This is the hardest blog I have had to write during this time of “Faith Comes By Hearing.” There is so much in the first seven chapters of the book of Revelation that I could probably write a blog on each chapter. The last book of the New Testament, Revelation, has always been a mystery and a book that most Christians avoid reading. I find in fascinating because it tells us what is to come. Although hard to understand, if you do an in-depth study of the book, it should give you a feeling of peace. Yes, there are a lot of terrible things written in the book, but if you are one of the faithful to Jesus Christ, you have nothing to worry about.
At the end of each of the messages to the seven churches is a promise to those who are faithful to the end. To the church in Ephesus - To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. To the church in Smyrna - He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. To the church in Pergamum - To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it]. To the church in Thyatira - to him will I give power over the nations. To the church in Sardis - He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. To the church in Philadelphia - Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name. To the church in Laodicea - To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
This only covers the first three chapters of what John saw and heard about these seven churches. Our reward is great if we stay faithful to the end. Doesn’t this make you want to tell everyone about the Good News of Jesus Christ?
Mike Dickmann
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Day 37 ~ 1 John - 2-Jude
WOW we read four books of the Bible today! Granted they are short books but none the less you are doing GREAT! It is hard to believe that we only have 3 reading days left and that Easter is right around the corner. Let’s finish strong as we let God’s word speak to us.
1John 4:10 ESV In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Throughout the Bible God calls us to love each other, our enemies, and those that surround us each and everyday. We can’t deny that our God is one of relationship and love. Love is described wonderfully by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13 and true love has some very distinguishable characteristics. One of those characteristics is that it loves no matter what. Real love happens weather someone deserves it or not. It is easy to love those who love us. It is natural to love those who bless our lives in some way or another. But true love, loves no matter what. This is the kind of love God had for each one of us. He loved us despite of our sin, and shortcomings. He loved us and sent His one and only Son to die for us when we would have been considered unlovable even by our own standards. I pray that modern day disciples can learn from God’s example and that we might be a people who are defined by our generous love that is extended to everyone.
Pastor Pete
1John 4:10 ESV In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Throughout the Bible God calls us to love each other, our enemies, and those that surround us each and everyday. We can’t deny that our God is one of relationship and love. Love is described wonderfully by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13 and true love has some very distinguishable characteristics. One of those characteristics is that it loves no matter what. Real love happens weather someone deserves it or not. It is easy to love those who love us. It is natural to love those who bless our lives in some way or another. But true love, loves no matter what. This is the kind of love God had for each one of us. He loved us despite of our sin, and shortcomings. He loved us and sent His one and only Son to die for us when we would have been considered unlovable even by our own standards. I pray that modern day disciples can learn from God’s example and that we might be a people who are defined by our generous love that is extended to everyone.
Pastor Pete
Monday, March 29, 2010
Day 36 ~ 1 Peter 1 - 1 John 1
God is Light.
He is the Word of Life.
The disciples had seen and walked with Jesus. They touched Him. Jesus revealed Himself to them. They knew who and what He is. “Walking in the Light”
1 John 1:5
“God is Light”
In Him there is no darkness at all.
When we walk with Jesus we walk in the light, we have fellowship with Him and His blood cleanses us.
When we turn to our own ways we walk in darkness and lose fellowship with Jesus. When we lie to ourselves and or each other about our walk we are in darkness. We fall out of fellowship with Jesus. This is when I feel the most alone. The struggles and worries of this world seem to overwhelm me. I feel as though I will never get through. The struggles will never end and I will fall and not be able to get up. I will be trampled by the stampede of this world.
When everything seems to be at it’s darkest somehow, someway a spot of light appears. When I turn to this Light and reach for it my world gets brighter. The more I focus on the Light the brighter and bigger it gets. When the Light is all around me; when it is everywhere I look, that is when I see that I have turned to Jesus to take my worries.
I have been talking to Him; relying on Him for everything.
His presence is with me, guiding me and keeping me out of the darkness. His Holy Spirit is back in control of me.
Are you walking in the darkness or in the Light?
Arch Stockton
He is the Word of Life.
The disciples had seen and walked with Jesus. They touched Him. Jesus revealed Himself to them. They knew who and what He is. “Walking in the Light”
1 John 1:5
“God is Light”
In Him there is no darkness at all.
When we walk with Jesus we walk in the light, we have fellowship with Him and His blood cleanses us.
When we turn to our own ways we walk in darkness and lose fellowship with Jesus. When we lie to ourselves and or each other about our walk we are in darkness. We fall out of fellowship with Jesus. This is when I feel the most alone. The struggles and worries of this world seem to overwhelm me. I feel as though I will never get through. The struggles will never end and I will fall and not be able to get up. I will be trampled by the stampede of this world.
When everything seems to be at it’s darkest somehow, someway a spot of light appears. When I turn to this Light and reach for it my world gets brighter. The more I focus on the Light the brighter and bigger it gets. When the Light is all around me; when it is everywhere I look, that is when I see that I have turned to Jesus to take my worries.
I have been talking to Him; relying on Him for everything.
His presence is with me, guiding me and keeping me out of the darkness. His Holy Spirit is back in control of me.
Are you walking in the darkness or in the Light?
Arch Stockton
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Day 35 ~ hebrews 11 - James 5
Hebre4ws 11 begins by naming some important figures in the Old Testament and what they did with their strong faith in God. Imagine the faith it would have taken to build an ark, leave our home and go to a place where God was sending you even though you did not know where, offer your only son as a sacrifice, lead a nation in a desert for frty years, or walk in between to separated walls of the Red Sea! Alll of these acts of faith were done before Jesus and without the Holy Spirit ndwelling inside of them. What then should we be able to step out on in faith with having the Holy Spirit indwelling inside of us; guiding us, teaching us, reminding us of Jesus' words, being our strength and support in moments of weakness, our counselor in difficult times, sadness, fear, or suffering?
James 2 discusses the good deeds that should accompany a Christian. We are saved by the grace of God and the faith we have in accepting Jesus into our hearts. James 2:17-18, "In the same way, faith by itself, if not accompanied by action is dead. Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by wht I do." These verses explain how faith that saves produces good deeds. We as Christians should strve to spread God's word, obey His commands, make disciples, and do good deeds.
Wilson Winn
James 2 discusses the good deeds that should accompany a Christian. We are saved by the grace of God and the faith we have in accepting Jesus into our hearts. James 2:17-18, "In the same way, faith by itself, if not accompanied by action is dead. Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by wht I do." These verses explain how faith that saves produces good deeds. We as Christians should strve to spread God's word, obey His commands, make disciples, and do good deeds.
Wilson Winn
Friday, March 26, 2010
Day 33 ~ 1 Timothy 6 - Hebrew 1
In Titus 3:1-2 Paul told Titus to remind believers to be subject to all rulers, to authorities, to be obedient and ready for every good deed, to spak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for the unsaved rulers and all men. Christians are to exemplify these Godly virtues in dealing with everyone. Many times, when things go wrong, we become quarrelsome instaead of showing consideration for our fellow man.
How much better our country would be if we would follow these rules given so long ago. Our homes and church family would be pleased if we took these words and planted them in our hearts.
Bob Hogan
How much better our country would be if we would follow these rules given so long ago. Our homes and church family would be pleased if we took these words and planted them in our hearts.
Bob Hogan
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Day 30 ~ Galatians 5 - Philippians 1
“The entire law is summed up in a single command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Does this seem like a hard command to follow? I don’t know about you, but there are some people who I have a difficult time loving. The Golden Rule is taught to our children from an early age, but how often do we keep this rule in mind for ourselves? When someone cuts us off on the road, moves ahead of us in the workplace, or otherwise takes advantage of us, is love our first reaction? Paul says that we need to make a conscious effort to keep unity among one another. If I am being honest with myself, I will realize that peace with others is not always my goal as I go throughout life. I am often too quick to judge others and become disappointed when their actions don’t meet my expectations. This is in contrast to the kind of peace Paul preaches and that Christ desires for his church.
