Newsletter 145 June 21, 2009
================================================================================ Having the Lord lead us to South Africa in 1953, we lived for many years under their apartheid laws. The dictionary meaning of this Afrikaans word is “separate development.“ Under the circumstances, that root idea made sense. There were eleven different languages, with different cultures, educational levels, traditions, and some of them were traditional enemies. At times it seemed that it was only in the church that there was a genuine movement toward cooperation among them; even there one had to tread warily lest he become branded as favoring certain peoples. Generally speaking the minister of a congregation, worked best if he was ministering to a people of his own background.
That divided nation tried setting up traditional homelands as self governing states within the umbrella of South Africa. This was already a fact to some degree, for example the Zulu nation already had their own king, which they still do today. Lesotho was, and still is, an independent country, of the British Commonwealth, whose citizens are to be found everywhere outside Lesotho, their traditional home. The adjoining nations of Botswana and Swaziland are likewise very tribal in nature. For numerous reasons this plan, was rejected and failed.
Today’s scripture indicates that the same problems have existed for thousands of years. Elsewhere. The Jews looked down on the Samaritans, and divided the entire known world into only two groups; Jews or Gentiles. In South Africa, the dividing factor was the general appearance and complexion, of each person. Sadly sometimes even immediate families were shattered if one child was of a darker complexion or if one was light and could easily “pass as European.”
God sent Peter to teach Cornelius, a Gentile Roman , but it took a vision for him to be willing to go. He discovered that God loves all people.
Acts 10:34-48 (King James Version)
34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: (Matthew 5:2, 2 Corinthians 19:7, Romans 2:11, Galatians 2:6, Ephesians 6:9, Colossians 3:25, 1 Peter 1:17)
35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. (Acts 10:28, Acts 10:2)
36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) (Acts 13:22, Luke 1:79, Luke 2:14, Romans 5:1, Ephesians 2:17, Matthew 28:18, Acts 2:36, Romans 10:12)
37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;
38. How God appointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power
; who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. (Acts 2:22, Acts 4:26, Matthew 4:23, John 3:2)
39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: (Luke 24:48, Acts 10:41, Acts 5:30)
40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; (Acts 24)
41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. (John 14:19, John 14:22, John 15:27, Luke 24:48, Acts 10:39, Luke 24:43, Acts 1:4)
42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. (Acts 1:2, Luke 16:28, Luke 22:22, John 5:22, Acts 17:31, 2 Timothy 4:1, 1 Peter 4:5)
43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. (Acts 3:18, Luke 24:47, Acts 2:38, Acts 4:12)
44 While Peter yet spoke these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. (Acts 11:15, Acts 15:8)
45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, (Matthew 16:17, Acts 2:4, Acts 19:6)
47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? (Acts 8:36, Acts 2:4, Acts 10:44, Acts 11:17, Acts 15:6)
48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days. (1 Corinthians 1:14-17, Acts 2:38, Acts 8:16, Acts 19:5)
In Jesus, and in those who are his, we see that the love of God is for the whole of the world, not just a small portion of the “elect.” (John 3:16)
__________
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
JUNE
21st. Sunday – 1 Kings 9, 10, Acts 15:1-22, Proverbs 15:8-16
22nd. Monday – 1 Kings 11, Acts 15:23-41, Psalm 77:1-9
23rd. Tuesday – 1 Kings 12, Acts 16:1-18, Psalm 77:10-20
24th. Wednesday – 1 Kings 13, Acts 16:19-40, Psalm 78:1-8
25th. Thursday – 1 Kings 14, 15, Acts 17, Proverbs 15:17-26
26th. Friday – 1 Kings 16, 17, Acts 18, Psalm 78:9-20
27th. Saturday – 1 Kings 18, Acts 19:1-20, Psalm 78:21-30
_________
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
http://stand2hope.stumbleupon.com
http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com
PRAISE THE LORD!
We now have 578 blog pages
representing 70 languages
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"… they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing."
