Even though I should have said this yesterday, I'm going to start off today's blog with this thought. The challenge that Jesus gives about loving those who hate you and praying for those who hurt you are definitely not the average characteristics of Americans. But get this, it is supposed to be common for Christ-followers! The more you devote yourself to God and the service of other people, the more you become unlike the average person and the more in common you have with Jesus.
I'm only asking you to read 13 verses today for my birthday. Jenny tells me I have to be done by 6pm (I sense a surprise coming) and it is currently 5:05.
Read Luke 6:37-49 (find it here)
The same thought as above (average vs. common) continues in today's section of Scripture. Isn't it common for people to judge? Sure. I still do it all the time, even though I would prefer not to. But Jesus insists that the more you refrain from judging, the more grace people will give you (which is the same thing as not being judged, in many cases).
Condemn and forgive go hand-in-hand. If you condemn someone, it's almost the opposite of forgiving them. The less you blame people, the more forgiveness you'll receive. The more you forgive, the more likelihood that you'll be forgiven (even if you're in the wrong!).
It is better to give than receive because Jesus promises not only that gifts will return to you but that you'll have to create room to receive all the blessings in return! With the end of verse 39 (the amount you give will determine the amount you get back), Jesus is reflecting back on those who are rich, fat and those who laugh. If a rich person doesn't give, he won't receive riches back from God. If someone doesn't share their food with the hungry, that person will eventually be hungry in return.
And, yes, verse 39 is where the saying "the blind leading the blind" comes from:)
Jesus just spoke on judging but decides to probe the subject further in verses 41 and 42. Two of the greatest things I've ever learned revolved around this: 1.) You can only lead a person as far as you yourself will go (if I'm not serious about my faith, how can I expect those I teach to take theirs seriously?) and 2.) Practice what you preach. Get it? In summary, get yourself together before you decide to fix anyone else OR be honest that you have "a log in your eye" and bond together with someone who has the same "log" for help.
Verses 43 and 44 are very helpful but have the potential to be misused quite often. Even though we should not judge, there is a way to tell the sincerity of someone's faith and the "fruit" of their lifestyle. Jesus said that "good trees can't produce bad fruit" and vice versa. So if a person follows Christ then good fruit should be evident. If someone doesn't follow Christ, you should see different "fruit" from their life. You can tell a lot by a person by what they say because Jesus says, "what you say flows from what is in your heart."
Makes sense, right? I know you could name plenty of people who seemingly have good and bad fruit.
But here's the danger.
You don't squat! You have no way of knowing for sure if someone is truly a follower of Christ or not. Yes, you can make assumptions but as a friend of mine always said, "Assumptions only make an @$$ out of you and me." Thanks, Kate Klein:)
I believe that pretending as if we knew who was "in the Christian club" and who was "going to hell" really, really ticks God off. Who do we think we are? God?! That's just it. The act of judging puts you in the place of God. A place and a mindset that we're never supposed to be in (but we're all guilty of from time to time).
It is great that Jesus ends this talk about judging, condemning and forgiveness with the illustration of a house. When someone follows Jesus' teachings, they are like a person who builds a house on a rock. Someone who constantly judges, condemns and doesn't forgive is like a person who builds a house on sand. Sooner or later all the judging, condemning and bitterness is going to burn bridges, leave you lonely and in a "heap of ruins." So, let me ask you this question in closing. Do you want to be average or be in common with Jesus (and his teachings)?
Questions
1.) Be honest with yourself, how often do you judge others? Do you "people watch" and, in your mind, make assumptions about people by the way they dress or act? If those thoughts were known, how would YOU be treated? Even if no one knows, how do you think God feels (since He even knows your secret thoughts)?
2.) Have you ever met a person and immediately thought you had them figured out only to find out that they were a much more delightful person than you first thought? Has the opposite been true, where someone looks all together on the outside but is a wreck on the inside?
3.) I hope it makes sense that judging is basically pretending to be God (knowing what people are like just by looking at them). How can you stop yourself from assuming that certain people are angelic and others are hellions? God being upset aside, how can those assumptions hurt you or others?
By the way, it's now 6:20 and Jenny has been waiting:)
January 12, 2012
January 11, 2012
Day 9 - Luke 6:20-36
I was really tempted to skip Luke's mention of the Beatitudes and wait to focus on the ones mentioned in Matthew's gospel. But Luke is so blunt in his translation of Jesus that I really couldn't skip it. What we will do though is tread lightly on the Beatitudes listed in Matthew 5. Much of the remainder of Luke 5 is also repeated in Matthew, so we won't have to cover them again. That will definitely save us some time Of course, you're encouraged to read what we skip and see if there are any differences, because, usually there are.
Read Luke 20-36 (find it here)
Beatitudes are simply a list of statements Jesus gives to a group of people whom normally are thought to be unfortunate and pronounces them blessed.
Do you consider someone who is poor to be blessed? Jesus says yes because that the Kingdom of God (or heaven) will be theirs, which is a HUGE change from not having a thing to call their own in this physical world. They will be treated the same as the richest man in heaven (most likely better, actually)!
Hungry people won't feel the pain of an empty stomach in heaven. They will be satisfied.
Those who weep over the pain caused to them in this life will laugh in heaven.
When people hate, exclude, mock or curse you because of your faith, Jesus says that with an exclamation, "what blessings await you." Let that be a source of joy!