How do we go about keeping unity among one another? Paul says it is by serving one another in love. This is especially crucial among followers of Christ. We must realize how much we need each other. We cannot go through the Christian life alone. How important the family of God is for believers! It is my prayer that Cowboy Fellowship be a church where love is flowing freely. Nonbelievers know that we are His by the love that we show for one another. Next time you are tempted to think an ill thought or negatively react towards another, make the effort to live at peace instead.
Adam Shelburne
How do we go about keeping unity among one another? Paul says it is by serving one another in love. This is especially crucial among followers of Christ. We must realize how much we need each other. We cannot go through the Christian life alone. How important the family of God is for believers! It is my prayer that Cowboy Fellowship be a church where love is flowing freely. Nonbelievers know that we are His by the love that we show for one another. Next time you are tempted to think an ill thought or negatively react towards another, make the effort to live at peace instead.
Adam Shelburne
Monday, March 22, 2010
Day 29 ~ II Corinthians 10 - Galatians 4
2 Corinthians 10:23 Are they ministers in Christ?—I speak as a fool—I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often.
Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, suffered more than any other Apostle and more than any of us could ever stand. He was beaten, stoned, whipped and even ship wrecked three times for his love and faith of our Lord. Although we still hear of Christian persecution in the world, in America we do not know of such things. Yes, we have our problems, but nothing like Paul went through. We have people or groups that are trying to take away our beliefs like prayer in school, and prayer before special events, and calling Christmas winter holiday. These are things we can overcome if we just stand up for what we believe.
In Galatians, Paul speaks about our faith and the Law of Moses. The law was not given to justify mankind but because of the transgressions of mankind until Jesus would come. We are saved by grace through faith, not by works. No amount of works will get us into heaven. It is by confessing our sins and believing that Jesus died for our sins that save us. I believe that good works happen because of this. For if you believe that Jesus is Lord, how could you do anything but good works? May God bless you in all you do.
Mike Dickmann
Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, suffered more than any other Apostle and more than any of us could ever stand. He was beaten, stoned, whipped and even ship wrecked three times for his love and faith of our Lord. Although we still hear of Christian persecution in the world, in America we do not know of such things. Yes, we have our problems, but nothing like Paul went through. We have people or groups that are trying to take away our beliefs like prayer in school, and prayer before special events, and calling Christmas winter holiday. These are things we can overcome if we just stand up for what we believe.
In Galatians, Paul speaks about our faith and the Law of Moses. The law was not given to justify mankind but because of the transgressions of mankind until Jesus would come. We are saved by grace through faith, not by works. No amount of works will get us into heaven. It is by confessing our sins and believing that Jesus died for our sins that save us. I believe that good works happen because of this. For if you believe that Jesus is Lord, how could you do anything but good works? May God bless you in all you do.
Mike Dickmann
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Day 28 ~ 1 Corinthians 16 - 11 Corinthians 9
2Corinthians 1:3-5 ESV Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.
The NIV says that God is “the father of compassion, and the God of all comfort.” I just love reading those words because I have experienced this comfort and compassion personally in my daily life. I have seen the power and the abundance of His compassion, mercy, and comfort in the lives of others throughout the years as well. It is good to know that our God is a God of compassion and comfort. But sometimes I fear that we too easily forget that, the comfort we receive is not for us alone. God always has a purpose behind the things we receive and the purpose of His comfort in our lives is that we would share it with others. We should make it a point to be the kind of people who do our best to comfort those who are suffering around us. I love the way the ESV uses the word abundantly in verse five. God’s comfort is not in short supply, let us go out and give as much of it away as possible, when we do He is certain to fill us again.
Pastor Pete
The NIV says that God is “the father of compassion, and the God of all comfort.” I just love reading those words because I have experienced this comfort and compassion personally in my daily life. I have seen the power and the abundance of His compassion, mercy, and comfort in the lives of others throughout the years as well. It is good to know that our God is a God of compassion and comfort. But sometimes I fear that we too easily forget that, the comfort we receive is not for us alone. God always has a purpose behind the things we receive and the purpose of His comfort in our lives is that we would share it with others. We should make it a point to be the kind of people who do our best to comfort those who are suffering around us. I love the way the ESV uses the word abundantly in verse five. God’s comfort is not in short supply, let us go out and give as much of it away as possible, when we do He is certain to fill us again.
Pastor Pete
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Day 27 ~ 1 Corinthians 10-15
Our bodies are made up of many parts. As a rule the body does not work well without all of its parts. The Body of Christ is made in the same fashion. There are many parts of the Body of Christ.
Just as God chose and made our body parts He also chose and made the body parts of Cowboy Fellowship. Like all of our body parts each one of the parts of Cowboy Fellowship is important to a well functioning Church.
Without each of us doing our part for the Church body, Cowboy Fellowship will not be effective. We need every part for the Church to work as it was intended.
God provides me with everything I need to do what He wants me to do. He doesn’t necessarily provide me with what I need to do what I want.
Each one in the body of Christ has a purpose. You must seek His guidance for your purpose and when He reveals it to you, go and do what He says. Don’t delay. Be bold and He will be with you always.
Arch Stockton, Jr
Just as God chose and made our body parts He also chose and made the body parts of Cowboy Fellowship. Like all of our body parts each one of the parts of Cowboy Fellowship is important to a well functioning Church.
Without each of us doing our part for the Church body, Cowboy Fellowship will not be effective. We need every part for the Church to work as it was intended.
God provides me with everything I need to do what He wants me to do. He doesn’t necessarily provide me with what I need to do what I want.
Each one in the body of Christ has a purpose. You must seek His guidance for your purpose and when He reveals it to you, go and do what He says. Don’t delay. Be bold and He will be with you always.
Arch Stockton, Jr
Friday, March 19, 2010
Day 26 ~ 1 Corinthians 2-9
I Cor 6:12 “Everything is permissible for me”-but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible for me”-but I will not be mastered by anything. Paul is quoting some of the Corinthians who believed they had the freedom to do whatever they wanted. How often do Christians take sin lightly because they know God will forgive them of their sins? Paul explains that everything is not beneficial to the Christian and sin that is freely indulged in can master the individual. The Lord takes sin serious and is extremely dangerous due to its ability to overcome the Christian. How serious does the Lord take sin in a man that is associated with the Church? I Cor 6:11 But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. How can we truly be a witness for Christ if a non-Christian believes we approve of such behavior?
For those that feel overcome by sin, there is hope. I Cor 6:19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? If the Holy Spirit is in you, you have the power to overcome even the toughest of sins. You must pray for the strength to overcome these sins and call upon the Lord when any urge arises.
Wilson Winn
For those that feel overcome by sin, there is hope. I Cor 6:19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? If the Holy Spirit is in you, you have the power to overcome even the toughest of sins. You must pray for the strength to overcome these sins and call upon the Lord when any urge arises.
Wilson Winn
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Day 25 ~ Roman 11 - 1 Corinthian 1
The Foolish vs. the Wise
“But God chose the foolish things of this world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong” 1 Corinthians 1:27
I often reflect on this scripture, and how true I have been able to see it in my own life. I think back to the short years ago when I was a good for nothing sinner, a heathen, in and out of trouble so much that I thought “hey, this must be how life is.” I still remember to this day the night I gave my life to Christ, just a few months before I graduated High School, and was planning to go to college but felt a huge calling into the ministry. The first thing I thought when I felt God calling me was “no way, not me. God there are way more qualified people. I know I’ve been forgiven and redeemed, but there is just stuff that people won’t forget and they will remember it when I do this.” When I finally surrendered to his will, and started down the path he had for me, I remember the opposition. I remember hearing the words from other people, even people in my own family, saying there is NO WAY he is going to be preacher. I remember him, I know the things he did. He ain’t gonna cut it as a preacher."