Acts 8:38-39
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"The secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age."
-Lucille Ball
(Who wants to stay young anyhow! Just well)
____________
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____________
JUST A PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE MILLS HOUSEHOLD
Prayer requests this week are still for Phyllis. She had another fall last Sunday morning, and is still in much pain. We made an appointment with our own doctor, but she only prescribed more pain killers and an appointment with a therapist once we get settled again.
The house has still not sold.
But, we are still scheduled to move on July 2nd. The packing up is progressing well.
However, we MAY not have web connections to send next week’s reading guide and message on time.
Bob and Phyllis
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Sunday, June 7, 2009
SAVED! ONLY BY THE GRACE OF GOD
Newsletter 142 May 31, 2008
The context of this portion of scripture begins with jOHN 15:18 and carries on to the present portion. What he was saying there is that we must not expect the world, those who do not know the Lord, to understand them or their message. In fact he says they must expect to be hated, just as he was hated. That has been true, and will continue to be true until he comes again, this time to separate and to judge. Since the world hates Him, they will also hate His Father, God, and his servants, Christians. The truth of the Gospel, makes apparent the sin of the world, so how have they responded. They ridicule the truth, deny the Lordship of God, and make up their own gods which will not bring to light their sins.
By the days of Noah, the world had become so filled with sin that God destroyed all of it, with the exception of Noah and those closest to him, his immediate family. The rest were too sinful to salvage. From Noah onwards sin again began to grow, and will continue to do so until God sends His Son Jesus, to separate His own family, judge the lot, and this time totally destroy, not by water but by fire, that which cannot enter into His presence in the new home prepared for them.
No one, but God, knows just when that delicate balance will tilt, but we can certainly see it rocking on the very verge of decision. The time is clearly near! Our own nation, and the whole world, clearly indicatewhere they stand. We praise God for His great grace, else we all would be lost.
John 16:2-15 (King James Version)
2 …., the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. (Acts 22:4,5, 26:9-11, Galatians 113-17, Philippians 3:6, 1 Timothy 1:12-17)
3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.
4 But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you.
5 But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? (John 13:36, John 14:5)
6 But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart.
7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. (John 14:16, John 14:26)
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; (John 15:22, John 15:24)
10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; (Acts 3:14, Acts 7:52, Acts 17:31, 1 Peter 3:18, John 16:5)
11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. (John 12:31)
12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. (John 14:17, John 14:26)
14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you. (John 7:39)
15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall show it unto you. (John 17:10)
Praise to the Lord, we are not alone. Our Lord lives! He will return! But, most of all we praise Him that he has sent the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who dwells within us to help and guide us in every decision of life. We do not see Him, for He is Spirit, but all can see the results of his being there. It is the faithful Christians of the world that have preserved its delicate balance all these years, and the message of salvation that mankind needs, to be offered the opportunity to accept before He comes again. Even Noah preached repentance for a hundred years before the flood.
__________
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
JUNE
31st. May. Sunday - 1 Samuel 30-31. John 21, Psalm 68:28-35
1st. June. Monday – 2 Samuel 1,2, Acts 1, Proverbs 14:1-9
2nd. Tuesday - 2 Samuel 3, Acts 2, Psalm 69:1-12
3rd. Wednesday – 2 Samuel 4, Acts 3, Psalm 69:13-28
4th. Thursday - 2 Samuel 25, Acts 4, Psalm 69:29-38
5th Friday – 2 Samuel 8,9, Acts 5:1-16, Proverbs 14:10-18
6th. Saturday - 2 Samuel 10,11, Acts 5:17-42, Psalm 70
7th Sunday – 2 Samuel 12,13, Acts 8, Psalm 71:1-8
_________
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
http://stand2hope.stumbleupon.com
http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com
PRAISE THE LORD!
We now have 575 blog pages
representing 70 languages
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever;"
John 14:16
____________
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
ecards@dayspring.com
3-movies@dayspring.com
____________
If I Only Had A...
