAT. I came with a straight forward Gospel Message. In Acts 18, when he went to Corinth, he goes to the synagogue and he shares the gospel in the synagogue and some of the jews and many of the non jews begin to believe. It creates a stir so he goes into a house next to the synagogue because he’s kicked out of the synagogue. It was straight forward gospel stuff that he taught them. Not that Paul couldn’t speak in lofty eloquent and even tricky terms. Remember, he was a Pharisee of the Pharisees, he was perhaps the most educated man in this whole city. He was exceptional at philosophy, remember the Ariopogus at Mars Hill in Acts 17, it says that the men of Athens and the visitors came to here of some new thing and Paul used philosophy in their own culture to point to the one true God, he starts quoting secular philosophers in his message, “for in Him we live and move and have our being.” That’s a direct quote from Epiminedes a Cretian philosopher. And then he says “for we also are his offspring” another quote from a different philosopher, Eretus of Sole. So he pulls from the philosophical world and he is very able to do so, but in Corinth, he didn’t come doing that. He just declared the simple blunt good news of Jesus.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Wouldn’t it be wonderful if all preaching was done with that heart? Resolving to know nothing except Christ Jesus… </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I’m reminded of a story I heard once about a church that had a huge stained glass window of Jesus on the cross directly behind the pulpit and one Sunday there was a guest speaker who was a much smaller/shorter man than the pastor of that church, who was much taller and larger like I am. Well while this smaller visiting preacher was speaking a little girl turned to her mother and said, “where is the man that is usually up there making it so we can’t see Jesus?” </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRHScmWnvTOJNKpqpULmB8_jRggHamwS1rwzxKQaY-VCcgmbfJ1ip3li9si2fCcddqxMm_yRqGuIpvwlpIjT6JMVJngbUNFB_Z1NNgteYgLfMmcq7gj45EpIuplt-aMEzVPn8qC2O1Gu9WuxQRPqb3ybLWA3qa7j5rfYhAJ7Eejsgx-0nul2XDIuImkM/s2285/jesus%20stained%20glass.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2285" data-original-width="1757" height="597" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRHScmWnvTOJNKpqpULmB8_jRggHamwS1rwzxKQaY-VCcgmbfJ1ip3li9si2fCcddqxMm_yRqGuIpvwlpIjT6JMVJngbUNFB_Z1NNgteYgLfMmcq7gj45EpIuplt-aMEzVPn8qC2O1Gu9WuxQRPqb3ybLWA3qa7j5rfYhAJ7Eejsgx-0nul2XDIuImkM/w459-h597/jesus%20stained%20glass.webp" width="459" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And some preaching is like that, designed to be showy and eloquent and to bring glory to the speaker, when what preaching is supposed to be is pointing the way to Jesus, not getting in the way of Jesus. So Paul is trying to really surrender himself and do this right, he says, </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The simple message of salvation is all Paul was concerned with. To share with you the simple message of redemption through Jesus Christ. The message of the Cross, to the Jew a stumbling block, to the Greek foolishness but to those that are saved, the power of God.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Think about this, everywhere Paul had gone to preach up to this point ended with riots. The message created a real uproar among the people. In Lystra, they stoned him and thought they had killed him. In Philippi he was thrown in prison. In Thessalonica he was brought before the judges. They had to rush him out of Berea because he created such a story. In Athens he was scorned. So, can you imagine by the time he got to Corinth…</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He would be trembling and in fear and in weakness… but remember as he was there in Corinth and as was usual he was brought before the judge by Sosthenes, the chief of the synagogue and the judge dismissed the case but then the Lord spoke to Paul and said, don’t be afraid, and the Lord said, I have many people in this city and so Paul stayed there for a year and a half teaching them the word of God. Declaring a simple message that Christ died for our sins and rose again on the third day. He didn't want their faith to stand on the wisdom of man, but on the power of God. Faith based on the wisdom of man is a shallow faith because someone can come along with greater persuasive powers and persuade you away. If you can be persuaded into something then you can be persuaded back out of something. Paul wanted them to experience the power of God in their lives… just like Dr. Ironside. The proof is in the pudding. A life that is transformed is the best testimony of the work of the Spirit in a Christian’s life. Don’t be persuaded. Be transformed.</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 3pt 0pt 8pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God’s Wisdom Revealed by the Spirit</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Paul didn’t have much respect for the wisdom of the world, he said that comes to nothing. And I think that history proves that point, the wisdom of man, look how the wisdom of Lenin was embraced by the Soviet Union. The wisdom of the world comes to nothing. Whether it’s the wisdom of Nietsche or Darwin or Socrates or Aristotle or John Locke or Calvin or Armineus… And I include some Christian Philosophers in there because I always notice with Calvinists and Arminians that when people pick a philosophical side, there is always a lack of unity. It’s like in the first chapter of 1st Corinthians when people say, I am of Paul or I am of Apollos, that’s the same as when people say, I’m Calvinist or I’m an Arminian. With all due respect to both Calvin and Armineus, they’re both dead and Jesus Christ is alive, so don’t follow philosophy, even Christian philosophy, follow the only one who can save you from your sin… and I’ve discovered that the more spiritual a person becomes, the less denominational they become, the less divisive they become. So, Paul didn’t come with the wisdom of the world and he didn’t even come with the wisdom of Paul. He says in verse 7,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">7 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">8 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">However, as it is written:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 11pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">“What no eye has seen,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">what no ear has heard,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and what no human mind has conceived”—</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">the things God has prepared for those who love him—</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: -6pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Reread that.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When God shows you a thing with His Spirit, He had that thing ready to show you from the foundation of the World! Get this picture in your mind, the wooly mammoth was roaming the Earth and God was thinking, ya know what? there’s gonna come a day when everything is lined up for my beloved child I can finally say to them in the Spirit when they stand in line in the supermarket, that person over there is sad, they’re going through something, ask them if you can help, if you can pray for them. And they’ll find out that what that person is going through is the same thing my child was going through a year ago, and they have bible verses and testimony of what I can do and they can share hope with that sad person and God will be glorified in the supermarket on that day. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJuAju1xH5AN2Uci9k0IvH3FHAJeHTCfWYbBa7_yocXWn6W9V_Cj0vzRclgU1c2St9PCrZOIylFe5DAfp7vMRcoVoH99ZaAcPVkTl53T3UpyRu9dop5juNdrKXuPVk3HPjDqIMNUm3WZzHUay7QbNoGC0SmPVYnN8ZLaIHcHMDS4eupTm1HAOpksmy10/s1903/pray%20super.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1903" data-original-width="1427" height="621" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJuAju1xH5AN2Uci9k0IvH3FHAJeHTCfWYbBa7_yocXWn6W9V_Cj0vzRclgU1c2St9PCrZOIylFe5DAfp7vMRcoVoH99ZaAcPVkTl53T3UpyRu9dop5juNdrKXuPVk3HPjDqIMNUm3WZzHUay7QbNoGC0SmPVYnN8ZLaIHcHMDS4eupTm1HAOpksmy10/w466-h621/pray%20super.webp" width="466" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Supermarkets hadn’t been invented yet and God had a plan to use them for His Glory. Further back, it’s day 3 of Creation and in between causing the dry land to appear and making every kind of vegetation God thinks, ooh my child is gonna pray for them in the produce aisle next to the descendants of this vegetation I’m creating right now. Do you ever think about what it means for God’s plans to be so much higher than our plans? Well, when God tells you something in the Spirit, it’s not like the wisdom of the world that has been here for a few days and will be gone and proven wrong in a few days. He had that ready from before the Foundation of the World… meditate on the power that is in God’s Words. The Father knew He would send Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, He knew from before the foundation of the world, this is the mystery that we can now grasp in the Spirit and the World can’t understand because it has to be revealed to you in the Spirit, not by human thinking.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">11 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">12 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Isn’t that really the difference? Isn’t that what we’re really looking for? Now I’ve alway been an intellectual kind of guy. I earned a minor in philosophy when I was in college, I enjoyed arguing over things, I enjoy thinking hard about things. I think that God gives us a mind and we should use it. I’m a math and physics teacher for crying out loud! However, the words that really matter are the words taught by the Spirit. Do you want to know how we can best engage with the Spirit? When you read the bible, ask for the Spirit of God to meet you and help you understand what you’re reading, to help bring it into your heart and change you by the reading of it… to remind you of what you have read in the moment when you need it, to write it on you heart, because this Word is God-Breathed and will train you in righteousness, real righteousness, not self-righteousness, real righteousness.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">14 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I had this experience recently. I was explaining salvation by faith to another teacher at school. We were having a discussion about forgiveness and she was concerned that murderers can be forgiven and go to heaven. She said that was idiotic and I told that is the whole point. You can’t trick God and pretend that you’re sorry and want to be forgiven. He’s God. He sees the heart and he says if you hate your brother then it’s just like having killed him. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQU31zLK2Ur9AmUHiLz00Cc8FFtu5fj_rdsMn32Gtc286kacu0OCUi3cNCRg35v7nT70LqOsNN0_wRHKPuB-K3iIBz6aUQl7k1Z0q1rCYbPJfZqxg5tbPMNelikbUJX1LsMe41n9GiuElC45xMY0KpJMLJD4_cUCWbD4I9uCLGgxQHch9fQy1c84iB94c/s1920/forgive.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1920" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQU31zLK2Ur9AmUHiLz00Cc8FFtu5fj_rdsMn32Gtc286kacu0OCUi3cNCRg35v7nT70LqOsNN0_wRHKPuB-K3iIBz6aUQl7k1Z0q1rCYbPJfZqxg5tbPMNelikbUJX1LsMe41n9GiuElC45xMY0KpJMLJD4_cUCWbD4I9uCLGgxQHch9fQy1c84iB94c/w495-h309/forgive.jpeg" width="495" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you want to be forgiven of having hate in your heart then you also have to accept that murderers can be forgiven by God. But, guess what, with real repentance and being born again, you are no longer a murderer, you are no longer what you were before. God can make all things new. You are clothed in the righteousness of Christ not in your old filthy rags anymore. But this sounds like foolishness to the unbeliever. It’s too simple and too strange… this is why we are all prone to trying to WORK for salvation, to try to EARN it. It just seems foolish that it can be SO FREE and SO PRECIOUS at the same time. That there can be so much GRACE for a sinner like me.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">15 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">16 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">for,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 11pt; margin-left: 11pt; margin-top: 11pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">“Who has known the mind of the Lord</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">so as to instruct him?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: -6pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But we have the mind of Christ.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -18pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Paul is getting ready to drop the Holy Spirit hammer on this letter. He has set the stage for us for the coming weeks. All of these problems in the Corinthian church and in the American church and in every church ever are about to be brought up and dealt with. So the foundation of dealing with sin and marriage and finances and what is ok to do and what is not ok to do and how the church should be run and everything else… the foundation is that we need to listen to the Spirit of God, not the wisdom of men. Jesus Christ not only died for you, but he rose again, defeating death and sent to us a helper called the Holy Spirit so that you could have the mind of Christ. One final note about this for you. I think it isn’t a mistake that he says “we have the mind of Christ.” instead of something like each of you individually has the mind of Christ. There is power in the unity and the fellowship of the believers that is such a mystery. If you see something in the bible that you think the Spirit is teaching you, share it with other believers. Let yourself be sharpened as iron sharpens iron. You don’t notice everything and you don’t see everything in the Spirit but as a church, “we have the mind of Christ.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -18pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNUniZYmgPL4xmz_TduMW-yzc_OBi8GCJLbRNfhk8Q12okO1aZpehpHAL7V_6_3nvSPJM5gtCI35khHUKdQ8nHYgT2uVDkbhVcfb5bIGUeoQ4S9XgSzuMEc5T4HCBnxFHKUJB06b2OC4EiXLiFofpKg-GvTDLJP3rw3sxEglplzuw-9NIE0gymwGWDTlI/s739/rightly.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="739" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNUniZYmgPL4xmz_TduMW-yzc_OBi8GCJLbRNfhk8Q12okO1aZpehpHAL7V_6_3nvSPJM5gtCI35khHUKdQ8nHYgT2uVDkbhVcfb5bIGUeoQ4S9XgSzuMEc5T4HCBnxFHKUJB06b2OC4EiXLiFofpKg-GvTDLJP3rw3sxEglplzuw-9NIE0gymwGWDTlI/w501-h282/rightly.webp" width="501" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -18pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So there are some things to think about today as we continue in 1st Corinthians. Now, don’t be just a lazy pew-sitter. You should read chapter 3 this week. If you are in our bible study methods class you know that I would recommend to read it at least 5 times, pray that the Lord will open it up to you and make it useful to your life, the Spirit of God will give you the mind of Christ, to rightly divide the word of truth, in Jesus name, Amen. </span></p><br /></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-90553488831336762902023-09-12T16:58:00.005-07:002023-09-12T16:58:53.324-07:00What does "I Am the Way, The Truth, and The Life." mean?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgR-3G9UhW1GAXM8XxG8a65EVF6GL4UzbUbJurs40Id3MoF4GJT5Mzn_GAKC23v1P_3KZFJ_GicTffoYGolvSNpqiHmcqbzSmEGD_hH27TuI3XaOQbkLEjOLDfALYpfsfwRHCiqwBZ1pworxy238UhnryVkuEYAbVIrcYZGXgXEsarjm-jT6ztfFHhuI/s1000/I%20AM%20THE%20WAY.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgR-3G9UhW1GAXM8XxG8a65EVF6GL4UzbUbJurs40Id3MoF4GJT5Mzn_GAKC23v1P_3KZFJ_GicTffoYGolvSNpqiHmcqbzSmEGD_hH27TuI3XaOQbkLEjOLDfALYpfsfwRHCiqwBZ1pworxy238UhnryVkuEYAbVIrcYZGXgXEsarjm-jT6ztfFHhuI/w496-h496/I%20AM%20THE%20WAY.JPG" width="496" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Introduction</h2><p>In the vast tapestry of Jesus' teachings, some statements stand out with profound significance. One such statement is found in John 14:6, where Jesus declares, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." These words have echoed through the centuries, shaping Christian theology and offering guidance for believers. In this blog post, we embark on a journey to explore the deep meaning and context of this famous statement made by Jesus, uncovering its enduring significance for our faith.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Setting the Stage: The Farewell Discourse</h2><p>Before delving into the significance of John 14:6, it's essential to understand the context in which these words were spoken. Jesus utters this statement during what is known as the Farewell Discourse, a portion of the Gospel of John where He imparts crucial teachings to His disciples on the night before His crucifixion. It's a moment of intimacy and significance, as Jesus prepares His followers for His imminent departure.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Way: A Path to God</h2><p>Scripture Reference: John 14:6a (NIV) - "I am the way."</p><p>When Jesus declares, "I am the way," He is making a profound claim about His identity and purpose. In a world filled with various philosophical and religious paths, Jesus asserts that He is the exclusive path to God the Father. He isn't merely a guide or a teacher; He is the path itself.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Exploration:</h3><p>Jesus' life, death, and resurrection pave the way for humanity's reconciliation with God.</p><p>The way signifies a personal relationship with Jesus as the means to God's presence and salvation.</p><p>Jesus' exclusive claim challenges the relativism of our age, emphasizing the uniqueness of His message.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Truth: The Ultimate Reality</h2><p>Scripture Reference: John 14:6b (NIV) - "...the truth."</p><p>When Jesus proclaims, "I am the truth," He goes beyond mere facts and knowledge. He is declaring Himself as the embodiment of ultimate reality and divine revelation. In a world marred by deception and uncertainty, Jesus is the unshakable truth that provides spiritual grounding.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Exploration:</h3><p>Jesus' teachings align with God's eternal truth, offering a framework for understanding reality.</p><p>His life exemplifies the integrity and authenticity of His message.</p><p>The truth signifies a solid foundation for faith and the assurance of eternal life.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Life: Abundant and Eternal</h2><p>Scripture Reference: John 14:6c (NIV) - "...the life."</p><p>Lastly, Jesus asserts, "I am the life." This declaration encapsulates the essence of His mission—to bring abundant and eternal life to humanity. In a world marked by brokenness and spiritual emptiness, Jesus offers the fullness of life found in a restored relationship with God.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Exploration:</h3><p>Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection provide the means for forgiveness and eternal life.</p><p>The life signifies not just existence but a life imbued with purpose, joy, and divine presence.</p><p>Jesus offers the antidote to spiritual emptiness and the promise of life that transcends this earthly existence.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion: The Significance of John 14:6</h2><p>The statement, "I am the way, the truth, and the life," in John 14:6, encapsulates the essence of Jesus' mission and identity. It offers a profound declaration of His exclusivity as the path to God, the embodiment of truth, and the source of abundant and eternal life. In a world marked by spiritual seeking and uncertainty, Jesus' words stand as a beacon of hope and clarity.</p><p>As believers, John 14:6 challenges us to embrace Jesus as the exclusive path to God, to seek His truth in a world filled with conflicting voices, and to experience the fullness of life that comes from a vibrant relationship with Him. It is a declaration that invites us to trust, follow, and abide in the One who is the way, the truth, and the life—the One who leads us into the embrace of our Heavenly Father.</p>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-84672044817803491672023-09-05T15:10:00.000-07:002023-09-05T15:10:04.045-07:00A Journey Through the Psalms: Analyzing Selected Psalms, Their Historical Context, and Their Inspirational Relevance Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvpyHVhrZddR36gog2rPILwsO8f-BbiMyVOFukBpYO3wwDd95NKTJkS6ghVNtwjBP_RcM8JMUeHQBk-f8pn9BDgteauT8SHLxjJLdZuaDnlmuUjWuOS8mkkRmf2uqo5HJa8bBrZ_ZWLblo1_JS1ndvG3JinnLZ46ctCfFEsLkhsQmWhRS25wUeYGCqws/s1350/Psalms.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="581" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvpyHVhrZddR36gog2rPILwsO8f-BbiMyVOFukBpYO3wwDd95NKTJkS6ghVNtwjBP_RcM8JMUeHQBk-f8pn9BDgteauT8SHLxjJLdZuaDnlmuUjWuOS8mkkRmf2uqo5HJa8bBrZ_ZWLblo1_JS1ndvG3JinnLZ46ctCfFEsLkhsQmWhRS25wUeYGCqws/w465-h581/Psalms.jpeg" width="465" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Introduction</h2><p>The Book of Psalms, nestled within the heart of the Bible, is a treasure trove of poetry, prayers, and praises. It offers an intimate glimpse into the heartfelt expressions of the psalmists, who poured out their joys, sorrows, and adoration for God. In this extensive exploration, we embark on a journey through selected Psalms, delving into their historical context, uncovering the profound themes they contain, and discovering how these ancient songs continue to inspire worship and reflection in our modern world. Join us as we traverse the rich landscape of the Psalms, guided by the wisdom and beauty of Scripture.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Psalms: The Poetry of the Soul</h2><p>Scripture Reference: Psalm 42:1-2 (NIV) - "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?"</p><p>The Psalms are an emotional and spiritual journey—a collection of prayers and songs that reflect the human experience in all its diversity. These poetic expressions resonate with our deepest longings, joys, and struggles, inviting us to connect with God on a profound level. Psalm 42:1-2 beautifully encapsulates the soul's thirst for God, a theme that permeates many of the Psalms.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Understanding the Historical Context</h2><p>Scripture Reference: Psalm 137:1 (NIV) - "By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion."</p><p>To truly appreciate the Psalms, we must journey back in time to understand their historical context. The Psalms encompass a wide range of experiences, from the exuberance of victory to the depths of despair. Psalm 137, for instance, reflects the profound sorrow of the Israelites during their exile in Babylon. By exploring the historical backdrop of each Psalm, we gain insight into the emotions and circumstances that inspired these heartfelt compositions.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Themes and Messages of Selected Psalms</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">Psalm 23: The Shepherd's Care</h3><p>Scripture Reference: Psalm 23:1 (NIV) - "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing."</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Exploration:</h4><p>Psalm 23 is a well-loved and often-recited Psalm that has a timeless message of God's care and provision. In today's fast-paced world filled with anxieties, Psalm 23 offers a refuge of trust and assurance. When life's demands seem overwhelming, we can reflect on the image of God as our Shepherd, recognizing that we lack nothing in His care. This Psalm inspires worship as we acknowledge God's faithful guidance and find comfort in His presence.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Application:</h4><p>In moments of stress or uncertainty, we can turn to Psalm 23, meditating on its words and allowing them to lead us into a time of worship. We can use it as a basis for personal prayers, expressing gratitude for God's provision and seeking His guidance. Congregationally, this Psalm can be incorporated into worship services, reminding the community of God's abiding care and inviting them to trust in His leading.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Psalm 51: A Prayer of Repentance</h3><p>Scripture Reference: Psalm 51:10 (NIV) - "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Exploration:</h4><p>Psalm 51 is a poignant expression of repentance and a plea for God's cleansing and renewal. In today's world marked by moral challenges and the need for personal reflection, this Psalm remains a powerful source of inspiration. It reminds us that repentance and seeking God's mercy are essential aspects of our spiritual journey. Psalm 51 inspires worship by fostering a humble and contrite spirit before God.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Application:</h4><p>Individuals can use Psalm 51 as a model for personal repentance and reflection. It's a Psalm that helps us recognize our need for God's forgiveness and restoration. In corporate worship, this Psalm can be included in times of confession, allowing the congregation to collectively seek God's cleansing and renewal. It reminds us of the importance of genuine repentance and restoration in our worship experience.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Psalm 103: A Song of Praise and Thanksgiving</h3><p>Scripture Reference: Psalm 103:1 (NIV) - "Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name."</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Exploration:</h4><p>Psalm 103 is a hymn of praise and thanksgiving that extols God's compassion, forgiveness, and abounding love. In today's world, where gratitude can be overshadowed by busyness and distractions, this Psalm serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of offering praise to God. It inspires worship by encouraging us to bless the Lord with our entire being, expressing gratitude for His goodness.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Application:</h4><p>Individuals can incorporate Psalm 103 into their daily devotions as a form of worship, expressing gratitude to God for His blessings and forgiveness. In congregational worship, this Psalm can be sung or recited to lead the community in praising God for His steadfast love and mercy. It reminds us to cultivate a heart of thanksgiving in our worship and daily lives.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Psalm 139: The Omniscience and Presence of God</h3><p>Scripture Reference: Psalm 139:1 (NIV) - "You have searched me, Lord, and you know me."</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Exploration:</h4><p>Psalm 139 is a profound reflection on God's intimate knowledge of us. In today's world filled with questions about identity and purpose, this Psalm offers assurance of God's constant presence and care. It inspires worship by drawing our attention to the depth of God's knowledge and His unwavering love for His creation.</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Application:</h4><p>Individuals can use Psalm 139 as a basis for personal reflection and meditation, inviting God to search their hearts and reveal His presence. In congregational worship, this Psalm can be incorporated to emphasize God's intimate knowledge of each worshipper, creating a sense of awe and reverence. It encourages us to acknowledge God's presence in every aspect of our lives, fostering a deeper connection with Him.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Psalms in Worship and Reflection</h2><p>Scripture Reference: Psalm 95:6-7a (NIV) - "Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care."</p><p>The Psalms have long been a source of inspiration in worship and reflection. Whether sung in congregational praise or quietly meditated upon in solitude, these sacred songs offer a unique avenue for connecting with God. Psalm 95:6-7a encourages us to bow down in worship and recognize God as our Maker, underscoring the timeless relevance of the Psalms in our devotional practices.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion: A Timeless Source of Inspiration</h2><p>As we conclude our journey through the Psalms, we are reminded that these ancient songs continue to resonate with the human soul. They invite us to express our deepest emotions, seek God's presence in every circumstance, and find solace in His unfailing love. The Psalms bridge the gap between the past and the present, uniting generations of believers in their shared experiences of faith, joy, sorrow, and worship. May the Psalms be a wellspring of inspiration and a testament to the enduring faithfulness of God, guiding us in our journey of worship and reflection today.</p>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-30344991338697101732023-09-02T09:47:00.007-07:002023-09-02T09:47:00.158-07:00What is Grace? A Biblical Exploration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwEUX_iAmTe-tPG1A34aLFF3AFU6Z4c_e5yEsOu29P-q810CWG3m3PsVGgYkP6AU8aM0S3b9x22AA6Z5G-ABn3NdkusVvaN89L5joqkVnCUIUpXsm4hP0EmkXJgKJ6loX8CD8CwC_zboyfSnZ_qIC2Z2RVLSgN-mzEaDnINMI4kh6qdymccjnhHx280c/s1200/cs-lewis_quote%20grace.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="1200" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwEUX_iAmTe-tPG1A34aLFF3AFU6Z4c_e5yEsOu29P-q810CWG3m3PsVGgYkP6AU8aM0S3b9x22AA6Z5G-ABn3NdkusVvaN89L5joqkVnCUIUpXsm4hP0EmkXJgKJ6loX8CD8CwC_zboyfSnZ_qIC2Z2RVLSgN-mzEaDnINMI4kh6qdymccjnhHx280c/w500-h286/cs-lewis_quote%20grace.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div><p>In the realm of Christian theology, few concepts are as central and transformative as grace. It's a word often heard in sermons, sung in worship songs, and spoken in prayers, but what exactly is grace, and why does it hold such significance in the Christian faith? In this blog post, we will embark on a journey to unravel the depths of grace by delving into its meaning from a biblical perspective. Join me as we explore grace as defined in Christian theology—a divine gift, an unmerited favor, and a profound expression of God's love and mercy.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Defining Grace in Christian Theology (Ephesians 2:8-9)</h2><p>At its core, grace is the foundational principle upon which the Christian faith rests. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, provides a succinct definition of grace that resonates through the ages: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9, NIV).</p><p>In these verses, we encounter the essence of grace—a gift freely given by God, not something earned through human effort. It is through grace that we find salvation, a priceless treasure that cannot be obtained by our own merits. This grace shatters the notion that we can ever be "good enough" to earn God's favor or salvation. Instead, it points to the incomprehensible love of God, who bestows this unmerited gift upon us.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Unmerited Favor of God: A Gift We Cannot Earn (Romans 11:6)</h2><p>In the book of Romans, the Apostle Paul further emphasizes the unearned nature of God's grace: "And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace" (Romans 11:6, NIV).</p><p>This verse underscores a crucial aspect of grace—it is diametrically opposed to human efforts or achievements. If grace were contingent on our deeds, it would cease to be grace. Instead, it flows from God's heart as a pure and unmerited favor, a gift that cannot be earned through our actions, rituals, or good deeds. Grace, in its essence, is a divine gesture of love and acceptance, extended to all who believe.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Grace as an Expression of God's Love and Mercy (Titus 2:11)</h2><p>The Apostle Paul, in his letter to Titus, sheds light on the profound connection between grace, love, and mercy: "For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people" (Titus 2:11, NIV).</p><p>This verse reminds us that grace is not an abstract concept but a tangible manifestation of God's love and mercy. It is God's way of extending His hand to humanity, offering the gift of salvation to all people, regardless of their past, their mistakes, or their shortcomings. Grace is the very heartbeat of God's character, a testament to His boundless love for His creation.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion</h2><p>In the Christian journey, grace stands as the bedrock of our faith—a gift beyond measure, an unearned favor, and a resounding expression of God's love and mercy. As we reflect on the biblical definition of grace, we are drawn into the profound mystery of God's character and His relentless pursuit of our hearts. It is in understanding grace that we find hope, redemption, and the assurance that we are deeply loved and wholly accepted by our Heavenly Father. May we continue to embrace this wondrous gift, allowing grace to transform our lives and lead us closer to the heart of God.</p>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-10202866931339563892023-08-31T16:23:00.000-07:002023-09-01T06:24:15.558-07:00Abishag in the Bible: Who Was She?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP0SULXApxTkttOX2jT8OhkpHenQt_O0oRGis8VU1CIquFWG7coVJMUluAyF3zJuf6wzrZQUAZxPegCG_tix_SJ_zSqPB0VXGW3xLYjJt7sFFLmedR2dUUx8BLKiMZLdJfBGbDq69T9lf7Y7qG1TJRgv4XECtyupYzCamc7pWPELp8kUvQnwB7weeh3gU/s500/abishag-wotw.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="500" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP0SULXApxTkttOX2jT8OhkpHenQt_O0oRGis8VU1CIquFWG7coVJMUluAyF3zJuf6wzrZQUAZxPegCG_tix_SJ_zSqPB0VXGW3xLYjJt7sFFLmedR2dUUx8BLKiMZLdJfBGbDq69T9lf7Y7qG1TJRgv4XECtyupYzCamc7pWPELp8kUvQnwB7weeh3gU/w498-h299/abishag-wotw.webp" width="498" /></a></div><p></p><h1><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Biblical Name or Picture</span></h1><span id="docs-internal-guid-752bb3bc-7fff-2025-9db3-2f6d68ce1511"><p role="presentation" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Abishag the Shunnamite [her name meant "my father wanders"]</span></p><h4><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Scripture References</span></h4><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 Kings 1: Abishag is brought to King David to care for him and keep him warm.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 Kings 2: Adonijah desires to take Abishag in marriage.</span></p></span><h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Impressions and Observations</span></span></h1><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The bible specifically mentions her virginity and beauty and the fact that she was from the small village of Shunem in the tribe of Issachar. Although she doesn't have a speaking role in the biblical account she seems to have kept King David alive long enough to change history. If David not been kept warm and nursed back to enough health in his old age then he would not have been able to chose Solomon as his heir when Adonijah was the rightful choice. Later, Solomon pens probably three books of the Bible and is in the lineage of Jesus. So, God had a hand on history and on her life using her in His story and changing history.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Later in life, after David dies and Solomon takes the throne, Adonijah asks to marry her. This seems like it was a trick because the custom in those days, when a king died, was for his harem to remain in the palace and be the possession of the next king. If Adonijah had received Abishag as his wife this wold have given him a claim to the throne and showed that Adonijah had evil intent.</span></span></div><div><h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Personal Applications</span></span></h1></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">When I think about doing any tasks to help people, I can be reminded of Abishag. She didn't know that she was changing history by serving and helping an old man. But, when we serve out of a humble heart, God can use us to change history just like her.</span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">There are things going on in this world that we get to witness as pawns on the chess board. Like Adonijah trying to trick Solomon we can be used by leaders and governments. Remember that in the end, God wins! We need to have a trust and a hope that goes far beyond what is happening immediately around us and extends to the Great White Throne at the end of the age where every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.