I am so glad that it wasn’t by my doing or thinking, or the doing and thinking of others that determined who I was and where I was going. Sure I didn’t fit the profile of a Pastor, but when I finally discovered my worth in CHRIST, not my worth based on what the world says about me, I discovered that God does have a plan and a purpose for me, as well as he does for you. Don’t let your past actions and deeds determine or sway you from believing and KNOWING what your worth in Christ Jesus is. It doesn’t matter what everyone says, through Christ all things are possible.
God Bless
Tanner Butkay
“But God chose the foolish things of this world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong” 1 Corinthians 1:27
I often reflect on this scripture, and how true I have been able to see it in my own life. I think back to the short years ago when I was a good for nothing sinner, a heathen, in and out of trouble so much that I thought “hey, this must be how life is.” I still remember to this day the night I gave my life to Christ, just a few months before I graduated High School, and was planning to go to college but felt a huge calling into the ministry. The first thing I thought when I felt God calling me was “no way, not me. God there are way more qualified people. I know I’ve been forgiven and redeemed, but there is just stuff that people won’t forget and they will remember it when I do this.” When I finally surrendered to his will, and started down the path he had for me, I remember the opposition. I remember hearing the words from other people, even people in my own family, saying there is NO WAY he is going to be preacher. I remember him, I know the things he did. He ain’t gonna cut it as a preacher."
I am so glad that it wasn’t by my doing or thinking, or the doing and thinking of others that determined who I was and where I was going. Sure I didn’t fit the profile of a Pastor, but when I finally discovered my worth in CHRIST, not my worth based on what the world says about me, I discovered that God does have a plan and a purpose for me, as well as he does for you. Don’t let your past actions and deeds determine or sway you from believing and KNOWING what your worth in Christ Jesus is. It doesn’t matter what everyone says, through Christ all things are possible.
God Bless
Tanner Butkay
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Day 24 ~ Romans 5 - 10
Paul states in Romans 8:15 that you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out "Abba Father".
Because of a life os sin, sinful people fear death and final punishment, but those who have accepted Christ as savior have been adopted by Him as His children and can come before Him without fear. To call Him "Abba Father" is to use an endearing term such as "daddy". The picture here is a child running toward their father with arms out to receive a big hug in return.
The spirit Himself bears witness to our spirit that we are truly the children of God. Therefore, we have great freedom to go before God with all confidence that He hears all our petitions and knows what is best for us.
It is great, yet scary, to know that our Father in heaven knows us so well. He knows our thoughts and actions even before we do.
Are we alays aware that God created us in His image to carry out His work and nothing can separate us from the love of God? Because of His victory over eath, we also will experience the same victory at our death.
Paise be to God!
Bob Hogan
Because of a life os sin, sinful people fear death and final punishment, but those who have accepted Christ as savior have been adopted by Him as His children and can come before Him without fear. To call Him "Abba Father" is to use an endearing term such as "daddy". The picture here is a child running toward their father with arms out to receive a big hug in return.
The spirit Himself bears witness to our spirit that we are truly the children of God. Therefore, we have great freedom to go before God with all confidence that He hears all our petitions and knows what is best for us.
It is great, yet scary, to know that our Father in heaven knows us so well. He knows our thoughts and actions even before we do.
Are we alays aware that God created us in His image to carry out His work and nothing can separate us from the love of God? Because of His victory over eath, we also will experience the same victory at our death.
Paise be to God!
Bob Hogan
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Day 21 ~ Acts 16-20
Paul had a firm grasp on the Christian life. As he was involved in his numerous travels, he preached the Gospel everywhere he went. His only concern was for the growth of God’s Kingdom. As long as the love of Christ was being proclaimed, thoughts for his own well-being were nonexistent. Paul knew what it meant to be persecuted for Christ. Though he was beaten and imprisoned, he continued to share Christ with others. His response to persecution was shouting and singing for joy to God. Paul said, “I consider my life worth nothing to me.” He knew that the task of sharing the Gospel was the most important role he had been given.
We are given the same command to share Christ with others. How well are you doing this? Does your commitment to telling others about the love of God reflect that of Paul? Are you consumed with Christ to the extent that He is all that matters? Maybe the thought of simply going up to someone and telling him or her about Christ is terrifying to you. Start small by building relationships with people who do not know Christ. As you get to know these individuals, look for opportunities to talk with them about the things of God. Invite them to come to church with you. The Holy Spirit will be faithful to work in the lives of these individuals. We must be obedient to sharing Christ with others. It is my prayer that we would all have a heart for the lost as Paul did.
Adam Shelburne
We are given the same command to share Christ with others. How well are you doing this? Does your commitment to telling others about the love of God reflect that of Paul? Are you consumed with Christ to the extent that He is all that matters? Maybe the thought of simply going up to someone and telling him or her about Christ is terrifying to you. Start small by building relationships with people who do not know Christ. As you get to know these individuals, look for opportunities to talk with them about the things of God. Invite them to come to church with you. The Holy Spirit will be faithful to work in the lives of these individuals. We must be obedient to sharing Christ with others. It is my prayer that we would all have a heart for the lost as Paul did.
Adam Shelburne
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Day 20 ~ Acts 10 - 15
God can and does wonderful things in our lives. Cornelius, a devout man who feared God and help the poor and prayed to God had his prayers answered. God had him send for Peter that he would come speak to his household about Jesus. Normally Peter would not have gone to Cornelius as he was a gentile. But, God showed him in a dream that nothing is unclean or impure that God has made clean.
There may have been times in your own life (I know there have been in mine), when you avoid approaching someone because of the way they look or act. God has made all of us, we are all His children and should treat everyone as a sister or a brother in Christ. You may only get one chance to plant that seed about Jesus and the kingdom of heaven, take it, don’t wait. Spread the gospel whenever you have the chance, let your faith shine through. Often we think we do not know enough about the bible to answer questions, just listen to your heart, the Holy Spirit will lead you.
Strengthen your faith. Read and pray daily, listen to what God is saying to you. You will be blessed beyond measure, and be a blessing to others.
Mike Dickmann
There may have been times in your own life (I know there have been in mine), when you avoid approaching someone because of the way they look or act. God has made all of us, we are all His children and should treat everyone as a sister or a brother in Christ. You may only get one chance to plant that seed about Jesus and the kingdom of heaven, take it, don’t wait. Spread the gospel whenever you have the chance, let your faith shine through. Often we think we do not know enough about the bible to answer questions, just listen to your heart, the Holy Spirit will lead you.
Strengthen your faith. Read and pray daily, listen to what God is saying to you. You will be blessed beyond measure, and be a blessing to others.
Mike Dickmann
Friday, March 12, 2010
Day 19 ~ Acts 5-9 ~ Part 2
Throughout the reading for today we see that the early church faced both internal and external problems that could have been extremely devastating to the growth and success of the church. In the first post for today we looked at one of those internal issues that arose with Ananias and Sapphira. Now I want to look at the external issue that the church could not control. In Chapter eight we find that “a great persecution broke out against the church.” The Body of Christ is no stranger to persecution. From the time of Christ to the present day the enemies of Christ have done their best to scatter and persecute the church. Our response to such persecution is what has made the difference throughout the years. While the church in Acts 8 “scattered throughout Judea and Samaria” notice what they did. The text says” Acts 8:4 (ESV) “Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word.” Hardship, pain, struggle, persecution, famine, or any other external condition does not excuse us from accomplishing our mission. In Mark 16:15, and Matthew 28:19-20 among other places we are told to GO and make disciples. May we be like the early church and preach the word wherever we go, despite the external conditions that surround us.