An elderly patient needed a heart transplant and discussed his options with his doctor.
The doctor said, "We have three possible donors.
The first donor is a young, healthy athlete who died in an automobile accident.
The second donor is a middle-aged businessman who never drank or smoked and who died flying his private jet.
And, the third donor is an attorney who died after practicing law for 30 years.
Which do you want?"
After some careful thought, the patient replied, "I'll take the lawyer's heart."
After a successful transplant, the doctor asked the patient why he had chosen the lawyer's heart.
"It was easy," explained the patient...
"I wanted a heart that hadn't been used."
____________
SPREAD THE WORD
FORWARD THIS NEWSLETTER OR
A TRACT TO YOUR TO SOMEONE TODAY
The context of this portion of scripture begins with jOHN 15:18 and carries on to the present portion. What he was saying there is that we must not expect the world, those who do not know the Lord, to understand them or their message. In fact he says they must expect to be hated, just as he was hated. That has been true, and will continue to be true until he comes again, this time to separate and to judge. Since the world hates Him, they will also hate His Father, God, and his servants, Christians. The truth of the Gospel, makes apparent the sin of the world, so how have they responded. They ridicule the truth, deny the Lordship of God, and make up their own gods which will not bring to light their sins.
By the days of Noah, the world had become so filled with sin that God destroyed all of it, with the exception of Noah and those closest to him, his immediate family. The rest were too sinful to salvage. From Noah onwards sin again began to grow, and will continue to do so until God sends His Son Jesus, to separate His own family, judge the lot, and this time totally destroy, not by water but by fire, that which cannot enter into His presence in the new home prepared for them.
No one, but God, knows just when that delicate balance will tilt, but we can certainly see it rocking on the very verge of decision. The time is clearly near! Our own nation, and the whole world, clearly indicatewhere they stand. We praise God for His great grace, else we all would be lost.
John 16:2-15 (King James Version)
2 …., the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. (Acts 22:4,5, 26:9-11, Galatians 113-17, Philippians 3:6, 1 Timothy 1:12-17)
3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.
4 But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you.
5 But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? (John 13:36, John 14:5)
6 But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart.
7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. (John 14:16, John 14:26)
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; (John 15:22, John 15:24)
10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; (Acts 3:14, Acts 7:52, Acts 17:31, 1 Peter 3:18, John 16:5)
11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. (John 12:31)
12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. (John 14:17, John 14:26)
14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you. (John 7:39)
15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall show it unto you. (John 17:10)
Praise to the Lord, we are not alone. Our Lord lives! He will return! But, most of all we praise Him that he has sent the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who dwells within us to help and guide us in every decision of life. We do not see Him, for He is Spirit, but all can see the results of his being there. It is the faithful Christians of the world that have preserved its delicate balance all these years, and the message of salvation that mankind needs, to be offered the opportunity to accept before He comes again. Even Noah preached repentance for a hundred years before the flood.
__________
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
JUNE
31st. May. Sunday - 1 Samuel 30-31. John 21, Psalm 68:28-35
1st. June. Monday – 2 Samuel 1,2, Acts 1, Proverbs 14:1-9
2nd. Tuesday - 2 Samuel 3, Acts 2, Psalm 69:1-12
3rd. Wednesday – 2 Samuel 4, Acts 3, Psalm 69:13-28
4th. Thursday - 2 Samuel 25, Acts 4, Psalm 69:29-38
5th Friday – 2 Samuel 8,9, Acts 5:1-16, Proverbs 14:10-18
6th. Saturday - 2 Samuel 10,11, Acts 5:17-42, Psalm 70
7th Sunday – 2 Samuel 12,13, Acts 8, Psalm 71:1-8
_________
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
http://stand2hope.stumbleupon.com
http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com
PRAISE THE LORD!
We now have 575 blog pages
representing 70 languages
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever;"
John 14:16
____________
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
ecards@dayspring.com
3-movies@dayspring.com
____________
If I Only Had A...
