Category Archives: The Word Or The World?

Bullets And Bible-Thumpers!!! Bible Ballistics: Vol. 11 No. 04

18 Sunday Feb 2018

Posted by in Approved Unto God, Bullets Or Bible-Thumpers, Changed Lives, Choices And Consequences, For Such A Time As This, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Knowing God's Word, No Sin No Need?, Salvation, SIN, The Only Way, The Word, The Word Or The World?, Walking With Jesus, When Will You Bow?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 11 No.04 Bullets And Bible-Thumpers!!!

 

We have experienced another recent tragedy here in our country, and it seems to have stirred up more strife than unity, and I’d like to offer some thoughts in regard to that conflict. It seems that everyone has an opinion, and I’d like to simply examine the current climate in light of biblical truth. We Christians sometimes seem to think that we ought to be in the spotlight—popular and accepted as purveyors of truth without question—no matter how we live.

My mind goes to a couple of devoted believers that have passed on from this life into eternity, one with not much fanfare, except from his friends and family; the other was a man of some influence whose absence will be lauded by people near and far. And each of them lived a life of faith—two men who prayed for healing (as well as those who loved and cared for them) and didn’t receive the healing that they each expected, but they both stood fast in their trust in Jesus and His perfect will for them and left a testimony of faith that has inspired and affected hosts of people—saved and unsaved, because they held to God’s Truth, God’s Word!

So what does this have to do with the recent tragic school shootings? I think it is the very heart of the tragedies around us! We have failed to recognize the conflict between sin and faith in God. As always, we want to examine the scriptures to see what we can discover. The scriptures are our guide for living. One of my favorite passages that speaks to the differences between light and dark is Psalm 1.

“Blessed is the man

that walketh not in the counsel

of the ungodly,

nor standeth in the way

of sinners,

nor sitteth in the seat

of the scornful.

2 But his delight

is in the law of the LORD;

and in his law doth he meditate

day and night.

3 And he shall be

like a tree

planted by the rivers of water,

that bringeth forth his fruit

in his season;

his leaf also shall not wither;

and whatsoever he doeth

shall prosper.

4 The ungodly are not so:

but are like the chaff

which the wind driveth away.

5 Therefore the ungodly

shall not stand in the judgment,

nor sinners

in the congregation of the righteous.

6 For the LORD knoweth

the way of the righteous:

but the way of the ungodly

shall perish.” Psalm 1:1-6

The Psalmist makes the contrast between those who are “blessed” and the “ungodly”—there are two forces at work in this world and we must choose who we will follow and believe—the enemy of our soul or The God of all creation, who sent His Son to die for our sin! And only those who accept Jesus and follow Him are the “righteous”!

“Therefore if any man be in Christ,

he is a new creature:

old things are passed away;

behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God,

who hath reconciled us

to himself

by Jesus Christ,

and hath given to us the ministry

of reconciliation;

19 To wit, that God was in Christ,

reconciling the world

unto himself,

not imputing their trespasses

unto them;

and hath committed unto us

the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors

for Christ,

as though God did beseech you

by us:

we pray you in Christ’s stead,

be ye reconciled to God.

21 For he hath made him

to be sin for us,

who knew no sin;

that we might be made

the righteousness of God

in him.” 2 Corinthians 5 17-21 

Jesus, the sinless Son of God came to give new life to lost and dying humanity. With Him we can have life, but without Him we will answer for our own sin. And what we must see and understand is that while God is calling men to reconciliation, they enemy of our souls is leading men, women, boys and girls straight to Hell—and deceiving them into believing that it won’t be a bad place to be!

“And you hath he quickened,

who were dead in trespasses and sins;

2 Wherein in time past ye walked

according to the course of this world,

according to the prince

of the power of the air,

the spirit that now worketh

in the children of disobedience:

3 Among whom also

we all had our conversation

in times past

in the lusts of our flesh,

fulfilling the desires of the flesh

and of the mind;

and were by nature

the children of wrath,

even as others.

4 But God,

who is rich in mercy,

for his great love wherewith he loved us,

5 Even when we were dead in sins,

hath quickened us together

with Christ,

(by grace ye are saved;)

6 And hath raised us up together,

and made us sit together

in heavenly places

in Christ Jesus:

7 That in the ages to come

he might shew the exceeding riches

of his grace

in his kindness toward us

through Christ Jesus.