Pastor Pete
Pastor Pete
Day 19 ~ Acts 5 - 9 ~ Part 1
This passage of the New Testament has always intrigued me as well as made my heart sad when I read the account in Acts 5 concerning Ananias and Sapphira. Instead of elaborating on it myself, I wanted to share the view of two different commentaries with you. The first comes from the NIV Commentary, and the second from the Life Application Study Bible. I think both of these texts help elaborate and explain this event that took place in the New Testament.
“The case of Ananias and Sapphira is opposite that of Barnabas, though it was meant to look the same. No doubt the story circulated within the church as a warning of the awfulness of deceit, for at times of great enthusiasm such a warning is especially necessary. And though Luke has taken evident pleasure in reporting the progress of the Gospel and the vitality of faith during these early days of the church in Jerusalem, he does not omit this most distressing event. This situation must have lain heavily on the hearts of the early Christians, and it is a message that needs to be constantly kept in mind by Christians today.
1-2 The details of the conspiracy are concisely stated. A certain Christian man named Ananias (meaning “God is gracious” in Hebrew) and his wife, Sapphira (meaning “beautiful” in Aramaic), wanted to enjoy the acclaim of the church as Barnabas had, but without making a genuine sacrifice. So they too sold a piece of real estate and pretended to give the full price to the apostles for distribution to the needy, though they conspired to keep back part of the money for themselves. Luke’s language here seems to draw a parallel between the sin of Achan just as the Israelites began their conquest of Canaan (see Jos 7) and the sin of Ananias and Sapphira as the church began its mission; both incidents come under the immediate and drastic judgment of God and teach the people a sobering lesson. This is very likely how the early church saw the incident as well.
3-4 Probably no account in Acts has provoked more wrath from critics than this one has. Commentators have complained about the difficulty of accepting the death of both husband and wife under such circumstances and have questioned Peter’s ethics in not giving them an opportunity for repentance and in not telling Sapphira of her husband’s death. Even more difficult for many is the way the story portrays Peter, who appears to be without the compassion or restraint of his Lord. Jesus’ relations even with Judas, whose sin was a thousand times more odious, certainly were not on this level. But note that Peter did not view the action of Ananias and Sapphira as merely incidental. He spoke of it as inspired by Satan and as a lie to both the Holy Spirit and God. It was a case of deceit and was an affront, not just on the community level, but primarily before God. Deceit is spiritually disastrous—a sin, whatever its supposed justification, that sours every personal relationship. Where there is even the suspicion of conscious misrepresentation and deception, trust is completely violated.
Ananias and Sapphira were severely dealt with because their act of pretended piety (cf. v. 4) was done voluntarily and because the greater freedom permitted in the church at Jerusalem made the individual Christian more responsible to be honest and more culpable when dishonest. In addition, the way Ananias and Sapphira attempted to reach their goals was so diametrically opposed to the whole thrust of the Gospel that to allow it to go unchallenged would have set the entire mission of the church off course. Like the act of Achan, this episode was pivotal in the life and mission of God’s people, for the whole enterprise was threatened at its start. And while we may be thankful that judgment on deceit in the church is not now so swift and drastic, this incident stands as an indelible warning regarding the heinousness in God’s sight of deception in spiritual and personal matters.
5 The psychological explanations of Ananias’s sudden death attribute his fatal collapse to the shock and shame of being found out. The verb Luke uses for his death, however, appears in the NT only in contexts where someone is struck down by divine judgment (5:5, 10; 12:23). Whatever were the psychological and physical factors involved, Luke’s emphasis is on God as the ultimate cause of Ananias’s death. This is the light in which he means his readers to understand his further comment: “And great fear seized all who heard what had happened.”
6 The expression “the young men” (cf. v. 10) refers to certain younger men in the Christian community. Whether they covered Ananias with a shroud and carried him away or wrapped him up in some manner and then carried him away or simply picked him up from the floor and took him off for burial is impossible to say. It is understandable that burial in hot climates takes place soon after death. We have no explanation why Ananias was buried so quickly and his wife was not told about it.
7-11 “About three hours later” the tragic episode was repeated with Sapphira. Just as Ananias and his wife were united in their conspiracy, so they were united in the judgment that came upon them. It may seem redundant that Luke closes his account of Ananias and Sapphira’s deception with the statement “Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.” However, this is a vignette of warning; and in concluding it Luke wants to stress this note of reverent fear—as he expressly did in v. 5 and implicitly does throughout his account.
This is the first time in Acts that the word “church” (GK G1711) appears, though it is the regular word for both the church universal and local congregations elsewhere in the book (cf. 7:38; 8:1; 9:31; 11:22; 13:1; 14:23; 15:22, 41; 16:5; 19:32, 40; 20:28) and throughout the NT letters (cf. also Mt 16:18; 18:17).”
The Life Application Commentary
“The sin Ananias and Sapphira committed was not stinginess or holding back part of the money—it was their choice whether or not to sell the land and how much to give. Their sin was lying to God and God’s people, saying they gave the whole amount but holding back some for themselves and trying to make themselves appear more generous than they really were. This act was judged harshly because dishonesty, greed, and covetousness are destructive in a church, preventing the Holy Spirit from working effectively. All lying is bad, but when we lie to try to deceive God and his people about our relationship with him, we destroy our testimony for Christ.
5:11 Some read the account of Ananias and Sapphira being struck down and accuse God of being harsh. “I thought God was supposed to be loving and forgiving. I thought all that wrath stuff was for Old Testament times.” With an emphasis on grace and mercy, it’s easy to overlook the equally important truth of God’s holiness. We must remember that God has not changed (Malachi 3:6). He still hates sin as much as he ever did. God’s judgment of Ananias and Sapphira produced shock and fear among the believers, making them realize how seriously God regards sin in the church.”
I hope this has helped explain this passage of scripture better. I have another verse I want to elaborate on and plan to post later today.
1. Kenneth L. Barker and John R. Kohlenberger, Zondervan NIV Bible commentary (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan Pub. House, 1994), 408-409.
2. Live Application Study Bible quoted from Accordance Bible Software.
Pastor Pete
“The case of Ananias and Sapphira is opposite that of Barnabas, though it was meant to look the same. No doubt the story circulated within the church as a warning of the awfulness of deceit, for at times of great enthusiasm such a warning is especially necessary. And though Luke has taken evident pleasure in reporting the progress of the Gospel and the vitality of faith during these early days of the church in Jerusalem, he does not omit this most distressing event. This situation must have lain heavily on the hearts of the early Christians, and it is a message that needs to be constantly kept in mind by Christians today.
1-2 The details of the conspiracy are concisely stated. A certain Christian man named Ananias (meaning “God is gracious” in Hebrew) and his wife, Sapphira (meaning “beautiful” in Aramaic), wanted to enjoy the acclaim of the church as Barnabas had, but without making a genuine sacrifice. So they too sold a piece of real estate and pretended to give the full price to the apostles for distribution to the needy, though they conspired to keep back part of the money for themselves. Luke’s language here seems to draw a parallel between the sin of Achan just as the Israelites began their conquest of Canaan (see Jos 7) and the sin of Ananias and Sapphira as the church began its mission; both incidents come under the immediate and drastic judgment of God and teach the people a sobering lesson. This is very likely how the early church saw the incident as well.