Then Luke quotes Jesus when he talks about people who are the complete opposite as those above. Check out Jesus' ultra-direct words!
Rich people will be sad after this life.
People who are fat will trade places with those who are currently hungry.
Those who laugh (laugh?!) will mourn!
Before you think, "I can't believe how rough Jesus is being!" Consider this, the Greek word for laugh in verse 25 strictly means one who "laughs at someone as a form of ridicule." So, if you're silly like me does that mean we'll be sad in heaven? Of course not!
If we apply this definition of laugh, then the other descriptions (fat and rich) come more into focus. Those who gorge themselves without a care for those who are hungry or those who become wealthy with disregard of who it harms to get rich will, most likely, walk in the shoes of the oppressed in the afterlife (notice I didn't say heaven).
In verse 27, after being harsh, Jesus starts the next section with a hopeful statement, "but to you who are willing to listen." This means that if you fit the descriptions above, you CAN change but it won't be easy.
More interesting cultural situations come into play. Jesus says, "If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek and if someone demands your coat, offer your shirt, too." Both of these suggestions were developed to cause outrage towards the person who was slapping you or demanding your coat?
"How?" you may ask.
If someone was to slap you on the cheek it is considered a blow that could be returned (in other words, it could start a fight). However, Jesus asks you to offer your other cheek instead. This means that the person would have to hit you with the back of the same hand to hit the opposite cheek, which in that culture is a sign of ultimate disrespect.
Ever heard of a backhand or a b****slap? Slaves and prostitutes would be struck in this way because they couldn't fight back. If a free man were to be slapped with the back side of someone's hand, it would immediately cause controversy but in YOUR favor. (This doesn't mean let someone beat you up, don't fight back.)
Also, if someone were to sue you, an acceptable penalty (if you didn't have money to pay) would be to give up your coat. Jesus says offer your shirt, too. If that person takes your shirt, too, that pretty much means you're being left naked. (Pants, jeans or khakis didn't exist back then.)
If we were really keeping this in Jesus' culture, coat would translate to cloak which was what was worn over top of the robe (or shirt). If the person was poor, the robe (tunic can also be used) or "shirt" would be the only thing they would use as a blanket when they slept. To take away someone's warmth and leave them naked was an unspeakable cruelty. Again, it would cause controversy towards the person oppressing you.
Jesus then gets practical. What makes a Christ-follower any different if he/she loves only the people that love them? Why charge someone interest for loaning them money? Christ-followers should be gracious because, get this, "for [God] is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked." Don't we fit into that category sometimes, too?
We'll finish Luke 6 tomorrow, promise:)
Questions
1.) The true meaning of laugh, which helped us figure the words rich and fat, lets us know that NOT all people who laugh are sinning. So, knowing that, does that mean that ALL rich and fat people will not go to heaven? How come?
2.) Which is harder, in your opinion: To do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you or to pray for those who hurt you? Which is easiest? Why?
3.) If someone were to literally treat you like a slave or demand everything be taken away from you, who do you think would stand up for you? How do you think the oppressor would respond to public pressure?
4.) Doesn't it feel good to know that Jesus does NOT ask you to let people beat you up?
Read Luke 20-36 (find it here)
Beatitudes are simply a list of statements Jesus gives to a group of people whom normally are thought to be unfortunate and pronounces them blessed.
Do you consider someone who is poor to be blessed? Jesus says yes because that the Kingdom of God (or heaven) will be theirs, which is a HUGE change from not having a thing to call their own in this physical world. They will be treated the same as the richest man in heaven (most likely better, actually)!
Hungry people won't feel the pain of an empty stomach in heaven. They will be satisfied.
Those who weep over the pain caused to them in this life will laugh in heaven.
When people hate, exclude, mock or curse you because of your faith, Jesus says that with an exclamation, "what blessings await you." Let that be a source of joy!
Then Luke quotes Jesus when he talks about people who are the complete opposite as those above. Check out Jesus' ultra-direct words!
Rich people will be sad after this life.
People who are fat will trade places with those who are currently hungry.
Those who laugh (laugh?!) will mourn!
Before you think, "I can't believe how rough Jesus is being!" Consider this, the Greek word for laugh in verse 25 strictly means one who "laughs at someone as a form of ridicule." So, if you're silly like me does that mean we'll be sad in heaven? Of course not!
If we apply this definition of laugh, then the other descriptions (fat and rich) come more into focus. Those who gorge themselves without a care for those who are hungry or those who become wealthy with disregard of who it harms to get rich will, most likely, walk in the shoes of the oppressed in the afterlife (notice I didn't say heaven).
In verse 27, after being harsh, Jesus starts the next section with a hopeful statement, "but to you who are willing to listen." This means that if you fit the descriptions above, you CAN change but it won't be easy.
More interesting cultural situations come into play. Jesus says, "If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek and if someone demands your coat, offer your shirt, too." Both of these suggestions were developed to cause outrage towards the person who was slapping you or demanding your coat?
"How?" you may ask.
If someone was to slap you on the cheek it is considered a blow that could be returned (in other words, it could start a fight). However, Jesus asks you to offer your other cheek instead. This means that the person would have to hit you with the back of the same hand to hit the opposite cheek, which in that culture is a sign of ultimate disrespect.
Ever heard of a backhand or a b****slap? Slaves and prostitutes would be struck in this way because they couldn't fight back. If a free man were to be slapped with the back side of someone's hand, it would immediately cause controversy but in YOUR favor. (This doesn't mean let someone beat you up, don't fight back.)