</span></span></span></div><div><h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Transferable Concepts</span></span></h1></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Most people will never know how God is using them in the grand scheme of things. It is our job to be helpful, useful, and beautiful in the way that He has made us. He has a plan for each life that is far beyond what we can dream or imagine. Humble yourself and serve the King[Jesus is now the King].</span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/133-biblical-character-studies.html" target="_blank">Check out the rest of my Biblical Character Studies Here</a><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-74882016189873907722023-08-29T17:12:00.003-07:002023-08-29T17:12:53.539-07:00makrothymia = patience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuy9MGQBjLbQxXC4gfjBglYAbSbkeS2CpOj2IhkAGf9yTjwUKs6td0kqU8Wg8MzkAVQMBZnjBFsln0kW5h0_3-aiEf3DAJdMZNEqbe_2HWf_XzCKyMSAjJ09zmspHPUstv9d7I48hZkkW8yEyxagw4czwEoGTTXGI8ltoUXLvbR9_QoQf4aF6HxxX/s1200/romans-12-12-1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuy9MGQBjLbQxXC4gfjBglYAbSbkeS2CpOj2IhkAGf9yTjwUKs6td0kqU8Wg8MzkAVQMBZnjBFsln0kW5h0_3-aiEf3DAJdMZNEqbe_2HWf_XzCKyMSAjJ09zmspHPUstv9d7I48hZkkW8yEyxagw4czwEoGTTXGI8ltoUXLvbR9_QoQf4aF6HxxX/w507-h265/romans-12-12-1.png" width="507" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Makrothumeo: a Greek word for Patience</h2><p></p><p>They say that "patience is not a virtue of the young." This implies that patience can only become a virtue in those that are wisened by old age. Well, according to the bible, there is a type of patience that doesn't come from experience in this world, but comes through faith and is brought about in our lives as a fruit of the Spirit. In Greek, the words makrothumeo[G3114], makrothumia[G3115], and makrothumos [G3116] are used 25 times in the New Testament. These different versions of the word are the verb, noun, and adverb forms respectively. One of the best ways to understand the meaning of a word in scripture is with scripture itself. Below is a list of all 25 verses.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">All Verses with Makrothumeo, Makrothumia, and Makrothumos in the Bible</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdPn4xuNIDVUupvjJw0zbFPI6SzbN9bOUUfIqdBeUZ52BFbdeof6vwHJUw4p7i3PBGIn9FCAAkePUAqV-yEbslVQue0M6U-p7kI2xmCuL7jbgLsffvQdSXXfatP8aXdMqkHAV8mDzQpAzXB1vEnianXqRbXKwc-S-xY8NN6SfDMx-DlpU_gog3-F88AI/s800/bible.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdPn4xuNIDVUupvjJw0zbFPI6SzbN9bOUUfIqdBeUZ52BFbdeof6vwHJUw4p7i3PBGIn9FCAAkePUAqV-yEbslVQue0M6U-p7kI2xmCuL7jbgLsffvQdSXXfatP8aXdMqkHAV8mDzQpAzXB1vEnianXqRbXKwc-S-xY8NN6SfDMx-DlpU_gog3-F88AI/s320/bible.webp" width="320" /></a></div><p>Note that each instance of the words are replaced with their Strong's Number, usually translated patience or long-suffering. Replacing the translation with the Strong's Number can help to dissuade us from our preconceived notions of what the word means due to our understanding of what the words patience and long-suffering mean in common English usage.</p><p>Matt 18:26</p><p><i>The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, G3114 G3114 with me, and I will pay thee all.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Matt 18:29</p><p><i>And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and G3114sought him, saying, G3114 G3114 with me, and I will pay thee all.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Luk 18:7</p><p><i>And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he G3114ar G3114 with them?</i></p><p><br /></p><p>1 Cor 13:4</p><p><i>Charity G3114eth G3114, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,</i></p><p><br /></p><p>1 Thess 5:14</p><p><i>Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, G3114 G3114 toward all men.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Hebrews 6:15</p><p><i>And so, after he had G3114ly G3114d, he obtained the promise.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>James 5:7</p><p><i>G3114 G3114 therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. G3114hold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath G3114 G3114 for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>James 5:8</p><p><i>G3114 ye also G3114; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>2 Pet 3:9</p><p><i>The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is G3114G3114ing to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Rom 2:4</p><p><i>Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and G3115; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Rom 9:22</p><p><i>What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much G3115 the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:</i></p><p><br /></p><p>2 Cor 6:6</p><p><i>By pureness, by knowledge, by G3115, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Gal 5:22</p><p><i><u><b><span style="font-size: large;">But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, G3115, gentleness, goodness, faith,</span></b></u></i></p><p><br /></p><p>Ephes 4:2</p><p><i>With all lowliness and meekness, with G3115, forbearing one another in love;</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Col 1:11</p><p><i>Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all G3115 and G3115 with joyfulness;</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Col 3:12</p><p><i>Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, G3115;</i></p><p><br /></p><p>1 Tim 1:16</p><p><i>Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all G3115, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>2 Tim 3:10</p><p><i>But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, G3115, charity, G3115,</i></p><p><br /></p><p>2 Tim 4:2</p><p><i>Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all G3115 and doctrine.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>Act 26:3</p><p><i>Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me G3116.</i></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Patience vs. Makrothymia</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vjqbqTwlvove8RCHpeAN23Qh6MfyMC9rL1OuEmXO7b3AF5TOxU_JsUxbYIAa9-5ffWgnkHm0yffeAHur2Oy1Wu3GIcjIVUDiJ2mloWboFmw9V1cwWR6tiR4wamakLSj3tq3pM0TMYrjNo2xIC3OvzJ6G9GFLbgqFtns3sS81d5fvHap8xBmgtDU2Ue0/s1023/Jesus%20Patience.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1023" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vjqbqTwlvove8RCHpeAN23Qh6MfyMC9rL1OuEmXO7b3AF5TOxU_JsUxbYIAa9-5ffWgnkHm0yffeAHur2Oy1Wu3GIcjIVUDiJ2mloWboFmw9V1cwWR6tiR4wamakLSj3tq3pM0TMYrjNo2xIC3OvzJ6G9GFLbgqFtns3sS81d5fvHap8xBmgtDU2Ue0/w503-h336/Jesus%20Patience.jpeg" width="503" /></a></div><p>So, we can have human patience which is a virtue that comes from human wisdom. We know that a certain thing will run its course and end in its due time so we have human patience based on experience. But, makrothymia is on another level. Makrothymia is bearing the burdens of others. It is patience on steroids. It involves forgiving and loving like God the Father loves, but just putting up with for a time, but something much more real than that. I would say makrothymia would be better characterized as Patience with a capital P. God's Patience with us disobedient people. He can give us Patience like His own through the Holy Spirit and that's the only way to get that type of Patience [makrothymia.]</p><p>I'm glad you chose to read y blog today. Subscribe for updates over on the side if you can find it.</p><p>Have a Blessed day!</p>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-86719217359707831312023-08-28T08:40:00.002-07:002023-08-28T08:40:46.780-07:00Rich Men North of Richmond: A Christian's Perspective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3wIcEwi50mCFQUrSJw0Kcyl1KJZihR6pzNerI_mrPNPF8esgzLxxH-FFAe7hcWhasBwToq4oIISoqxw5JXZeMLG3wPHq0yAhT3XUd-__Z1giVgiQSCM7i0_dwQLgKSNL0kGFoTb_C8HPBje79LR73PjoWM7vf5TYG91mNxnCqpWe_j3UNMNZYSFxMlg/s1200/WHOliver-Anthony-Photo-Courtesy-of-radiowv_YouTube.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3wIcEwi50mCFQUrSJw0Kcyl1KJZihR6pzNerI_mrPNPF8esgzLxxH-FFAe7hcWhasBwToq4oIISoqxw5JXZeMLG3wPHq0yAhT3XUd-__Z1giVgiQSCM7i0_dwQLgKSNL0kGFoTb_C8HPBje79LR73PjoWM7vf5TYG91mNxnCqpWe_j3UNMNZYSFxMlg/w498-h331/WHOliver-Anthony-Photo-Courtesy-of-radiowv_YouTube.jpg" width="498" /></a></div><p>Millions of people in just a few days have been listening to Oliver Anthony (Christopher Lunsford) sing passionately about the plight of blue collar America. After coming out with his viral song "Rich Men North of Richmond," followed up by a plethora of reaction videos, providing more songs and comments himself, the news channels weighing in, the media influencers seizing the moment to get a few more clicks and ad revenue, even the politicians themselves having commented on how much they agree (it of course being the other side of the political spectrum that is being sung about...) I am left to ponder.</p><h1 style="text-align: left;">What is the Biblical View of Rich Men North of Richmond?</h1><h2 style="text-align: left;">Here are the lyrics:</h2><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="273" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sqSA-SY5Hro" width="479" youtube-src-id="sqSA-SY5Hro"></iframe></div><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">I've been sellin' my soul, workin' all day / Overtime hours for bullshit pay / So I can sit out here and waste my life away / Drag back home and drown my troubles away.</em></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><strong style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">Pre-Chorus:</strong><br style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;" /><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">It's a damn shame what the world's gotten to / For people like me and people like you / Wish I could just wake up and it not be true / But it is, oh, it is.</em></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><strong style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">Chorus:</strong><br style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;" /><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">Livin' in the new world / With an old soul / These rich men north of Richmond / Lord knows they all just wanna have total control / Wanna know what you think, wanna know what you do / And they don't think you know, but I know that you do / 'Cause your dollar ain't shit and it's taxed to no end / 'Cause of rich men north of Richmond.</em></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">I wish politicians would look out for miners / And not just minors on an island somewhere / Lord, we got folks in the street, ain't got nothin' to eat / And the obese milkin' welfare.</em></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">Well, God, if you're 5-foot-3 and you're 300 pounds / Taxes ought not to pay for your bags of fudge rounds / Young men are puttin' themselves six feet in the ground / 'Cause all this damn country does is keep on kickin' them down.</em></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><strong style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">Repeat Pre-Chorus</strong></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><strong style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">Repeat Chorus</strong></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;">I've been sellin' my soul, workin' all day / Overtime hours for bullshit pay.</em></p><h2 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; text-align: left;">A Christian's Perspective</h2><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">I think there can be many different Christian perspectives, but here's mine. I agree, however... there is hope. I've listened to this song many times now and I politically agree, economically agree, even historically agree with the sentiments and the feeling. But what I don't agree with is the lack of hope.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">I often find myself in conversations about the current state of America and there is a difference between the Christian world's complaining and the Non-Christian world's complaining. Both are complaining, don't get me wrong. Both are a lament over things outside of our control, much like the book of Lamentations in the Bible. However, in the Christian perspective there is always hope. Sometimes this comes in the hope of end times events like the resurrection[<a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/08/a-pattern-and-promise-sermon-on-daniel.html" target="_blank">if your interested in having hope in the resurrection here is a sermon I gave last week on Daniel 12</a>], receiving a new glorified body, the judgement where the wicked will get their justice, or in God's love being able to change things and bless His people bringing them through any situation[<a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/p/page-tester.html" target="_blank">many of the worship songs I've reviewed are about exactly this</a>]. All these hope-filled pieces are more important than the lament itself. This reminds me of Mary's Song in the first chapter of Luke.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRp1iEMbF70Fs0hdfvw_aEELquky9tSz457W6hue5kOhecemuXHsWkoVByxj8k-5wB7Bhxb9f5PqFrTleSoWHupdPgWqVXSyJCCI3Ci4irkUSBrpvvnVbbTX-oIlaPqztJ7gjBVLYJoKdohBQs8wwH-dBTNd_nVJcPssLeR8aa9UEuEhfUwryTkmTI6k/s5184/Botticelli_Magnificat_04.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRp1iEMbF70Fs0hdfvw_aEELquky9tSz457W6hue5kOhecemuXHsWkoVByxj8k-5wB7Bhxb9f5PqFrTleSoWHupdPgWqVXSyJCCI3Ci4irkUSBrpvvnVbbTX-oIlaPqztJ7gjBVLYJoKdohBQs8wwH-dBTNd_nVJcPssLeR8aa9UEuEhfUwryTkmTI6k/w499-h332/Botticelli_Magnificat_04.jpeg" width="499" /></a></div><h2 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; text-align: left;">The Magnificat</h2><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>46 And Mary said:</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>“My soul glorifies the Lord</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>48 for he has been mindful</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i> of the humble state of his servant.</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>From now on all generations will call me blessed,</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i> holy is his name.</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>50 His mercy extends to those who fear him,</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i> from generation to generation.</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i> he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i> but has lifted up the humble.</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>53 He has filled the hungry with good things</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i> but has sent the rich away empty.</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>54 He has helped his servant Israel,</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i> remembering to be merciful</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i>55 to Abraham and his descendants forever,</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><i> just as he promised our ancestors.”</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">The difference in a biblical or Christian perspective is that we not only see what is going on in the world, witnessing and calling out injustice and heresy, but also (and more importantly) that there is hope. I look forward to more songs from Christopher Lunsford in the future, not only because I like the music and agree with the message but because it is an opportunity to bring hope into the conversation with a wide audience of people who really need hope. <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/p/ecclesiastes-sermon-series.html"> If you're interested in my sermon series on the book of Ecclesiastes click here.</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2sPlw_0nfsy6JCEDTmlZ_vEK6EOelJtBLDBVyUUHvp55XJqJ7mm3GlbcCTViI7AK_b34yqqXed5dAZc6CPKafubF2rhT-9xrYveS7s2YgEunUCvB2ZmIsIKbUkV4rw0RdoQn7nC78FZxDwllNRJk8SlCGCzfnVKpyNa8CdnMzFAOgjCgy3zJfSQBuZ0/s1024/hope.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2sPlw_0nfsy6JCEDTmlZ_vEK6EOelJtBLDBVyUUHvp55XJqJ7mm3GlbcCTViI7AK_b34yqqXed5dAZc6CPKafubF2rhT-9xrYveS7s2YgEunUCvB2ZmIsIKbUkV4rw0RdoQn7nC78FZxDwllNRJk8SlCGCzfnVKpyNa8CdnMzFAOgjCgy3zJfSQBuZ0/w500-h281/hope.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 / 0.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #45444a; font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">Thank you for reading my thoughts. Comment below or read some of my sermons, bible studies, or worship song analyses on this site. Enjoy.</p>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-85089564415504060412023-08-22T03:05:00.005-07:002023-08-22T03:05:57.104-07:00A Pattern and a Promise: Sermon on Daniel 12<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 20pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Daniel 12: A Pattern and a Promise</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-8d76a3e1-7fff-e9f0-6f37-c2b16842bf40"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6YtmGCzyldVIczqSkGSoKXqaNrZzzX2_FSMWvQQN173wCJlREomn3CY9ecBuGKp-d5Uklu7LsE2RNJxVwWrVaWFkmOXTjIFk7tcCSHawKX2y_rgDa56YG4OClPLDeX8uP1q0sznc656kh3xe4K_173iHjkC2pBlZUdPKEoPQOwT_4Dk3eVa6gQLG1hA/s1024/daniel%20lions%20den.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1024" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6YtmGCzyldVIczqSkGSoKXqaNrZzzX2_FSMWvQQN173wCJlREomn3CY9ecBuGKp-d5Uklu7LsE2RNJxVwWrVaWFkmOXTjIFk7tcCSHawKX2y_rgDa56YG4OClPLDeX8uP1q0sznc656kh3xe4K_173iHjkC2pBlZUdPKEoPQOwT_4Dk3eVa6gQLG1hA/w507-h336/daniel%20lions%20den.jpeg" width="507" /></a></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Because this is a book for all ages and all peoples, studying the book of Daniel can really have you </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">following rabbit-trails</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> all over the place as Pastor Brandon mentioned last week, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">so you have to always bring yourself back to the thought, this scripture is here for a reason, to teach me, to encourage me, to train me in righteousness, to bring hope and a promise</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">not just for flexing my intellectual muscles or making me proud of my charted timeline of the prophetic 490 years [70 weeks] or the correlations between the anti-Christ and current world leaders.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What is important to the Lord, is your relationship with Him and your relationship with the Father. Find what He is saying to you every time you study the Word. And we want to find what He is saying to us in Daniel 12.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Before we dive into Daniel 12, I want to </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">bring us back</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> through the whole book of Daniel to see </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">a pattern and a promise</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There is an obvious pattern in Daniel of his life and his friends' lives in captivity in chapters 1-6 and his visions and prophecies in chapters 7-12</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">but I want to look at a deeper pattern that has given the jewish people hope throughout the ages and can give us hope for the future.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapter 1</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> back in 2 Kings 24</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> the Israelites have been attacked by Babylon, plundering the temple and capturing the Israelites including Daniel and his friends Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. The chapter tells of their </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">struggles to continue to trust and serve God but also to have hope in captivity</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. Daniel and his friends are </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">wise and capable and pressured to give up their jewish identity, but they stay faithful and are exalted for it…</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapter 2</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> The King of Babylon has a dream that only Daniel can interpret. The dream is about a </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">statue which represents babylon and it is destroyed by a rock. Daniel lets him know that there will be a train of kingdoms following babylon that will be struck down and one day all kingdoms will be humbled under God’s Kingdom</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapter 3</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> The Fiery Furnace again, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">refusal to worship the statue, they are delivered from death and exalted.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapter 4,5</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Nebuchadnezzar’s Pride</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Belshazzar’s Pride.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Two kings are both filled with pride because of their imperial positions, Daniel tells them both that they need to humble themselves and both Kings arrogantly resist. Nebuchadnezzar is stricken and becomes like a beast of the field but then he is humbled and his humanity returns to him and he’s restored, his son Belshazzar doesn’t humble himself and he’s killed that very night.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">—These draw from Genesis 1-2 and Psalm 8 —</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Humans are given the authority to rule over the the beasts of the field and the birds of the air on God’s behalf as the royal image of God but when humans rebel and make themselves God, they become less than human like violent beasts who will face God’s justice</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapter 6</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> This time Daniel is being persecuted and thrown into the Lion's Den where he trusts God and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">refuses to worship an earthly king as God and is saved.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapter 7</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Now here is Daniel's Dream about </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4 beasts explained by an angel, each beast signifies a kingdom with an arrogant king including a superbeast with lots of horns with one horn in particular that represents an especially arrogant king who exalts himself above god and persecutes God’s people</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">then the ancient of days comes on the clouds and exalts the son of man striking down the superbeast</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">All the stories in this section fit together.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: #ea9999; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1,3,6 Offer hope to God’s suffering people. Stay faithful in the midst of suffering. Don’t yield to the arrogant world that is anti-God. Stay faithful in the midst of suffering.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: #ffe599; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4,5 the reason for the suffering is because human kingdoms have rebelled against God and have become beasts.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2, 7 and so these visions encourage patience that God’s people are to wait, for him to bring his kingdom over our world and vindicate their suffering but it raises the question about when God is going to do that???</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapter 8</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Daniel has a vision of a </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Goat and a Ram with many horns</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, one of which </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">attacks Jerusalem</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">exalts himself above God and then is destroyed by God</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We now know this to be the Medo-Persian Empire and the Greek Empire.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapter 9</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Daniel is puzzled so he studies the book of Jeremiah which says the exile will only last 70 years, and he’s getting older and the 70 years is almost up. So he asks God to fulfill his promise soon</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. But the angel says, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Israel’s sin has continued so Israel's exile and oppression will last 7 times longer [490 years].</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chapters 10-12</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Daniel is deeply disturbed and he has one more vision, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Persia, Greece, and Alexander the Great, and a bunch of lesser kings all leading up to this King of the North</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> who will </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">invade Jerusalem</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">set up idols in the temple and exalt himself above God and come to ruin</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What does that refer to: dual fulfillment [or many many fulfillments]:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">WE KNOW THAT THE Syrian King </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Antiochus Epiphanes</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> IN 160s BC did this and was certainly “anti-” christ!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But let’s look at some of those that have been accused of being anti-christ throughout the years.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKov1eW1zixlx2j8fypN-aTL0Sa-trM7wiLfYBh6Y0kPE6gn9BEt3cNKd407UE1_MbEkGG0Hvb7QDWT4IjG8J9JtxeMZkNOIOIUHqM44I2Jl6zeC8zcJFGgVtQwUSaVU5aIeWCiBVYyfRDulBtdI4VM_OBAW29QIokwT7twH_IfuLk3xfLal1abw-IHrY/s1023/antichrist.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="1023" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKov1eW1zixlx2j8fypN-aTL0Sa-trM7wiLfYBh6Y0kPE6gn9BEt3cNKd407UE1_MbEkGG0Hvb7QDWT4IjG8J9JtxeMZkNOIOIUHqM44I2Jl6zeC8zcJFGgVtQwUSaVU5aIeWCiBVYyfRDulBtdI4VM_OBAW29QIokwT7twH_IfuLk3xfLal1abw-IHrY/w502-h331/antichrist.jpeg" width="502" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Nero</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, whose name added up to 666.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Emperor Constantius</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> in the 300s AD who persecuted the church.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pope Leo the tenth</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> was accused of being the antichrist by Martin Luther</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Napolean Bonaparte</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Adolf Hitler</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> for obvious reasons</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">JFK</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> because he recieved 666 votes at the 1956 democratic convention</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Henry Kissinger</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> who was a middle east peacemaker of Jewish ancestry</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Mikhail Gorbachev</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> who was a world leader from a country in “the north” and had a mark on his head that kind of looked like a six</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pope John Paul the second</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> who recovered from a serious gunshot wound after an assassination attempt</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ronald Wilson Reagan</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> who has six letters in each of his first middle and last name, plus recovered from a wound that seemed fatal.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Barney the Dinosaur</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, who was creepy.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Barack Obama</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Bill Gates 3</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The World Wide Webb</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Artificial Intelligence</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">: deception, claiming to be better than God, will not follow the God of his fathers, will not be attracted to women, etc…</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Or Some future Anti-Christ just before Jesus returns again.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In a sense they are all right. The book of Daniel offers hope to all generations, past, present and future.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Jesus used the book of Daniel</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, quoting it and reasoning from it to describe Jerusalem’s leaders in His day.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Apostle John adapted Daniel’s visions</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> in the book of Revelations to look forward to the end times.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And we use Daniel to see hope in the midst of apocalyptic end times nonsense that we see in the news every day.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ADfPnawAqSp2X9Ls4qoE3ilNjldNmYMQsiYz5d2AuN91I2JMEbgW9IxRoPUOWnxtkLO5Q7Rs9ORIlXpn5l-xptI5iS7F8g6h1oX1o3gZTtL62BvLI3W-Plk-q9xX0FQ7dpFD5UUcaMzjDCdvCW1ulDmiYZsh4xCci8wgFkWuNcHl28Kgd5ewNTlRVSk/s1200/patterns.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ADfPnawAqSp2X9Ls4qoE3ilNjldNmYMQsiYz5d2AuN91I2JMEbgW9IxRoPUOWnxtkLO5Q7Rs9ORIlXpn5l-xptI5iS7F8g6h1oX1o3gZTtL62BvLI3W-Plk-q9xX0FQ7dpFD5UUcaMzjDCdvCW1ulDmiYZsh4xCci8wgFkWuNcHl28Kgd5ewNTlRVSk/s320/patterns.webp" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The point of Daniel:</span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">All generations reading the book of Daniel are also living the book of Daniel because there is a pattern and a promise. Human beings become beasts when they exalt themselves above God, they redefine right and wrong and don’t acknowledge God as King.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But you Christian, stay strong in your faith to God, pray and believe and you can have hope in the midst of suffering because one day God will confront the beast, whether it is a temporary beast or the beast at the end of the world, whether it is your own life or the life of your nation. He will rescue His people by bringing His Kingdom over all nations and every knee will bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So, for every generation this book speaks a message of hope that motivates faithfulness.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And with that all in mind, let’s look at Daniel chapter 12. </span></p><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Daniel 12:1-12:13</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Time of the End</span></h1><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">12 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">“Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">guard</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And many of those who sleep in the dust of the ground will awake, these to everlasting life, but the others to disgrace </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> everlasting contempt. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And those who have insight will shine like the glow of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But as for you, Daniel, keep these words secret and seal up the book until the end of time; many will roam about, and knowledge will increase.”</span></h1><br /><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then I, Daniel, looked, and behold, two others were standing, one on this bank of the stream and the other on that bank of the stream. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">someone</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> said to the man dressed in linen, who was above the waters of the stream, “How long </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">will it be</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> until the end of </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">these</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> wonders?” </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">7 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And I heard the man dressed in linen, who was above the waters of the stream, as he raised his right hand and his left toward heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever that </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">it would be</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> for a time, times, and half </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">a</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">time</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">; and as soon as they finish smashing the power of the holy people, all these </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">events</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> will be completed. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">8 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But as for me, I heard but did not understand; so I said, “My lord, what </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">will be</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> the outcome of these </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">events</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">?” </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And he said, “Go </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">your way</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, Daniel, for </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">these</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> words </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">will be</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> kept secret and sealed up until the end time. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Many will be purged, cleansed, and refined, but the wicked will act wickedly; and none of the wicked will understand, but those who have insight will understand. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">11 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And from the time that the regular sacrifice is abolished and the abomination of desolation is set up, </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">there will be</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> 1,290 days. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">12 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Blessed is the one who is patient and attains to the 1,335 days! </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13 </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">But as for you, go </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">your way</span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> to the end; then you will rest and rise for your allotted portion at the end of the age.”</span></h1><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As we talked about in the first half of the book of Daniel, he had a lot of wonderful qualities, he was bold in his faith and consistent in prayer shown in the lion’s den, he was a man of fasting and denying himself, showing God was in control, he had a “genius wind” about him, a gift for administration and leadership, and he was also a captured person, his country was not his own, his allegiance was to the God of Israel, not to Babylon and he longed for the Babylonian captivity to end. With all this in mind, God gave him visions of what would happen, and it was a lot. And, we have walked through history seeing that these very specific detailed prophecies have happened just the way God said through Daniel, culminating in the person we call the anti-Christ where we have seen partial fulfillment throughout the centuries in the great villains. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Think about this</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">you can either be pro-Christ or anti-Christ</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. When we study Antiochus Epiphanes, or Stalin, or Hitler, Saddam Hussein or Artificial Intelligence </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">we might notice all sorts of similarities between what scripture says about the anti-Christ and start checking off boxes</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> thinking we have found them, but the world didn’t end, but God can say something to us: check this out in </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 John 2:18-27</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">18 Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us. 20 But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge. 21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth. 22 Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also. 24 Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life. 26 I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you. 27 But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 15pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">You are either for Christ, or against Him. You either believe that He is the perfect, sinless, fully-Divine, fully-human Son of God, who died in our place to pay the penalty of sin and redeem us for eternal glory with the Father . . . or you do not. In that sense, everyone is either Pro-Christ or Anti-Christ.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Anyone who rejects Jesus outright or denies His divinity by denying that He is indeed the Christ is, therefore, an antichrist</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. And as John says, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">there are many</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. They don’t all perform terrifying demonic miracles. They simply deny Jesus, and walk away (v. 19).</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 15pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpKCBx4UJhWZoW6bpt02BtK_Bnp7eFkXjHXGSbJw2oCzud0S_FU2rNT1O0Av0UxQ9aIFf2BpLOrKs6MLkoTMIA2Ck4MHvgDHvaosPS5sun2_0zbN9byOWwltk3qKwWoz2N6qDSSFQ1xt42AYBfvSL_0Wu762q2jbL8IXbOJfMIH76WRdMpA0c3EtrPVs/s606/world%20religions.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="606" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpKCBx4UJhWZoW6bpt02BtK_Bnp7eFkXjHXGSbJw2oCzud0S_FU2rNT1O0Av0UxQ9aIFf2BpLOrKs6MLkoTMIA2Ck4MHvgDHvaosPS5sun2_0zbN9byOWwltk3qKwWoz2N6qDSSFQ1xt42AYBfvSL_0Wu762q2jbL8IXbOJfMIH76WRdMpA0c3EtrPVs/w495-h294/world%20religions.jpeg" width="495" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 15pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This does not mean that antichrists are harmless, though. John says in verse 26, there are those who are trying to deceive the saints</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. They may not try to persuade anyone to worship Satan. But </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">there are many ways to reject Christ and encourage others to do the same</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. False religions are antichrist. To affirm Buddha, or Krishna, or Zoroaster is to deny Christ. The absolute materialist, who denies the existence of </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">any</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> god, denies Christ. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">To claim Jesus was a great moral teacher, but not the Son of God is to deny Christ. Even to affirm the continuance of the Mosaic law and the remaining need for sacrifice for sin would be to deny Christ</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #40464b; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So we are encouraged to abide in Christ, be pro-Christ! </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, there is still an actual singular antiChrist powered by Satan at the end that will bring what we call the tribulation on the world leading to Armageddon… </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">However, consider that God can be talking about multiple things at once.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He is so amazing that world events on the biggest timeline possible AND your individual life can be talked about at the same time.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When I was 15, I was anti-Christ and I had to die to myself and not be that anti-Christ anymore and be born again into life that is only from Jesus Christ. Now, I can be pro-Christ!</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There is hope, just like Nebuchadnezzar, who was arrogant and exalted himself and was antiChrist and could repent, you and I can repent too and be changed and forgiven and become pro-Christ. There is hope!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So far in talking about the end times, we’ve not said anything about “the Rapture.” and I don’t want you to be uninformed about it. So, if you aren’t familiar with the word rapture, it comes from the verses in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">14 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">15 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">16 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">17 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">After that, we who are still alive and are left will be </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">caught up together</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">18 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Therefore encourage one another with these words.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The greek word used in verse 17 and translated “caught up together” is harpazo and the latin version of that is rapturo where we get the word rapture from.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So when read in latin this was referenced as the Rapturo and has then been translated into english as the Rapture</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, in the common use of a word like rapture we would usually mean that someone who is enraptured with something is all revved up emotionally, so in some ways rapture isn’t really a good interpretation of this</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The word harpazo in the Greek means a snatching, to grab something quickly without warning. So a better thing to call this would be The Snatching, but we call it the Rapture with a capital R and it has come to mean this specific future event</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFKwvlpx3lfxFVcbC4BI_MXD5amIN2v2qYMvjnWj0y2S9QIVBX9QQ3Iel9cZbgIW9oZRNpbF1FCE0NXXUc5aZ--0KRi_4FG1Qwp8B0h2J-iRX0xsY_WKpr7SkwIhkFnMYGYc7grmlls7BNyenaYk1oxfqV78_JfS4YKjJsfH7AVtd5zB2fmTy2pGvR3M/s1200/rapture.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="1200" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFKwvlpx3lfxFVcbC4BI_MXD5amIN2v2qYMvjnWj0y2S9QIVBX9QQ3Iel9cZbgIW9oZRNpbF1FCE0NXXUc5aZ--0KRi_4FG1Qwp8B0h2J-iRX0xsY_WKpr7SkwIhkFnMYGYc7grmlls7BNyenaYk1oxfqV78_JfS4YKjJsfH7AVtd5zB2fmTy2pGvR3M/w507-h318/rapture.jpeg" width="507" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, here is a thing you need to know and be careful about it bible study, actually two things, one is that when people tell you that they know when the rapture or any other end time event will happen, they are false.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Jesus specifically states that no one knows this but the Father</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Secondly, when people are extremely sure that the rapture will happen before what’s called the tribulation or the great tribulation, that is what they think either through their own study or through hearing people they trust say it. It is not that clear in scripture whether the church will be snatched up before the antiChrist, mid-antiChrist or at the end of the anti-Christ, and we can’t be sure that every Christian will be snatched up, there are a lot of question marks for me when it comes to the rapture.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We Should Not Place Our Hope in the Rapture</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The thing we can be sure of is that although the spirit of antiChrist has been in the world all along and there have been many antiChrists, there will be a specific AntiChrist with a capital A at the end and Christians will need to endure and stay strong in God and have hope, and blessed are those that endure till the end</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. And the Jews will be persecuted once again and many many many will be killed, but </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">there will be a resurrection and a final judgment and all will stand before the throne</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> and when you stand in front of that throne either </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Jesus will say, I took all this one’s sins on me</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, let him or her into everlasting life or He will say </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">this one, I never knew him</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> or I never knew her. That is what we can be sure of. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We are to have our hope in that day, in the resurrection and the judgment, not in the rapture.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So don’t be constantly searching for when will the rapture happen</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Have faith that the resurrection and the final judgment will happen.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ask forgiveness from God and put on the righteousness of Jesus Christ who suffered and died for your sins so that you can be washed clean and you can have hope in the promise that on that day, His righteousness will be counted as your righteousness and all the suffering will end. That’s the gospel and that’s the pattern and the promise in the book of Daniel.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you need anything at all, prayers, just to have someone to talk to, we have people that will be up at the front during the last song that want to stand with you, pray for you and help you in whatever way we can.</span></p><br /><br /><br /></span><br />Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-13277457483738677492023-07-17T13:00:00.000-07:002023-07-17T13:00:02.428-07:00I Don't Like the Daniel Fast<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhtjZolj2bcUYpuUyauZX1nvQnKcKfIedWofhP__ir3_qmedNC7WP-kC4jjV02eUIwC2U2FVYWIw2p15Cj16nPyltIwF0DzuUKJnd2mpE4xbVi_LdyvuZMkB5kyf4DIJXBF2R2qQl3cF0v_D90tUVEcvoDyJ4EGLE7UwLxVlH76PQfX0TiAMUNEUBpse5E" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="403" height="349" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhtjZolj2bcUYpuUyauZX1nvQnKcKfIedWofhP__ir3_qmedNC7WP-kC4jjV02eUIwC2U2FVYWIw2p15Cj16nPyltIwF0DzuUKJnd2mpE4xbVi_LdyvuZMkB5kyf4DIJXBF2R2qQl3cF0v_D90tUVEcvoDyJ4EGLE7UwLxVlH76PQfX0TiAMUNEUBpse5E=w510-h349" width="510" /></a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">I don't like the "Daniel Fast!"</h1><p></p><p><span> Reading this title might make you think that I don't like the "Daniel Fast" because it's hard and I like my sugary foods, meat and dairy. That is not what I meant by the title, although it is true. I love meat and eggs and one week into the "Daniel Fast" I miss them. However, my dislike of the "Daniel Fast" has nothing to do with it being difficult and being a challenge. After trying this out for a week, I notice that it really hasn't been a biblical fast for me. I have done water only fasts quite a few times throughout my Christian experience and they have been powerful times of prayer and mediation; freeing up the time that I had been spending preparing food, eating, and cleaning it up and using that time for prayer, mediation, and biblical study. Every time I have done a water-fast I have felt like my emotions and my own thoughts get out of the way and I can hear the Lord the most clearly of any time in my life. However, thus far in the Daniel Fast it has been kind of the opposite... distracting... religious instead of real...</span><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span>It's Neither Daniel Nor A Fast! Discuss...</span></h2><p><span><span> I've been spending so much time trying to make recipes that my family will eat and trying to make vegetable after vegetable palatable that it has greatly increased the time and focus that I spend on food instead of freeing up time for those things mentioned above. I suppose that my main complaint about the "Daniel Fast" is that it isn't a fast at all. It feels like a diet mixed with a religious observance that I am constantly trying to get around. It turns out that unsalted plain Triscuits are ok because they only have three ingredients: whole wheat flour, canola oil, and salt... so if you dip them in a garlicky bean paste that you blend up yourself then you aren't breaking the rules. According to the internet you can boil down dates to make date honey and replace sugar in dessert-like recipes to legally add sugar to things while still technically doing the "Daniel Fast." None of this seems like what Daniel actually did. He denied himself the meat and alcohol that was offered him by his captors and showed that God would sustain Him by eating the way he always had. He prayed three times a day, and when told that doing so would land him in the lions den, he continued to pray as he always had. To me, the story of Daniel is about consistency in doing what you know is right, not following observances religiously. It feels like the "Daniel Fast" is a marketing ploy and is promoted like the Atkins Diet or a Juice Cleanse, when really what we need in our lives is consistency, permanent things that we do and don't do that we know are right. Much of the food we eat in America is Garbage, but meat and eggs are an important source of protein and essential nutrients as well as satiety. Since I'm not going to give up meat and eggs at the end of this three weeks and consistently do this diet like I think it is what's right, it feels like the opposite of what Daniel would do. Daniel would hold to his beliefs instead of just following what people on the internet told him to do. So perhaps this should be called the "Anti-Daniel Diet" instead of the "Daniel Fast."</span><br /></span></p><p><span><span>Or maybe I'm just really hungry.</span></span></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">What Would A Real Daniel Fast Look Like</h2><p><span> If the government said that you had to only eat Beyond Meat and couldn't have real meat anymore, then a real Daniel Fast would be to continue to eat the way you always had and not follow the government's new rule. By consistently doing what you know is good and good for you and always has been and not following rules for the sake of rules, you are following the example of the biblical Daniel.</span><br /></p>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-22562305235291942692023-06-28T11:05:00.001-07:002023-06-28T11:05:18.329-07:00Daniel in the Lion's Den -Daniel 6- Sermon Notes<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVhGXhRpQjKkrc0QFjHqfdDypZgY0vqtjk2xvgzo4EXfVwbztN-YHArDOuEDHR2lMO7S4t-NQQFpsrj8HYbYJpv2BZGCBAkBA95IrUXK8Rr2O-3bwr9UbdNWCA3PwnxkXAkho-blTwtRMRs6sy1Gsur8F0IVGyx5xCLG4dulFulQBCpN0zl2RVMgnNXpQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="910" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVhGXhRpQjKkrc0QFjHqfdDypZgY0vqtjk2xvgzo4EXfVwbztN-YHArDOuEDHR2lMO7S4t-NQQFpsrj8HYbYJpv2BZGCBAkBA95IrUXK8Rr2O-3bwr9UbdNWCA3PwnxkXAkho-blTwtRMRs6sy1Gsur8F0IVGyx5xCLG4dulFulQBCpN0zl2RVMgnNXpQ=w530-h353" width="530" /></a></div><p></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-31fb39cc-7fff-7c24-564a-6cd8aa4ccd3d"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It’s easy to miss the point. It’s easy to </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">not</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> hear what the Lord is saying to you in your inner life. It’s easy to listen to the story of Daniel in the Lion’s Den and say well that’s a good story. It’s easy to do this and that but not make a real substantive change in your eternal life. Your life will be eternal, it’s just a question of where that eternity is spent…</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Can we have open hearts and minds today to learn from the story of Daniel in the Lion’s Den?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Can we invite the Holy Spirit into our midst to teach us, to give me the words and give us all the ears to hear?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God arranged this to happen in the life of Daniel for so many reasons, and you are one of those reasons, for you to hear this today, for you and I to have a chance to change, to come closer to who we could be in Jesus Christ… if only we would really have ears to hear what He is saying to us through His Word today.</span></p><br /><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Prayer</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Father, make this moment real and present in our lives today. I see the world slipping more and more into a vacant stare at entertainment and I just want today for us to be here… present… together talking about You and Your Word and What is Real, not AI and faraway wars, and politics, and worldly philosophies… You and what You have for us today. Let us marinate in the life of your servant Daniel today and see Jesus is in it and see ourselves in it and see everything that you have planned for us… In Jesus Precious Name, Amen.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Pastor Brandon has done a great job reminding us of the name Nebuchadnezzar and what it means, do you remember? But, the destroyer of nations isn’t in chapter 6 at all. In chapter 6, we see king Darius, and his name means, “He that informs himself” or “He that carries the scepter” and we see Daniel, and his name means, “God is my Judge.” Now it is interesting that the name Darius as a king in this region and time is not in the history books, and it seems that perhaps the king in between Belshazzar and Cyrus may have been simply called Darius as the sort of acting temporary king because at the end of the chapter it says during the reign of King Cyrus the Persian, but this Darius could have actually been the leader of the armies that defeated the Chaldeans, and that he had been charged with administering and ruling over these areas. He had the power to appoint presidents, governors, satraps, etc… to make laws or decrees and generally rule over the area basically in the name of the King, being the extension of the King and seen by the people as the King himself, technically during the reign of King Cyrus.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Knowing this little bit of information about who Darius may have been can give us insight into him as we read this. How was he tricked into making this decree? Why would he want to have a law that said this? Why was he so distraught over his mistake? </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, Daniel, “God is my judge.” really lives up to his name in this chapter. This is toward the end of his life, he is probably in his 70s or 80s when this happens.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Daniel 6</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-1.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom a hundred and twenty satraps, to be throughout the whole kingdom;</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-2.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">and over them three presidents, of whom Daniel was one, to whom these satraps should give account, so that the king might suffer no loss.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-3.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other presidents and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So the same Daniel that was awesome in his youth, and in better shape and smarter via eating vegetables, who wouldn’t bow down to any God but the true God, whos friends were rescued from the Fiery Furnace, who has interpreted dreams correctly for kings is still just crushing it in his older years. Around the age of 80, He is appointed as one of three presidents but not only that, he is so good at it that the guy, Darius, who I think was the kings general, Gabyrus, who was set over the whole realm wants to give Daniel HIS OWN JOB! He is so good at his job that his boss wants to give him HIS OWN JOB! Darius/Gobyrus was looking for integrity in leadership. He set all this administration up probably because when you take over other large nations there would be a lot of corruption and people lining their own pockets but he quickly saw that Daniel was different, he had an excellent spirit. So much so that he wanted Daniel, in his 80s to administrate the whole thing.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">How are we supposed to work in our own jobs? As one working for men, or as one working for God? Should we go above and beyond in our work and show impeccable integrity? We seem to be being given an example of this in Daniel throughout this sermon series. The world can’t judge whether you are a good committed Christian, honoring God in your heart of hearts, but they can easily judge whether you are lazy, and your testimony is ruined with people if they judge you to have a laziness, a poor work ethic, someone who is just there for the paycheck. Not Daniel, and I hope, not you. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you have chosen to do the Daniel fast and be like Daniel for a while eating only vegetables, why not be like Daniel at the same time and be so good at your job that your own boss considers having you take their own job?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-4.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then the presidents and the satraps sought to find a ground for complaint against Daniel with regard to the kingdom; but they could find no ground for complaint or any fault, because he was faithful, and no error or fault was found in him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-5.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then these men said, "We shall not find any ground for complaint against this Daniel unless we find it in connection with the law of his God."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Why? It seems that if Daniel is showing integrity then they hate him because they lack integrity. They probably want to be corrupt themselves and line their own pockets and Daniel is getting in the way.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-6.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6 </span></a><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then these presidents and satraps came by agreement to the king and said to him, "O King Darius, live for ever!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-7.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">7 </span></a><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">All the presidents of the kingdom, the prefects and the satraps, the counselors and the governors are agreed that the king should establish an ordinance and enforce an interdict, that whoever makes petition to any god or man for thirty days, except to you, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-8.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">8 </span></a><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, O king, establish the interdict and sign the document, so that it cannot be changed, according to the law of the Medes and the Persians, which cannot be revoked."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-9.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">9 </span></a><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Therefore King Darius signed the document and interdict.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, here is where it makes the most sense to me that this was the general of the army, not an actual King. King Cyrus was basically seen as a God and these conquered peoples that he was ruling over in the empire didn’t see Cyrus that way, so if Darius could make them worship Cyrus the king instead of their own deities for 30 days, that might be long enough to really please the king, to bring some unity to the conquered peoples, to bring some unifying structure to daily life, and he was told that ALL the presidents, the deputies and the satraps, the counsellors and the governors have agreed on this, WHICH WAS A LIE, because surely Daniel, being the best of the three presidents in the area did not agree. So if everyone agrees, this could be a great show off to Cyrus the king that he is unifying all the people in the Medo-Persian Empire under the banner of Babylon. So he does this. And Daniel knows he does this. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now here’s where things get interesting and convicting on multiple levels. As I worked on this sermon over the past month, I found myself unable to continue reading and writing often, because I needed to pray. I was convicted that I needed to pray more, not just more often, but more earnestly, more honestly, more thankfully, more specifically, more diligently, with more structure, and more consistently. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-10.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem; and he got down upon his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I think that Charles Spurgeon wrote a whole sermon on this one verse. I first notice what it doesn’t say. It doesn’t say that because of the decree, in order to show those fools what fools they are, he made a show of praying in defiance to the law. It doesn’t say that he hid his prayers so that no-one would catch him justifying this, that prayer is in your heart between you and God anyway, so no-one needs to even know that he is praying, he could keep his eyes open, while he is going about his business praying in his head and no-one would be able to catch him. How smart and crafty and cunning that would be.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I’ve had this type of thought before, when the mark of the Beast comes, why not just get it but not really mean it, so you can buy and sell and be able to help the other Christians who don’t get the mark? BECAUSE IT IS THE MARK OF THE BEAST! IT MEANS YOU BELONG TO SATAN! So, don’t go down that road, we don’t need to buy and sell with the world when that happens, we have each other. We’ll start a farm and catch rainwater and God will be for us so who can be against us. You see, Daniel didn’t have this crafty way of getting around it. He did what he had always been doing because it was the right thing to do before to pray to the one true God and so it’s not stubborn or contrarian to continue to do so… it is consistent, it is faithful, it is long-suffering. The world will change it’s rules over and over again so don’t be ruled by the rules of the world. Be ruled by your relationship with the Lord and His Word.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-11.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">11 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then these men came by agreement and found Daniel making petition and supplication before his God.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-12.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">12 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then they came near and said before the king, concerning the interdict, "O king! Did you not sign an interdict, that any man who makes petition to any god or man within thirty days except to you, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions?" The king answered, "The thing stands fast, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be revoked."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-13.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">13 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then they answered before the king, "That Daniel, who is one of the exiles from Judah, pays no heed to you, O king, or the interdict you have signed, but makes his petition three times a day."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-14.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">14 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then the king, when he heard these words, was much distressed, and set his mind to deliver Daniel; and he labored till the sun went down to rescue him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I think Darius is fascinating right here, he realized his mistake and he couldn’t take it back, he wanted to rescue Daniel to deliver him, but he couldn’t find a way. He was trying to do what he thought was good in the eyes of King Cyrus but now, this renowned advisor to kings who I think has really become a friend to Darius at this point, is going to be put to death because of his own foolishness.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-15.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">15 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then these men came by agreement to the king, and said to the king, "Know, O king, that it is a law of the Medes and Persians that no interdict or ordinance which the king establishes can be changed."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-16.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">16 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then the king commanded, and Daniel was brought and cast into the den of lions. The king said to Daniel, "May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!"</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-17.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">17 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And a stone was brought and laid upon the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet and with the signet of his lords, that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-18.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">18 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then the king went to his palace, and spent the night fasting; no diversions were brought to him, and sleep fled from him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-19.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">19 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then, at break of day, the king arose and went in haste to the den of lions.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There is a show of faith by Darius. Seeds are being planted in his heart by what Daniel is going through, because God will be Daniels’ judge. Darius is seeing that God is real and true and is hoping in the God of Daniel that he will be delivered from this. Darius has probably heard the stories of Daniel’s friends in the fiery furnace and Daniel’s interpretation of dreams and the miraculous saving that his God can do, and he is hoping, for Daniel’s sake, that he will witness a similar miracle. It reminds me of when we give a testimony and say God, do it again! And, He does it again and again. So, if you are in a lion’s den moment in your life or a fiery furnace moment in your life, know that God will do it again, it wasn’t just for Daniel it was for you. Maybe that’s why we’re talking about this today, because you needed to hear this and really believe this today. That God has a plan to bring you through this and bring you out on the other side. Here we go:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-20.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">20 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When he came near to the den where Daniel was, he cried out in a tone of anguish and said to Daniel, "O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?"</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-21.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">21 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then Daniel said to the king, "O king, live for ever!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-22.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">22 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">My God sent his angel and shut the lions' mouths, and they have not hurt me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no wrong."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-23.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">23 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then the king was exceedingly glad, and commanded that Daniel be taken up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no kind of hurt was found upon him, because he had trusted in his God.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Be blameless before God and the blame put on you by the rules of the world will have to teeth. We call it being saved for a reason. If you trust in God and accept Jesus Christ as your offering for the sins you have committed and live for Him… you are saved from everything the world can throw at you. You are now blameless before the only one who can actually judge you. God is your judge.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-24.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">24 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And the king commanded, and those men who had accused Daniel were brought and cast into the den of lions--they, their children, and their wives; and before they reached the bottom of the den the lions overpowered them and broke all their bones in pieces.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-25.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">25 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Then King Darius wrote to all the peoples, nations, and languages that dwell in all the earth: "Peace be multiplied to you.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-26.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">26 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I make a decree, that in all my royal dominion men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel, for he is the living God, enduring for ever; his kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion shall be to the end.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-27.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">27 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He delivers and rescues, he works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, he who has saved Daniel from the power of the lions."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/rsv/daniel/6-28.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: #1155cc; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">28 </span></a><span style="background-color: #d9d9d9; color: red; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 15pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">So this Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Have you heard of the concept that Jesus can be seen in every chapter of the Bible? Well here you go.</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 10pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22.5pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> A man without blame, faithful to God in all his ways, a man noted for prayer, was sent to his death because of the jealousy of those who wanted to prevent his exaltation.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22.5pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">He was condemned to death by the plotting of his enemies and the law of the land, and thrown into a stone room meant to be his tomb. </span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22.5pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">A stone was rolled over the opening. But in all its power and ferocity, death couldn’t touch him.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22.5pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">On a morning the stone was rolled away, he came out victoriously; he glorified God, and his enemies were judged.