3-4 Probably no account in Acts has provoked more wrath from critics than this one has. Commentators have complained about the difficulty of accepting the death of both husband and wife under such circumstances and have questioned Peter’s ethics in not giving them an opportunity for repentance and in not telling Sapphira of her husband’s death. Even more difficult for many is the way the story portrays Peter, who appears to be without the compassion or restraint of his Lord. Jesus’ relations even with Judas, whose sin was a thousand times more odious, certainly were not on this level. But note that Peter did not view the action of Ananias and Sapphira as merely incidental. He spoke of it as inspired by Satan and as a lie to both the Holy Spirit and God. It was a case of deceit and was an affront, not just on the community level, but primarily before God. Deceit is spiritually disastrous—a sin, whatever its supposed justification, that sours every personal relationship. Where there is even the suspicion of conscious misrepresentation and deception, trust is completely violated.
Ananias and Sapphira were severely dealt with because their act of pretended piety (cf. v. 4) was done voluntarily and because the greater freedom permitted in the church at Jerusalem made the individual Christian more responsible to be honest and more culpable when dishonest. In addition, the way Ananias and Sapphira attempted to reach their goals was so diametrically opposed to the whole thrust of the Gospel that to allow it to go unchallenged would have set the entire mission of the church off course. Like the act of Achan, this episode was pivotal in the life and mission of God’s people, for the whole enterprise was threatened at its start. And while we may be thankful that judgment on deceit in the church is not now so swift and drastic, this incident stands as an indelible warning regarding the heinousness in God’s sight of deception in spiritual and personal matters.
5 The psychological explanations of Ananias’s sudden death attribute his fatal collapse to the shock and shame of being found out. The verb Luke uses for his death, however, appears in the NT only in contexts where someone is struck down by divine judgment (5:5, 10; 12:23). Whatever were the psychological and physical factors involved, Luke’s emphasis is on God as the ultimate cause of Ananias’s death. This is the light in which he means his readers to understand his further comment: “And great fear seized all who heard what had happened.”
6 The expression “the young men” (cf. v. 10) refers to certain younger men in the Christian community. Whether they covered Ananias with a shroud and carried him away or wrapped him up in some manner and then carried him away or simply picked him up from the floor and took him off for burial is impossible to say. It is understandable that burial in hot climates takes place soon after death. We have no explanation why Ananias was buried so quickly and his wife was not told about it.
7-11 “About three hours later” the tragic episode was repeated with Sapphira. Just as Ananias and his wife were united in their conspiracy, so they were united in the judgment that came upon them. It may seem redundant that Luke closes his account of Ananias and Sapphira’s deception with the statement “Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.” However, this is a vignette of warning; and in concluding it Luke wants to stress this note of reverent fear—as he expressly did in v. 5 and implicitly does throughout his account.
This is the first time in Acts that the word “church” (GK G1711) appears, though it is the regular word for both the church universal and local congregations elsewhere in the book (cf. 7:38; 8:1; 9:31; 11:22; 13:1; 14:23; 15:22, 41; 16:5; 19:32, 40; 20:28) and throughout the NT letters (cf. also Mt 16:18; 18:17).”
The Life Application Commentary
“The sin Ananias and Sapphira committed was not stinginess or holding back part of the money—it was their choice whether or not to sell the land and how much to give. Their sin was lying to God and God’s people, saying they gave the whole amount but holding back some for themselves and trying to make themselves appear more generous than they really were. This act was judged harshly because dishonesty, greed, and covetousness are destructive in a church, preventing the Holy Spirit from working effectively. All lying is bad, but when we lie to try to deceive God and his people about our relationship with him, we destroy our testimony for Christ.
5:11 Some read the account of Ananias and Sapphira being struck down and accuse God of being harsh. “I thought God was supposed to be loving and forgiving. I thought all that wrath stuff was for Old Testament times.” With an emphasis on grace and mercy, it’s easy to overlook the equally important truth of God’s holiness. We must remember that God has not changed (Malachi 3:6). He still hates sin as much as he ever did. God’s judgment of Ananias and Sapphira produced shock and fear among the believers, making them realize how seriously God regards sin in the church.”
I hope this has helped explain this passage of scripture better. I have another verse I want to elaborate on and plan to post later today.
1. Kenneth L. Barker and John R. Kohlenberger, Zondervan NIV Bible commentary (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan Pub. House, 1994), 408-409.
2. Live Application Study Bible quoted from Accordance Bible Software.
Pastor Pete
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Day 18 ~ John 20 - Acts 4
The third time Jesus appeared to His disciples after He had risen, was at the water side where the disciples had fished all night and caught nothing. Jesus told them to lower their net on the right side of the boat, they caught lots of fish.
After they had breakfast Christ spoke to Peter. He asked Peter three times if he loved Him, each time Peter said yes.
Jesus said “feed My lambs”
“take care of My sheep”
“feed My sheep”
Study tells us that this was done to show Peter that he had to be completely devoted to Jesus. Peter was to lead the apostles. Without complete devotion he would not be effective.
Our lives are similar, if we are not completely devoted to Christ how can we be effective disciples?
What will people see in us if we are Christians only on Saturday or Sunday, and then only a few days each year?
To be effective you must be a Christ follower all day every day.
Arch Stockton Jr.
After they had breakfast Christ spoke to Peter. He asked Peter three times if he loved Him, each time Peter said yes.
Jesus said “feed My lambs”
“take care of My sheep”
“feed My sheep”
Study tells us that this was done to show Peter that he had to be completely devoted to Jesus. Peter was to lead the apostles. Without complete devotion he would not be effective.
Our lives are similar, if we are not completely devoted to Christ how can we be effective disciples?
What will people see in us if we are Christians only on Saturday or Sunday, and then only a few days each year?
To be effective you must be a Christ follower all day every day.
Arch Stockton Jr.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Day 17 ~ John 15-19
The parable of The Vine and the Branches at the beginning of John 15 is an extremely important set of scripture for a Christian’s life. Jesus is explaining the relationship that is expected of Christians with Jesus and that of Christians and the world. John 15:2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. This passage explains how Christ distinguishes between true faithful Christians and counterfeit Christians. John 15:5 If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit. If you are in Christ and Christ in you; you will bear fruit. However, there are people who believe something about Jesus and yet will not commit their lives to Him and trust Him as their personal Savior. Judas Iscariot is a prime example of this. Do you think he was a branch that was cut off the vine?
Let’s take a look at Cowboy Fellowship’s Mission. Our mission is to encourage non-Christians to become Christians and Christians to become more like Christ. This is a two part mission. First is to bring the lost to Christ (bear fruit). John 15:8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. Second is to make disciples-Christians more like Christ. John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last.
I leave you with one thought. Does your family, friends, and associates see you remaining in Christ’s love through obeying His Word and having joy in bearing fruit? If not, why not, and how can you change this?
Wilson Winn
Let’s take a look at Cowboy Fellowship’s Mission. Our mission is to encourage non-Christians to become Christians and Christians to become more like Christ. This is a two part mission. First is to bring the lost to Christ (bear fruit). John 15:8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. Second is to make disciples-Christians more like Christ. John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last.
I leave you with one thought. Does your family, friends, and associates see you remaining in Christ’s love through obeying His Word and having joy in bearing fruit? If not, why not, and how can you change this?
Wilson Winn
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Day 16 ~ John 10-14
John 13:1-17 has got to be not only one of the most inspiring passages that come out of this book, but one of the most humbling examples as well. We see Jesus and his disciples, right before the crucifixion, and Jesus gets down on his hands and feet and starts washing the feet of his disciples!! Now there are a few things that I want to point out by observing Jesus do this.