Also, if someone were to sue you, an acceptable penalty (if you didn't have money to pay) would be to give up your coat. Jesus says offer your shirt, too. If that person takes your shirt, too, that pretty much means you're being left naked. (Pants, jeans or khakis didn't exist back then.)
If we were really keeping this in Jesus' culture, coat would translate to cloak which was what was worn over top of the robe (or shirt). If the person was poor, the robe (tunic can also be used) or "shirt" would be the only thing they would use as a blanket when they slept. To take away someone's warmth and leave them naked was an unspeakable cruelty. Again, it would cause controversy towards the person oppressing you.
Jesus then gets practical. What makes a Christ-follower any different if he/she loves only the people that love them? Why charge someone interest for loaning them money? Christ-followers should be gracious because, get this, "for [God] is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked." Don't we fit into that category sometimes, too?
We'll finish Luke 6 tomorrow, promise:)
Questions
1.) The true meaning of laugh, which helped us figure the words rich and fat, lets us know that NOT all people who laugh are sinning. So, knowing that, does that mean that ALL rich and fat people will not go to heaven? How come?
2.) Which is harder, in your opinion: To do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you or to pray for those who hurt you? Which is easiest? Why?
3.) If someone were to literally treat you like a slave or demand everything be taken away from you, who do you think would stand up for you? How do you think the oppressor would respond to public pressure?
4.) Doesn't it feel good to know that Jesus does NOT ask you to let people beat you up?
January 10, 2012
Day 8 - Luke 6:1-19
Let me be honest with you, I was starting to wonder how many (if any) were following along with me through the Bible. It's human nature, I think, to question like that. But for some reason, right before I went to sleep, I checked my Facebook page and saw a comment from Christyn Parker (an exceptional young lady) that completely eliminating my wondering and energized my heart. Here's the quote...
Everyday I just can't wait to read T.J's blog , it is the best part of my day because it is my quiet time and my time to read little bits and pieces of the greatest book ever! It is amazing what he is doing and I just want to let him know that I am thankful he is doing it because now I am actually reading my bible and it helps me think a lot more clearly! Love ya T.J.
I don't think I've had a better compliment this year (heck, within the last six months maybe)! Thank you so very very much, Christyn!
Now where were we?
Read Luke 6:1-19 (find it here)
There's a few things you have to know about the Sabbath in Luke's time period and in Jewish culture. It was super strict and enforced by "religious leaders" and "Pharisees." Actually, there were 39 categories of activities (not 39 activities, but categories of activities!) that were prohibited on the Sabbath. Here's another thing, they are NOT found in the Bible. The only time they are mentioned is when Jesus calls them out or breaks one of the rules. God DID NOT command these to be followed as laws, but they were still enforced. However, in Exodus 20, as part of the 10 Commandments, God did command the Israelites not to work, so the religious leaders tried to define what they did and did not consider work.
Examples of prohibited activities included planting, harvesting, kneading dough, cooking, washing clothes, knitting, writing (which I'm following by not writing on Sundays, hehe), putting out or starting a fire and building anything.
So that is why Jesus' disciples are called out by the Pharisees in verse 2 and why Jesus was "watched closely" in verse 7. Jesus asks in verse 9, "Is this a day to save life or destroy it?" He says this because within those 39 categories was the REQUIREMENT to work on the Sabbath if your neighbor (or fellow human) was in need or in danger of death. So, he's turns THEIR rules against them.
The Pharisees felt disrespected and began to concoct plans of what to do to Jesus.
Jesus went off by himself again and prayed, but this time Luke says he prays "all night." (verse 12) It was an important decision to pick 12 men who would become his pupils, his friends, his family.
Here's an example of the men he picked (did you notice that ALL of his disciples were there when we came down from the mountain?):
When the disciples were surrounded by all the other people (in verse 17), only the 12 were referred to as "disciples." Everyone else were known as "followers." Since Jesus was a rabbi, it was customary for a rabbi to get many "applicants" for disciples. Like prestigious colleges, only the brightest would think of being accepted by a popular rabbi but Jesus, unlike all other rabbis (even though he was wiser than them all) accepted the opposite of what other rabbis were looking for.
Interesting, eh?
Questions
1.) Since God created the earth and everything in it in six days, God rested on the seventh day. What, by your definition, activities would be considered work? Do you take a day off and just rest?
2.) Jesus prayed all night in order to discern whom to call as his disciples, pupils, friends, family. Do you put that much thought into whom you pour your life into and share all your deepest fears and feelings? Why or why not?
3.) Since Jesus called a terrorist and two thieves to be his disciples, does that make you feel more confident in being a Christ-follower? What in your life makes you feel like you wouldn't qualify as a good disciple or follower?
Everyday I just can't wait to read T.J's blog , it is the best part of my day because it is my quiet time and my time to read little bits and pieces of the greatest book ever! It is amazing what he is doing and I just want to let him know that I am thankful he is doing it because now I am actually reading my bible and it helps me think a lot more clearly! Love ya T.J.
I don't think I've had a better compliment this year (heck, within the last six months maybe)! Thank you so very very much, Christyn!
Now where were we?