8 For by grace are ye saved

through faith;

and that not of yourselves:

it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works,

lest any man should boast.

10 For we are his workmanship,

created in Christ Jesus

unto good works,

which God hath before ordained

that we should walk in them.”  Ephesians 2:1-10

We are all born into a sinful world, in a sinful body with a sinful nature and mind—but Jesus came to give “new birth” to all who are “born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God” by faith in His substitutionary, atoning, death for our salvation. Jesus saves us out of the clutches of the devil and gives us new life—for which we rejoice! But not all people believe, and we must expect the conflict that we will encounter—and we will encounter opposition. And SIN is opposition! As long as sin is rampant in this world, we will have tragic happenings and wicked tragedies interrupt our world! And no matter what we may say or do, people will not be willing to hear or believe that God IS the only answer. Only redeemed and changed lives will produce a changed world

“Giving thanks unto the Father,

which hath made us meet

to be partakers

of the inheritance

of the saints in light:

13 Who hath delivered us

from the power of darkness,

and hath translated us

into the kingdom

of his dear Son:

14 In whom we have redemption

through his blood,

even the forgiveness of sins:”    Colossians 1:12-14

Since sin is the issue, until people are ready to deal with sin, we will never see a change in our culture, our nation or our world! But we are living in a world that makes light of God, faith, and the value of life based in Biblical principles—then we are surprised when tragedy comes, and people blame everything under the sun but SIN! It’s the bullets, it’s the guns, it’s the drugs, it’d the liquor, it’s the economy, it’s the president, anything but SIN! Until we recognize that people don’t want to hear our message, we will keep scratching our heads and letting ourselves be pulled into useless debates rather than the proclamation of the truth!

One of scriptures clear examples of this is the prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah was called to preach to a rebellious people, going there own way instead of God’s way, and they expected to reap good things not the consequences of their sin! An amazing parallel to today, so let’s look at a message from Paul before we look at Jeremiah. It’s a passage that reminds us of a culture that is “Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

“This know also,

that in the last days

perilous times shall come.

2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;

5 Having a form of godliness,

but denying the power thereof:

from such turn away.

6 For of this sort are they which

creep into houses,

and lead captive silly women

laden with sins,

led away with divers lusts,

7 Ever learning,

and never able

to come

to the knowledge

of the truth.”    2 Timothy 3:1-7

Jeremiah also dealt with a people who didn’t want to “learn“; and God even warned Him that this would be his mission.

“Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me,

Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. 10 See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms,

to root out,

and to pull down,

and to destroy,

and to throw down,

to build,

and to plant…….

17 Thou therefore gird up thy loins,

and arise,

and speak unto them

all that I command thee:

be not dismayed at their faces,

lest I confound thee before them.

18 For, behold,

I have made thee this day

a defenced city,

and an iron pillar,

and brasen walls

against the whole land,

against the kings of Judah,

against the princes thereof,

against the priests thereof,

and against the people of the land.

19 And they shall fight against thee;

but they shall not prevail against thee;

for I am with thee,

saith the LORD,

to deliver thee.”   Jeremiah 1:9-10 & 17-19

God told Jeremiah that the people would not heed his message! And Jesus told us the same thing:

“And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy;

and there abide till ye go thence.

12 And when ye come into an house,

salute it.

13 And if the house be worthy,

let your peace come upon it:

but if it be not worthy,

let your peace return to you.

14 And whosoever shall not receive you,

nor hear your words,

when ye depart out of that house or city,

shake off the dust of your feet.

15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment,

than for that city.

16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep

in the midst of wolves:

be ye therefore wise as serpents,

and harmless as doves.

17 But beware of men:

for they will deliver you up

to the councils,

and they will scourge you

in their synagogues;

18 And ye shall be brought before

governors and kings

for my sake,

for a testimony

against them

and the Gentiles.”     Matthew 10:11-18

Paul gave us a very similar warning, one we don’t hear much about today. Today we are surrounded with a Christian culture that is often so consumed with ‘acceptance’ that they change the message of the Gospel to be accepted, popular, big and successful in the world’s eyes rather than God’s. Jeremiah’s message wasn’t received or followed by the masses, but he was God’s faithful servant to the end—and even though he wasn’t popular or heeded most of the time—he never changed the message that GOD had given Him. What about us? If we stand fast we will be opposed, just like those who opposed Jeremiah—and we can expect the same kind of thing when we follow Jesus and His Word.