1. First, I want you to see how the disciples reacted to all this. Now, we only see Peter respond to what Jesus is doing, but you have to imagine what the other disciples are thinking “ Ok, this ain’t a parable because he isn’t talking, he’s not praying…… doesn’t sound like he is about to start a sermon…..ya I got nothing.” But then look at what Peter says. First he says “Lord you are NOT washing my feet, I should be washing yours!” (verse 8), which is something that I think most of us would probably say. And Jesus responds by saying, that if Peter does not allow Jesus to wash him, then he has no part in him (verse 8). I think this could be looked at like a standard salvation message. Unless we surrender to Christ and let him wash us for the things that we have done, then we have no part in Christ or in the body.
2. The second thing is also a reaction from Peter. Look at how Peter then responds to what Jesus has just told him. “Well Lord if that’s the case, then don’t just wash my feet, wash me completely!” (verse 9). Peter didn’t just want part of him cleansed, he wanted to be completely cleaned. But look at how Jesus responds, “when you have already been bathed, there is no need to have another bath, only to wash your feet” (verse 10). I believe what Jesus is telling us here has a lot to do with how people can view there salvation. We generally think, after we get saved we now have to live a perfect life, and all the things that we struggle with are gone. But then we mess up again, so we need to be “bathed” again, or in other words, I have to give my life to Christ all over again. When the truth is, once you are saved, that’s it. There is no getting saved again or repeating it. What I believe Christ is telling us in this passage is that you don’t have to bathed, or saved again, but we do need to work on areas to get them right. When we give our lives to Christ, there isn’t a special dust that makes all the wrong in our lives go away, and sometimes we do need to go back and do what we need to so that we can “clean” that area in our life.
3. The last point is probably the most obvious. Here we have the King of Kings, the Prince of Peace, the son of Living God, on his knees washing his disciples feet! In verse 15 he states, do as I have done, wash each other’s feet. Don’t think of yourself so high and mighty as to think that you can’t do something to serve and bless others. Whether it be blessing someone financially, serving through community service work, or maybe some sort of mission trip. Jesus set the bar and showed the example. Let us continue to serve Christ by serving others
Tanner Butkay
1. First, I want you to see how the disciples reacted to all this. Now, we only see Peter respond to what Jesus is doing, but you have to imagine what the other disciples are thinking “ Ok, this ain’t a parable because he isn’t talking, he’s not praying…… doesn’t sound like he is about to start a sermon…..ya I got nothing.” But then look at what Peter says. First he says “Lord you are NOT washing my feet, I should be washing yours!” (verse 8), which is something that I think most of us would probably say. And Jesus responds by saying, that if Peter does not allow Jesus to wash him, then he has no part in him (verse 8). I think this could be looked at like a standard salvation message. Unless we surrender to Christ and let him wash us for the things that we have done, then we have no part in Christ or in the body.
2. The second thing is also a reaction from Peter. Look at how Peter then responds to what Jesus has just told him. “Well Lord if that’s the case, then don’t just wash my feet, wash me completely!” (verse 9). Peter didn’t just want part of him cleansed, he wanted to be completely cleaned. But look at how Jesus responds, “when you have already been bathed, there is no need to have another bath, only to wash your feet” (verse 10). I believe what Jesus is telling us here has a lot to do with how people can view there salvation. We generally think, after we get saved we now have to live a perfect life, and all the things that we struggle with are gone. But then we mess up again, so we need to be “bathed” again, or in other words, I have to give my life to Christ all over again. When the truth is, once you are saved, that’s it. There is no getting saved again or repeating it. What I believe Christ is telling us in this passage is that you don’t have to bathed, or saved again, but we do need to work on areas to get them right. When we give our lives to Christ, there isn’t a special dust that makes all the wrong in our lives go away, and sometimes we do need to go back and do what we need to so that we can “clean” that area in our life.
3. The last point is probably the most obvious. Here we have the King of Kings, the Prince of Peace, the son of Living God, on his knees washing his disciples feet! In verse 15 he states, do as I have done, wash each other’s feet. Don’t think of yourself so high and mighty as to think that you can’t do something to serve and bless others. Whether it be blessing someone financially, serving through community service work, or maybe some sort of mission trip. Jesus set the bar and showed the example. Let us continue to serve Christ by serving others
Tanner Butkay
Day 15 ~ John 6 - 9
In verses John 6:35, 6:41, 6:48, and 6:51we find Jesus using the words "I AM, "I am the bread of life" to make it very clear to the Jews who "He" was. Bread was a main staple of food at that time, so it was a necessity. If we are going to be followers of Jesus it is necessary that we make "Him" first in our lives. Verse 8:12 says "I AM" the light of the world. This highlights Jesus' role as Messiah and Son of God. It is necessary that we believe Jesus' role as the Son of God if we are going to have salvation. It is very easy to say these words but difficult to make it apparent in our lives.
John 10:11-14 is the 4th of 7 "I AM" statements of Jesus. He says, "I am the good shepherd". He is saying he not only cares for you in the good times, but in troubled times as well. He loves you enough to give His life for you. A good shepherd gives life for his sheep.
Jesus is the only way to salvation. He came as a man to bring life and light to those who would believe in Him. As a Christian we are to seek the lost.
Bob Hogan
John 10:11-14 is the 4th of 7 "I AM" statements of Jesus. He says, "I am the good shepherd". He is saying he not only cares for you in the good times, but in troubled times as well. He loves you enough to give His life for you. A good shepherd gives life for his sheep.
Jesus is the only way to salvation. He came as a man to bring life and light to those who would believe in Him. As a Christian we are to seek the lost.
Bob Hogan
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Day 14 ~ John 3:19-21
Today you will have listened to one of the most quoted pieces of Scriptures, and it is awesome that even most people who don’t know Christ, have seen this verse on huge signs at sporting events around the world, rock concerts, and just standing on the sidewalk.
But how do we know the scriptures that come to surround that verse, how powerful they are as well? My favorite is really John 3:17 but what I would like to take a look at is the tough stuff, the steak of the bible, let's get past the milk kids and let's get to the prime rib men & women….!
John 3:19-21 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of the light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth come into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God!
I don’t want to steal the thunder of someone later but I have to quote James here because he understood this! James 5: 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
This is a key element in living out your life. Bring in light to all of your world so that there is no dark place. Satan wants you to have a dark place in your life because he wants a hold over you. He wants to whisper, “you can’t tell anyone about that they will shun you, laugh at you, kick you out, real people don’t really struggle with that, only weak people do….! Don’t let anyone know about your dark area of life keep it there!” Man what a terrible lie to buy into, and yet what a half truth. I can’t tell you how many times you Christians can be the worst about shooting your wounded and moving on!
I will be honest with you, I struggle. There are times in my life when I desire God’s creation more then I desire God the creator. There are times in my life when I lie, there are times in my life when I choose to do what is not right. I am, for all great purposes, a sinner.
Paul bragged about being, “the chief of sinners.” Me too. I am weak when I should be strong, I am strong when I should be weak, I am wretched and miserable. How come God chose to use a man like myself who is so ungodly at times in my heart? But God has forgiven me because I believe in the sacrifice that Jesus made for my life. I am able to come before the throne of God because I live in the light of Jesus' forgiveness. This is how. I have shared with you my struggles but I have friends that are even closer that know that even though I love the lord, they know I am deprived sinner as well. These friends that God has brought into my life, weirdly enough, struggle every bit as much as I do with similar issues and we ask each other the hard questions. Sometimes I will answer my phone to hear my friend on the other line crying and repenting before God and before me. There are times when I am able to call and pray in front of them and repent as well before them and most of all before my God.