Read Luke 6:1-19 (find it here)
There's a few things you have to know about the Sabbath in Luke's time period and in Jewish culture. It was super strict and enforced by "religious leaders" and "Pharisees." Actually, there were 39 categories of activities (not 39 activities, but categories of activities!) that were prohibited on the Sabbath. Here's another thing, they are NOT found in the Bible. The only time they are mentioned is when Jesus calls them out or breaks one of the rules. God DID NOT command these to be followed as laws, but they were still enforced. However, in Exodus 20, as part of the 10 Commandments, God did command the Israelites not to work, so the religious leaders tried to define what they did and did not consider work.
Examples of prohibited activities included planting, harvesting, kneading dough, cooking, washing clothes, knitting, writing (which I'm following by not writing on Sundays, hehe), putting out or starting a fire and building anything.
So that is why Jesus' disciples are called out by the Pharisees in verse 2 and why Jesus was "watched closely" in verse 7. Jesus asks in verse 9, "Is this a day to save life or destroy it?" He says this because within those 39 categories was the REQUIREMENT to work on the Sabbath if your neighbor (or fellow human) was in need or in danger of death. So, he's turns THEIR rules against them.
The Pharisees felt disrespected and began to concoct plans of what to do to Jesus.
Jesus went off by himself again and prayed, but this time Luke says he prays "all night." (verse 12) It was an important decision to pick 12 men who would become his pupils, his friends, his family.
Here's an example of the men he picked (did you notice that ALL of his disciples were there when we came down from the mountain?):
- Simon Peter, James and John were fishermen (simple, uneducated men)
- Matthew (Levi) was a tax collector. They were employed by the Romans to collect taxes, but they were infamous for taking too much just to fill their own pockets.
- Thomas' greatest characteristic (or at least the one he's most known for) is being a doubter
- Simon was a zealot, which is a fancy word for a 1st century terrorist. No lie, zealots were known to carry daggers, be literal backstabbers and incite riots and revolts!
- Judas Iscariot had questionable loyalties and was a thief (wait to see what John's gospel says about him)
When the disciples were surrounded by all the other people (in verse 17), only the 12 were referred to as "disciples." Everyone else were known as "followers." Since Jesus was a rabbi, it was customary for a rabbi to get many "applicants" for disciples. Like prestigious colleges, only the brightest would think of being accepted by a popular rabbi but Jesus, unlike all other rabbis (even though he was wiser than them all) accepted the opposite of what other rabbis were looking for.
Interesting, eh?
Questions
1.) Since God created the earth and everything in it in six days, God rested on the seventh day. What, by your definition, activities would be considered work? Do you take a day off and just rest?
2.) Jesus prayed all night in order to discern whom to call as his disciples, pupils, friends, family. Do you put that much thought into whom you pour your life into and share all your deepest fears and feelings? Why or why not?
3.) Since Jesus called a terrorist and two thieves to be his disciples, does that make you feel more confident in being a Christ-follower? What in your life makes you feel like you wouldn't qualify as a good disciple or follower?
January 9, 2012
Day 7 - Luke 5
I really believe that today's questions are really beneficial and challenging to anyone who's willing to answer them honestly. Take a read, think on it and be transparent in your responses.
Read Luke 5 (find it here)
One of the things I admire most about Jesus is the fact that he could brag all he wanted about being the Son of God and his ability to do supernatural feats, but Jesus wasn't about the recognition. Haven't you noticed so far that Jesus doesn't allow demons to say very much at all about who he is? Another way to tell the level of Jesus' humility is to see his willingness to meet people where they are in their lives.
He goes out on a boat with Simon (remember Jesus is a carpenter). Yet he gives advice to Simon on where and how to catch fish. Simon kind of reminds Jesus that he's the fisherman but out of respect (Jesus is a recognized teacher, or rabbi) Simon does what was suggested.
The number of fish were so tremendous that not only did the nets begin to break but other men from the surrounding boats had to help lug the net in.
Suddenly, Simon realized that he wasn't talking to a carpenter/teacher but the Savior. He says, "please leave me, I'm too much of a sinner to be around you." (verse 8) Isn't it funny how different a sign that wasn't asked for is received? Earlier, Satan would've probably compared powers in an attempt to belittle Jesus. A sign from God is not about proving or matching wits like dueling wizards, but more about producing awe from those who God knows will accept Him.
Jesus tells Simon, James and John that they will now "fish for people." It will be about reaching people, even though you have already tried and may have given up hope. It is when we trust that the ministry is God's and not ours that we'll see many flock to Jesus. (Jesus is by far more endearing than I am on my best days, not to mention my worst.)
I love verse 13 and how Jesus responds to a man with leprosy. "I am willing," he says. Other translations say, "I want to." Jesus wants to help and serve, we just have to ask and expect something when we do.
(Did you notice that Jesus told the man not to tell anyone what happened?)
Yet the man spread Jesus' fame even more. And more people were brought to him to be healed. But Jesus, again, is said to have recharged by going to the "wilderness for prayer."
The greatest thing about the last story is easy to miss. Jesus is preaching in a house. Some men wanted to get their friend in front of Jesus to possibly be healed. They can't get in, so they tear through the roof. They lower him down and then Luke says, "seeing their faith, Jesus said to the man, 'young man, your sins are forgiven.'" It was because of the men who get him there that made it possible for him not only to be healed, but to find peace for his soul.