“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12

Jeremiah, as well as Paul suffered for holding to the truth—the truth that sin will never bring us into right relationship with God!!! Never! And sin will never lift us up, but it will drag us down. It’s why we blame everything for our nations woes except sin–“for all have sinned”! Read Romans 3!

“Go and tell Hananiah, saying,

Thus saith the LORD;

Thou hast broken the yokes of wood;

but thou shalt make for them yokes of iron.

14 For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel;

I have put a yoke of iron

upon the neck of all these nations,

that they may serve Nebuchadnezzar

king of Babylon;

and they shall serve him:

and I have given him the beasts of the field also.

15 Then said the prophet Jeremiah unto Hananiah the prophet, Hear now, Hananiah;

The LORD hath not sent thee;

but thou makest this people

to trust in a lie.

16 Therefore thus saith the LORD;

Behold, I will cast thee from off

the face of the earth:

this year thou shalt die,

because thou hast taught rebellion

against the LORD.

17 So Hananiah the prophet died

the same year in the seventh month.”  Jeremiah 28:12-17

Believers are called to be light shinning in the dark—not to join the darkness to be accepted! As an old gospel song says, “We’re not trying to change any hearts, we’re just getting used to the dark”! What about you and me? Are we walking in the light–or getting used to the dark? Are we debating bullets or sharing God’s Word—the truth about SIN!!! Acknowledging “sin” is the only road to salvation!!!

I’d much rather be called a “Bible-Thumper” and stand on God’s truth, than receive the laud and praise from a world gone amuck! How about you? The truth is seldom popular, and remember there are two gates—wide or narrow—many or few! What will you choose?

“Enter ye in at the strait gate:

for wide is the gate, and broad is the way,

that leadeth to destruction,

and many there be which go in thereat:

14 Because strait is the gate,

and narrow is the way,

which leadeth unto life,

and few there be that find it.”    Matthew 7:13-14

I’m Sorry! No I’m Not??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 10 No. 25

14 Sunday Jan 2018

Posted by in Changed Lives, Choices And Consequences, Forgiveness, Holy Spirit, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Knowing God's Word, SIN, The Only Way, The Word, The Word Or The World?, Walking With Jesus, What's In Your Heart?, What's In Your Mouth?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 10 No.25 I’m Sorry! No I’m Not???

 

We see and hear so much “ugly talk” around us that is has become acceptable in most circles. Even with many Christians it has become acceptable to use crude, vulgar and unholy language, with a simple disclaimer of apology for “the language” content in whatever medium the language us used in—be it spoken or written! Well my friends, a preface of apology doesn’t justify ‘ugly talk’ anymore than if I apologized for my ‘violent’ behavior and swiftly began to kick you in the shins! It’s still wrong, no matter how many times I preface bad behavior with an apology. Scripture has a lot to say about our actions—and that is always the best place to start!

Jesus makes it clear that the problem isn’t the “mouth” it’s the heart.

“And Jesus said,

Are ye also yet without understanding?

17 Do not ye yet understand,

that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth

goeth into the belly,

and is cast out into the draught?

18 But those things which proceed

out of the mouth

come forth from the heart;

and they defile the man.

19 For out of the heart proceed

evil thoughts,

murders,

adulteries,

fornications,

thefts,

false witness,

blasphemies:

20 These are the things which defile a man:

but to eat with unwashen hands

defileth not a man.” Mathew 15:16-20

What is “in” the heart will come “out” of the mouth! Whenever you squeeze something—whatever is “inside” will come out! And whatever is in a person’s heart will come out sooner or later, in one way or another—how sad that we have allowed ourselves to be deceived into accepting and approving of evil to accommodate the culture and please men. Isaiah tells us what God thinks of that kind of lifestyle, and while it is a lengthy passage, it is one from which we can benefit, when we take it to heart and allow God’s Spirit to touch our hearts with it.

“And the mean man shall be brought down, and the mighty man shall be humbled, and the eyes of the lofty shall be humbled:

16 But the LORD of hosts

shall be exalted in judgment,

and God that is holy

shall be sanctified in righteousness.