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #414042; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22.5pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">T</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">hat’s a pretty good story</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 10pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 22.5pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #414042; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">– the story of both </span><a href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Daniel+6&t=NKJV" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #004161; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Daniel 6</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #414042; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> and Jesus the Messiah.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now, can we really hear what the Lord is saying to us through this story? The beauty of what we do in sermons on Sunday morning is that each of us can hear a different thing in our heart. Maybe you heard, I need to pray more, more earnestly, more consistently, or maybe you need to approach your work as one working for the Lord, or maybe you are in the Lion’s Den over something right now and you need to have Faith that you will be delivered from this. Maybe you feel a Lion’s Den on the horizon and you need to steel yourself to just continue to do what is right, not defiance for the sake of defiance, and not hiding, but consistently following the Lord, not the rules of men, or maybe you caught something else, that’s one of the beautiful things about the Holy Spirit, but I pray that this story, which isn’t just a story, which was God’s plan for you to consider and ponder with me today has benefited you and blessed you today. As is our custom, if you need prayer for anything, we’d love to have you come up and we have people who want to pray with you up at the front.</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-20906491804413429062023-04-22T04:11:00.007-07:002023-04-22T04:11:47.746-07:00The Rooster Crowed. A Sermon on John 21<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rYP6lnNOTeSBTV99c-c78ZoBFnxZYGegy-obuoNqGTUYp_Yus4E-EKl_lYKP3AGXGJXp-ofwMTdsSqYYRajqdTGTuSDQnBRLFlQr8jj-hPtJGPObycPXdPI8KdTP-AS3Z_8Mtjnw8zvI3MbIWYIVJMRgxdf2jYImaUM5YuThh5b-l3fD3D1aD0V6/s912/PeterRooster.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="912" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rYP6lnNOTeSBTV99c-c78ZoBFnxZYGegy-obuoNqGTUYp_Yus4E-EKl_lYKP3AGXGJXp-ofwMTdsSqYYRajqdTGTuSDQnBRLFlQr8jj-hPtJGPObycPXdPI8KdTP-AS3Z_8Mtjnw8zvI3MbIWYIVJMRgxdf2jYImaUM5YuThh5b-l3fD3D1aD0V6/w498-h439/PeterRooster.jpeg" width="498" /></a></div></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">The rooster crowed.</span></h1><span id="docs-internal-guid-d6b513ce-7fff-186e-efc0-73d2f5b13d8a"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The world would say that when a Christian fails, it is evidence against God. The bible shows that a failing Christian isn’t finished. Jesus sees the failing and still has a plan for you! We’re going to finish the book of John today with a focus on Simon Peter. We’ve been through a lot with Simon Peter and the disciples throughout this series in John. Jesus said, follow me, to a fisherman after miraculously helping them get a huge catch of fish, when they had caught nothing all night.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus called him Peter, which means rock, and when Peter said that Jesus is the Christ, the son of the living God, Jesus said, on this rock will I build my church.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peter had failures and compared himself to the others and wanted to be the greatest among the disciples and was told get thee behind me satan.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peter witnessed with his own eyes and was part of many miracles, from the feeding of the five thousand to the healing of the paralyzed, the lepers, the blind, the bleeding, and even raising Lazarus from the dead.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peter had his feet washed by Jesus in the upper room and shared the first communion with Him and Peter told Jesus that he loved Him more than any of the others did. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As Jesus was brought to trial, tortured and murdered on the cross, Peter denied that he knew him three times before the rooster crowed just as Jesus foretold he would. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The rooster crowed.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He cut off a guy’s ear in the garden before Jesus was captured and Jesus stopped him. I would imagine over the next month, certain things would remind him of his failures, EVERY time he is in a garden[how could I be such a fool and cut that guy’s ear off? How did I not see what Jesus was talking about and what He was doing?], like EVERY MORNING when a rooster crows[Why did I deny that even knew him? I thought I was the one that loved him the most, that I would die for him not that I would abandon and disown him in his time of greatest need?], EVERY TIME he is around a campfire with people, which for him would likely be EVERY DAY[why did I say those things? Why was I so afraid?]. Are you reminded of your failures? I bet Peter was questioning whether he loved Jesus like he said he did, whether he was capable of doing any better than before, or would he always be a fool? When Jesus rose from the grave that first Easter morning, he appeared to his disciples multiple times and in multiple ways. The resurrected Jesus had defeated death itself.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, Peter still had a problem. Every time the rooster crowed he relived his failure. Jesus had returned but how could he return?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Have you failed? Perhaps you have failed. There is something that you know was wrong and you did it or something that you know was right and you didn’t do it. And, there is something that nags at you and reminds you of that failure.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peter denied Jesus at a charcoal fire as he sat and talked.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peter denied Jesus three times before the rooster crowed.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I think that these two things have reminded him of his denial every day since.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is where we finish the story written for us in the book of John. You see Peter is going to become the leader of the Apostles and will be featured prominently in the first 12 chapters of Acts being used by God to perform miracles and preach amazing sermons. So questions were rising amongst the new Christians which prompted John to write this, they were saying, wait a minute, how is this Peter the Peter that is in the story, because he seems like such a screw-up, and he denied Jesus at the end when it mattered most? Well John wants to show that Peter is forgiven, brought back in, and he shows us how you can be brought back from your failures too. So, that’s what we’re talking about today.</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 20pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 20pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“After these things”</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We’ve just experienced the last supper, with Jesus washing the disciples feet, including Judas, instituting the first Communion and predicting His betrayal by Judas, his denial by Peter, and his going away and returning. We’ve seen all these things come to be, He is arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane betrayed by Judas’ kiss, brought before Pontius Pilate by the Pharisees, Peter denies that he knows Him three times, Barabas is set free, Jesus is tortured, mocked and crucified, while forgiving one of the thieves on the cross next to Him saying “today I will see you in Paradise.” The prophecies in Isaiah are fulfilled in that no bones in his body are broken and blood and water poor from His side, pierced for our transgressions. THREE DAYS LATER HE RISES FROM THE DEAD and is seen by MANY WITNESSES. He appears to many disciples, expounds the scriptures concerning Himself. And now, it is a few days later maybe up to 30 days later. Peter has had a few days of walking past gardens, sitting at campfires, and morning rooster crows to haunt him of for failures… and they have no food, so they go fishing.</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 20pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 20pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Exposition</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 5pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">21 After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he showed himself in this way. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">2 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gathered there together were Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin,</span><a href="https://biblia.com/books/nrsv/Jn20.13#" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #005ec3; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">a</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">3 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Isn’t it interesting that this has happened before. The first time, Jesus came, asked them to follow Him, and told them that they would become fishers of men. Notice, they have gone back to the beginning. They seem stuck. They are hungry for natural food and it doesn’t mention them praying or seeking God for what they should do. They’ve gone back to their old lives. They go fishing for fish instead of men. </span><span style="color: #121212; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They are failures on so many levels, and it is morning so either the rooster has crowed or Peter is trying to stay out on the sea so he can’t hear it and be reminded of his failures.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">4 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">5 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus said to them, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Children, you have no fish, have you?”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> They answered him, “No.” </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">6 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He said to them, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">7 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on some clothes, for he was naked, and jumped into the sea. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">8 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards</span><a href="https://biblia.com/books/nrsv/Jn20.13#" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #005ec3; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">b</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> off.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So… Peter had gone back to the beginning and Jesus met him back there at the beginning. If you can be reminded of your failure, He can remind you of His victory. Jesus redoes the miracle that led to them following Him in the first place. Notice Peter’s excitement. The boat was a hundred yards out. He dove in and swam back to shore away from this huge catch of fish. Remember, he had no food, which is why he went fishing, and He wants to be near Jesus more. He longs for reconnection, to get past his failure.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">9 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wouldn’t this charcoal fire, like all the others remind him of his failure. He was standing by a charcoal fire when he denied that he knew Jesus and denied that he was a disciple.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">10 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus said to them, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">11 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them; and though there were so many, the net was not torn. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">12 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus said to them, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Come and have breakfast.”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">13 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">14 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I think that it is interesting that there was already fish and bread on the charcoal fire and Jesus asked them to bring some of what they had just caught as well. This would remind them of the miracle of feeding the 5 thousand… but also it would remind Peter of the fish that he just caught and how hungry he was to go back to his life of fishing. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In my bible, there is a little heading on this section. Jesus Restores Peter. I love that. This is what we are talking about in the final chapter of the final gospel written by the disciple whom Jesus loved. This is important. Be restored. You’ve failed. You are constantly reminded of your failures. What Jesus wants is to restore you. I think this was an important lesson that Jesus wanted to share with us before He ascended into heaven, but I think that it is also an important lesson that John wanted to share, because people were wondering if all these things happened as he was saying, why was Peter a leader amongst the Apostles, featured so prominently in the first 12 chapters of Acts?</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 18pt 0pt 5pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus and Peter</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">15 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Feed my lambs.”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are familiar with this story, Jesus is going to ask him three times and I want to highlight some things in how he asks and the multiple things that Jesus is doing here.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In this first asking: Do you love me, he adds “more than these?” There has been debate ever since over the meaning of this and I think the debate is a little silly because Jesus can mean multiple things at the same time.</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you love me more than these fish that you are so hungry for?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you love me more than these other disciples like you said you did at the Last Supper?</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you love me more than these patterns in your mind of being reminded of your failures every time you sit at a charcoal fire or hear a rooster crow?</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Another thing to highlight, Jesus uses the word agape for love here and Peter uses the word phileo. Agape is most often used for God’s unconditional and unending love and phileo is used for brotherly love, a strong bond between brothers who would do anything for one another. So in a way Jesus asks him, do you love me unconditionally the way that God the Father loves me and you? And Peter answers Him I love you with a brotherly love that is the closest to unconditional that a human can muster. And Jesus says, Feed my lambs. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We know that Jesus is saying in this phrase Feed my lambs, do the work of the ministry that is before you. If you love me, turn that love outward and do! Don’t just go fishing for yourself. But, he is also saying I forgive you for that first denial of me when I was being tried and tortured. I want you back. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">16 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A second time he said to him, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Simon son of John, do you love me?”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Tend my sheep.”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The second time, forgiving and restoring Peter from his failure in the second time that he had denied Jesus. Again, Jesus says agape and again Peter says phileos. But, what is the difference between feed my lambs and tend my sheep? Well I think that there was nuance to Peter in these moments that maybe we can’t know right now, but one possibility is that a lamb could be seen as a new Christian and this could be encouraging Peter about evangelism where tending sheep would be more about helping the converted followers to become mature in their knowledge of Christ through building them up and leading them into becoming fruitful… like in our church vision to bring people into a living, growing, and fruitful relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">17 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He said to him the third time, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Simon son of John, do you love me?”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Do you love me?”</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Feed my sheep.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This time, Jesus uses the word phileo, Simon son of John, do you love me with a brotherly affection that is as close to unconditional as a human can muster? Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you like my own brother, my own flesh and blood, whom I would do anything for. Then turn that outward and feed my sheep!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In this moment, Jesus restores Peter for that third denial that Peter had done at a charcoal fire while sitting here at a charcoal fire with His Lord. Peter will not be going back to a life of fishing, he will not be haunted by charcoal fires and roosters crowing, but truly he is going to begin the life of being a fisher of men. He will lead the apostles being filled with the Holy Spirit soon after in a ministry of bringing people into a living, growing, and fruitful relationship with Jesus Christ and His church. He will feed the sheep and tend the lambs.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">18 </span></span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.” </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.6em; vertical-align: super;">19 </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, </span><span style="color: #dd0000; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Follow me.”</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 18pt 0pt 5pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Recall that “Follow me.” is what Jesus also said to Him initially when he was chosen, after that first miracle catch of fish. Jesus has restored him back to the beginning. His sins have been separated from him as far as the east is from the west. The next time that the rooster crowed, Peter remembered this moment instead of his failures. He remembered Jesus Love and restoration instead of his guilt. His shame has been replaced with everlasting joy. Isaiah 61:7</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 20pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 20pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Conclusion</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Is there something that reminds you of your sin? </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Is there a rooster that crows for you and reminds you of when you denied your relationship with Christ? </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Is there a charcoal fire that when you sit at it, you can’t help but remember your failure?</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus wants to restore you back to the beginning. He wants to wipe that all away so that all that remains is your love for Him and if you love Him, you will go out and DO His Will, instead of wallowing in your own will. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Run to Him! </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Swim to Him that hundred yards!</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He will sit with you in that place that reminds you of failure and turn it into the place where it all begins for you by reminding you of your love for Him so that you can get back to Following Him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Let’s Pray.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-75600973964110568782023-04-22T04:09:00.000-07:002023-04-22T04:09:22.128-07:00Biographical Study on Barnabas<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0X-pAiCOnlAci8rP0OHNcgNCLvKzamVHgyjIv43cqyQAgG-zELHlC8mQJmSLzeuG7J2Nvt4SV9IQf4CorcrN3vl0-LVfsJrfNbf3l1O2kyq9Diz7Y1yUyFZgxKIZO0cyOxCj7tf2tARiFSYQYtygSOAhqRUTZnIy6TxZ2C4AiBJcEMN_upbr-nM3/s1024/Barnabas.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="909" height="477" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0X-pAiCOnlAci8rP0OHNcgNCLvKzamVHgyjIv43cqyQAgG-zELHlC8mQJmSLzeuG7J2Nvt4SV9IQf4CorcrN3vl0-LVfsJrfNbf3l1O2kyq9Diz7Y1yUyFZgxKIZO0cyOxCj7tf2tARiFSYQYtygSOAhqRUTZnIy6TxZ2C4AiBJcEMN_upbr-nM3/w423-h477/Barnabas.jpeg" width="423" /></a></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-0e27fbee-7fff-ad72-6e37-effbf7020e15"><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px; text-align: left;"><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Name:
Joses or Joseph [Nickname: Barnabas meaning son of encouragement or son of prophecy]</span></h2></li><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scripture References:</span></h2></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Also called JOSES A prophet</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_13.1" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 13:1</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> <b> </b><b>An apostle</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_14.14" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 14:14</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>A Levite who gave his possessions to be owned in common with other disciples</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_4.36-37" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 4:36-37</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, 37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Brings him to the apostles</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_9.25-27" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 9:25-27</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. 26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Accompanies Paul to Jerusalem</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_11.30" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 11:30</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Returns with Paul to Antioch (of Syria)</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_12.25" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 12:25</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Goes with Paul to Seleucia</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 13 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. 3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. 4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. ...</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> <b> </b><b>Goes with Paul to Iconium</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_14.1-7" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 14:1-7</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. 3 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles. ...</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Called Jupiter (Zeus)</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_14.12-18" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 14:12-18</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker. 13 Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people. 14 Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out, 15 And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: ...</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Goes to Derbe</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_14.20" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 14:20</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Is sent as an emissary to Jerusalem</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 15 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. 2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. 3 And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren. 4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them. ...</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Galatians_2.1-9" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Galatians 2:1-9</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. 2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. 3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: 4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: ...</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Disaffected toward Paul</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_15.36-39" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 15:36-39</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do. 37 And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark. 38 But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. 39 And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Is reconciled to Paul</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=1%20Corinthians_9.6" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 Corinthians 9:6</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> <b> </b><b>Piety of</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_11.24" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 11:24</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span> </span><span> </span><b>Devotion of, to Jesus</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://av1611.com/verseclick/gobible.php?p=Acts_15.26" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acts 15:26</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p></li></ul><ol start="3" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px; text-align: left;"><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">First Impression and Observations:</span></h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Barnabas is overshadowed by Paul because Paul was more of a mouthpiece, but it feels like Barnabas had a strength in him and a devotion to people, being called Son of Encouragement, because Barnabas is really a nickname, his real name being Joses. I think that the disagreement about John Mark is particularly intriguing because Barnabas is on the side of Grace, like he was for Paul upon Saul’s own conversion. I need to look at it more to check if they prayed and sought the Holy Spirit in the controversy over John Mark like they did when they were sent out together, it is interesting if there was a non-parallel and that perhaps led to the disagreement.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p></li><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Outline of Life:</span></h2></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Barnabas is born a Levite from Cyprus named Joses or Joseph.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sells property and gives 100% to the apostles.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The apostles nickname him Barnabas which means son of encouragement.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Finds Paul and invites him to join the ministry.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Serves as an elder in the Syrian Antioch Church.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Obey’s the Holy Spirit when called to missions.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reaches many NE Mediterranean cities with Paul.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Participates in the First Jerusalem Council.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Parts ways with Paul over disagreement on his cousin John Mark.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reaches other cities with John Mark.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: lower-alpha; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reconciles with Paul who then reconciles with John Mark.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p></li></ol><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">General Insights [Answers to Questions]:</span></h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Was Barnabas an apostle? </span><p></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He was not one of the original 12 apostles but he was referred to as an apostle in Acts 14:14. It is Church tradition that he was “First of the seventy disciples of our Lord.” Paul was also not one of the twelve, but has been seen as an apostle ever since, because an apostle is essentially one who is called to plant churches and oversee them.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why did God include Barnabas in the Bible?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">-To show the importance of encouragement and prophecy[Barnabas can also be interpreted son of Prophecy]. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">-He encouraged the 12 to accept Paul, then encouraged, trained, and mentored Paul for years, they were then the apostles to the gentiles and planted many churches, with many coming to Christ, writing half of the NT.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">-To show that the apostolic gift is still alive after the 12, implying that it is still alive today.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">-To show the reconciliation with John Mark, who then went on to write the Gospel of Mark.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Who wrote what we know about him?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Luke wrote most of what we know and Paul also included him in his letters saying that he was a good man and filled with the holy Spirit.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How did he treat other people? Did he use them, or serve them?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With the nickname son of encouragement and the stories about his life included in the bible, it seems like he was filled with Grace for people. He worked with Paul for years, planted churches, dealt with conflict in those churches and had Grace for John Mark and came alongside him encouraging Him as well. It seems like he had a servant heart through and through.</span></p><ol start="6" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px; text-align: left;"><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Character Qualities Defined</span></h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Supportive</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: providing encouragement or emotional help.</span><p></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unselfish</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: willing to put the needs or wishes of others before one’s own.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Loyal</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: giving or showing firm and constant support or allegiance to a person or institution.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mature</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: reaching an advanced stage of mental and emotional development.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humble</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: having or showing a modest or low estimate of one’s own importance.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bold</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: showing an ability to take risks; confident and courageous.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><ol start="7" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px; text-align: left;"><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bible Truths Illustrated in Life:</span></h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be encouraging: </span><p></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hebrews 10:24-25</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Strength</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 31:24</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Supportive</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Romans 15:2</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.”</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><ol start="8" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px; text-align: left;"><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Summary of Lessons Learned from Life: </span></h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">-There are going to be many difficult times in life and encouragement for others is a great decision to make. You could have a hand in the next Billy Graham, the next movement of God in your generation, or the coming to the Lord of thousands in the future. You don’t know what your encouragement and coming alongside people will bring when it is done for the Lord and not for pride.</span><p></p></li></ol><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">-Arguments between Christian leaders can have a great heavenly result even if, in the moment, they seem terrible.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">-The apostolic gift is still alive and well.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><ol start="9" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px; text-align: left;"><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Personal Application:</span></h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I need to come alongside people and encourage them. In our day, it is so easy to send an encouraging text and I don’t do it. This week, I will send an encouraging text to a person in our church each day, prayerfully considering how I can better come alongside them.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p></li><li aria-level="1" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Transferable Concepts:</span></h2><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Have you ever read in the Bible about Joseph the Levite from Cyprus? Well he is the one who believed in Paul when Paul wanted to become a Christian. Joseph had the nickname Barnabas which meant son of encouragement and he encouraged the 12 apostles to accept Paul. He then spent years encouraging Paul to become the apostle to the Gentiles that he became and encouraged every church they planted together. Later on when Paul and Barnabas disagreed over John Mark, Barnabas came alongside John Mark and encouraged him for years of ministry until he became the Mark who wrote one of the Gospels. This Joseph, a levite from Cyprus, through encouragement, influenced half the writing of the New Testament.</span><p></p></li></ol><br /><br /><br /></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-79422930113576504852023-03-03T10:51:00.001-08:002023-03-03T10:51:00.217-08:00Abigail Biblical Character Study<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-UKlvgfe-FxDE2z-epMHKm_iZv3vniuiI13V2C2Zy0XOfD5FqDCuqplWEtp0hbyUzmLWOg7OZay86EAW7PA5dZleO0JQvnz6ttCv7OTOzPxK_B5OsNsX4bLogW7v0k2XPk9mmK8Y2mGZ62-VZHhsRBg4nloWnMT5yK8S2iQJ6Wq8teZPnsOuHQ7_/s1588/Abigail_and_David_-_Frans_Pourbus.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1588" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-UKlvgfe-FxDE2z-epMHKm_iZv3vniuiI13V2C2Zy0XOfD5FqDCuqplWEtp0hbyUzmLWOg7OZay86EAW7PA5dZleO0JQvnz6ttCv7OTOzPxK_B5OsNsX4bLogW7v0k2XPk9mmK8Y2mGZ62-VZHhsRBg4nloWnMT5yK8S2iQJ6Wq8teZPnsOuHQ7_/w508-h383/Abigail_and_David_-_Frans_Pourbus.jpg" width="508" /></a></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-752bb3bc-7fff-2025-9db3-2f6d68ce1511"><h4><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scripture References</span></h4><p></p><p role="presentation" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><ul><li>1 Samuel 25</li></ul></span><h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">First Impression and Observations</span></span></h1><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Abigail(meaning "My Father's Joy"), the wife of Nabal, was a beautiful and sensible woman (the only woman in the Hebrew bible to mentioned as being both). She gave generously to David and his army and spoke eloquently including a prophetic word that David would become king. This was enough to appease David and his army so they wouldn't slaughter her husband and her family. When her husband died, she married David and bore a son.</span></span></span></div><div><h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Outline of Life</span></span></h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Nabal was a very wealthy herdsman who offended David by not welcoming his servants and sending them away.