So, yeah, what's easier? To say sins are forgiven or stand up and walk? Think about it. Is it easier to cure someone who permanently disabled or to speak forgiveness into someone's life. Depending on how you think is how you'd answer. Luke would probably say it be easier to say "you're forgiven," since he's a doctor but, of course, the religious leaders didn't feel that way. Either way, Jesus proves he is all-powerful over the spiritual and physical world. And yet again, it's the religious ones who scoff at the sign and the ones who are open that receive it with "great wonder and awe." (verse 26)
Jesus calls and starts to hang out with Levi (Matthew) and his friends. Think about this in two ways: 1.) If you're a Matthew, then bring your spiritually strong friends around your friends that need Christ and 2.) Don't ever think you're "too good" to be around people who don't act like Christ-followers. How else will they ever know the love of God. Be bold, be willing to be accused of hanging out with "scum." Again, the religious don't need Jesus, it's the ones that will accept him who do.
Before ending Luke 5, Jesus gives the first hint of his impending death. He says, "someday the groom will be taken away from them (the disciples)." All this because Jesus' disciples didn't follow the religious tradition of fasting to the T.
Questions
1.) What things do you do all the time that makes you think you're not cut out for the Christian faith? What makes you think like Simon, who said, "leave me Lord, I'm too much of a sinner"? Is it possible to make God love you less?
2.) (Answer honestly) If you saw a miraculous sign (say someone getting healed) would you be the type to question it or be filled with "wonder and awe"?
3.) Jesus hangs out with Matthew's friends. Which role do you fit better? Do you have many friends like Matthew's or do you mix in with people that are spiritually different from you? If most of your friends are like Matthew's, what is your responsibility? If you don't have many (or any) friends like that, what does that say about you?
Read Luke 5 (find it here)
One of the things I admire most about Jesus is the fact that he could brag all he wanted about being the Son of God and his ability to do supernatural feats, but Jesus wasn't about the recognition. Haven't you noticed so far that Jesus doesn't allow demons to say very much at all about who he is? Another way to tell the level of Jesus' humility is to see his willingness to meet people where they are in their lives.
He goes out on a boat with Simon (remember Jesus is a carpenter). Yet he gives advice to Simon on where and how to catch fish. Simon kind of reminds Jesus that he's the fisherman but out of respect (Jesus is a recognized teacher, or rabbi) Simon does what was suggested.
The number of fish were so tremendous that not only did the nets begin to break but other men from the surrounding boats had to help lug the net in.
Suddenly, Simon realized that he wasn't talking to a carpenter/teacher but the Savior. He says, "please leave me, I'm too much of a sinner to be around you." (verse 8) Isn't it funny how different a sign that wasn't asked for is received? Earlier, Satan would've probably compared powers in an attempt to belittle Jesus. A sign from God is not about proving or matching wits like dueling wizards, but more about producing awe from those who God knows will accept Him.
Jesus tells Simon, James and John that they will now "fish for people." It will be about reaching people, even though you have already tried and may have given up hope. It is when we trust that the ministry is God's and not ours that we'll see many flock to Jesus. (Jesus is by far more endearing than I am on my best days, not to mention my worst.)
I love verse 13 and how Jesus responds to a man with leprosy. "I am willing," he says. Other translations say, "I want to." Jesus wants to help and serve, we just have to ask and expect something when we do.
(Did you notice that Jesus told the man not to tell anyone what happened?)
Yet the man spread Jesus' fame even more. And more people were brought to him to be healed. But Jesus, again, is said to have recharged by going to the "wilderness for prayer."
The greatest thing about the last story is easy to miss. Jesus is preaching in a house. Some men wanted to get their friend in front of Jesus to possibly be healed. They can't get in, so they tear through the roof. They lower him down and then Luke says, "seeing their faith, Jesus said to the man, 'young man, your sins are forgiven.'" It was because of the men who get him there that made it possible for him not only to be healed, but to find peace for his soul.
So, yeah, what's easier? To say sins are forgiven or stand up and walk? Think about it. Is it easier to cure someone who permanently disabled or to speak forgiveness into someone's life. Depending on how you think is how you'd answer. Luke would probably say it be easier to say "you're forgiven," since he's a doctor but, of course, the religious leaders didn't feel that way. Either way, Jesus proves he is all-powerful over the spiritual and physical world. And yet again, it's the religious ones who scoff at the sign and the ones who are open that receive it with "great wonder and awe." (verse 26)
Jesus calls and starts to hang out with Levi (Matthew) and his friends. Think about this in two ways: 1.) If you're a Matthew, then bring your spiritually strong friends around your friends that need Christ and 2.) Don't ever think you're "too good" to be around people who don't act like Christ-followers. How else will they ever know the love of God. Be bold, be willing to be accused of hanging out with "scum." Again, the religious don't need Jesus, it's the ones that will accept him who do.
Before ending Luke 5, Jesus gives the first hint of his impending death. He says, "someday the groom will be taken away from them (the disciples)." All this because Jesus' disciples didn't follow the religious tradition of fasting to the T.
Questions
1.) What things do you do all the time that makes you think you're not cut out for the Christian faith? What makes you think like Simon, who said, "leave me Lord, I'm too much of a sinner"? Is it possible to make God love you less?
2.) (Answer honestly) If you saw a miraculous sign (say someone getting healed) would you be the type to question it or be filled with "wonder and awe"?
3.) Jesus hangs out with Matthew's friends. Which role do you fit better? Do you have many friends like Matthew's or do you mix in with people that are spiritually different from you? If most of your friends are like Matthew's, what is your responsibility? If you don't have many (or any) friends like that, what does that say about you?