17 Then shall the lambs feed after their manner, and the waste places of the fat ones shall strangers eat.

18 Woe unto them that draw iniquity

with cords of vanity,

and sin as it were

with a cart rope:

19 That say,

Let him make speed,

and hasten his work,

that we may see it:

and let the counsel

of the Holy One of Israel

draw nigh and come,

that we may know it!

20 Woe unto them that call evil good,

and good evil;

that put darkness for light,

and light for darkness;

that put bitter for sweet,

and sweet for bitter!

21 Woe unto them that are wise

in their own eyes,

and prudent

in their own sight!

22 Woe unto them that are mighty

to drink wine,

and men of strength

to mingle strong drink:

23 Which justify the wicked

for reward,

and take away the righteousness

of the righteous from him!

24 Therefore as the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff,

so their root shall be as rottenness,

and their blossom shall go up as dust:

because they have cast away

the law of the LORD of hosts,

and despised

the word of the Holy One of Israel.”   Isaiah 5:15-24

Even as we see all around us, men are claiming to be right because surely “God” would intervene if the scripture was true, but He hasn’t, so we are alright—in our own eyes and before “God”! They call evil good, and good evil; they are wise “in their own eyes” and “prudent in their own sight”! Mankind is creating a ‘god’ in their own image, rather than seeking and serving the “God” who created man in “HIS” own image! Peter refers to this willful rejection and arrogance.

“Knowing this first,

that there shall come in the last days

scoffers,

walking after their own lusts,

4 And saying,

Where is the promise

of his coming?

for since the fathers fell asleep,

all things continue as they were

from the beginning

of the creation.

5 For this they willingly are ignorant of,

that by the word of God

the heavens were of old,

and the earth standing out of the water

and in the water:

6 Whereby the world that then was,

being overflowed with water,

perished:

7 But the heavens and the earth,

which are now,

by the same word

are kept in store,

reserved unto fire

against the day of judgment

and perdition of ungodly men.”   2 Peter 3:3-7

Peter reminded his readers that while God may not be active to their ‘satisfaction’, He is not dead, or as the song says, “Nor doth He sleep”! People choose not to believe the Word of God or God Himself, especially the person of Jesus Christ the Son of God—and that my friends, is the whole truth of the matter! God has called us to be His children through the blood of Jesus’ sacrifice for sin, and be empowered to walk in His Spirit so we would “not fulfill the lusts of the flesh”! Yes, we all stumble and fall but we are called to “walk in the light as He is in the light”, and that means we don’t’ stay in the dark. (See 1 John 1:5+)

But what about saying ‘I’m sorry’? Isn’t that enough? I think Paul has some advise that is timely on that issue.

“Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; 7 And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.

8 For though I made you sorry with a letter,

I do not repent,

though I did repent:

for I perceive that the same epistle

hath made you sorry,

though it were but for a season.

9 Now I rejoice,

not that ye were made sorry,

but that ye sorrowed

to repentance:

for ye were made sorry

after a godly manner,

that ye might receive damage by us

in nothing.

10 For godly sorrow

worketh repentance to salvation

not to be repented of:

but the sorrow of the world

worketh death.

11 For behold this selfsame thing,

that ye sorrowed after a godly sort,

what carefulness it wrought in you,

yea, what clearing of yourselves,

yea, what indignation,

yea, what fear,

yea, what vehement desire,

yea, what zeal,

yea, what revenge!

In all things ye have approved yourselves

to be clear in this matter.” 2 Corinthians 7:6-11

Paul reminds us that “godly sorrow” leads to repentance, while the “sorrow of the world” doesn’t! Because worldly sorrow is often only, “I’m sorry I got caught”, not “I’m sorry I offended God, and I don’t want to do it anymore”! This is what John talked about in calling believers to repent and “confess our sins”, meaning that we agree with God that ‘sin’ is ‘sin’—not justifying our ‘sin’ to simply cover up our error with a ‘convenient’ apology. When we truly repent with “godly sorrow”, God hears our plea, forgives us and cleanses us!

“But if we walk in the light,

as he is in the light,

we have fellowship one with another,

and the blood of Jesus Christ

his Son

cleanseth us from all sin.

8 If we say that we have no sin,

we deceive ourselves,

and the truth is not in us.

9 If we confess our sins,

he is faithful

and just

to forgive us our sins,

and to cleanse us

from all unrighteousness.