An elderly patient needed a heart transplant and discussed his options with his doctor.
The doctor said, "We have three possible donors.
The first donor is a young, healthy athlete who died in an automobile accident.
The second donor is a middle-aged businessman who never drank or smoked and who died flying his private jet.
And, the third donor is an attorney who died after practicing law for 30 years.
Which do you want?"
After some careful thought, the patient replied, "I'll take the lawyer's heart."
After a successful transplant, the doctor asked the patient why he had chosen the lawyer's heart.
"It was easy," explained the patient...
"I wanted a heart that hadn't been used."
____________
SPREAD THE WORD
FORWARD THIS NEWSLETTER OR
A TRACT TO YOUR TO SOMEONE TODAY
THE LOVE OF GOD
Newsletter 140 May 17, 2008
=============================================================
John 3:16-21 (King James Version)
Probably the best known verse of the entire Bible is John3:16. However only a few know John 3:17 or any of the following verses that we have included in this week's reading. They are equally important to us. Taken alone, out of its context, this favorite verse seems to promise salvation simply on the confession of faith in Christ, but the next verses add more light on the meaning of "believeth." The next line inserts another important thought. It is not Gods purpose to condemn, but to make a way of salvation available. That way is "through him." The Bible as a whole, even from the beginning, presents Jesus to be the Messiah, the Savior. The entire period in which Israel sacrificed burnt offerings was in anticipation of his sacrificial death for the whole world.
The animals were only an object lesson. It took the Son of God's death, burial, and resurrection to make it a reality. That sacrifice was once for all. He gave the Communion service as a memorial of what he had accomplished accomplished for us all. That message is "the GOSPEL," the GOOD NEWS for all. God loved everyone, what ever nation, race, or even pagan cult they come from, the door is open but only through Christ. Remember, He said, "I am the door, no man cometh unto the Father but by me."Faith in him is the first step.
16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
19And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
20For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
21But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
There will be many who will be condemned. This is for the entire world. "for the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord God shall call. " Acts 2:39. condemned, in spite of His love for them. Why? because they do not believe, Like the spoiled child why rants, "I hate you," many do not honor or obey his simple command, presented by Peter the Apostle, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of your sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Acts 2:38.
Why did they reject him? "Because their deeds were evil." John 3:19. Evil cannot tolerate light.
__________
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
MAY
17th. Sunday - 1 Samuel 5,6,7, John 10:21-42, Psalm 62
18th. Monday - 1 Samuel 8,9, John 11:1-27, Psalm 63
19th. Tuesday - 1 Samuel 10,11, John 28-57, Psalm 64
20th. Wednesday - 1 Samuel 12,13, John 12:1-22, Proverbs 12:14-28
21st. Thursday - 1 Samuel 14, John 12:23-50, Psalm 65
22nd. Friday - 1 Samuel 15,16, John 13, Psalm 66:1-10
23rd. Saturday - 1 Samuel 17, John 14, Psalm 66:11-20
_________
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
http://stand2hope.stumbleupon.com
http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com
PRAISE THE LORD!
We now have 573 blog pages
representing 70 languages
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"He that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought of God."
John 4:21
____________
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
ecards@dayspring.com
3-movies@dayspring.com
____________
A LESSON FROM A LAWYER
Our research shows that out of a yearly income of at least $500,000, you give not a penny to charity. Wouldn't you like to give back to the community in some way?"
The lawyer mulled this over for a moment and replied, "First, did your research also show that my mother is dying after a long illness, and has medical bills that are several times her annual income?"
Embarrassed, the United Way rep mumbled, "Um ... no."
The lawyer interrupts, "or that my brother, a disabled veteran, is blind and confined to a wheelchair?"
The stricken United Way rep began to stammer out an apology, but was interrupted again.
"...or that my sister's husband died in a traffic accident," the lawyer's voice rising in indignation, "leaving her penniless with three children?!"
The humiliated United Way rep, completely beaten, said simply, "I had no idea..."