January 7, 2012
Day 6 - Luke 4:31-44
Let me just say that this has been a great experience for me so far. Knowing that people are following along with me has kept me wanting to get waist deep in God's word. I would love to know what any of you are thinking about this, too!
Luke 4:31-44 (find it here)
Even though the last time he preached nearly got him killed, Jesus continues to preach every Saturday (yes, the Jewish sabbath is actually on Saturday). One of the most common compliments Jesus receives is that he teaches with real authority. What does that mean?
It simply means two things: 1.) He didn't talk like everyone else who had authority and 2.) people truly believed that God was speaking through him when they heard his teaching (which is exactly what they were hearing).
I've always believed that if Jesus could actually have a conversation with those who doubted him (especially with people of today), they would experience this authority and their doubts would immediately disappear.
Just like Satan quoted Scripture earlier in a conversation with Jesus, the demon who was inflicting this man calls Jesus out for who he is. He calls him the "Holy One sent from God." In a twist of irony, the demon is actually making Jesus more famous.
But Jesus doesn't even have a conversation with him before casting the demon out of the man. The fact that evil spirits obeyed him dumbfounded everyone. It was God's authority on display, even only through words.
And later, Jesus' powerful words are only display at the home of Simon. He "rebukes" the fever. So even if something isn't actually a demon, Jesus still has control over it (you'll see that Jesus will rebuke the wind and waves in the Sea of Galilee later). Simon's mother-in-law gets up instantly and makes everyone a sammich!
The news travels so quickly that people are bringing their sick family members to Jesus. In verse 40, Jesus employs his touch and it's just as powerful as his words. (The woman with the "flow of blood" definitely plans her strategy with this in mind. See Luke 8:43-48) The demons that Jesus cast out were shouting "You are the Son of God!" That's all Jesus would let them say.
After all the attention, Jesus needed time by himself (no doubt prayer was a part of this). When the people found him, they begged Jesus to stay. His reply makes an interesting point. As with God, the goal of our faith is not to fix all of our problems but to reach as many people as possible with the "peace that passes all understanding." (Philippians 4:7) Jesus has always been more about the heart and mind than the physical body.
Questions
1.) Jesus spoke with real authority. Some people do have authority over you but only few of them really seem have the type of authority where its easy to follow them. Everyone should have people like this in their lives. Who are your people (pastors, teachers, friends, etc)?
2. Jesus' words were just as powerful as his touch. The same is true with you. How are you using your words? Are you lifting people up or being another negative voice in the crowd?
Luke 4:31-44 (find it here)
Even though the last time he preached nearly got him killed, Jesus continues to preach every Saturday (yes, the Jewish sabbath is actually on Saturday). One of the most common compliments Jesus receives is that he teaches with real authority. What does that mean?
It simply means two things: 1.) He didn't talk like everyone else who had authority and 2.) people truly believed that God was speaking through him when they heard his teaching (which is exactly what they were hearing).
I've always believed that if Jesus could actually have a conversation with those who doubted him (especially with people of today), they would experience this authority and their doubts would immediately disappear.
Just like Satan quoted Scripture earlier in a conversation with Jesus, the demon who was inflicting this man calls Jesus out for who he is. He calls him the "Holy One sent from God." In a twist of irony, the demon is actually making Jesus more famous.
But Jesus doesn't even have a conversation with him before casting the demon out of the man. The fact that evil spirits obeyed him dumbfounded everyone. It was God's authority on display, even only through words.
And later, Jesus' powerful words are only display at the home of Simon. He "rebukes" the fever. So even if something isn't actually a demon, Jesus still has control over it (you'll see that Jesus will rebuke the wind and waves in the Sea of Galilee later). Simon's mother-in-law gets up instantly and makes everyone a sammich!
The news travels so quickly that people are bringing their sick family members to Jesus. In verse 40, Jesus employs his touch and it's just as powerful as his words. (The woman with the "flow of blood" definitely plans her strategy with this in mind. See Luke 8:43-48) The demons that Jesus cast out were shouting "You are the Son of God!" That's all Jesus would let them say.
After all the attention, Jesus needed time by himself (no doubt prayer was a part of this). When the people found him, they begged Jesus to stay. His reply makes an interesting point. As with God, the goal of our faith is not to fix all of our problems but to reach as many people as possible with the "peace that passes all understanding." (Philippians 4:7) Jesus has always been more about the heart and mind than the physical body.
Questions
1.) Jesus spoke with real authority. Some people do have authority over you but only few of them really seem have the type of authority where its easy to follow them. Everyone should have people like this in their lives. Who are your people (pastors, teachers, friends, etc)?
2. Jesus' words were just as powerful as his touch. The same is true with you. How are you using your words? Are you lifting people up or being another negative voice in the crowd?
January 6, 2012
Day 5 - Luke 4:1-30
Have any of you thought about baptism after yesterday's post? If so, I'd be stoked to talk to you about it! It was definitely one of the highlights of my life. I know that my baptism inspired my parents to investigate the faith, as well. Within 6 months, my mom dedicated her life to Christ, as well! Don't estimate the power of a symbol.
Read Luke 4:1-30 (find it here)
So, as we left off yesterday, Jesus had just been baptized and officially accepted his role as Son of God and Messiah. Immediately after this, Jesus leaves everyone and goes out into the wilderness. In a way, he trades places with John. Jesus fasted for 40 days while being tested by the devil. Imagine not only being hungry (Jesus is still human, you know) but around someone that constantly wants ruin you.