</li><li>David's anger was roused because he and his army had been protecting Nabal.</li><li>David gathered his army to destroy Nabal and all his holdings.</li><li>Abigail gathered food and drink and brought them to meet David without Nabal knowing.</li><li>Abigail pleaded with David eloquently and prophesied that he would become king.</li><li>David was appeased and blessed her.</li><li>Abigail returned to a drunken Nabal, and when he sobered up, told him what happened.</li><li>Nabal died, perhaps of a heart attack at hearing these things.</li><li>Later, when David heard of Nabal's death, he sent for Abigail to become his wife although he was already married to Michal.</li><li>She accepted and bore him a son.</li><li>David took care of her and protected her for the rest of her life.</li></ol></div></span></span><h1><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">General Insights [Answers to Questions]</span></span></span></h1><span><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/questions-to-ask-during-biographical.html" style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;" target="_blank">Questions to ask in a Biographical Character Study</a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Why do you think God allowed this person to be mentioned in the Bible? </b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #292929; font-family: Arial;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The story of Abigail shows the impulsiveness of David and that he can be reasoned with but that his Achilles Heal is a beautiful woman. She does well to eloquently convince him to turn away from his plan to shed innocent blood and glorifies God in the process. Later he will get himself deep into sin with Bathsheeba and shed innocent blood which is a disgrace to God. In that sin against God, he is also sinning against Abigail.</span></span></div><div><span><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>What can you discover about his family and ancestry?</b></span></span></div><div><span>Abigail's husband Nabal is called a Calebite which probably means that he is a descendant of Caleb, one of the spies that Moses sent to recon the land of Canaan. This clan was part of the tribe of Judah and flourished in wealth in the conquest of Canaan.<span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Character Qualities Defined</span></span></h1></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Courage - the ability to do something that frightens you.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Eloquence - fluent or persuasive speaking or writing.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Generosity - the quality of being kind and generous.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Truthfulness - the fact of being true; truth.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sensible - possessing or displaying prudence.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Beautiful - pleasing the senses or mind aesthetically.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Observant - quick to notice things.</span></span></li></ul></div><div><h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bible Truths Illustrated in Life</span></span></h1></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Be a peacemaker:</b></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Matthew 5:9 "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Be sensible:</b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Proverbs 17:24 "A discerning person keeps wisdom in view, but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth."</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Be shrewd but innocent:</b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Matthew 10:16 "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves."</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Be gentle when dealing with people:</b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Proverbs 15:1 "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."</span></span></div><div><h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Summary of Lessons Learned from Life</span></span></h1></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Don't let fear hold you back. Move forward in God's courage and wisdom.</span></span></span></li><li><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Be humble and kind, seek peace with those around you.</span></span></span></li><li><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our words and actions are powerful. Look to the bigger picture.</span></span></span></li><li><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A true warrior is loyal and faithful, thinking of others before themselves.</span></span></span></li><li><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Remember, God will fight for you. You are never alone</span></span></span></li></ol></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/133-biblical-character-studies.html" target="_blank">Check out the rest of my Biblical Character Studies Here</a><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-5114842057630575312023-02-27T05:57:00.001-08:002023-02-27T05:57:00.239-08:00Sermon: Miracle of the Message: Hebrews 1<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWK4VGR2pLsAzmHAuFkQmiYXLiZRYKKlM_QptbH0Z085dZKJxoBZ1i1cxEAsGxwHXNzu0iI6HY44HoXMprqty-k_Ec93v0C4bZJdjgp2DrFHvX6jOJmxNnxxN4VDX-bL35JaUI8xmAe6vVvpYFO2q7vT30tgRQ_vVI85UKReEpQHMlfdb5-WcjCmo/s600/I-Love-Jesus.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWK4VGR2pLsAzmHAuFkQmiYXLiZRYKKlM_QptbH0Z085dZKJxoBZ1i1cxEAsGxwHXNzu0iI6HY44HoXMprqty-k_Ec93v0C4bZJdjgp2DrFHvX6jOJmxNnxxN4VDX-bL35JaUI8xmAe6vVvpYFO2q7vT30tgRQ_vVI85UKReEpQHMlfdb5-WcjCmo/w458-h458/I-Love-Jesus.png" width="458" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 20pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Open up to the Book of Hebrews Chapter 1</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="316" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/o9zy0ITd3n0" width="477" youtube-src-id="o9zy0ITd3n0"></iframe></div><p></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-ed7700e9-7fff-2d5a-97df-1b0ebf249ac7"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thesis: The Miracle of the Message is that JESUS Himself is the Message of God to your life.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Let’s begin with a question. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you want to hear God speak? </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Have you ever said in a moment of desperation, “O God, if you would only speak! If I could only hear your voice. If you would only talk to me and not be so silent!” I have said those words. And I have found the Lord patient with me and tender in his rebukes. One of the rebukes I have heard is found in the beginning of Hebrews chapter 1. What these verses teach very loudly and plainly is that </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">God is not silent.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> God is not withdrawn and uncommunicative.</span></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 20pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 20pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hebrews</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So I think that Apollos wrote the book of Hebrews, He was really intelligent, well-spoken and educated, he reasoned from the Old Testament expertly and the book doesn’t have the characteristic writing style of word-usage of the Apostle Paul… but it doesn’t matter who wrote the book of Hebrews and I think that’s why we can’t know for sure who wrote it because the point of the writing is that Jesus is the Message from God. The Holy Spirit who inspired the authors to write the scripture and who inspires you and I to understand it and apply it has one job, transmit Jesus to your heart, because He is The Message from God.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Back in the day they believed that any message from God, to the angels, to the prophets, to everyone else so they had a super lofty view of angels super high view of the prophets right because they were the ones that communicated on god's behalf and the author of Hebrews is like NO! Jesus is far superior to the angels and the prophets thats chapter one,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And in</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">hebrews chapter 13 Jesus never changes </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">so let’s take a spotlight and hold it squarely on Jesus no higher view of Jesus than what you'll find in the first four verses of Hebrews here we go</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hebrews 1</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. 4 So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This teaches us that God has spoken in </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">two phases</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">before the coming of the Son of God into the world</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and t</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">hrough the Son of God’s coming into the world</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Read them again: “God, after he spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in his Son.” </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Consider these two phases of God’s communication for a moment.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Before the coming of the Son it says God spoke “in the prophets in many portions [or many times or many places] and in many ways.” Notice three crucial things.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. God Spoke</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He was not silent. God communicates. He means to connect with us. He is not an idea to be thought about. He is a person to be listened to and understood and enjoyed and obeyed. He is a speaking person. There is no more important fact than this: There is a God who speaks that we might know him and love him and live in joyful obedience to him. God spoke. God spoke.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. “In the Prophets” or by the Prophets</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This means that God’s typical way of communicating with his people as a whole was by inspiring human spokesmen as go-betweens. It was not God’s way to write his word in the sky, or to shout it from mountains for all to hear, or to whisper it one by one in the heart of every Israelite. His usual way was to call a prophet and then inspire the prophet to speak and to write to the people what God wanted said.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“God is not silent. God is not withdrawn and uncommunicative.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But don’t miss what this text says: When God spoke to the fathers in the prophets, God spoke to the fathers! When the fathers heard and understood the prophets, they heard God speaking. God uses chosen, inspired human instruments to speak to the fathers. But it is God speaking to the fathers when the prophets speak and write. God spoke to the Fathers by the prophets.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. “In Many Portions and in Many Ways”</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is where I get the assurance that God is not withdrawn and uncommunicative. This verse stresses the lavish variety of God’s communication. In “many portions [or times or places] and many ways!” This is a great comfort and encouragement. Do you know why? Because we all know that some of those portions and ways are hard to understand. If God had only spoken in one portion or one way and we couldn’t get it, we would be very frustrated and at a great disadvantage. But God has not done it that way. He has spoken in many places and times and portions and in many ways.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So if you have difficulty in grasping his word in Leviticus, you may hear him clearly in Proverbs. If you don’t see the point clearly in Zechariah, you may still be deeply moved by the message of Jonah. If you don’t catch on yet to the strange visions in Ezekiel, you may be sustained by the sufferings of Job. The point is this: God means to provide a lot of possibilities in the Old Testament where you can hear him. He has spoken and he is not silent. He is not withdrawn and uncommunicative. There are many places and many ways that he has spoken by the prophets.</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Better Now and Greater Than Before</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But there’s more. Hebrews says that God spoke in </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">two phases</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">one before the coming of the Son of God into the world</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, and </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">one through the Son’s coming into the world</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Verse 2a: “In these last days [God] has spoken to us in his Son.”</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now the point here is that if God seemed ready and eager to communicate himself in the Old Testament, how much more is he ready to communicate in the sending of his Son! What the writer wants us to see is that this latest communication from God is greater and better than all those portions and ways in days of old. So when I complain to God, “Lord, I want to hear you. Would you speak to me? I need to hear your voice” is my complaint well placed? What would God’s response be in view of these words?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">JESUS!!!! I SENT MY SON!!!! TO NOT ONLY SPEAK BUT TO SHOW YOU!!!!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Let’s look at three ways that the speaking of God in the Son in these last days is better than God’s speaking of old.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. By His Son</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">God has now spoken not just by prophets, but by his Son. Verses 1 and 2 say,</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">God, after he spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in his Son.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Notice it does not say, “Formerly God spoke by prophets and in these last days he has spoken by apostles.” That’s true. And you can see their crucial role in Hebrews 2:3–4. But the point here is that in these last days God has done something very different: to communicate, he sent his Son.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">NOT JUST A PROPHET</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is different. The Son of God is not just a prophet. Some thought he was just a prophet (John 9:17), but he was not a mere prophet. Here Islam makes a great mistake about Jesus. Jesus is not only a prophet like Moses or Isaiah. And he is far above Mohammed in glory. He is the Son of God. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And that means he is God. The son of Andrew is human like Andrew. And the Son of God is divine like God.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“There is a God who speaks that we might know him, love him, and live in joyful obedience to him.”</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus is the unique image of God’s divine glory and bears the very stamp of his divine nature. He is not a mere prophet. The whole point here is to show that he is superior to the prophets. He is the eternally begotten Son, without beginning and without end. (Hebrews 7:3).</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In other words, God has not just spoken by inspiring prophets and apostles. He has spoken by coming to us in the person of his Son. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Who Jesus was, what he said, and what he accomplished by dying and rising from the dead is God’s Word to us. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is what God has said, and what we should hear — what we need to listen to far more earnestly than we do.</span></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HAVE I HEARD THE WORD OF GOD IN THE PERSON OF JESUS?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every time I begin to complain that God is silent and that I need God to speak to me — at that moment I should stop and ask: Have I heard this word? Is this word from God — spoken in the Son of God — so short and simple that I have finished with it, and now I need more — another word?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Have I really heard the word of God in the person and the teaching and the work of the Son? Is the aching of my soul and the confusion of my mind really owing to the fact that I have exhausted hearing this word and need another word? And so I feel another gracious rebuke to my unperceptive and presumptuous ears.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So the first way that the speaking of God is better in these last days than in the prophets of old is that he has now spoken in the coming of his Son.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. The Son Appointed Heir of All Things</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The second way that the speaking of God in these last days is better than in the former days is that the Son in whom he speaks has been appointed heir of all things.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HE CAN MAKE GOOD ON HIS PROMISES</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 2: “In these last days [God] has spoken to us in his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things.”</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Now, why does the author add this? Because he wants us to dwell on the fact that the one we listen to, Jesus, the Son of God, can make good in the end on all that he promises. Why? Because he is the heir of all things. In the end he will have at his disposal all things. He will have in subjection to him all that is. The writer wants us to think about this.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What does it mean to listen to a Spokesman for God who in the end will have under his complete control and ownership all things (all land, all water, all fire, all wind, all energy, all natural resources, all nations, all military might, all buildings, all bacteria and viruses, all angels, all demons, all spiritual and material beings except God the Father)? Well, it means that he can make good on all his promises.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If he says, “Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5), then he can make good on that promise, because he will own the earth and have it under his control. If he says, “Nothing in all creation will separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:39), then he can make good on that promise because he will own all creation and have it under his control. If he says, “There shall no longer be death or mourning or crying or pain any more” (Revelation 21:1), he can make good on that promise because he will own life and death and rule unhindered over all that causes pain and crying.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When you listen to the Son of God, it is different from listening to a prophet. God will make good on the word of the prophets. But the Son will make good on his own word.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">WHY MENTION “HEIR” BEFORE CREATION?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I wonder if you have ever asked in verse 2 why the Son is described first as the “heir of all things” and second as the one “through whom God made the world?” Why not say first that he is Creator of all things, and second that he is heir of all things? Here’s my suggestion: how the story ends is more important than how the story begins, but you can’t understand the true ending without understanding the beginning.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In other words, what is ultimately at stake in my life (and your life) is how the future goes, not how the past went. If I have a Savior who is heir of all things and makes everything serve my everlasting joy, then the past is important only to the degree that it helps me understand that and believe that and live in the truth of that. But it’s the future where I will live — or not.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But the fact is, we cannot understand Jesus’s being appointed heir of all things until we understand that all things were made through him. Until you know this, you might say, “Oh, Jesus was a man like us and was chosen to be exalted to some special role as heir — after all it says, he was “appointed” heir! So if he was “appointed” heir, then maybe he was not always heir and he was really adopted as a Son of God rather than being the Son of God eternally. That would be a huge mistake.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So the writer follows his first and primary statement that the Son is “the heir of all things” with the statement that “through him God made the world.” This means at least two things: (1) the Son existed before he came to earth in the person of Jesus of Nazareth; (2) the Son already owned the universe by virtue of creating it with the Father. In fact verse 3 says, “he upholds all things by the word of his power.” (See also verses 10–12.)</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HOW IS HE “APPOINTED” HEIR?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So he created all and he upholds all. How then is he “appointed” heir of all? I think the answer is that, for now, much of his creation is in rebellion against him; and God has ordained that, because of the Son’s faithful obedience and death and resurrection, these enemies will one day be subdued and all creation will bow down and acknowledge that they are ruled and owned by Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:12–13 says this:</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, [Christ] sat down at the right hand of God, waiting from that time onward until his enemies be made a footstool for his feet.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In other words, Christ took his seat as the active ruling heir of all things by virtue of his death and resurrection. He not only has the right to be the heir of all things because he made all things, but also because he defeated his enemies and purchased a lost people from sin and death through his death.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So we have double reason to give heed to a Son of God who is heir of all things: he is heir in one sense because he made all things; and he is appointed heir in another sense because he died and rose again to redeem for himself a people and to destroy sin and death and Satan and everything that could make his people miserable.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He can make good on his word because he is God, because he is Creator, and because he is the Triumphant Heir over all evil and misery. This is a better word than anything the prophets ever spoke in many ways in the Old Testament.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This leaves one last thing to say this morning about how superior God’s speaking in the Son is over his speaking of old in the prophets.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. No Third Phase of Speaking</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This word of God in his Son is so decisive and so full that there will be no third phase of God’s speaking in history.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That is what it means when it says in verse 2: “in these last days [God] has spoken to us in his Son.” The last days begin with the coming of the Son into the world. We have been living in the last days since the days of Christ — that is, the last days of history as we know it before the final and full establishment of the kingdom of God.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The last days of a war are the days after the decisive battle has been fought or the decisive bomb has been dropped. Everyone knows who will win. It is only a matter of time. The resistance may go on for some years, but the mortal blow has been struck to the enemy and the high ground has been captured. The days of fighting that remain are the last days of the war.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Jesus is not only a prophet. He is the Son of God.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So it is since the Son of God came into the world. In his death and resurrection, the decisive battle with sin and death and hell have been fought and won. It is only a matter of time. These are the last days bringing his decisive triumph to all the peoples of the earth.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But the point for the writer of Hebrews is this: The word that God spoke by his Son is the decisive word. It will not be followed in this age by any greater word or replacement word. This is the Word of God — the person of Jesus, the teaching of Jesus, and the work of Jesus.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I complain that I don’t hear the words of God, when I feel a desire to hear the voice of God, and get frustrated that he does not speak in ways that I may crave, what am I really saying? Am I really saying that I have exhausted this final decisive word revealed to me so fully in the New Testament? Have I really exhausted this word? Has it become so much a part of me that it has shaped my very being and given me life and guidance?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Or have I treated it lightly — skimmed it like a newspaper, dipped in like a taste tester — and then decided I wanted something different, something more? This is what I fear I am guilty of more than I wish to admit. God is calling us to hear his final decisive word — to meditate on it and study it and memorize it and linger over it and soak in it until it saturates us to the center of our being.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you ask, What about the ministry of the Holy Spirit today, for this I direct your attention to Hebrews 2:3–4. In a word, it is the passion of the Holy Spirit to focus all our attention and all our affection on this final and decisive Word spoken in the Son of God for these last days. That is his great work, and the aim of all his gifts.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Miracle of the Message is that JESUS Himself is the Message of God to your life.</span></p><div></div></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-42254018151880437022023-02-24T15:28:00.008-08:002023-08-31T17:04:24.209-07:00133 Biblical Character Studies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4wzpq8uD4khwXI6FTpi2RZ85jnQoynEIGDlLEXdm_-KwmRLMu86ShGflaXc5kL3Nm1xg6pb94uDt4pmiej5VmoELqfzMl9g2QrnxjTT5cArSPvbEI-1X9lQhE3YWO5qZJWSTyidqvKxcrOrY76nUqvPWBgKp4HOvKY1aofr_QxCwODhkbcvczs9e/s1200/Bible%20Characters.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4wzpq8uD4khwXI6FTpi2RZ85jnQoynEIGDlLEXdm_-KwmRLMu86ShGflaXc5kL3Nm1xg6pb94uDt4pmiej5VmoELqfzMl9g2QrnxjTT5cArSPvbEI-1X9lQhE3YWO5qZJWSTyidqvKxcrOrY76nUqvPWBgKp4HOvKY1aofr_QxCwODhkbcvczs9e/w501-h282/Bible%20Characters.jpeg" width="501" /></a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">Character Study Challenge</h1>Studying the lives of bible characters can be a great way to add method to the madness of bible study. I will be reteaching a class on Bible Study Methods at my church starting next month and I love a good challenge. As part of my personal bible study over the next few months, I want to learn about biblical characters and apply what I learn... so I say go big or go home. I plan to do 133 biblical biographical character studies and we'll see how long that will take... posted here for your reading and commenting pleasure. I've done many word studies in the past and am continuing to do so with <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/p/fruits-of-spirit.html">my fruits of the spirit study</a>. I've also studied the <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/p/page-tester.html" target="_blank">biblical context of praise and worship songs in a 30 day challenge.</a><div><br /></div><div>Subscribe to the email thingy over on the side of the pate and it will send new posts to your email whenever I write them. If you would like to study along with me, here is the order I will be researching the characters and I will periodically update this list to be links to the corresponding posts.<h1 style="text-align: left;">What I'll Be Doing</h1><div>I will be using the <a href="https://a.co/d/hwWieKX" target="_blank">Rick Warren Bible Study Methods</a> book as a reference [that's an amazon link if you're interested]. And here is a <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/character-study-template.html" target="_blank">nifty template you can copy</a> if you are following along with your own studies.</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/abraham-biblical-character-study.html" target="_blank">Abraham</a></li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/03/abigail-biblical-character-study.html" target="_blank">Abigail</a></li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/08/a-pattern-and-promise-sermon-on-daniel.html">Daniel [sermon]</a></li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/09/abishag-in-bible-who-was-she.html">Abishag</a></li><li>David</li><li>Anna</li><li>Elijah</li><li>Elisha</li><li>Bathsheba</li><li>Ezekiel</li><li>Ezra</li><li>Deborah</li><li>Ezra</li><li>Isaiah</li><li>Delilah</li><li>Isaac</li><li>Jacob</li><li>Dinah</li><li>Jeremiah</li><li>John [Apostle]</li><li>Dorcas</li><li>Joshua</li><li>Moses</li><li>Elizabeth</li><li>Nehemiah</li><li>Paul</li><li>Peter</li><li>Esther</li><li>Pharaoh</li><li>Samson</li><li>Samuel</li><li>Eunice</li><li>Saul [OT]</li><li>Solomon</li><li>Aaron</li><li>Abel</li><li>Eve</li><li>Abimelech</li><li>Abner</li><li>Absalom</li><li>Achan</li><li>Hagar</li><li>Adam</li><li>Ahab</li><li>Ahithophel</li><li>Amos</li><li>Hannah</li><li>Ananias</li><li>Andrew</li><li>Apollos</li><li>Aquila</li><li>Jezebel</li><li>Asa</li><li>Balaam</li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/04/biographical-study-on-barnabas.html" target="_blank">Barnabas</a></li><li>Barzillai</li><li>Caiaphas</li><li>Jochabed</li><li>Caleb</li><li>Eli</li><li>Esau</li><li>Gehazi</li><li>Leah</li><li>Gideon</li><li>Habakkuk</li><li>Haggai</li><li>Haman</li><li>Lydia</li><li>Herod</li><li>Hezekiah</li><li>Hosea</li><li>Jabez</li><li>Martha</li><li>James</li><li>Jehoshaphat</li><li>Jeroboam</li><li>Mary [Jesus' Mother]</li><li>Joab</li><li>Job</li><li>John the Baptist</li><li>Jonah</li><li>Mary Magdalene</li><li>Jonathan</li><li>Judas Iscariot</li><li>Laban</li><li>Lazarus</li><li>Lot</li><li>Luke</li><li>Mary of Bethany</li><li>Mark</li><li>Matthew</li><li>Melchizedek</li><li>Mephibosheth</li><li>Mordecai</li><li>Michal</li><li>Naaman</li><li>Nathan</li><li>Noah</li><li>Bartholomew</li><li>Philemon</li><li>Miriam</li><li>Philip</li><li>Pontius Pilate</li><li>Rehoboam</li><li>Shamgar</li><li>Silas</li><li>Naomi</li><li>Stephen</li><li>Timothy</li><li>Titus</li><li>Thomas</li><li>Simon the Zealot</li><li>Judas the Greater</li><li>Priscilla</li><li>Tychicus</li><li>The Woman at the Well</li><li>Uzziah</li><li>Zechariah</li><li>Queen of Sheba</li><li>Zedekiah</li><li>Zephaniah</li><li>Rachel</li><li>Zerubbabel</li><li>Enoch</li><li>Rahab</li><li>Rebekah</li><li>Ruth</li><li>Sapphira</li><li>Sarah</li><li>The Shunammite</li><li>Vashti</li><li>Zipporah</li><li>Goliath</li></ol></div></div>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-73083001576611548442023-02-24T15:28:00.004-08:002023-02-24T15:44:38.676-08:00Biblical Biographical Character Study Template<h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Biblical Name or Picture</span></h1><span id="docs-internal-guid-752bb3bc-7fff-2025-9db3-2f6d68ce1511"><p role="presentation" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scripture References</span></h4><p></p><p role="presentation" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><br /></li></ul><p></p><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">First Impression and Observations</span></span></h1><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Outline of Life</span></span></h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></span></div><br /><br /></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span><span><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">General Insights [Answers to Questions]</span></span></span></h1><span><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/questions-to-ask-during-biographical.html" style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;" target="_blank">Questions to ask in a Biographical Character Study</a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Character Qualities Defined</span></span></h1></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bible Truths Illustrated in Life</span></span></h1></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Summary of Lessons Learned from Life</span></span></h1></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Personal Application[s]</span></span></h1></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span></span></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Transferable Concepts</span></span></h1></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/133-biblical-character-studies.html" target="_blank">Check out the rest of my Biblical Character Studies Here</a><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span></span></span><br /></span></div>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-15445105275482060832023-02-24T15:27:00.007-08:002023-02-24T15:45:01.607-08:00Abraham Biblical Character Study<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEqy4CZMa3OnX8fwatAFQYDHNUvBrXuN71PVaTbGfI28pHQXasyo57C_4YLPXlr9g0SrpmzD19hbF7F_e1ej5wFfMw31f6e4_G6IIxuK0JTsTEHqRStP_EnouKoiLNNX1gBfT5ff1YsfytFIq2qTMz1ViyAIefvwXk9MhtkX8PNqzat25ziInGCaD/s1024/005-jvh-abraham.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEqy4CZMa3OnX8fwatAFQYDHNUvBrXuN71PVaTbGfI28pHQXasyo57C_4YLPXlr9g0SrpmzD19hbF7F_e1ej5wFfMw31f6e4_G6IIxuK0JTsTEHqRStP_EnouKoiLNNX1gBfT5ff1YsfytFIq2qTMz1ViyAIefvwXk9MhtkX8PNqzat25ziInGCaD/w509-h382/005-jvh-abraham.jpg" width="509" /></a></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-752bb3bc-7fff-2025-9db3-2f6d68ce1511"><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scripture References</span></h1><p></p><p role="presentation" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><ul><li>Genesis 17-50</li><li>Exodus 2-6, 32-33</li><li>Leviticus 26:42</li><li>Numbers 32.11</li><li>Deuteronomy 1:8, 6:10, 9:5, 9:27, 29:13, 30:20, 34:4</li><li>Joshua 24:2-3</li><li>1 Kings 18:36</li><li>2 Kings 13:23</li><li>1 Chronicles 1:27-34, 16:16, 29:18</li><li>2 Chronicles 20:7, 30:6</li><li>Nehemiah 9:7</li><li>Psalm 47:9, 105:6, 105:9,105:42</li><li>Isaiah 29:22, 41:8, 51:2, 63:16</li><li>Jeremiah 33:26</li><li>Ezekiel 33:24</li><li>Micah 7:20</li><li>Matthew 1:1-2, 1:17, 3:9, 8:11, 22:32</li><li>Mark 12:26</li><li>Luke 1:55, 1:73, 3:8. 3:34, 13:16, 13:28, 16:22-30, 19:9, 20:37</li><li>John 8:33-58</li><li>Acts 3:13, 3:25, 7:2-32, 13:26</li><li>Romans 4:1-18, 9:7-8, 11:1</li><li>2 Corinthians 11:22</li><li>Galatians 3:6-4:22</li><li>Hebrews 2:16, 6:13-15, 7:1-10, 11:8-19</li><li>James 2:21-23</li><li>1 Peter 3:6</li></ul></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">First Impression and Observations</span></span></h1><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Abraham's life really began with his covenant with the lord at the age of 99. He wasn't perfect but he was obedient. He was concerned with his descendants and what would come after him but was willing to sacrifice it all when asked to by the Lord. He was gracious to people and generous, which made people also be generous in return to him. He was honest and wasn't afraid to promise and hold himself to that promise. He argued with the Lord and reasoned with angels pleading with them. Abraham's life was so central to the covenant between God and His people the Israelites that he is used as an example throughout the rest of the bible of what it means to be righteous and deal fairly.</span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Outline of Life</span></span></h1><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>At the age of 99, Abram is given the name Abraham by the Lord and chosen to become a great nation and blessed with a covenant.</li><li>Abraham is promised a son, Isaac, and pleads for his son Ishmael, and the Lord tells him Ishmael will be blessed too. They were all circumcised that day.</li><li>He pleads for Sodom to not be destroyed if anyone righteous is found in it.</li><li>Abraham moved into the Negev, between Kadesh and Shur, lying that Sarah was his sister and Abimelek king of Gerar took her as his wife.</li><li>Abimelek hears from the Lord that she is married, Abraham explains that she technically is his sister, and they had a pact that they would say this.</li><li>Abimelek blesses them with 1000 shekels of silver and Abraham prayed for Abimelek and his household and they were healed and could have children again.</li><li>Sarah bore a son, Isaac, who was circumcised. Ishmael mocked Isaac at a feast and Sarah and Abraham sent Hagar and Ishmael away.</li><li>He had a dispute over a well and made an agreement with Abimelek that it was his. He called the place Beersheba.</li><li>Abraham stayed in the land of the Philistines for a long time.</li><li>The Lord told Abraham to sacrifice Isaac.</li><li>Abraham prepared to do it, traveled to the place, and bound his son to do it. But the angel of the Lord stopped him and provided him a ram to sacrifice. He called that place "The Lord Will Provide."</li><li>The Lord promises him that all will be blessed through him because he obeyed the Lord.</li><li>He returned to Beersheba and his descendants greatly increased.</li><li>Sarah died in Canaan and Abraham mourned and bought and buried her in Ephron's field.</li><li>He made his servant swear not to get a Canaanite wife for his son, but to get a wife from his native land to his own relatives.</li><li>Abraham took another wife, Keturah, and had many more descendants through her.</li><li>He left everything he owned to Isaac and died at the age of 175.</li><li>He was buried next to his wife Sarah.</li><li>God blessed his son Isaac.</li></ol></div></span></span><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">General Insights [Answers to Questions]</span></span></h1><span><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/questions-to-ask-during-biographical.html" style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;" target="_blank">Questions to ask in a Biographical Character Study</a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">Was he eager to do God’s will, willingly and without question?</span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;">I find it really interesting in Genesis 17-25 that Abraham not only disagrees with the Lord and pleads with Him but even laughs at Him when told Sarah will have a son. Throughout his life he becomes more and more willing to obey without question but that takes time. We have to have experience with God to build wisdom and tame our tongue. It is ok and even a good thing to argue with the Lord, plead with Him, and reason with Him about what He is saying, but in the end He wins, you only win by agreeing with Him.</span></span></div><div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Character Qualities Defined</span></span></h1></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">obedience - compliance with an order, request, or law or submission to another's authority.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">fairness - impartial and just treatment or behavior without favoritism or discrimination.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">righteousness - the quality of being morally right and justifiable.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">generosity - the quality of being kind and showing a readiness to give more of something, as money or time, than is strictly necessary or expected.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">honesty - the quality of being free of deceit and untruthfulness; sincere.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">graciousness - courteous, kind and pleasant.</span></span></li></ul></div><div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bible Truths Illustrated in Life</span></span></h1></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are saved by faith, not by works