10 If we say that we have not sinned,

we make him a liar,

and his word is not in us.” 1 John 1:7-10

But as long as we fail to face or sin, and agree with God that it is sin, we will continue to fail and fall into the same sin time and time again. It is a sad state of affairs when we are more concerned with ‘fitting in’ than pleasing God with Holy behavior! But most today are so busy claiming that “we have not sinned”, that they don’t even hear The Word of God, much less any desire to adhere to its teaching or acknowledge its authority. There is no godly sorrow, until there is an acknowledgement that sin is sin. And foul, vulgar and crude language are sin, and ought not to be part of our vocabulary or our lives. If Jesus hasn’t changed my “mouth”, I might want to check and see if He has changed my heart! And Jesus knows those who are HIS own!

“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure,

having this seal,

The Lord knoweth them that are his.

And, Let every one that nameth

the name of Christ

depart from iniquity.”   2 Timothy 2:19

Jesus made it clear that just “saying so” doesn’t “make it so”. A changed heart will be seen in a changed life, and a changed ‘tongue’!

“Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

17 Even so every good tree

bringeth forth good fruit;

but a corrupt tree

bringeth forth evil fruit.

18 A good tree cannot bring forth

evil fruit,

neither can a corrupt tree

bring forth good fruit.

19 Every tree that bringeth not forth

good fruit

is hewn down,

and cast into the fire.

20 Wherefore by their fruits

ye shall know them.

21 Not every one that saith unto me,

Lord, Lord,

shall enter into the kingdom of heaven;

but he that doeth the will

of my Father which is in heaven.

22 Many will say to me in that day,

Lord, Lord,

have we not prophesied in thy name?

and in thy name have cast out devils?

and in thy name done many

wonderful works?

23 And then will I profess unto them,

I never knew you:

depart from me,

ye that work iniquity.

24 Therefore whosoever heareth

these sayings of mine,

and doeth them,

I will liken him unto a wise man,

which built his house

upon a rock:

25 And the rain descended,

and the floods came,

and the winds blew,

and beat upon that house;

and it fell not:

for it was founded

upon a rock.

26 And every one that heareth

these sayings of mine,

and doeth them not,

shall be likened unto a foolish man,

which built his house

upon the sand:

27 And the rain descended,

and the floods came,

and the winds blew,

and beat upon that house;

and it fell:

and great was the fall of it.”   Matthew 7:16-25

Jesus said “Ye shall know them by their fruits”! I think that we ought to take this call to heart, and examine our hearts to be sure that we belong to Jesus! Does my walk reflect the glory of Jesus and the work of His Spirit in me, or do I claim His name with my lips crying, “Lord, Lord” while walking the world’s way? Are you experiencing “godly sorrow” that leads to repentance, or are you choosing the “sorrow of the world” which “worketh death”? Are you really ‘sorry’? Or are you simply sorry you got caught? Only you and I can answer those questions, but the answers are imperative to our spiritual welfare!

May God open our eyes to see what He sees.

“Search me, O God,

and know my heart:

try me,

and know my thoughts:

24 And see if there be

any wicked way in me,

and lead me

in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24

Amen and Amen!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

His Blessings Abound??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #425

05 Friday Jan 2018

Posted by in Abundant Life In Jesus, Choices And Consequences, Choose You This Day!, Confidence, Knowing God's Word, The Word, The Word Or The World?

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #425 His Blessings Abound???

 

I would like to share a favorite passage of mine with you this morning. As we’re still in the “New Year” mode, it seems to be a good time to rehearse the goodness of God, and set our hearts and minds on pleasing Him in all our ways.

Sometimes the enemy deceives us into believing that we can just ‘go with the flow’ and live a life that is pleasing to God, but I think we must determine to be focused on God, His Son Jesus, and His Word, as we yield to and listen to the indwelling Holy Spirit in all our ways. The choice is ours, but the consequences will follow the bent of our choices. Even as Paul told the Galatians:

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”   Galatians 6:7 (Choices have consequences!)

And as we strive to sow to “The Spirit” and not ‘the flesh’, the Psalmist paints a most vivid picture of the difference between the options of our walk. I pray that this will be an encouragement to you today, as you wind up your week. May we each use our time wisely as we strive to know and experience God’s blessings in all our ways!

“Blessed is the man

that walketh not in the counsel

of the ungodly,

nor standeth in the way

of sinners,

nor sitteth in the seat

of the scornful.

2 But his delight is

in the law of the LORD;

and in his law doth he meditate

day and night.