On a roll, the lawyer cut him off once again, "So if I don't give any money to them, why should I give any to you?"
____________
SPREAD THE WORD
FORWARD THIS NEWSLETTER OR
A TRACT TO YOUR TO SOMEONE TODAY
____________
=============================================================
John 3:16-21 (King James Version)
Probably the best known verse of the entire Bible is John3:16. However only a few know John 3:17 or any of the following verses that we have included in this week's reading. They are equally important to us. Taken alone, out of its context, this favorite verse seems to promise salvation simply on the confession of faith in Christ, but the next verses add more light on the meaning of "believeth." The next line inserts another important thought. It is not Gods purpose to condemn, but to make a way of salvation available. That way is "through him." The Bible as a whole, even from the beginning, presents Jesus to be the Messiah, the Savior. The entire period in which Israel sacrificed burnt offerings was in anticipation of his sacrificial death for the whole world.
The animals were only an object lesson. It took the Son of God's death, burial, and resurrection to make it a reality. That sacrifice was once for all. He gave the Communion service as a memorial of what he had accomplished accomplished for us all. That message is "the GOSPEL," the GOOD NEWS for all. God loved everyone, what ever nation, race, or even pagan cult they come from, the door is open but only through Christ. Remember, He said, "I am the door, no man cometh unto the Father but by me."Faith in him is the first step.
16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
19And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
20For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
21But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
There will be many who will be condemned. This is for the entire world. "for the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord God shall call. " Acts 2:39. condemned, in spite of His love for them. Why? because they do not believe, Like the spoiled child why rants, "I hate you," many do not honor or obey his simple command, presented by Peter the Apostle, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of your sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Acts 2:38.
Why did they reject him? "Because their deeds were evil." John 3:19. Evil cannot tolerate light.
__________
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
MAY
17th. Sunday - 1 Samuel 5,6,7, John 10:21-42, Psalm 62
18th. Monday - 1 Samuel 8,9, John 11:1-27, Psalm 63
19th. Tuesday - 1 Samuel 10,11, John 28-57, Psalm 64
20th. Wednesday - 1 Samuel 12,13, John 12:1-22, Proverbs 12:14-28
21st. Thursday - 1 Samuel 14, John 12:23-50, Psalm 65
22nd. Friday - 1 Samuel 15,16, John 13, Psalm 66:1-10
23rd. Saturday - 1 Samuel 17, John 14, Psalm 66:11-20
_________
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
http://stand2hope.stumbleupon.com
http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com
PRAISE THE LORD!
We now have 573 blog pages
representing 70 languages
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"He that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought of God."
John 4:21
____________
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
ecards@dayspring.com
3-movies@dayspring.com
____________
A LESSON FROM A LAWYER
Our research shows that out of a yearly income of at least $500,000, you give not a penny to charity. Wouldn't you like to give back to the community in some way?"
The lawyer mulled this over for a moment and replied, "First, did your research also show that my mother is dying after a long illness, and has medical bills that are several times her annual income?"
Embarrassed, the United Way rep mumbled, "Um ... no."
The lawyer interrupts, "or that my brother, a disabled veteran, is blind and confined to a wheelchair?"
The stricken United Way rep began to stammer out an apology, but was interrupted again.
"...or that my sister's husband died in a traffic accident," the lawyer's voice rising in indignation, "leaving her penniless with three children?!"
The humiliated United Way rep, completely beaten, said simply, "I had no idea..."
On a roll, the lawyer cut him off once again, "So if I don't give any money to them, why should I give any to you?"