Romans 4:3 - Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness... And to the one who does not work but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our works reveal the genuineness of our faith
James 1:22 - But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
James 2:17 - So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.</span></span></li></ol></div><div><h4><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-large; white-space: pre-wrap;">Summary of Lessons Learned from Life</span></span></h4></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Patience in a trial: Abraham and Sarah's example of seeking the Lord when they couldn't have a child can instruct us and encourage us all. He will speak to you in His timing and not your timing.</span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">God tests us: Even the things that God gives you can be cherished too much and He always want you to be willing to give them up for Him.</span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">God fulfills His promises in Jesus: God is faithful and true and will always fulfill His promises. You can count on Him when you can't count on anything else.</span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/133-biblical-character-studies.html" target="_blank">Check out the rest of my Biblical Character Studies Here</a><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-51791096340342219392023-02-24T15:27:00.006-08:002023-02-24T15:27:58.562-08:00Questions to Ask During a Biographical Character Study<div style="text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-1c8042b6-7fff-f2c5-856f-17b12f9c4404"><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out my <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2023/02/133-biblical-character-studies.html" target="_blank">Biblical Character Study Challenge to do 133 Biographical Studies</a></span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reputation </span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. Who wrote what we know about this person? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. What did people say about him? What did his friends say about him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. What did his enemies say about him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4. What did his family (wife, children, brothers, sisters, parents) say about him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5. What did God say about him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6. Why do you think God allowed this person to be mentioned in the Bible? </span></p><br /><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tests of Character </span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7. What were his aims and motives? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8. What was he like in his home? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9. How did he respond to failure? Did he get discouraged easily? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">10. How did he respond to adversity? Did he handle criticism well? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">11. How did he respond to success? Did he get proud when praised? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">12. How did he respond to the trivial and mundane things in life? Was he faithful in the little things? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">13. How quickly did he praise God for the good or bad things that happened to him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">14. How quickly did he obey God when told to do something? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">15. How quickly did he submit to God-ordained authority? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">16. What was he like when he was alone with God? </span></p><br /><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Background </span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">17. What can you discover about his family and ancestry? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">18. What does his name mean? Why was he given that name? Was it ever changed? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">19. What was his home-life like? How was he raised? Where was he raised? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">20. What were the characteristics of his parents? How did they influence him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">21. Was there anything special about his birth? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">22. Where did he live? What was his everyday life like? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">23. Was he exposed to other cultures? Did they affect him in any way? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">24. What was the condition of his country politically and spiritually during his lifetime? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">25. What kind of training did he have? Did he have any schooling? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">26. What was his occupation? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">27. How long did he live? Where did he die? How did he die? </span></p><br /><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Significant Events </span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">28. Was there any great crisis in his life? How did he handle it? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">29. What are the great accomplishments for which he is remembered? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">30. Did he experience a divine “call”? How did he respond to it? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">31. What crucial decisions did he have to make? How did they affect him? Others? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">32. Did any particular problem keep recurring in his life? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">33. Where did he succeed? Where did he fail? Why? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">34. How did the environment and circumstances affect him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">35. What part did he play in the history of God’s plan? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">36. Did he believe in the sovereignty of God? (God’s control over all events) </span></p><br /><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships </span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">37. How did he get along with other people? Was he a loner? Was he a team person? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">38. How did he treat other people? Did he use them, or serve them? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">39. What was his wife like? How did she influence him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">40. What were his children like? How did they influence him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">41. Who were his close companions? What were they like? How did they influence him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">42. Who were his enemies? What were they like? How did they influence him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">43. What influence did he have on others? On his nation? On other nations? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">44. Did he take care of his family? How did his children turn out? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">45. Did his friends and family help or hinder him in serving the Lord? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">46. Did he train anyone to take his place? Did he leave a disciple (a “Timothy”) behind? </span></p><br /><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Personality </span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">47. What type of person was he? What made him the way he was? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">48. Was his temperament choleric, melancholic, sanguine, or phlegmatic? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">49. What were the outstanding strengths in his character? What traits did he have? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">50. Did his life show any development of character as time passed? Was there growth and progression there? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">51. What were his particular faults and weaknesses? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">52. What were his particular sins? What steps led to those sins? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">53. In what area was his greatest battle: lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, or pride of life? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">54. What were the results of his sins and weaknesses? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">55. Did he ever get the victory over his particular sins and weaknesses? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">56. What qualities made him a success or failure? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">57. Was he in any way a type of Christ? </span></p><br /><h2 style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spiritual Life </span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">58. What personal encounters did he have with God that are recorded in Scripture? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">59. What was his purpose in life? Did he try to bring glory to God? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">60. What message did he preach and live? Was his life a message for or against Christ/God? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">61. Did he live a separated life, distinct from worldly ways? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">62. What did he believe? What great lessons did God teach him? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">63. Why do you think God dealt with him the way he did? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">64. What was his attitude toward the Word of God? Did he know the Scriptures existing at that time? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">65. What kind of prayer life did he have? Did he have close fellowship with God? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">66. Was he bold in sharing his testimony? Was he a courageous witness in times of persecution? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">67. How big was his faith in God? How did he show it? Did God give him any specific promises? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">68. Was he a good steward of what God had given him—time, wealth, talents? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">69. Was he filled with the Spirit? What were his spiritual gifts? Did he use them? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">70. Was he eager to do God’s will, willingly and without question?</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span></div>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-58257511956981755992023-02-20T05:51:00.000-08:002023-02-20T05:51:15.492-08:00Full Sermon: John 13 The Spectrum of Peter to Judas<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHD75pdZhfzg31xKiuVOQWMjURG-X9NVbuTmlh9QlL47df7qvGI5ovTjEyQ90-mf8YoPBGYlNLSvGDcJR-zRwUZliXIiqSQ9gLZL-8EKdj-BJXWokQjQOY_kZPrcLFFqYz5G_srNLT0tOJQKDBSZfBgjZhtx266KCVUcTfRdkSqdQUeVwcj54DdLt0/s1024/011-jesus-washes-feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHD75pdZhfzg31xKiuVOQWMjURG-X9NVbuTmlh9QlL47df7qvGI5ovTjEyQ90-mf8YoPBGYlNLSvGDcJR-zRwUZliXIiqSQ9gLZL-8EKdj-BJXWokQjQOY_kZPrcLFFqYz5G_srNLT0tOJQKDBSZfBgjZhtx266KCVUcTfRdkSqdQUeVwcj54DdLt0/w454-h341/011-jesus-washes-feet.jpg" width="454" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; white-space: pre-wrap;">
Sermon: John 13:1-20</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="339" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RovAsRq1V7c" width="464" youtube-src-id="RovAsRq1V7c"></iframe></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-20d2cd78-7fff-8889-ec5f-106ffc9925ab"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">
Jesus Washes the Disciples Feet: Sermon Notes</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Anecdote</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: One summer when I was in college, I was working at </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beaver Camp</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and on the weekend we all went to </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lowville Mennonite</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for church. Some of the people I worked with were Mennonite and the camp was Mennonite so </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I wanted to see what the church was like instead of staying comfortable in my Pentecostal/Charismatic roots.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So…. the sermon that day was on John 13, just like we are studying together today,</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> where </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus washes His disciples feet and tells them that they should do likewise.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Unlike today, after the sermon, everyone paired up male with male and female with female and went single file into a small room off of the sanctuary and washed one another’s feet. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a powerful and memorable thing that sticks with me now 20+ years later.</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My brain was swirling with thoughts:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I’m glad I took a shower this morning.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“It’s been really hot, I wonder how badly my feet smell.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I wonder how badly his feet smell?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Should I really scrub this man’s feet? Should I get in between the toes?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Is this just a little light foot baptism sprinkle?”</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I was nervous, but I was also inspired, I thought: “THIS is actually what Jesus did. I’m doing WHAT HE actually did.”</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And, I went to that church every Sunday for the rest of the summer. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, they took this very literally, let’s read this passage of Scripture together John 13:1-20 and really listen for what the Holy Spirit wants to show us… really apply it to our lives. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To do this, we’ll read it all the way through once, then we’ll really take it apart bit by bit. I think that you can LITERALLY wash each other’s feet, but I think there’s more.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 15pt 0pt 8pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">John 13:1-20</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">10 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">11 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">12 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">13 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">14 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">15 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">16 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">17 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 3pt 0pt 8pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus Predicts His Betrayal</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">18 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill this passage of Scripture: ‘He who shared my bread has turned[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2013&version=NIV#fen-NIV-26649a" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">a</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">] against me.’[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2013&version=NIV#fen-NIV-26649b" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">b</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">]</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">19 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am who I am. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">20 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very truly I tell you, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me.”</span></p><div><span><a name='more'></a></span><span><br /></span></div><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Back to verse 1: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is like a banner flying over the rest of our series. HE KNEW it was time. HE LOVED HIS OWN AND HE WOULD LOVE THEM TO THE END NO MATTER WHAT!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: yellow; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Know this, When you are HIS OWN, He loves you TO THE END! And, everything that Jesus does comes from that place of love.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I think alot about the concept lately of how what really matters is the heart behind what we do, not what we do.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Imagine with me that I had a </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">twin brother,</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> exactly like me in every way, except, he had a </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">rotten heart, selfish, manipulative, conniving, ruthless, evil</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> man that he is. And, imagine that I was </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">perfectly Christ-centered, not because of anything in me, but because Christ has changed me and guides me to be like Him</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now imagine, that the two of us come up here and say the same things, we help the same people, we have the same job, the same family, we treat people with kindness and fairness and respect. We go out of our way to help… we even both preach the Gospel. IF the twin does these things out of selfish motives, grumbling to himself about the burden of it, complaining in his head about how he’s the only one that understands, has rotten motives, a rotten attitude, etc… </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Obviously that’s not the way we should be… our good works are worthless if they come from a rotten selfish heart.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, when we look at Jesus and emulate Jesus, we start with having loved his own in the world, He loved them to the end so </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">WE NEED TO HAVE THE RADICAL LOVE FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD THAT JESUS HAD AND LOVE EACH OTHER TO THE END.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 2:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus KNEW JUDAS was going to betray him! </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HE KNEW He would be dying soon. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HE KNEW His ministry was over. His time on Earth was over. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HE KNEW it would be painful. </span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HE KNEW it would be the most embarrassing thing in all of history.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But, HE KNEW that the Father had put all things under His power.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And, HE KNEW that He had come from God</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And, HE KNEW that He was returning to God.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">that is where His heart was</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> when He picked up that towel and grabbed that water basin and began to serve His disciples</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> like a slave… washing their dirty</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> sandaled feet, that were probably </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">tired and sore from the long walk</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Serving them, not being served by them because HE KNEW.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you KNOW who you are?</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you KNOW the promises of God for your life… that He will never forsake you or leave you. That you are a child of God. Redeemed by Jesus Himself and that He has prepared a place for you? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can serve others, give money, give time, give advice out of selfishness, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">out of your SELF or out of a heart of KNOWING WHO YOU ARE, because that is all wrapped up with WHO HE IS.</span></p><span><!--more--></span><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Simon Peter who many of us strong-willed ones can relate to objects to Jesus.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 6:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">10 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">11 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.</span></p><span><!--more--></span><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oh Peter, but isn’t that us? We don’t get it. I love verse 7: Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” He could reply that to just about everything that ever happens in our lives. We could have t-shirts made. And, to be honest, at first reading, we might not get what Jesus is doing here either. That’s pretty powerful to say if you literally don’t let me wash your feet right now then you have no part with me? What? What about salvation by grace through faith? So I think that I found what Jesus meant here because He said that peter would understand later, I read 1st and 2nd Peter, written by Peter much later. In 1st Peter 4 I think it was later enough for Peter to understand.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We can call it homework to read 1st Peter and look at all that Peter understood later. There are themes throughout 1st Peter of obedience, holiness, being washed clean, and servanthood out of a heart of thankfulness, emulating Christ to those around you.</span></p><span><!--more--></span><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> That is what the washing of the feet was about, it was two things actually, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">an example of sacrifice</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">serving others and also a picture to show us that although you’ve been saved and redeemed</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, your feet still get dirty, you still sin and need Jesus every day. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you don’t come to him and allow Him to cleanse those new sins because you are too headstrong and think you have it all on your own, then you have no part in Him, you NEED Him daily. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us to pray and most of it</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is about needing forgiveness daily, a daily washing, not complete head to toe washing, but our feet that have gotten dirty from what we’ve gotten into just in the last day </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who have trespassed against us, and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 12:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">12 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">13 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">14 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">15 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">16 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">17 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.</span></p><span><!--more--></span><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can always count on Jesus to hit you in the heart with a challenge. BE LIKE ME!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If He really is our Teacher and Our Lord then we need to Learn from His example and </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">SERVE!!! And, SERVE out of a HEART OF LOVE out of KNOWING we belong to HIM</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. We don’t serve because we want a reward or because we want to look like good Christians in front of others, or be good productive members of society. Those ambitions make what we’ve done worthless. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be like Jesus and have your service to others come from loving them UNTIL THE END.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now think about this one. Judas was there. He washed Judas’ feet… But, he said</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 18:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">18 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill this passage of Scripture: ‘He who shared my bread has turned against me.’</span></p><span><!--more--></span><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -4pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This was spoken at the last meal that Jesus would share with his disciples.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He has just given them a living example of servanthood by washing their feet.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then, in order to really drive the point home, he had just told them that the servant is not greater than his Lord (see John 13:16).</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And yet, there sat Judas. He was already planning to betray his Lord.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus said that the scripture must be fulfilled and then he quoted from Psalm 41: 9 here. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Psalm 41:9</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The words “hath lifted up his heel,” in the Greek language, “…is a picture of a violent kick. It signifies disrespect, hatred, and utter contempt. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And Judas’ disrespect, hatred, and utter contempt was not just a single event. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a pattern set early in his life!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus pointed out earlier in His earthly ministry that Judas was not even saved:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The last time I preached we were in John 6 and I said, I wasn’t going to get into Judas right then so we could focus on the </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">DEEP TRUTH OF JESUS BEING THE BREAD OF LIFE</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">John 6:64</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And not only did Jesus say Judas was an unbeliever, he went even further and described him as “a devil”.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">John 6:70-71</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">71</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Judas was evil. But more than that, he was under the influence, even controlled, by the devil himself!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matthew records an interesting part of the story. Jesus revealed that He was going to be betrayed by one of His apostles.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matthew 26:21-22</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">22</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: navy; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">According to this passage, every one of the disciples were concerned about the possibility that they would betray the Lord.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was a shocking thought. They knew that if Jesus said it would happen, then it would happen. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But how could it happen?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If we allow things such as materialism, lust, or religious pride to take the throne of our hearts, then we will also betray Christ.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Judas Iscariot had the lifestyle of a saint but the heart of a “devil” - a defiled heart that led him to betrayal.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And to make things even worse, Jesus had </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">often</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> spoke of that night when he would be betrayed.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many times had Jesus appealed to Judas’ conscience? How many times did Judas have to ignore or silence the voice of conviction in order to commit such a brazen act?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On that very night, as they were gathered together to observe the passover meal, Jesus appealed repeatedly to Judas’ conscience.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus, in humility, washed Judas’ dusty feet</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. And I sometimes wonder if Jesus and Judas ever made eye contact as the Lord humbly washed his feet.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 8pt 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #202020; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But, Judas was selfish. He thought he knew what should be done. He betrayed Jesus, whom He saw do all these miracles for 3 years, for a pouch of silver. Did you know that at the end of his life he repented. He came back to those he betrayed Jesus to and tried to give back the silver but they wouldn’t take it. The Bible says that he threw it at their feet.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 19:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">19 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am who I am. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">20 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very truly I tell you, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span></span><span></span></p><!--more--></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Later in this chapter it says that Satan entered Judas and the crucifixion of Jesus was set into motion. Jesus predicts that Peter will deny that He even knows Him three times before the rooster crows in the morning.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He KNEW these betrayals would happen. Yet, He LOVED THEM TO THE END. That is what we are to do.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span></span></p><!--more--><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Worship Team can come up!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Don’t get caught up in the news and the goings-on around the world. Even if you absolutely KNEW what was going to happen, you still shouldn’t grumble and complain. You should LOVE THEM TO THE END.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And KNOW that you will fail and need your feet washed again, every day.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Ask God for forgiveness, confess your sins and He is faithful and just and will cleanse you from all unrighteousness. We are not meant to look like the world, sitting around complaining and being anxious, we are meant to love to the end, serving others, and daily seeking fresh forgiveness. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Come up for Prayer:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hey, after this song, if you need prayer, the front is available. We would love to pray with you, to serve you in that way. If you’ve been struck by anything in your spirit, don’t wait. We LOVE YOU TO THE END. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-28997567652473157972022-12-18T04:07:00.000-08:002022-12-18T04:07:31.785-08:00Sermon: John 6 "I AM the Bread of Life."<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-weight: 700; white-space: pre-wrap;">John 6 Notes: I AM the Bread of Life</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-d12e2574-7fff-506e-991a-8a7c5054a15b"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX8VcQCOyYr6f2IhiThSjkjeeV3l92GUID0WDOLvLiAFf9gBh6gmEDq1wQmIShhPHQVxC_1mbXc0bhQdBYh9BrhrI7diY5lpUFfD4dYjWj8GnwBjZJQ9KLtwgnptXWHaexXpWoIHilkkSlIVt_YwhWDXow7kyvc3qyROLc8gaIE9WsOuo8_LeW0knv/s1024/bread%20of%20life.