3 And he shall be like a tree

planted by the rivers of water,

that bringeth forth his fruit

in his season;

his leaf also shall not wither;

and whatsoever he doeth

shall prosper.

4 The ungodly are not so:

but are like the chaff which the wind

driveth away.

5 Therefore the ungodly

shall not stand in the judgment,

nor sinners in the congregation

of the righteous.

6 For the LORD knoweth

the way of the righteous:

but the way of the ungodly

shall perish.” Psalm 1:1-6

My prayer for you today is taken from Paul’s prayer for the Colossian Christians; I pray this for myself as well as each of you—May we ever grow in the “knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding”! Amen and Amen!

“For this cause we also,

since the day we heard it,

do not cease to pray for you,

and to desire that ye might be filled

with the knowledge of his will

in all wisdom

and spiritual understanding;

10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord

unto all pleasing,

being fruitful in every good work,

and increasing

in the knowledge of God;”    Colossians 1:9-10

Joy To The _____??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 10 No. 21

18 Monday Dec 2017

Posted by in 'Tis The Season?, Abundant Life In Jesus, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Joy To The World?, Salvation, Sharing Our Faith!, The Only Way, The Word, The Word Or The World?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 10 No.21 Joy To The ______???

 

One of my favorite Christmas Carols (Hymns and songs pertaining to Christmas) is “Joy To The World” (written by Isaac Watts, a prolific hymn writer who wrote the Carol based on Psalm 98, 96:11-12, and Genesis 3:17-18). Yet I often wonder why so many are less than ‘joyful’, even those who claim to know Jesus and celebrate His birth? Isaac Watts understood that the “joy” must come from knowing Jesus and His Father, God Almighty, and having the assurance that God has provided a way for the salvation of mankind from our sin! Salvation was, is and ever shall be God’s idea; it is God’s perfect provision and God’s desire for all men, women, boys and girls. And that, my friends, is cause for ‘joy’! God’s wants all men to come to Him through His Son, to be born again of the “Spirit of God” and know His love, forgiveness, and receive eternal life through the blood of Jesus. That truly is the “Joy To The World”!

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise,

as some men count slackness;

but is longsuffering to us-ward,

not willing that any should perish,

but that all should come to repentance.”   2 Peter 3:9

What joy it ought to stir in our hearts to know and remember that God loves us—loved us first, in fact.

“We love him, because he first loved us.”    1 John 4:19

God loves us and has provided a way for us to know Him and have new life in Jesus Christ, His Son! But without HIM there is no joy! So I’d simply like to spend a few minutes today considering Jesus and what our salvation cost HIM! After all, it’s all about Jesus, right? Or have you and I become so busy that we are consumed with the hustle and bustle that often overtakes the celebration of Jesus, and we fall into the trap of ‘busy-ness’ rather than the “business” of spreading the Good News—that “Joy To The World” is what Jesus came to accomplish!!! And it cost Him His life on the cross of Calvary!!! But praise God He not only died for our sin, but He arose to grant to all who will believe in HIM, forgiveness of sin and eternal victory over sin, death and hell!!! And that, my dear friends, is certainly reason enough to share this “Joy To The World” at every opportunity!

The author of the book of Hebrews shares great insight into the reasons for Jesus’ coming—what we celebrate at Christmas time—the incarnation of God into human flesh and blood. But why? Because only a perfect sacrifice from a perfect man could be the perfect payment for SIN! And sin, my friends, is the issue, even as the angel told Joseph when he was concerned about Mary being pregnant with a child that he knew wasn’t his.

“Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. 20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying,

Joseph, thou son of David,

fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife:

for that which is conceived in her

is of the Holy Ghost.

21 And she shall bring forth a son,

and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

for he shall save his people

from their sins.

22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,

23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child,

and shall bring forth a son,

and they shall call his name Emmanuel,

which being interpreted is,

God with us.”   Matthew 1:19-23

God revealed to Joseph that the child Mary was carrying was the promised Messiah—that he would “save his people from their sins”, and the only reason that He could do that was because He was, is and ever shall be “Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us”! Jesus was the promised One, the One who would save us from our sins—and only God in the flesh could do that—“Emmanuel…. God with us”! Amen and Amen! I’m so glad that God loved me enough to lay aside the glory of heaven, come and dwell in a woman’s womb for nine months, experience human birth, spend years growing in a body of flesh—He who was, is and ever shall be, GOD! All for you and me! That’s what we see in Hebrews chapter 2, let’s look.

“Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.

9 But we see Jesus,

who was made a little lower than the angels

for the suffering of death,

crowned with glory and honour;

that he by the grace of God

should taste death

for every man.

10 For it became him,

for whom are all things,

and by whom are all things,

in bringing many sons unto glory,

to make the captain of their salvation perfect

through sufferings.

11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, 12 Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. 13 And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.

14 Forasmuch then as the children

are partakers of flesh and blood,

he also himself likewise

took part of the same;

that through death

he might destroy him

that had the power of death,

that is, the devil;

15 And deliver them

who through fear of death

were all their lifetime

subject to bondage.

16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels;

but he took on him the seed of Abraham.

17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him

to be made like unto his brethren,

that he might be a merciful

and faithful high priest

in things pertaining to God,

to make reconciliation

for the sins of the people.

18 For in that he himself hath suffered

being tempted,

he is able to succour them

that are tempted.”   Hebrews 2:8-18

Do you realize that Jesus birth is the epitome of God’s love—giving His Son, the God-Man to live life in a body of flesh that He could not only pay for our sin, but comfort and restore us when we are tempted and fail!!! Even more than that, He can provide us the strength and courage to resist temptation and overcome sin day by day, when we come to His throne for help!

“For we have not an high priest

which cannot be touched

with the feeling of our infirmities;

but was in all points tempted

like as we are,

yet without sin.

16 Let us therefore come boldly

unto the throne of grace,

that we may obtain mercy,

and find grace to help

in time of need.”    Hebrews 4:15-16

That, my friend is the reason that we can truly sing “Joy To The World”—and you and I are part of the ‘world’ that Jesus came to save. He was born KING, is coming again—as King of Kings, and Lord of Lords–and He won’t come again to a manger, but to a throne. But praise God He did come as the suffering servant to pay for my sin and yours! He is worthy of our worship. Who or what are you worshipping this Christmas season? Does Jesus or the hustle and bustle of the world hold your heart? The “wise men” showed us what we ought to do.

“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 2 Saying,

Where is he

that is born King of the Jews?

for we have seen his star

in the east,

and are come to worship him.”    Matthew 2:1-2

They saw a star and came to worship the newborn KING. What are we worshipping today, every day—Jesus or something much less worthy? He is the Savior, yes; but He is Savior because HE IS GOD!!!

“Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and

hath translated us into the kingdom

of his dear Son:

14 In whom we have redemption

through his blood,

even the forgiveness of sins:

15 Who is the image of the invisible God,

the firstborn of every creature:

16 For by him were all things created,

that are in heaven,

and that are in earth,

visible and invisible,

whether they be thrones,

or dominions,

or principalities,

or powers:

all things were created by him,

and for him:

17 And he is before all things,

and by him all things consist.

18 And he is the head of the body,

the church:

who is the beginning,

the firstborn from the dead;

that in all things he might have the preeminence.” Colossians 1:12-17

Jesus is the creator of the universe! He IS God, God who came to save us, giving His life for ours—for all who will believe and come to Him as the Only Lamb of God, who “takes away the sin of the world”!

So my question for you today is, “Do you have the “Joy” that Jesus gives to those who come to HIM? Or are you painting on a face for the world, trying to cover a broken and empty life inside?” Jesus came that you might have real life, abundant life; won’t you come to Him today? What better time to come to the Savior than at a time when we celebrate His birth, His incarnation (never His coming into existence, but His coming down from heaven to be our Redeemer)! If you know Him, won’t you join me in re-committing to being a reflection of that “Joy To The World” that Isaac Watts wrote about so long ago—HE truly is the Only hope of joy for this lost and dying world, and it’s our job to spread the “Good News”, that Jesus Christ has come to save sinners, “of whom I am chief” (which I say along with Paul!)! Blessing on your week, friends—and remember Jesus came because HE loves YOU!!!

“I am the door:

by me if any man enter in,

he shall be saved,

and shall go in and out,

and find pasture.

10 The thief cometh not,

but for to steal,

and to kill,

and to destroy:

I am come that they might have life,

and that they might have it more abundantly.

11 I am the good shepherd:

the good shepherd giveth his life

for the sheep.” John 10:9-11

He did it all for you and me, and that IS cause to celebrate!! Merry Christmas!!!