____________
SPREAD THE WORD
FORWARD THIS NEWSLETTER OR
A TRACT TO YOUR TO SOMEONE TODAY
____________
DON'T STOP PRAYING
Newsletter 138 May 3. 2009
Several years ago, I set up a Bible book shop near Johannesburg, South Africa. God blessed it and it continued to grow until it outgrew the small shop I had hired for it. There were numerous problems there, burglaries, a collapsed ceiling, a small flooding but through all those, the biggest problem was that we needed more room. I felt the pressure and began to pray every day that we might be led to a larger shop in safer surroundings. One day as I was praying, I was interrupted by a small voice speaking n my mind. The voice said, “Be still, and know that I am God.” I was so shocked that I stopped praying for, and instead, prayed a prayer of praise and thanks. God had heard, and answered. A few days later there was a church building with an adjoining double story hall advertised. I hadn’t the money they were asking, but what God promises, he will provide for. He did, and a year later we moved in.
One of Jesus; parables stressed that very thought. Do not be afraid to ask repeatedly if necessary provided your motive is right. If your motive is selfish, don’t bother to pray at all, he will not be listening.
Luke 18:1-8 (King James Version)
1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; (Romans 1:9, Romans 12:12, Ephesians 6:18, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, 2 Thessalonians 1:11, Luke 11:5-10, 2 Corinthians 4:1)
2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man ( Luke 18:4, Luke 20:13, Hebrews 12:9)
3 And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
4 And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; (Luke 18:2, Luke 20:13, Hebrews 12:9)
5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. (Luk2 11:8, 1 Corinthians 9:27)
6 And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. (Luke 7:13)
7 And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? (Revelation 6:10)
8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth? (Luke 17:26)
“Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” The poor widow in this parable knew that what she was asking was right, so she continued to ask until she forcedthe judge to take action. The lesson here is that the child of God, when he knows that a matter is right and not selfish, should not be afraid to pray to God again and again for an answer. Because of that move, we escaped the repeated burglaries, we still had a drainage problem in the basement, but we were able to sell thousands of Bibles, and publish so many small booklets and tract studies that we were listed in the Christian Publishers of South Africa list as being a major Christian publisher. They counted the titles, and languages of all the booklets registered with ISBN numbers, and not their number of pages. We deliberately kept them short, man of our readers struggled to read. At the same time our equipment could be standardize and the cost down. Those prayers we answered with resulted in a small church, a growing publishing business, a bigger and safer Bible shop, and apartment home for ourselves above the shop. In spite of attempts, we never had another burglary or a collapsed ceiling.
Unfortunately, after we left Africa, many of those results ceased, but I take comfort in what happened while we were there and in the last line of the parable, “I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?“
We all must do our part. If you know something is for the good of all and his will, pray and do what you can do. You are responsible only for what you can do, not for those who come after you who will likely have other goals
________________
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
MAY
3rd.. Sunday – Judges 4,5, John 2, Psalm 55:12-23
4th. Monday – Judges 6, John 3, Proverbs 11:7-12
5th. Tuesday – Judges 7,8, John 4:1-26, Psalm 56
6th. Wednesday – Judges 9, John 4:27-54, Psalm 57:1-6
7th. Thursday – Judges 10,11, John 5:1-23, Psalm 57:7-11
8th. Friday – Judges 12,13, John5:24-47, Proverbs 11:13-21
9th. Saturday – Judges 14,15, John 6:1-38, Psalm 58:1-5
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com/
• http://scripturegems.blogspot.com/
• http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com/
• http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/
• http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/ (These letters as blogs)
• http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com/
• http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com/
• http://stan2hope.stumbleupon.com/
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com/
PRAISE THE LORD !
We now have 571 blog pages
representing 70 languages.
_______________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"The Son of man is come to seek, and to save that which was lost”
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
♥
e-cards@dayspring.com
e-movies@dayspring.com
_______________
The Best Part of Waking Up...
A man and his wife were having an argument about who should brew the coffee each morning.
The wife says, "You should do it, because you get up first, and then we don't have to wait as long to get our coffee."
The husband says, "You are in charge of cooking around here and you should do it, because that is your job, and I can just wait for my coffee."
The wife replies, "No, you should do it, and besides, it is in the Bible that the man should do the coffee."
The husband replies, "I can't believe that, show me."