Do not live as I did for a long time when I first came around to Christ. I lived with a darkness in my life and I did not know how to let Jesus in, but as I ran across these very verses, the fight was on, the battle ensued. But when I came and was able to confess before my friends and not just my God……. Satan no longer had a dark space that he could control me with in my life. No longer did I live in fear of what people found out, because I confessed that before them and my God. I cannot believe the freedom, the empowerment, and how much more alive I am because of that turning point in my life. Find Christian friends you can trust, confess to one one another, repent before them and before God, and be set free, and truly come into the light. It will change your life.
Scotty Smith
But how do we know the scriptures that come to surround that verse, how powerful they are as well? My favorite is really John 3:17 but what I would like to take a look at is the tough stuff, the steak of the bible, let's get past the milk kids and let's get to the prime rib men & women….!
John 3:19-21 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of the light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth come into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God!
I don’t want to steal the thunder of someone later but I have to quote James here because he understood this! James 5: 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
This is a key element in living out your life. Bring in light to all of your world so that there is no dark place. Satan wants you to have a dark place in your life because he wants a hold over you. He wants to whisper, “you can’t tell anyone about that they will shun you, laugh at you, kick you out, real people don’t really struggle with that, only weak people do….! Don’t let anyone know about your dark area of life keep it there!” Man what a terrible lie to buy into, and yet what a half truth. I can’t tell you how many times you Christians can be the worst about shooting your wounded and moving on!
I will be honest with you, I struggle. There are times in my life when I desire God’s creation more then I desire God the creator. There are times in my life when I lie, there are times in my life when I choose to do what is not right. I am, for all great purposes, a sinner.
Paul bragged about being, “the chief of sinners.” Me too. I am weak when I should be strong, I am strong when I should be weak, I am wretched and miserable. How come God chose to use a man like myself who is so ungodly at times in my heart? But God has forgiven me because I believe in the sacrifice that Jesus made for my life. I am able to come before the throne of God because I live in the light of Jesus' forgiveness. This is how. I have shared with you my struggles but I have friends that are even closer that know that even though I love the lord, they know I am deprived sinner as well. These friends that God has brought into my life, weirdly enough, struggle every bit as much as I do with similar issues and we ask each other the hard questions. Sometimes I will answer my phone to hear my friend on the other line crying and repenting before God and before me. There are times when I am able to call and pray in front of them and repent as well before them and most of all before my God.
Do not live as I did for a long time when I first came around to Christ. I lived with a darkness in my life and I did not know how to let Jesus in, but as I ran across these very verses, the fight was on, the battle ensued. But when I came and was able to confess before my friends and not just my God……. Satan no longer had a dark space that he could control me with in my life. No longer did I live in fear of what people found out, because I confessed that before them and my God. I cannot believe the freedom, the empowerment, and how much more alive I am because of that turning point in my life. Find Christian friends you can trust, confess to one one another, repent before them and before God, and be set free, and truly come into the light. It will change your life.
Scotty Smith
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Day 13 ~ Luke 20 - 24
The significance of today’s reading is obviously in the enormous sacrifice that God made by sending his son Jesus to die on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. However, I can’t help but be drawn to the story of the Walk to Emmaus in Luke 24:13-35.
The Bible tells that two of the disciples, after hearing of the resurrection were walking to a small village named Emmaus about seven miles away. The risen Christ was walking and talking with the two, but neither of them knew it was he, because they were preoccupied with their own sadness and troubles. The two were speaking freely to Jesus about all that had occurred and giving him their “Human” take on the whole situation.
This situation makes me wonder how many times in our own day-to-day lives we have had the benefit of walking and talking with the Holy Spirit, but are too blinded by our own problems to stop and gain the knowledge the Spirit has for us. There have been times in my own life that I have been fortunate enough that God has made himself known to me. Unfortunately, I have had to go through some extreme circumstance before I can be quiet enough to listen. My hope is that as I mature as a Christian, I will know God’s will for me each and every day.
Please join me in prayer. God grant me the faith to know that you are in control of my life, that I am never alone, so long as I know you and have you in my heart. Lord help me to feel your presence, and grant me the ability to listen to your guidance. For you are always near, no matter how difficult things seem. Thank you for your love, patience, and forgiveness. Amen.
Clifton Shearrer
The Bible tells that two of the disciples, after hearing of the resurrection were walking to a small village named Emmaus about seven miles away. The risen Christ was walking and talking with the two, but neither of them knew it was he, because they were preoccupied with their own sadness and troubles. The two were speaking freely to Jesus about all that had occurred and giving him their “Human” take on the whole situation.
This situation makes me wonder how many times in our own day-to-day lives we have had the benefit of walking and talking with the Holy Spirit, but are too blinded by our own problems to stop and gain the knowledge the Spirit has for us. There have been times in my own life that I have been fortunate enough that God has made himself known to me. Unfortunately, I have had to go through some extreme circumstance before I can be quiet enough to listen. My hope is that as I mature as a Christian, I will know God’s will for me each and every day.
Please join me in prayer. God grant me the faith to know that you are in control of my life, that I am never alone, so long as I know you and have you in my heart. Lord help me to feel your presence, and grant me the ability to listen to your guidance. For you are always near, no matter how difficult things seem. Thank you for your love, patience, and forgiveness. Amen.
Clifton Shearrer
Friday, March 5, 2010
Day 12 ~ Luke 17:11-17; Luke 18:35-42
Incredible faith is demonstrated in these passages. We see the faith of men who were suffering from terrible diseases. They were in situations in life that seemed unbearable. Such men as the lepers whom Jesus healed were not even able to associate with the rest of society. Yet, the one man who came back to thank Him knew that healing would come from Jesus. The same was true of the blind man who received his sight. When he heard that Jesus was coming, he knew right away that hope for healing had come.
Even before Jesus performed His miraculous healings, the faith of these men was shown. They knew Jesus’ power and they expected healing from Him. Does this describe your faith? How many times do we pray half-heartedly, without any expectation of anything to happen? It seems we often pray as a ritual, and lose sight of the fact that we are talking to the Almighty God! Before we even voice our prayers to Him, He already has His exact answers planned. I want the kind of faith that expects God to act. I hope you do as well. As you talk with God daily, let me urge to pray for the kind of faith that waits in expectation to see God’s answers.
Adam Shelburne
Even before Jesus performed His miraculous healings, the faith of these men was shown. They knew Jesus’ power and they expected healing from Him. Does this describe your faith? How many times do we pray half-heartedly, without any expectation of anything to happen? It seems we often pray as a ritual, and lose sight of the fact that we are talking to the Almighty God! Before we even voice our prayers to Him, He already has His exact answers planned. I want the kind of faith that expects God to act. I hope you do as well. As you talk with God daily, let me urge to pray for the kind of faith that waits in expectation to see God’s answers.
Adam Shelburne
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Day 11 ~ Luke 10-13
Three things jumped out at me today while listening to Luke 10-13; we are the workers, prayer and being ready. Let me explain.
In Luke 10:2 He (Jesus) told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” We are the workers and the world is the field. Now is the time for us to do what Jesus instructed us to do in the words of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). Although it can be a scary thing to do, we must always be ready to share the gospel with others. All the advertising in the newspaper, flyers, radio, and even church events, is not what brings people to Christ, rather, it’s usually a one-on-one invitation. Go out and be a disciple for Christ today.
Prayer is the second thing that stuck out to me today. The disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. In Luke 11:2-4 Jesus gives them what we call “The Lord’s Prayer.” Jesus did not mean that we should pray these exact words every time, but rather praying in this manner. Give the Father all praise and honor and glory, thank the Lord for what you have, ask for forgiveness of your sins and help in forgiving others, and pray the Lord will keep you from temptation. It is not so much the words you say but how you enter into prayer. Prayer is not something to be rushed. Find a quiet place, take time to pray and take time to listen to God speaking to your heart.