 

A Little Dab Or A Drenching??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #417

06 Wednesday Dec 2017

Posted by in Abundant Life In Jesus, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Salvation, The Only Way, The Word, The Word Or The World?, Thy Will Be Done, Walking With Jesus

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #417 A Little Dab Or A Drenching???

 

I heard a pastor recently make the comparison of wanting just a little bit of “Jesus” or do we want to be “drenched” in Him, His Word and His Spirit, and it just struck a chord with me. In fact, I remembered two old advertisements; “A little dab’ll do ya!” and “Fill’er Up”! And I think these two can describe the choice that we face in life; do we want to be “filled” or are we just seeking a “dab” of goodness or religion? Jesus calls us to “take up your cross” and that isn’t just a “little dab”!

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples,

If any man will come after me,

let him deny himself,

and take up his cross,

and follow me.

25 For whosoever will save his life

shall lose it:

and whosoever will lose his life

for my sake

shall find it.

26 For what is a man profited,

if he shall gain the whole world,

and lose his own soul?

or what shall a man give

in exchange for his soul?”   Matthew 16:24-26

When Jesus calls us to “take up his cross”, He is talking about the same thing that the Apostle Paul was calling the Galatian Christians to consider.

“I am crucified with Christ:

nevertheless I live;

yet not I,

but Christ liveth in me:

and the life which I now live

in the flesh

I live by the faith

of the Son of God,

who loved me,

and gave himself for me.”    Galatians 2:20

We are to die to ourselves and live by faith unto Jesus in “all” we are and all we do! And this isn’t talking about simply self-denial—but learning to victoriously live “by the faith of the Son of God” through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and yielding to His work and direction in all of our ways. It is the only thing that will give us victory and spiritual maturity. It’s Jesus’ call to us every moment of every day—not part-time; not just a ‘little dab’.

“This I say then,

Walk in the Spirit,

and ye shall not fulfil

the lust of the flesh.

17 For the flesh lusteth

against the Spirit,

and the Spirit

against the flesh:

and these are contrary

the one to the other:

so that ye cannot do the things

that ye would…

… 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is

love,

joy,

peace,

longsuffering,

gentleness,

goodness,

faith,

23 Meekness,

temperance:

against such there is no law.

24 And they that are Christ’s

have crucified the flesh

with the affections

and lusts.

25 If we live in the Spirit,

let us also walk in the Spirit.”    Portions of Galatians 5:16-25

We must choose to hear and obey the voice of God speaking to our hearts, and order our steps accordingly; or we will find ourselves listening to our flesh and settling for that “little dab”. May we truly seek to be ‘drenched’ in HIS Spirit, and filled with HIS Word, understanding Isaiah’s call to listen!

“And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying,

This is the way,

walk ye in it,

when ye turn to the right hand,

and when ye turn to the left.”    Isaiah 30:21

Jesus reminds us that His own will hear His voice—what are you choosing to listen to today?

“I am the good shepherd,

and know my sheep,

and am known of mine……

…16 And other sheep I have,

which are not of this fold:

them also I must bring,

and they shall hear my voice;

and there shall be one fold,

and one shepherd….

26 But ye believe not,

because ye are not of my sheep,

as I said unto you.

27 My sheep hear my voice,

and I know them,

and they follow me:

28 And I give unto them

eternal life;

and they shall never perish,

neither shall any man

pluck them

out of my hand.” John 10:14, 16 & 26-28

May we examine our hearts today and see if we are HIS sheep, if we are hearing HIS voice, if we are known of HIM, if we are following Jesus or someone or something else? Just as Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3, no one can see the kingdom except they are “born again”, and when we are “born again” we are “born” of God’s/Jesus’ Holy Spirit and are known of HIM, and the same Holy Spirit then comes to dwell within those who receive Jesus. And by the Holy Spirit we can live holy, victorious lives in a world of darkness and corruption; and the Spirit is the evidence of whose we are.

“But ye are not in the flesh,

but in the Spirit,

if so be that the Spirit of God

dwell in you.

Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ,

he is none of his.

10 And if Christ be in you,

the body is dead

because of sin;

but the Spirit is life

because of righteousness.”   Romans 8:9-10

Will you settle for a “little dab” or seek the “filling” of The Spirit? Choose wisely—there is a test at the end!