Satan continually asks Jesus to prove his deity (or that he's God). Jesus will, in the future, tell religious leaders that only wicked people ask for "a sign" like this. That is essentially what Satan is asking for, too. It's so cool that Jesus actually quotes Scripture back to Satan when he refuses his requests.
Satan's last request is for Jesus to jump from the Temple roof. But here's an interesting point; Satan quotes Scripture to Jesus!! How weird is that?
This may not have been Jesus last temptation at that time but this is all that's noted. But you see by the hint at the end of verse 13 that more temptations are to come.
Jesus enters and exits the wilderness full of the Spirit. He immediately begins preaching and being "praised by everyone." (verse 15) But he had a different message and reaction when he was in Nazareth. Someone basically asked him to read from the an excerpt from Isaiah by handing him a scroll. The whole Bible, nor actually books, existed yet.
Jesus unrolled the scroll and read a Scripture in which Isaiah was foretelling of the Messiah's coming. After he finished reading this, Jesus said, "the Scripture you've just heard has been fulfilled this very day!" (verse 21) Everyone there unmistakably knew that he was referring to himself as the Messiah!
At first everyone was amazed and complimented him but they doubted him after really thinking about it. They knew his "dad" (Joseph) who was an unimpressive carpenter. Jesus quotes more Scripture (from Proverbs) and already knows that he won't be accepted in his hometown.
Instead of just leaving it at that, Jesus goes further. He summarizes how Elijah, an Old Testament prophet, did not minister to the people of his homeland, the Jews. There were many people in need but the only one Elijah helped was not an Israelite but a Syrian. Israelites (or Jews) believed that God only cared for Israel and no one else. So, in other words, what Jesus said and implied about his own ministry ticked the people off.
They went from praising him to wanting to kill him by throwing him off a cliff. But what happened next is weird, too. Jesus disappears (or something like that) and walks through the crowd. Not like, "excuse me, sir and ma'am," but more like he probably walked THROUGH people. It wasn't Jesus' time to die (you'll hear Jesus say this occasionally, "it's not my time") so God made it possible to easily escape this situation. How awesome is that!
Questions:
1.) Jesus is baptized and is immediately tempted. This happens in almost every situation when someone dedicates themselves to God. At first they are excited about their decision but then come face-to-face with someone or something that immediately challenges their faith and understanding. Have you experienced this? How did you react?
2.) Satan quotes Scripture, which means that people can definitely twist the Bible to mean what they want it to mean. Have you ever had someone twist Scripture in a way you knew wasn't right? Have you ever been guilty of the same thing? Sad thing is, churches and pastors can and do twist Scripture, too.
3.) Even after passing Satan's test, Jesus "jumps right back on the horse" and starts preaching. His blunt words enrage the crowd. Have you done this? Have you angered or disappointed anyone (like family, friends, etc) with your new-found faith? How did you react?
4.) Jesus was able to escape the murderous crowd (in a really cool way). Even telling someone the truth can be disastrous for the truth-teller. Do you tell the truth even though it may bring a tougher outcome? Why or why not?
Read Luke 4:1-30 (find it here)
So, as we left off yesterday, Jesus had just been baptized and officially accepted his role as Son of God and Messiah. Immediately after this, Jesus leaves everyone and goes out into the wilderness. In a way, he trades places with John. Jesus fasted for 40 days while being tested by the devil. Imagine not only being hungry (Jesus is still human, you know) but around someone that constantly wants ruin you.
Satan continually asks Jesus to prove his deity (or that he's God). Jesus will, in the future, tell religious leaders that only wicked people ask for "a sign" like this. That is essentially what Satan is asking for, too. It's so cool that Jesus actually quotes Scripture back to Satan when he refuses his requests.
Satan's last request is for Jesus to jump from the Temple roof. But here's an interesting point; Satan quotes Scripture to Jesus!! How weird is that?
This may not have been Jesus last temptation at that time but this is all that's noted. But you see by the hint at the end of verse 13 that more temptations are to come.
Jesus enters and exits the wilderness full of the Spirit. He immediately begins preaching and being "praised by everyone." (verse 15) But he had a different message and reaction when he was in Nazareth. Someone basically asked him to read from the an excerpt from Isaiah by handing him a scroll. The whole Bible, nor actually books, existed yet.
Jesus unrolled the scroll and read a Scripture in which Isaiah was foretelling of the Messiah's coming. After he finished reading this, Jesus said, "the Scripture you've just heard has been fulfilled this very day!" (verse 21) Everyone there unmistakably knew that he was referring to himself as the Messiah!
At first everyone was amazed and complimented him but they doubted him after really thinking about it. They knew his "dad" (Joseph) who was an unimpressive carpenter. Jesus quotes more Scripture (from Proverbs) and already knows that he won't be accepted in his hometown.
Instead of just leaving it at that, Jesus goes further. He summarizes how Elijah, an Old Testament prophet, did not minister to the people of his homeland, the Jews. There were many people in need but the only one Elijah helped was not an Israelite but a Syrian. Israelites (or Jews) believed that God only cared for Israel and no one else. So, in other words, what Jesus said and implied about his own ministry ticked the people off.
They went from praising him to wanting to kill him by throwing him off a cliff. But what happened next is weird, too. Jesus disappears (or something like that) and walks through the crowd. Not like, "excuse me, sir and ma'am," but more like he probably walked THROUGH people. It wasn't Jesus' time to die (you'll hear Jesus say this occasionally, "it's not my time") so God made it possible to easily escape this situation. How awesome is that!