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX8VcQCOyYr6f2IhiThSjkjeeV3l92GUID0WDOLvLiAFf9gBh6gmEDq1wQmIShhPHQVxC_1mbXc0bhQdBYh9BrhrI7diY5lpUFfD4dYjWj8GnwBjZJQ9KLtwgnptXWHaexXpWoIHilkkSlIVt_YwhWDXow7kyvc3qyROLc8gaIE9WsOuo8_LeW0knv/w578-h385/bread%20of%20life.jpeg" width="578" /></a></div></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ve been reading a classic Russian Fiction called “The Brothers Karamazov” and it is a DEEP story. I’m seeing things in it that go way beyond a normal novel. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="<iframe sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bucketfullofg-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=1250788455&asins=1250788455&linkId=f4fc7987a28378f4d54b5fccc9cad7f3&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true"></iframe>" target="_blank">The Brothers Karamosov</a><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We would all agree that there are good stories and bad stories and not necessarily good because they make us feel good, there are stories that are very good that make us cry and rethink our lives, so it’s not obvious what we mean by good right away. There is a measure of depth in a story that we can all fundamentally understand. There is a hierarchy of depth to stories and you could say that the deeper the story goes, the more fundamental truth and meaning it holds, the more it shows us what we already knew to be true but we just couldn’t articulate, [I feel this way when I read CS Lewis, which is why we named our second son after him when I read CS Lewis its like yes, finally, the thing that I have been struggling to put words to, there it is!] the deeper the story the more it undergirds our own consciousness and even subconsciousness. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">CS Lewis and other writers have been able to pull from their lived experience and their perspective on the world to write deep works of fiction, that can draw us to a place of better understanding the real world through the lens of their made-up worlds. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAVEzZjuSNxhVAlGQtrLXboQ1WKHnUZ5rHulD3KIP8kH5gUCAsdt3uOOxXrMxa_iNgDwCzn8vfXiqUZcOTpCE0YOCTnfehzuVZ5wESKilA1Gpg_bWHGUrT6FuMOnRckomGOJsrs0Wc2gAkxW2yjdivHMhdP4HI0-KBR9kHrkmLCp_TolUiEfdux4D/s1024/CS%20Lewis.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="681" height="437" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAVEzZjuSNxhVAlGQtrLXboQ1WKHnUZ5rHulD3KIP8kH5gUCAsdt3uOOxXrMxa_iNgDwCzn8vfXiqUZcOTpCE0YOCTnfehzuVZ5wESKilA1Gpg_bWHGUrT6FuMOnRckomGOJsrs0Wc2gAkxW2yjdivHMhdP4HI0-KBR9kHrkmLCp_TolUiEfdux4D/w291-h437/CS%20Lewis.jpeg" width="291" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3FD1SZx" target="_blank">C.S. Lewis Books on Amazon</a><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But God, He wrote the deepest thing ever and it was non-fiction, He was and is able to write with lives, write with miracles, in the real world, throughout history, I believe that the Bible stories are true, they are not-fiction, in the classic sense of the word true AND that they also have the most depth and value of any story ever written. In fact, the way we reason, our systems of government, our deeply held beliefs about justice, and the value of human life is all based on the story that God wrote through lives in the Bible.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Apostle John wrote part of that story, these things really happened and it is his own eye-witness account… it is not contrived to be deep, and yet it is deeper than we can go in a lifetime of diving deeper… </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Continuing in John chapter 6, John is telling a story, a story that really happened, that has a deep significance for Him, for you, and for me.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ll warn you: It’s extremely easy in our scripture today to do the classic sermon-listening technique of “oh this applies to so-and-so” You know what I mean? Oh, if only the Catholic Church would study this passage, or oh this applies to the American Church, or oh this group or that person, well shocker. The Holy Spirit wants to speak to you today. This is for you. This is for me. Let’s point the finger at ourselves today and say “oh this applies to me.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">John 6:22-</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">22 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The next day the crowd that had stayed on the opposite shore of the lake realized that only one boat had been there, and that Jesus had not entered it with his disciples, but that they had gone away alone. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">23 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then some boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the people had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">24 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 3pt 0pt 8pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus the Bread of Life</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">25 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When they found him on the other side of the lake, they asked him, “Rabbi, when did you get here?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">26 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">27 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuY35wpBhxHnDN4JVl2Laxi0FHaH6MCmdMrieLdLiUfdgY5OWKkNnjY7d9st0FXnCFxJjQDvBDG57PAaKAoJZD8dAODKLOL4npvRV0Xqzenp4W1sfP3d8H99d0mFKq72UIUcKInsLXKrwNq8cu6eZoNNCL9Ms2Tc0UkiHE0zeKcscwZrt6zZfKgJS/s1024/take-up-your-cross.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuY35wpBhxHnDN4JVl2Laxi0FHaH6MCmdMrieLdLiUfdgY5OWKkNnjY7d9st0FXnCFxJjQDvBDG57PAaKAoJZD8dAODKLOL4npvRV0Xqzenp4W1sfP3d8H99d0mFKq72UIUcKInsLXKrwNq8cu6eZoNNCL9Ms2Tc0UkiHE0zeKcscwZrt6zZfKgJS/w435-h326/take-up-your-cross.jpeg" width="435" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We say that we are following Jesus. Are we just there for the bread? You can take that literally: Are we coming because we like the potluck or the cafe, or more figuratively the bread is life fulfillment, are we coming because the people are fun and nice, it fills up our lives with friends, and something to do, it’s good for our kids, it keeps the wife happy… it makes me look good in the community, it’s what the rest of the crowd is doing…</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus says “do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, what is that food for you today?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because all those things spoil.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, they want more food and they want to crown Him king of the World and have him constantly giving them food. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">28 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">29 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">30 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So they asked him, “What sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">31 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206&version=NIV#fen-NIV-26289c" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">c</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">]”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I hear in this is people saying, ok what can I do then. I want to DO what God requires and Jesus says believe in me. Ok, then what sign will you give us? And they bring it right back to why they are after him in the first place, their own gain, in the physical, it’s like a guilt trip, soooo… our ancestors ate manna OVER AND OVER in the wilderness, MOSES gave THEM bread from heaven to EAT sooooo… </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jfEdPMKqK92gvho8SrCcQpCiUxBFuN-Kf33X_WnMYKYl3E9shcriztYVg0MVNxEsKB9zJU2KtrZHUGcE5zOFUXmEpOSnH0gwroBwQRFSl4yuUB52SVhDNmnNBC2oSy1pmf4UozmTXlo4on-6Rt5uzf3M1WtlpB0Q59divYK8bHOextEnV2Gg-LN8/s700/food-pantry-northjerseyDOTcom.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="700" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-jfEdPMKqK92gvho8SrCcQpCiUxBFuN-Kf33X_WnMYKYl3E9shcriztYVg0MVNxEsKB9zJU2KtrZHUGcE5zOFUXmEpOSnH0gwroBwQRFSl4yuUB52SVhDNmnNBC2oSy1pmf4UozmTXlo4on-6Rt5uzf3M1WtlpB0Q59divYK8bHOextEnV2Gg-LN8/w437-h328/food-pantry-northjerseyDOTcom.jpeg" width="437" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You know, we used to have a food pantry here at the church, and we found over a long time of having it that it wasn’t actually that effective at reaching people for Jesus. Not everyone was doing this, but many people were coming for food, but would come in and get out as quickly as possible, didn’t want anyone to talk with them, certainly didn’t want a bible, or a prayer, or to think on the things of God, and they were off to hoard food at multiple other food pantries throughout the area, now that is not everyone, but it was surprisingly common. There is a spirit of grabbing for ourselves that is trying to get all of us, a spirit of envy, like Cain in the book of Genesis. So they effectively try to manipulate Jesus into giving them bread again</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Again, I ask, what is that bread for you? Is there a program at the church that makes you feel good, that gives you the warm-fuzzies? I love our worship team, so don’t hear this wrong, but you can be on the worship team for all the wrong reasons, it can be bread that will spoil for you. And when it spoils, what then? Are we following after Jesus because it gives us something in the physical? Do I come up here to speak because I like the encouragement of people listening? Is that bread to me?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">32 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">33 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">34 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Sir,” they said, “always give us this bread.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They sound suddenly like they get it, but don’t get too excited for the people in this story. They really don’t get it. You can say “yes, always give us this bread.” and you can call Jesus “sir.” but that doesn’t mean you’ve really let him in. It’s not like calling Him Lord.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You know, this is another thing that I’ve been thinking about alot lately. We take “becoming a Christian” too lightly. We call it “accepting Christ” or “getting saved” or believing in God. It just feels weak compared to what’s really going on. It makes it sound like we are accepting something and we could find in a few years that we don’t want it anymore and we could grow out of it or give it up whenever.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwqnY4w5M0gjbYYKlQ4agKyhviCd8BqeGIwcpTMqdKHshOwQuZtcDsYQPmF4bvh6lyH5TFdz32ozH2PWad4YBToDVQ7mh_xogz9JaV2dIKCCMFOC8exThwXU_6R3G4SqtQG2jYuhIFDtVWNmxZFcGCh4j5WpkHo-cv_iiQciw7EYDERWLSNKxffc2/s640/born%20again.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="456" data-original-width="640" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwqnY4w5M0gjbYYKlQ4agKyhviCd8BqeGIwcpTMqdKHshOwQuZtcDsYQPmF4bvh6lyH5TFdz32ozH2PWad4YBToDVQ7mh_xogz9JaV2dIKCCMFOC8exThwXU_6R3G4SqtQG2jYuhIFDtVWNmxZFcGCh4j5WpkHo-cv_iiQciw7EYDERWLSNKxffc2/w500-h356/born%20again.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Well Jesus likens really believing in Him to a violent act of dying and being BORN AGAIN, coming into the world as a totally new creation, the picture of baptism is crucifixion and resurrection, the true story with the deepest meaning of any story ever written or spoken in all of history. We are no longer who we were. We are made new. That’s so much more that “accepting.” That’s being born-again. But, even in being born-again Jesus wants to add to our understanding here because there isn’t just a single word that describes what’s happening and so He gives us this picture in verse 35:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">35 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then Jesus declared, “</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am the bread of life</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A shocking day at the synagogue in Capernaum. The most compelling statement around which all of this is built: “I am the Bread of Life.” By the way this is the 1st of 7 “I AMs” in the Gospel of John, where Jesus our Lord takes the tetragrammaton YHWH, the verb “to be” in Hebrew, the name of God who is the I AM that I AM, and applies it to Himself. “I AM the Bread of Life, later He says: I am the Good Shepherd, I AM the Vine, I AM the Way, I AM the Truth, I AM the Life, I AM the Resurrection and the Life. He is making clear that He is one and the same as God, and on all these occasions he applies a metaphor to explain something about His nature and His work. He’s talking to Jewish people at a synagogue and this is a powerful claim that He has come down from Heaven, and they have to EAT His flesh and DRINK His blood.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdyMzgYrgLOQQGSFx10A-cw2Ix9Bg-sUW-yIdy7EoC0mO2y5DmOoL5CAC3BcQz9_dyP1DlLpxJUEWFi7oZ3Ap8dGXo_6vHYQRGtvYmH8t6B3Ml366s7nAI7qJ3xIVDFx7OgSXXcIV8V_B_oyRaX4gEst3QCu3jT8MWDFz0CTvYQsxd2UtEY7yDo7MC/s728/worship-last-supper-celebration-of-holy-communion-church-preview.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="728" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdyMzgYrgLOQQGSFx10A-cw2Ix9Bg-sUW-yIdy7EoC0mO2y5DmOoL5CAC3BcQz9_dyP1DlLpxJUEWFi7oZ3Ap8dGXo_6vHYQRGtvYmH8t6B3Ml366s7nAI7qJ3xIVDFx7OgSXXcIV8V_B_oyRaX4gEst3QCu3jT8MWDFz0CTvYQsxd2UtEY7yDo7MC/w448-h298/worship-last-supper-celebration-of-holy-communion-church-preview.jpeg" width="448" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">36 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">37 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">38 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">39 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">40 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For those that believe, the beauty in this statement of Jesus is so profound, so filled with HOPE, so glorious, but for those who are blind to what He is saying, it makes them grumble. You see, Jesus is not making a flashy church service to bring in more weak acceptors of the Gospel. He wants real change in real hearts who will be filled with the Holy Spirit and will be BORN AGAIN into what’s real, what’s permanent, what’s eternal.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">41 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At this the Jews there began to grumble about him because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">42 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, ‘I came down from heaven’?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">43 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Stop grumbling among yourselves,” Jesus answered. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">44 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">45 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is written in the Prophets: ‘They will all be taught by God.’[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206&version=NIV#fen-NIV-26303d" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">d</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">] Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 45 is a very important verse, often overlooked I think. It’s a quote from Isaiah, </span><a href="https://biblia.com/bible/nasb95/Isa%2054.13" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Isaiah 54:13</span></a><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. “It is written in the prophets and they shall all be taught of God.” The only way anybody can come to the truth is if God is his teacher. “Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me.” People don’t come to God under the powerful sway of human reason. The preacher is not the means. The preacher is only a tool to present the truth. The drawing is divine. The Father is the true teacher. The Father is the instructor of the heart and the mind. My prayer every time I get to speak up here is that The Father will Speak to your Heart. NOT, that you’ll hear what I have to say, I would so much rather you hear from The Father, that He Draw you in to Him, that He teach you.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFEOsd7pTqSL-9nYboRXn73BmND2PEYkHy4qA0DVs910Pf05JvYvpwNM0d1UVKovxP0o43bx8QPgFmzGGMSxov9TLP54AsdlNlKND3XAfVX_v3iQIhXL3fPBhtoa5czsGwj9KoqKYmQuXvQHCk8o8jY0ksjgUucpyYDdbNv72T9mIAE6FnfQpBirC/s1200/teacher.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="1200" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFEOsd7pTqSL-9nYboRXn73BmND2PEYkHy4qA0DVs910Pf05JvYvpwNM0d1UVKovxP0o43bx8QPgFmzGGMSxov9TLP54AsdlNlKND3XAfVX_v3iQIhXL3fPBhtoa5czsGwj9KoqKYmQuXvQHCk8o8jY0ksjgUucpyYDdbNv72T9mIAE6FnfQpBirC/w513-h337/teacher.jpeg" width="513" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -18pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">46 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No one has seen the Father except the one who is from God; only he has seen the Father. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">47 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">48 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am the bread of life. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">49 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, yet they died. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">50 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which anyone may eat and not die. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">51 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">52 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">53 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have to tell you, this is so shocking for the Jews in the synagogue that day that I’m surprised there wasn’t a riot. Leviticus, first of all, Leviticus 17, Deuteronomy 12, Deuteronomy 15 all forbid Jews drinking blood. So this is just – this is, if nothing else, really insensitive. But He’s not really talking about drinking blood. This is, of course, a chapter that has been mutilated by the Roman Catholic Church, and they have used this to develop the Mass where Christ is re-sacrificed again and again and again. And you eat His flesh and drink His blood, just exactly what He’s not talking about. Blood is simply a metonym for His death, as it is throughout the New Testament. So what is He saying? </span><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You must accept the person that I am and the death that I died.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can believe in Jesus as the preexistent Son of God who came into the world and is the source of eternal life, but unless you believe in His sacrificial death, you cannot be saved. You cannot possess eternal life. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 27.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As bread, He nourishes. As blood, He cleanses.</span><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Blood, then, speaks of His death. These Jews had a big, big problem with this issue. The idea that their Messiah would die as a sacrifice, a huge problem for them. They were utterly unwilling to accept that. Even the disciples struggled with that, right? When Jesus said, “I’m going to die,” no, no, no, no Lord. Peter says, “No, no,” and Jesus said, “Get behind me, Satan!”</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">54 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">55 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">56 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">57 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">58 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your ancestors ate manna and died, but whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">59 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He said this while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Father had a plan all along for this demonstration. Jesus is not confused. He is saying exactly what He means to be saying and it might be the deepest thing that you could ever hear. The deepest story. Really think through what happened in the feeding of the 5000. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXS6jrLCTjFrqQCVY12Gqxvl99kXMbFDZax7nkzT_EKtN2otRGaiS4qqJkneqTmYjZ0LbRrZeLXTyMWgKsuzcZdxq_uHK2xsQ3_2JeBSKjTLSldRZorta-dZm_qryRCeMU77C9Sg9yzdoAmL4rKXyYNF_g2xTLlMjvlBm5nxsn5MaKqGPgsv_Q7nS/s640/brooklyn-museum-the-miracle-of-the-loaves-and-fishes-la-multiplication-des-5dc741-640.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="442" data-original-width="640" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXS6jrLCTjFrqQCVY12Gqxvl99kXMbFDZax7nkzT_EKtN2otRGaiS4qqJkneqTmYjZ0LbRrZeLXTyMWgKsuzcZdxq_uHK2xsQ3_2JeBSKjTLSldRZorta-dZm_qryRCeMU77C9Sg9yzdoAmL4rKXyYNF_g2xTLlMjvlBm5nxsn5MaKqGPgsv_Q7nS/w497-h344/brooklyn-museum-the-miracle-of-the-loaves-and-fishes-la-multiplication-des-5dc741-640.jpeg" width="497" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The people were hungry for physical food. He spoke a blessing over some loaves and fishes that were nowhere near enough and GOD multiplied it to feed everyone there with overflowing leftovers. Now, He is saying HE is the bread of life. In the beginning was the Word and the Word was With God and the Word Was God. He was in the beginning, Jesus. He is the Word and He is the Bread of Life. The People are hungry and in need of spiritual food. God SPOKE and Jesus, is sent by the Father as a simple carpenter to the World to somehow feed the whole with Spiritual food. This Bread will multiply in you and through you because it gives strength and vitality to the Spirit of Christ that is In YOU and you spread that bread of life to all you can share it with, until there are baskets full of leftover Bread of Life, leftover WORD, leftover Jesus. This is the Gospel Message. The Feeding of the 5000 is not just a story, it really happened, but it is also a story of deep significance. But, sometimes people don’t want the deep truth, they want to be fed in the physical, with fun, and food, and ease. The “followers” in the story have grappled with His depth long enough…</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 3pt 0pt 8pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many Disciples Desert Jesus</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">60 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On hearing it, many of his disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">61 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, “Does this offend you? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">62 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before! </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">63 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206&version=NIV#fen-NIV-26321e" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">e</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">] and life. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">64 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yet there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">65 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He went on to say, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">66 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus says, does the Gospel offend you? And many people left. Should Jesus be sad about this? Maybe if I’d put on a better show, maybe if I’d gone around and met people better or just made more food for them, the food thing worked great, give the people what they want.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">NO.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Give the people what they need. The Bread of Life. The Blood Shed on the Cross.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJaEmdyq8x3vjD-yn1EmuRad-8WRLG55fpZurra0OY3gUJPqhTWuiiRx4UmJ8p1Epk6NLDOUrotrlDycek5uCYui7kAqC9PStU0JVX9Xgclqq9ljUpTNbMjMrZI30huxPe7lPe3sqQuee9AyvDEqkfvT45zVe8gDoXIx6Gq0W4PjFPmsyCFYTzNlJS/s615/jesus-on-cross-easter.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="615" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJaEmdyq8x3vjD-yn1EmuRad-8WRLG55fpZurra0OY3gUJPqhTWuiiRx4UmJ8p1Epk6NLDOUrotrlDycek5uCYui7kAqC9PStU0JVX9Xgclqq9ljUpTNbMjMrZI30huxPe7lPe3sqQuee9AyvDEqkfvT45zVe8gDoXIx6Gq0W4PjFPmsyCFYTzNlJS/w495-h342/jesus-on-cross-easter.jpeg" width="495" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">67 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">68 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">69 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">70 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then Jesus replied, “Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">71 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who, though one of the Twelve, was later to betray him.)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don’t have a huge amount to say about Judas other than that my family has been watching The Chosen series and it feels like they are doing a really good interesting job of fleshing out Judas. He’s not this utterly evil Nazi of a person, he’s like you and me. Which is what’s frightening about Judas. He wants Jesus to be King of the World and Jesus wants to be the Bread of Life. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There’s a lot to think about here and I don’t want to do this passage an injustice by recapping it necessarily with what you should take away. It’s got a massive depth to it and I just want it to sit with us for a bit. If you’d like prayer, come up front during the last song. We are here to stand with you before the throne of God.</span></p><h1 style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for joining me in looking at John 6. Comment below any questions or comments and have a blessed day.</span></span></h1><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-64346125792269975152022-10-10T12:12:00.005-07:002022-10-10T12:12:36.102-07:00Sermon: Jesus Offends the 5000<span id="docs-internal-guid-7d3fc9e7-7fff-8037-2d01-10c371df6ed4"><h2 style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkOv9xFt2GpI4HeUQdsPhLklxR4YqVK2r1CJEp2txCQoX_3mBwYm-TuUUa4f8L4DIONDZQkbIwRxuxk9puAfSAp8q5AbmFq7aOoI_slfCgA9StGA95gPP5WmSLkPQ_puw6Hp9WGAzG3SgZAH5wGPs_Yhe-tx__FchoyQbLnFlXOnIJenvYqujLDbz6/s509/bread%20of%20life.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="509" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkOv9xFt2GpI4HeUQdsPhLklxR4YqVK2r1CJEp2txCQoX_3mBwYm-TuUUa4f8L4DIONDZQkbIwRxuxk9puAfSAp8q5AbmFq7aOoI_slfCgA9StGA95gPP5WmSLkPQ_puw6Hp9WGAzG3SgZAH5wGPs_Yhe-tx__FchoyQbLnFlXOnIJenvYqujLDbz6/w509-h338/bread%20of%20life.jpeg" width="509" /></a></div></h2><h2 style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Introduction</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ve been reading a classic Russian Fiction called “The Brothers Karamazov” and it is a DEEP story. I’m seeing things in it that go way beyond a normal novel. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We would all agree that there are good stories and bad stories and not necessarily good because they make us feel good, there are stories that are very good that make us cry and rethink our lives, so it’s not obvious what we mean by good right away. There is a measure of depth in a story that we can all fundamentally understand. There is a hierarchy of depth to stories and you could say that the deeper the story goes, the more fundamental truth and meaning it holds, the more it shows us what we already knew to be true but we just couldn’t articulate, [I feel this way when I read CS Lewis, which is why we named our second son after him when I read CS Lewis its like yes, finally, the thing that I have been struggling to put words to, there it is!] the deeper the story the more it undergirds our own consciousness and even subconsciousness. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u>If you would rather watch the video version of the sermon, here you go:</u></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="316" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xq2mlkBVvWg" width="482" youtube-src-id="Xq2mlkBVvWg"></iframe></div><p></p><h2 style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Deep Story</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">CS Lewis and other writers have been able to pull from their lived experience and their perspective on the world to write deep works of fiction, that can draw us to a place of better understanding the real world through the lens of their made-up worlds. But God, He wrote the deepest thing ever and it was non-fiction, He was and is able to write with lives, write with miracles, in the real world, throughout history, I believe that the Bible stories are true, they are not-fiction, in the classic sense of the word true AND that they also have the most depth and value of any story ever written. In fact, the way we reason, our systems of government, our deeply held beliefs about justice, and the value of human life is all based on the story that God wrote through lives in the Bible.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Apostle John wrote part of that story, these things really happened and it is his own eye-witness account… it is not contrived to be deep, and yet it is deeper than we can go in a lifetime of diving deeper… </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Continuing in John chapter 6, John is telling a story, a story that really happened, that has a deep significance for Him, for you, and for me.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ll warn you: It’s extremely easy in our scripture today to do the classic sermon-listening technique of “oh this applies to so-and-so” You know what I mean? Oh, if only the Catholic Church would study this passage, or oh this applies to the American Church, or oh this group or that person, well shocker. The Holy Spirit wants to speak to you today. This is for you. This is for me. Let’s point the finger at ourselves today and say “oh this applies to me.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">John 6:22-</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 12pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">22 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The next day the crowd that had stayed on the opposite shore of the lake realized that only one boat had been there, and that Jesus had not entered it with his disciples, but that they had gone away alone. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">23 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then some boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the people had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">24 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus.</span></p><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 3pt 0pt 8pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jesus the Bread of Life</span></span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">25 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When they found him on the other side of the lake, they asked him, “Rabbi, when did you get here?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">26 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">27 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.”</span></p><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Are We Just Here For The Bread?</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We say that we are following Jesus. Are we just there for the bread? You can take that literally: Are we coming because we like the potluck or the cafe, or more figuratively the bread is life fulfillment, are we coming because the people are fun and nice, it fills up our lives with friends, and something to do, it’s good for our kids, it keeps the wife happy… it makes me look good in the comunity, it’s what the rest of the crowd is doing…</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus says “do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, what is that food for you today?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because all those things spoil.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, they want more food and they want to crown Him king of the World and have him constantly giving them food. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">28 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">29 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">30 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So they asked him, “What sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">31 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206&version=NIV#fen-NIV-26289c" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">c</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">]”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What I hear in this is people saying, ok what can I do then. I want to DO what God requires and Jesus says believe in me. Ok, then what sign will you give us? And they bring it right back to why they are after him in the first place, their own gain, in the physical, it’s like a guilt trip, soooo… our ancestors ate manna OVER AND OVER in the wilderness, MOSES gave THEM bread from heaven to EAT sooooo… </span></p><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Food Pantry Effect</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You know, we used to have a food pantry here at the church, and we found over a long time of having it that it wasn’t actually that effective at reaching people for Jesus. Not everyone was doing this, but many people were coming for food, but would come in and get out as quickly as possible, didn’t want anyone to talk with them, certainly didn’t want a bible, or a prayer, or to think on the things of God, and they were off to hoard food at multiple other food pantries throughout the area, now that is not everyone, but it was surprisingly common. There is a spirit of grabbing for ourselves that is trying to get all of us, a spirit of envy, like Cain in the book of Genesis. So they effectively try to manipulate Jesus into giving them bread again</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Again, I ask, what is that bread for you? Is there a program at the church that makes you feel good, that gives you the warm-fuzzies? I love our worship team, so don’t hear this wrong, but you can be on the worship team for all the wrong reasons, it can be bread that will spoil for you. And when it spoils, what then? Are we following after Jesus because it gives us something in the physical? Do I come up here to speak because I like the encouragement of people listening? Is that bread to me?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">32 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">33 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">34 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Sir,” they said, “always give us this bread.”</span></p><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Always Give Us This Bread</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They sound suddenly like they get it, but don’t get too excited for the people in this story. They really don’t get it. You can say “yes, always give us this bread.” and you can call Jesus “sir.” but that doesn’t mean you’ve really let him in. It’s not like calling Him Lord.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You know, this is another thing that I’ve been thinking about alot lately. We take “becoming a Christian” too lightly. We call it “accepting Christ” or “getting saved” or believing in God. It just feels weak compared to what’s really going on. It makes it sound like we are accepting something and we could find in a few years that we don’t want it anymore and we could grow out of it or give it up whenever.