The third thing that jumped out at me was to be ready. Throughout verses 12-13 Jesus gives warnings and encouragements. He tells us not to worry and be watchful, to repent or perish and to enter through the narrow door. Be ready for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ for we know not the hour or the day. If you have not done so, give your life to the Jesus. Ask for forgiveness of your sins and be baptized. It is that simple. Just say Lord, I am a sinner, I confess my sins and ask your forgiveness, please keep me from temptation to sin no more. Do this and you will be ready.
Mike Dickmann
In Luke 10:2 He (Jesus) told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” We are the workers and the world is the field. Now is the time for us to do what Jesus instructed us to do in the words of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). Although it can be a scary thing to do, we must always be ready to share the gospel with others. All the advertising in the newspaper, flyers, radio, and even church events, is not what brings people to Christ, rather, it’s usually a one-on-one invitation. Go out and be a disciple for Christ today.
Prayer is the second thing that stuck out to me today. The disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. In Luke 11:2-4 Jesus gives them what we call “The Lord’s Prayer.” Jesus did not mean that we should pray these exact words every time, but rather praying in this manner. Give the Father all praise and honor and glory, thank the Lord for what you have, ask for forgiveness of your sins and help in forgiving others, and pray the Lord will keep you from temptation. It is not so much the words you say but how you enter into prayer. Prayer is not something to be rushed. Find a quiet place, take time to pray and take time to listen to God speaking to your heart.
The third thing that jumped out at me was to be ready. Throughout verses 12-13 Jesus gives warnings and encouragements. He tells us not to worry and be watchful, to repent or perish and to enter through the narrow door. Be ready for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ for we know not the hour or the day. If you have not done so, give your life to the Jesus. Ask for forgiveness of your sins and be baptized. It is that simple. Just say Lord, I am a sinner, I confess my sins and ask your forgiveness, please keep me from temptation to sin no more. Do this and you will be ready.
Mike Dickmann
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Day 10 ~ Luke 5:5
“Because You Say So”
As I was listening to the Bible today these four words caught my attention. The four words uttered by Simon were “Because you say so…” As you listen to this day's chapter you are really pulled into the scene that surrounded Jesus that day. There they are next to the waters they have fished for so many years. These men know the lake better then anyone else and they are tired and weary after a long night of fishing. Jesus shows up, teaches the people from one of the boats and then says go into the deep water and drop your nets. I noticed that Jesus said “drop your nets for a catch” he knew what was about to take place. Christ has a purpose and a plan for everything even when we don’t see it. He was not taking a shot in the dark here, there was a plan and a purpose to his command as there always is. Simon is reluctant but then agrees to obey the command for one reason alone “because you say so.” When my parents used that line on me as a child I rarely obeyed, and I fear that same attitude far to many times has creeped into my adult life and my relationship with Christ. The lesson today is simple. If Jesus says it, do it! You don’t need to understand it, you don’t need to question why, just do it. Why? Because Jesus said so! What do you need to do today because Christ commanded you to do it?
Pastor Pete
As I was listening to the Bible today these four words caught my attention. The four words uttered by Simon were “Because you say so…” As you listen to this day's chapter you are really pulled into the scene that surrounded Jesus that day. There they are next to the waters they have fished for so many years. These men know the lake better then anyone else and they are tired and weary after a long night of fishing. Jesus shows up, teaches the people from one of the boats and then says go into the deep water and drop your nets. I noticed that Jesus said “drop your nets for a catch” he knew what was about to take place. Christ has a purpose and a plan for everything even when we don’t see it. He was not taking a shot in the dark here, there was a plan and a purpose to his command as there always is. Simon is reluctant but then agrees to obey the command for one reason alone “because you say so.” When my parents used that line on me as a child I rarely obeyed, and I fear that same attitude far to many times has creeped into my adult life and my relationship with Christ. The lesson today is simple. If Jesus says it, do it! You don’t need to understand it, you don’t need to question why, just do it. Why? Because Jesus said so! What do you need to do today because Christ commanded you to do it?
Pastor Pete
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Day 9 ~ Lke 1 - 4
I know I am tempted every day. Some days are harder than others. When I have stayed up late or have gotten up early and it has been a long day I am not as strong and the temptations are harder to resist.
In Luke 4: 1-13, Jesus has been taken into the desert for forty days; no rest; no food or drink; tempted continually, resisting all temptation. Then at the end of forty days He is tempted even more. He is tired and weak and the greatest temptation comes.
For each temptation Jesus uses God’s Word, His Scripture, to fight off the devil. God’s Word is so effective and powerful that the devil left Jesus waiting for a more opportune time.
When we are tempted we should also turn to God’s Word for strength to resist the devil.
The best way I know to overcome temptation is to read or listen to God’s Word each day. When a verse speaks to you or when one pops out to you memorize it. It will come back to you when you need it.
Remember everyone is tempted one way or another just as Jesus was tempted in every way. Jesus used Scripture to fight off and rebuke the devil. You can too!
Arch Stockton Jr
In Luke 4: 1-13, Jesus has been taken into the desert for forty days; no rest; no food or drink; tempted continually, resisting all temptation. Then at the end of forty days He is tempted even more. He is tired and weak and the greatest temptation comes.
For each temptation Jesus uses God’s Word, His Scripture, to fight off the devil. God’s Word is so effective and powerful that the devil left Jesus waiting for a more opportune time.
When we are tempted we should also turn to God’s Word for strength to resist the devil.
The best way I know to overcome temptation is to read or listen to God’s Word each day. When a verse speaks to you or when one pops out to you memorize it. It will come back to you when you need it.
Remember everyone is tempted one way or another just as Jesus was tempted in every way. Jesus used Scripture to fight off and rebuke the devil. You can too!
Arch Stockton Jr
Monday, March 1, 2010
out of the loop
Hey everyone i know this is like way extra outside of the loop for out bible readings, but this is of a student (young adult now) That God had allowed us to be great friends of the family. Their parents had just recently have been battling Cancer so hard. I know that this will be a word of encouragement to many of you who have family, or who are battling cancer yoursleves.
Scotty
Scotty
Life - Joel from DFWGathering on Vimeo.
Day 8 ~ Mark 12-16
Day #8: Mark 12-16
This section of scripture and time in Jesus' life should be one of the more familiar passages for Christians. The moments leading up to Jesus' arrest, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection. However, while listening today what stood out the most is that Mark 12 starts off with humans trying to trick Jesus in order to arrest him. Although we might not be trying to purposely deceive Jesus, how often do we try to fool Jesus by not whole heartedly obeying his commands? Is there a time where you didn't go to church because ______________, tithe your full 10% because ___________, serve in a ministry because ___________, not share the word with ___________ because ____________? The list could go on and on. Jesus knew of our short comings and yet still died for us. We should pray to God and ask him to reveal to us where we are failing him and to have the strength to make the necessary changes in our lives and obey his commands.
Wilson Winn
This section of scripture and time in Jesus' life should be one of the more familiar passages for Christians. The moments leading up to Jesus' arrest, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection. However, while listening today what stood out the most is that Mark 12 starts off with humans trying to trick Jesus in order to arrest him. Although we might not be trying to purposely deceive Jesus, how often do we try to fool Jesus by not whole heartedly obeying his commands? Is there a time where you didn't go to church because ______________, tithe your full 10% because ___________, serve in a ministry because ___________, not share the word with ___________ because ____________? The list could go on and on. Jesus knew of our short comings and yet still died for us. We should pray to God and ask him to reveal to us where we are failing him and to have the strength to make the necessary changes in our lives and obey his commands.
Wilson Winn
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