Questions:
1.) Jesus is baptized and is immediately tempted. This happens in almost every situation when someone dedicates themselves to God. At first they are excited about their decision but then come face-to-face with someone or something that immediately challenges their faith and understanding. Have you experienced this? How did you react?
2.) Satan quotes Scripture, which means that people can definitely twist the Bible to mean what they want it to mean. Have you ever had someone twist Scripture in a way you knew wasn't right? Have you ever been guilty of the same thing? Sad thing is, churches and pastors can and do twist Scripture, too.
3.) Even after passing Satan's test, Jesus "jumps right back on the horse" and starts preaching. His blunt words enrage the crowd. Have you done this? Have you angered or disappointed anyone (like family, friends, etc) with your new-found faith? How did you react?
4.) Jesus was able to escape the murderous crowd (in a really cool way). Even telling someone the truth can be disastrous for the truth-teller. Do you tell the truth even though it may bring a tougher outcome? Why or why not?
January 5, 2012
Day 4 - Luke 3
Like I said, today you're in for a treat!
Just so you know, I wanted to give two tidbits of info about the blog. The first thing is that there will NOT be a post on Sundays. I don't want to bombard your mind all week (especially since I'll enjoy the break, too) especially if you go to church on Sunday.
I also wanted to give all of you an idea of where we're going with this journey through the Bible.
We're starting with Luke and will continue through Acts (since Luke wrote both books). From there we will come back to any stories that Matthew and Mark tell but Luke doesn't. (Matthew and Luke use 90% of what is in the book of Mark, so there won't be too much to cover that's unique in those two books.) In that way, it won't take us that long to go through 3 of the 4 the gospels.
From there we'll cover John and through the rest of the New Testament and then to the Old Testament. Whenever the New or Old Testament repeats itself (whether it be stories about Jesus in the NT or in the case of the 10 Commandments, genealogies in the OT), I will skip over them, unless there is a difference in the story that's worth noting. Whenever I skip a section, you'll see that I won't ask you to read it, either!
Luke 3:1-23 skipping 24-37 but read verse 38 (find it here)
The coolest thing about Luke is his attention to detail. You may read over the first two verses today and say "Blah, blah, blah, so what?" The Bible may not be an historical document but here Luke is cognizant of his audience enough to know that describing who was in power at the time would give his claims an indisputable time-frame in history (in Roman and Jewish history, mind you), therefore making John the Baptist's (and Jesus') story more credible.
We know that John has been chilling out in the wilderness, giving God prime opportunities to communicate with him whenever need be. When we was spoken to, John immediately went on a mission trip! He wanted to baptize everyone.
Baptism may have been a new name, but it was an old tradition. Israelites already practiced ceremonial cleansing (whether it be hands, the whole body or clothes). Jesus mentions this "ceremonial cleansing" in Luke 11:38-39. Cleansing could be compared to putting makeup on before going out. You have to make sure you're presentable before you do a certain ritual. That's why Jesus said that the religious leaders were worried about the outward appearance more than about pleasing God.
John's spin on baptism made it a symbol. Luke said that baptism was "to show" people had repented and turned to God. The act of being dipped, in itself, was powerless. That doesn't mean that it's pointless, though. It's a very powerful display of your faith! As Luke says, Elijah (an Old Testament prophet) had already foretold that someone would usher in Jesus' ministry and here, in Luke 3, he's doing it!
John was a trip! In verse 7 he calls out the people who were coming to get baptized. He calls them a "brood of snakes," which would be almost like someone calling you a S-O-B. The similarity is obvious. John's calling their parents snakes (which is not a compliment) and the brood is their children. It's the same. God had to have been in control because I wouldn't have gotten away with talking like that (as if I would).
John tells the people to prove that they have turned to God. Who you know is irrelevant to God. You either know Him or not, no one else "gets you in."
The way they prove it would be to produce "good fruit" (Jesus will talk about this later, too). All different types of people basically wanted to know, "what should we do? John says, be charitable, give, be humble, look out for the needy, be honest.
John says that he baptizes with water but the Messiah would baptize with the "Holy Spirit" (essentially meaning that God cleanses our soul, takes control and we begin producing good fruit) and "fire" (which means that all impure things, in our life and in general, will be burned away, like refining gold). An interesting Scripture on the baptism of fire can be seen in 1 Corinthians 3. Pay special attention to verses 13-15.
Jesus literally showed the importance of baptism by being baptized himself! We'll go into more detail when we cover the other gospels, but Jesus showed his acceptance of God's way by being baptized.
It's never too late to be baptized. Jesus was 30 and he immediately used the Spirit to start reaching people.
Interesting side question: Who was God's first earthly son? Yep, it was Adam! "What's the difference between Adam and Jesus," you may ask? Well, in few words (which this is discussed later in the New Testament) Adam is God's created son but Jesus is His only begotten son. Adam was created, Jesus was born (but already existed in heaven). Your head hurting yet? Haha.
Questions:
1. Have you been baptized? Why (what made you do it) or why not?
2. Many people assume that baptism puts you in good standing with God. What is the real purpose of baptism?
3. Jesus began preaching almost immediately after being baptized. Many people think that they aren't smart or wise enough to share their faith right after "turning to God" and getting baptized. This is simply not true. What are easy ways to share your faith without having a ton of Bible knowledge.
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