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Well Jesus likens really believing in Him to a violent act of dying and being BORN AGAIN, coming into the world as a totally new creation, the picture of baptism is crucifixion and resurrection, the true story with the deepest meaning of any story ever written or spoken in all of history. We are no longer who we were. We are made new. That’s so much more that “accepting.” That’s being born-again. But, even in being born-again Jesus wants to add to our understanding here because there isn’t just a single word that describes what’s happening and so He gives us this picture in verse 35:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">35 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then Jesus declared, “</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am the bread of life</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. </span></p><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt; text-align: left;"> Shocking Day</h2><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A shocking day at the synagogue in Capernaum. The most compelling statement around which all of this is built: “I am the Bread of Life.” By the way this is the 1st of 7 “I AMs” in the Gospel of John, where Jesus our Lord takes the tetragrammaton YHWH, the verb “to be” in Hebrew, the name of God who is the I AM that I AM, and applies it to Himself. “I AM the Bread of Life, later He says: I am the Good Shepherd, I AM the Vine, I AM the Way, I AM the Truth, I AM the Life, I AM the Resurrection and the Life. He is making clear that He is one and the same as God, and on all these occasions he applies a metaphor to explain something about His nature and His work. He’s talking to Jewish people at a synagogue and this is a powerful claim that He has come down from Heaven, and they have to EAT His flesh and DRINK His blood.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">36 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">37 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">38 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">39 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">40 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For those that believe, the beauty in this statement of Jesus is so profound, so filled with HOPE, so glorious, but for those who are blind to what He is saying, it makes them grumble. You see, Jesus is not making a flashy church service to bring in more weak acceptors of the Gospel. He wants real change in real hearts who will be filled with the Holy Spirit and will be BORN AGAIN into what’s real, what’s permanent, what’s eternal.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">41 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At this the Jews there began to grumble about him because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">42 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, ‘I came down from heaven’?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">43 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Stop grumbling among yourselves,” Jesus answered. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">44 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">45 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is written in the Prophets: ‘They will all be taught by God.’[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206&version=NIV#fen-NIV-26303d" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">d</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">] Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me. </span></p><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taught of God</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 45 is a very important verse, often overlooked I think. It’s a quote from Isaiah, </span><a href="https://biblia.com/bible/nasb95/Isa%2054.13" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Isaiah 54:13</span></a><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. “It is written in the prophets and they shall all be taught of God.” The only way anybody can come to the truth is if God is his teacher. “Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me.” People don’t come to God under the powerful sway of human reason. The preacher is not the means. The preacher is only a tool to present the truth. The drawing is divine. The Father is the true teacher. The Father is the instructor of the heart and the mind. My prayer every time I get to speak up here is that The Father will Speak to your Heart. NOT, that you’ll hear what I have to say, I would so much rather you hear from The Father, that He Draw you in to Him, that He teach you.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -18pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">46 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No one has seen the Father except the one who is from God; only he has seen the Father. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">47 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">48 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am the bread of life. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">49 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, yet they died. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">50 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which anyone may eat and not die. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">51 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">52 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">53 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have to tell you, this is so shocking for the Jews in the synagogue that day that I’m surprised there wasn’t a riot. Leviticus, first of all, Leviticus 17, Deuteronomy 12, Deuteronomy 15 all forbid Jews drinking blood. So this is just – this is, if nothing else, really insensitive. But He’s not really talking about drinking blood. This is, of course, a chapter that has been mutilated by the Roman Catholic Church, and they have used this to develop the Mass where Christ is re-sacrificed again and again and again. And you eat His flesh and drink His blood, just exactly what He’s not talking about. Blood is simply a metonym for His death, as it is throughout the New Testament. So what is He saying? </span><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You must accept the person that I am and the death that I died.</span></p><h2 style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As Bread He Nourishes. As Blood, He Cleanses.</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.16; margin-bottom: 30pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can believe in Jesus as the preexistent Son of God who came into the world and is the source of eternal life, but unless you believe in His sacrificial death, you cannot be saved. You cannot possess eternal life. </span><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 27.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As bread, He nourishes. As blood, He cleanses.</span><span style="font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Blood, then, speaks of His death. These Jews had a big, big problem with this issue. The idea that their Messiah would die as a sacrifice, a huge problem for them. They were utterly unwilling to accept that. Even the disciples struggled with that, right? When Jesus said, “I’m going to die,” no, no, no, no Lord. Peter says, “No, no,” and Jesus said, “Get behind me, Satan!”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -18pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"> </p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">54 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">55 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">56 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">57 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">58 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your ancestors ate manna and died, but whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">59 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He said this while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Father had a plan all along for this demonstration. Jesus is not confused. He is saying exactly what He means to be saying and it might be the deepest thing that you could ever hear. The deepest story. Really think through what happened in the feeding of the 5000. The people were hungry for physical food. He spoke a blessing over some loaves and fishes that were nowhere near enough and GOD multiplied it to feed everyone there with overflowing leftovers. Now, He is saying HE is the bread of life. In the beginning was the Word and the Word was With God and the Word Was God. He was in the beginning, Jesus. He is the Word and He is the Bread of Life. The People are hungry and in need of spiritual food. God SPOKE and Jesus, is sent by the Father as a simple carpenter to the World to somehow feed the whole with Spiritual food. This Bread will multiply in you and through you because it gives strength and vitality to the Spirit of Christ that is In YOU and you spread that bread of life to all you can share it with, until there are baskets full of leftover Bread of Life, leftover WORD, leftover Jesus. This is the Gospel Message. The Feeding of the 5000 is not just a story, it really happened, but it is also a story of deep significance. But, sometimes people don’t want the deep truth, they want to be fed in the physical, with fun, and food, and ease. The “followers” in the story have grappled with His depth long enough…</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><br /></p><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 3pt 0pt 8pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;">Many Disciples Desert Jesus</span></span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 4pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">60 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On hearing it, many of his disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">61 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, “Does this offend you? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">62 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before! </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">63 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit[</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206&version=NIV#fen-NIV-26321e" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">e</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">] and life. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">64 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yet there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">65 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">He went on to say, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">66 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"> </p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jesus says, does the Gospel offend you? And many people left. Should Jesus be sad about this? Maybe if I’d put on a better show, maybe if I’d gone around and met people better or just made more food for them, the food thing worked great, give the people what they want.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">NO.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Give the people what they need. The Bread of Life. The Blood Shed on the Cross.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"> </p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">67 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">68 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">69 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">70 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then Jesus replied, “Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">71 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who, though one of the Twelve, was later to betray him.)</span></p><h2 style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 12pt; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Judas</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don’t have a huge amount to say about Judas other than that he’s not this utterly evil Nazi of a person, he’s like you and me. Which is what’s frightening about Judas. He wants Jesus to be King of the World and Jesus wants to be the Bread of Life. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There’s a lot to think about here and I don’t want to do this passage an injustice by recapping it necessarily with what you should take away. It’s got a massive depth to it and I just want it to sit with us for a bit. </span></p></span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span>Let me know what you think in the comments below and check out my other posts, including my 30 Day Worship Challenge.</span></h2><span><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.5pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8424667888341178604.post-86218431245398830802022-08-15T22:00:00.193-07:002022-08-15T22:00:00.214-07:00Day 30: Is a Worship Song Too Emotional, Too Repetitive, Too Self-Focused, or Too Commercialized? So Are the Psalms!<p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="height: 0px; text-align: left;"></p><p style="height: 0px; text-align: left;"></p><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7oD0FH2_rUuW07CnJeweDdA9PD_SduMbrUdel-mVpHxokMZdQN9DvIHprimVvNKUAimPlcgTRupGUBSVoVYvPNx3GvHydwanbkgZm7d0Y1IGfns2AEoeOFHPa-HFAXzWys0xQE4Aq-hj86vATVA4EFCbiESgznGe3oHBkZWNPTexuT2BMB2f0B8sK/s499/3202332989_cecd07621d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="499" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7oD0FH2_rUuW07CnJeweDdA9PD_SduMbrUdel-mVpHxokMZdQN9DvIHprimVvNKUAimPlcgTRupGUBSVoVYvPNx3GvHydwanbkgZm7d0Y1IGfns2AEoeOFHPa-HFAXzWys0xQE4Aq-hj86vATVA4EFCbiESgznGe3oHBkZWNPTexuT2BMB2f0B8sK/w510-h341/3202332989_cecd07621d.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>So, here we are at the end. Day 30 or my 30 Day Worship Challenge. <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/07/worship-song-waymaker-by-sinach-version.html" target="_blank">If you haven't seen the rest, I recommend starting at Day 1.<br /></a><h2 style="text-align: left;">Is a Worship Song Too Emotional, Too Repetitive, Too Self-Focused, or Too Commercialized? </h2>Have you noticed that criticism, especially on the internet, is a way of life. The way to get views, and therefore clicks, and eyeballs and ad revenue is to be controversial, critical, and get comments. I'm sure this article won't do that and I don't plan on getting any ad revenue because I am not interested in being controversial. I'm interested in Grace and speaking the Truth in Love. So, I'd like to look at how worship songs from Bethel, Hillsong, Elevation, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, John Newton, etc... have been characterized as too emotional, too repetitive, too self-focused, too commercialized, and more by looking in the Word of God to say, <b>guess what! So are the Psalms!</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>A careful <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/07/amazing-grace-john-newton.html" target="_blank">analysis of Amazing Grace</a> could lead to many of the same conclusions. It is centered on the Christian experience not on who God is. It is not word for word scripture. It has been commercialized and even used for political gain. All these things can be said about one of the most beloved hymns but are never mentioned. However, when these things are said, by a social media "influencer," about a new song, doubt is cast in the mind of many Christians, and the worship that could have been had through that song is sullied by people thinking about the article that they read or the video they watched.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghcS0W85YC1yIP6-YNurBRnadX5naxt4RUTukyanhHbWMV04qlfB8GWI55y3YjT9M-q3-8sQ2fU0ypTuNU3P--6q4ZBhXlqxESnwcL486dtVvi6Z0xtTZMReHDJKc1oDemQ7mBhV8tpyVdONcaP-5VmDYlqI7UxQ08BHzEPFVRgK7-Tix04SFHzQxG/s474/th.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="474" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghcS0W85YC1yIP6-YNurBRnadX5naxt4RUTukyanhHbWMV04qlfB8GWI55y3YjT9M-q3-8sQ2fU0ypTuNU3P--6q4ZBhXlqxESnwcL486dtVvi6Z0xtTZMReHDJKc1oDemQ7mBhV8tpyVdONcaP-5VmDYlqI7UxQ08BHzEPFVRgK7-Tix04SFHzQxG/w399-h265/th.jpg" width="399" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">So Are the Psalms!</h2>I have seen, especially over the past few years, a steady stream of worship-song-analyzers that come to conclusions about worship songs based on these criteria. I would contend that the same conclusion could also be made about the Psalms, which, if you haven't noticed, are in the Bible, the Word of God. So, I think we should look at the Psalms carefully as our guide to see what is and is not worship-material. Does the Bible ever have a sentiment like Jesus is my boyfriend? Song of Solomon anyone? Are any Psalms more about the writer than about God? Are there Psalms with massive amounts of repetition or emotional language?</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwnbwxLNrmUMi9C5sbiMvljtUyOsKw2mRmi8HD3LpbwTVZ2Tiekrkiqmn7DDIPOopl22b5gToVQgHLL51QWrLEPg_ZRAjJ_6IebzIb-vf_WeS4rBv81iUT4kXZjhGP8AzZdBQh3eiEKtE5X7GohB5cu0q5LJ2WblhsTVIjUvnfTlS9wbsaVdbZCv0Q/s474/th-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="474" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwnbwxLNrmUMi9C5sbiMvljtUyOsKw2mRmi8HD3LpbwTVZ2Tiekrkiqmn7DDIPOopl22b5gToVQgHLL51QWrLEPg_ZRAjJ_6IebzIb-vf_WeS4rBv81iUT4kXZjhGP8AzZdBQh3eiEKtE5X7GohB5cu0q5LJ2WblhsTVIjUvnfTlS9wbsaVdbZCv0Q/w391-h235/th-1.jpg" width="391" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h2 style="text-align: left;">Too Emotional</h2>I will be the first to admit that I am not a very emotional guy. But I see that as a problem not as a Stoic philosophy to be emulated and encouraged. Most men are uncomfortable with emotions. Does that make worship songs wrong in being emotional? Well, when you look at the Psalms, there is plenty of emotional language in almost every single one. The reason many worship songs are uncomfortably emotional is that the words were taken from the Psalms. “As the deer pants for the water so my soul longs after you” in Psalm 42 is just one example. <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/07/as-deersteadfast-love-endures-martin.html" target="_blank">Check out my post on As the Deer by martin Nystrom and Don Moen.</a> Here’s a nice activity for you, and <b>perhaps this should be my next series of posts,</b> go through the psalms and make a note of the emotions involved. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Emotions are created by God and are to be used to worship Him. If you have some time right now and want a taste, check out <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2019/10/devotional-study-psalms-34.html" target="_blank">my devotional study on Psalms 34</a>. Or check out Psalms 6,10,13,77,142, or 143 and make note of all the emotions involved, then if you still think a contemporary Christian worship song is too emotional, read through Song of Solomon and try not to blush. I think that saying a song is too emotional means that you don’t prefer the song for whatever reason. Maybe you are emotionally stunted <b>like me</b> but I wouldn’t wear that as a badge of honor. The Bible is full of emotion and we should be too. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjpETLwety5rIweSPn_7YTOgJxkh_7Wap-HS3suZMSPEwjwFpeYjCGnbdpliokyS4ATENzCinWrAH95zaWxg_2FNuTW85JhAPcEazCGnBSXMHlvkUIhF98Pv8ClQc3Z5pels80fbuxtbIVHToWkB9t4etJM4dpTuIAo0CZxUPvafAfEMDEb-TsNZY/s640/I5nGG.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="278" data-original-width="640" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjpETLwety5rIweSPn_7YTOgJxkh_7Wap-HS3suZMSPEwjwFpeYjCGnbdpliokyS4ATENzCinWrAH95zaWxg_2FNuTW85JhAPcEazCGnBSXMHlvkUIhF98Pv8ClQc3Z5pels80fbuxtbIVHToWkB9t4etJM4dpTuIAo0CZxUPvafAfEMDEb-TsNZY/w447-h194/I5nGG.png" width="447" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h2 style="text-align: left;">Too Repetitive</h2><span style="font-weight: normal;">A song being "too repetitive" might not seem like that big of a deal, but this often goes along with songs being too emotionally charged. The criticism goes something like this: a song that is overly repetitive is like a hypnotic chant getting people to repeat the same wording over and over again lulling them into a belief-system and emotionally charged connection with the song. The argument even quotes Jesus in the sermon on the Mount in Matthew 6:7:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span><span style="font-size: medium;">"And when you are praying, do not use thoughtless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words."</span></span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span>However, notice that Jesus said thoughtless repetition as the Gentiles do, not that all repetition is bad. Thoughtless repetition is bad. Let's look in the Psalms and easily see that repetition is a major way of praising the Lord. There are many examples but the first that comes to mind is Psalm 136:</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="font-weight: normal;">1</span><i style="font-weight: normal;">Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.<br /></i></span><span><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u>His love endures forever.<br /></u></i></span><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>2 Give thanks to the God of gods.<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords:<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>4 to him who alone does great wonders,<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>5 who by his understanding made the heavens,<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>6 who spread out the earth upon the waters,<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>7 who made the great lights—<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>8 the sun to govern the day,<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>9 the moon and stars to govern the night;<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>10 to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>11 and brought Israel out from among them<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>12 with a mighty hand and outstretched arm;<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>13 to him who divided the Red Sea asunder<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>14 and brought Israel through the midst of it,<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>15 but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea;<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>16 to him who led his people through the wilderness;<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>17 to him who struck down great kings,<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>18 and killed mighty kings—<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>19 Sihon king of the Amorites<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>20 and Og king of Bashan—<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>21 and gave their land as an inheritance,<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>22 an inheritance to his servant Israel.<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>23 He remembered us in our low estate<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>24 and freed us from our enemies.<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>25 He gives food to every creature.<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.<br /></span></u></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><span>26 Give thanks to the God of heaven.<br /></span></i><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><span>His love endures forever.</span></u></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">26 times the exact same phrase is repeated. Can you imagine the person who is so put off by repetition that they don't want to sing Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna with the angels in Heaven? It is biblical to use repetition in worship. Other examples [not exhaustive] would include Psalms <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+9&version=NIV" target="_blank">9</a>, and <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+10&version=NIV" target="_blank">10</a> which repeat each other, Psalms <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+42&version=NIV" target="_blank">42</a>, and <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+43&version=NIV" target="_blank">43</a> which do the same, and Psalms <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+43&version=NIV" target="_blank">119</a> which has almost the same phrase expressed many times in order to form an acrostic poem.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span><br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span>Repetition and meditation go hand in hand. This, in fact, is an important part of memorizing scripture and meditating on it day and night. This can't really be done without repetition.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-EiRxOniE3q4QZReQDbRhYh0bERFesS09QiSjAO_YF7fvm_VmTGOpLkF0_M-8WGO-K92UYWvbGMj0BUEV3Du6gkc9tGO4hYo6i8YI4MIj2D-Xud7p-eLunhkCsFK6wTALiA_Pvrjabt6inZjtTEuEqWMkqYV9f7dAno4tqfzDGMROu8kaqLATJZ-2/s1024/8570483198_74a8774081_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="1024" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-EiRxOniE3q4QZReQDbRhYh0bERFesS09QiSjAO_YF7fvm_VmTGOpLkF0_M-8WGO-K92UYWvbGMj0BUEV3Du6gkc9tGO4hYo6i8YI4MIj2D-Xud7p-eLunhkCsFK6wTALiA_Pvrjabt6inZjtTEuEqWMkqYV9f7dAno4tqfzDGMROu8kaqLATJZ-2/w362-h241/8570483198_74a8774081_b.jpg" width="362" /></a></div></span><h2 style="text-align: left;">Too Self-Focused</h2><span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Modern worship music is often described as "Meism" and criticized as too self-focused and therefore not God-focused. I would contend that the Psalms are even more focused on the writer and their reaction to God than modern songs are. Read through </span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+1-20&version=NIV" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">the first 20 Psalms</a><span style="font-weight: normal;"> and you will be hard-pressed to find that the author's personal life experience is not on display. Does this mean that they are not worship? I think that the critics of this type of worship song simply do not appreciate what I would label as "devotional worship." </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: normal;">These songs are about the personal experience of faith and that is why they resonate with believers so strongly. Take a good hard look at the two most-loved Psalms, Psalms 23 and 51. Can you honestly say that these are declarations only about who God is, as some would suggest is the only way to worship? Or, are these Psalms about the human experiences of fear and sinfulness and our need for a </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Savior</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">? Does this make them any less capable as a worship song in either a corporate or personal setting? How about <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/07/amazing-grace-john-newton.html" target="_blank">Amazing Grace</a>? Consider the words carefully and notice the first person narrative of the song. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;">"I once was lost, but now I'm found, was blind but now I see." </span> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: normal;">You can't get more self-focused that this, so if you are going to cancel a worship song for being self-focussed "meism" then I would suggest cancelling Amazing Grace as the first victim. [of course this is ridiculous, don't cancel Amazing Grace]</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTkIKGzkwqmENS_HuZHh6daN7VKT_M--cETKhPn3D-XMtMsjeQ7lXrHgSBsH6mwfzhyrHTvZDhzobvcAQ4jR3fEuedH7xaU8z2ygV4hnkrslycqaV6ZUknxaLzBxhdiToU-uVa8oNOhig3QtUHth7rUKSO9Hjh5uMqGR273pcbJmU9Xj0Yw9ouKsY/s474/th-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="474" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTkIKGzkwqmENS_HuZHh6daN7VKT_M--cETKhPn3D-XMtMsjeQ7lXrHgSBsH6mwfzhyrHTvZDhzobvcAQ4jR3fEuedH7xaU8z2ygV4hnkrslycqaV6ZUknxaLzBxhdiToU-uVa8oNOhig3QtUHth7rUKSO9Hjh5uMqGR273pcbJmU9Xj0Yw9ouKsY/w369-h246/th-2.jpg" width="369" /></a></div></span><h2 style="text-align: left;">Too Commercialized</h2>I must admit, commercialization bothers me too. Some songs with large production budgets and music videos seem showy and when you read about the "staging" of a worship session for video it can be really dis-heartening to think that the people near the stage are all hand-picked to be "easy on the eyes." That seems about as far from the heart of worship as a person can get. However, I kind of get it, and her's why.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />During the pandemic my church closed for a while and our worship team decided to start putting out videos of worship songs to continue to worship with our congregation online. <b>The first few were pretty terrible.</b> We didn't know anything about lighting, sound, or video editing and there was a steep learning curve. When we started to improve the process and therefore improve the product we were putting out we inevitably had lighting, more equipment, multiple cameras and camera operators and even staged a worship session around a campfire where all the equipment involved was off-camera so it wasn't seen. Does this make it "fake?" I would say definitely not. We still worshipped and people watching the videos were and still are led into worship. So, I have some experience in staging and producing things with a heart of worship intact with a small country church making a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/GetAbundantLife/featured" target="_blank">small YouTube channel.</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />When that grows into a "mega-church" with multiple campuses and an enormous online presence with tens of millions of views on an individual video, shouldn't there be more time, effort, and money put into the production of that content? I would say yes. We began to find that our videos [during the pandemic] were getting hundreds and sometimes over a thousand views. There is nothing wrong with wanting to put out even better content to help people worship, to do things at the highest quality for the Lord that you can. When Elevation worship or another large production makes a video it will be seen by a million plus people over the first few days. <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/08/25-blessing-by-kari-jobe-and-cody-carnes.html" target="_blank">A good example of this would be The Blessing, which currently has over 75 million views. </a> There is an expectation of quality that takes some commercialization and I get it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Now, to the Psalms, in David's reign over Israel, worship was big business. There were singers, trumpeters, lutes and lyres, cymbal crashers, dancers, and writers and scribes for the songs as well. This was all without any amplification or video systems or projection and with multitudes of worshippers trying to follow along. See <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Chronicles+5&version=NIV" target="_blank">2nd Chronicles 5:13</a> and <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Chronicles+29%3A28&version=NIV" target="_blank">29:28</a>. Don't you think the best singers, trumpeters, etc... were sought after and paid accordingly? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I think if David was alive today he would put on an amazing show and be dancing out in front, ridiculed for his audacity and commercialization like he was by his wife Michal. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+samuel+6&version=NIV" target="_blank">See 2nd Samuel 6</a>. God did not take kindly to the way that Michal approached worship. Would you rather be on the side of Michal saying it is embarrassing how loud and wild worship has become? Or be like David known as a man after God’s own heart?</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvJr-5OmMrDKerDLJgjkLHmJsshfNlvy5lBUESWSx8dHOk6W3CC0TQVaN9FFWYLCftU97OAXz52-qgtW0EXgOyRVWdpZxvNjVc2KuSYY1yEHrJgn-eCAURQfjg0uixEfE9-7t47eRhMDDoEWyfuIm3owS3C8mWOlirZ4cfvRxvkfWTLYnX5WhI5eR/s474/th-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="474" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvJr-5OmMrDKerDLJgjkLHmJsshfNlvy5lBUESWSx8dHOk6W3CC0TQVaN9FFWYLCftU97OAXz52-qgtW0EXgOyRVWdpZxvNjVc2KuSYY1yEHrJgn-eCAURQfjg0uixEfE9-7t47eRhMDDoEWyfuIm3owS3C8mWOlirZ4cfvRxvkfWTLYnX5WhI5eR/w380-h253/th-3.jpg" width="380" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h2 style="text-align: left;">Too Misunderstood</h2><span><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’ve heard a criticism repeated a lot lately that sounds good on its surface. It goes something like this: a worship song is like a mini-sermon. It will play on a persons emotions and stick in there head so if there is anything in the lyrics that can be misunderstood or is unclear theologically then it is as bad as false teaching. This sounds like such a righteous position of protecting people. However, I would counter that things needing further explanation and clarification is a strength of a song and not a weakness. If your theology consists of song lyrics, no matter how great the song, I would say you have a very shallow Christianity. Even to base your entire life on the book of Psalms, which is scripture, would not be enough to truly know Jesus and be filled with the Holy Spirit. </span></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><span>Some Examples of this that I've written about recently:</span></span></h3><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/08/day-26-come-thou-fount-of-every-blessing.html" target="_blank">Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing</a></li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/07/graves-into-gardens-brandon-lake-chris.html" target="_blank">Graves Into Gardens</a></li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/07/take-courage-kristene-dimarco.html" target="_blank">Take Courage</a></li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2022/08/day-28-rattle-elevation-worship.html" target="_blank">Rattle</a></li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Christian life is molded and developed in community with others, sitting under teaching, discussing the Word of God with others, and having real fellowship working side by side. If understanding the biblical background and meaning behind a song is important to you, then search it out and lead others to go with you. Write blog posts about songs that you want people to understand more deeply, like I have. Don’t just complain that they can be misunderstood. Could you misunderstand the Psalms? I’m sure many cults have been started through such misunderstandings of scripture but that doesn’t make the Psalms false teaching. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5YNp4ekk_04U6qhYOMx0jIlidgMpHgmlNpWFpi-7NQGXNMdYlHwWSdcpfZWtvw-lygTlyhl9dBB_M6VMFTQaB7AjYkJQ19UVMVn7FEqsOa_8ZvrLxTnwfd6bA_XfMKuqQALZkQKOsQcntrFdcSKtWq5YW-6xkVwbXYz910wVLCCFfywsJsly48o-/s637/psalms%20146.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="637" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5YNp4ekk_04U6qhYOMx0jIlidgMpHgmlNpWFpi-7NQGXNMdYlHwWSdcpfZWtvw-lygTlyhl9dBB_M6VMFTQaB7AjYkJQ19UVMVn7FEqsOa_8ZvrLxTnwfd6bA_XfMKuqQALZkQKOsQcntrFdcSKtWq5YW-6xkVwbXYz910wVLCCFfywsJsly48o-/w408-h260/psalms%20146.jpg" width="408" /></a></div></span><h2 style="text-align: left;">Final Thoughts</h2>If you’ve made it this far and you’re offended then read this clearly and carefully. <b>All these things can be taken too far.</b> A song could be a money making gimmick of hypnotic repetition that promotes a false gospel. What I’m saying is be careful. Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water. The Psalms are full of examples of emotional, commercialized, repetitive, and often misunderstood worship songs that are God-breathed and God-inspired. Have a bucket full of Grace and get worshipping. Thank you for joining me on this <a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/p/page-tester.html" target="_blank">30 Days of Worship</a>. I’ve learned a lot and I hope you have too. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Enjoyed This? </h2><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/p/ecclesiastes-sermon-series.html" target="_blank">Check Out My Series on Ecclesiastes</a></li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/p/fruits-of-spirit.html" target="_blank">Look into the Fruits of the Spirit</a></li><li><a href="https://bucketfullofgrace.blogspot.com/2019/09/the-parable-of-wheat-and-tares-matthew.html" target="_blank">The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares</a></li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<div id="amzn-assoc-ad-d366c879-d523-4802-9ed4-45534ed536d4" style="text-align: left;"></div><script async="" src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US&adInstanceId=d366c879-d523-4802-9ed4-45534ed536d4"></script>Just a Guy with a Bucket Full of Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09317930564760518909noreply@blogger.com0