So she fetched the Bible, and opened the New Testament and showed him at the top of several pages that it indeed says:
"HEBREWS"
_____________
SPREAD THE WORD,
FORWARD THIS LETTER OR A TRACT TO TEN FRIENDS
TODAY
_________________
GOD ♥ YOU
OUR PERSONAL NOTE:
If you are interested, we have placed our home for sale at adv #114001. They have prepared a lovely adv with pictures and a tour of the house’s major rooms. It is supposed to run until sold, but it was also supposed to get major phone calls. So far, none!
Several years ago, I set up a Bible book shop near Johannesburg, South Africa. God blessed it and it continued to grow until it outgrew the small shop I had hired for it. There were numerous problems there, burglaries, a collapsed ceiling, a small flooding but through all those, the biggest problem was that we needed more room. I felt the pressure and began to pray every day that we might be led to a larger shop in safer surroundings. One day as I was praying, I was interrupted by a small voice speaking n my mind. The voice said, “Be still, and know that I am God.” I was so shocked that I stopped praying for, and instead, prayed a prayer of praise and thanks. God had heard, and answered. A few days later there was a church building with an adjoining double story hall advertised. I hadn’t the money they were asking, but what God promises, he will provide for. He did, and a year later we moved in.
One of Jesus; parables stressed that very thought. Do not be afraid to ask repeatedly if necessary provided your motive is right. If your motive is selfish, don’t bother to pray at all, he will not be listening.
Luke 18:1-8 (King James Version)
1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; (Romans 1:9, Romans 12:12, Ephesians 6:18, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, 2 Thessalonians 1:11, Luke 11:5-10, 2 Corinthians 4:1)
2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man ( Luke 18:4, Luke 20:13, Hebrews 12:9)
3 And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
4 And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; (Luke 18:2, Luke 20:13, Hebrews 12:9)
5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. (Luk2 11:8, 1 Corinthians 9:27)
6 And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. (Luke 7:13)
7 And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? (Revelation 6:10)
8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth? (Luke 17:26)
“Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” The poor widow in this parable knew that what she was asking was right, so she continued to ask until she forcedthe judge to take action. The lesson here is that the child of God, when he knows that a matter is right and not selfish, should not be afraid to pray to God again and again for an answer. Because of that move, we escaped the repeated burglaries, we still had a drainage problem in the basement, but we were able to sell thousands of Bibles, and publish so many small booklets and tract studies that we were listed in the Christian Publishers of South Africa list as being a major Christian publisher. They counted the titles, and languages of all the booklets registered with ISBN numbers, and not their number of pages. We deliberately kept them short, man of our readers struggled to read. At the same time our equipment could be standardize and the cost down. Those prayers we answered with resulted in a small church, a growing publishing business, a bigger and safer Bible shop, and apartment home for ourselves above the shop. In spite of attempts, we never had another burglary or a collapsed ceiling.
Unfortunately, after we left Africa, many of those results ceased, but I take comfort in what happened while we were there and in the last line of the parable, “I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?“
We all must do our part. If you know something is for the good of all and his will, pray and do what you can do. You are responsible only for what you can do, not for those who come after you who will likely have other goals
________________
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
MAY
3rd.. Sunday – Judges 4,5, John 2, Psalm 55:12-23
4th. Monday – Judges 6, John 3, Proverbs 11:7-12
5th. Tuesday – Judges 7,8, John 4:1-26, Psalm 56
6th. Wednesday – Judges 9, John 4:27-54, Psalm 57:1-6
7th. Thursday – Judges 10,11, John 5:1-23, Psalm 57:7-11
8th. Friday – Judges 12,13, John5:24-47, Proverbs 11:13-21
9th. Saturday – Judges 14,15, John 6:1-38, Psalm 58:1-5
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com/
• http://scripturegems.blogspot.com/
• http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com/
• http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/
• http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/ (These letters as blogs)
• http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com/
• http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com/
• http://stan2hope.stumbleupon.com/
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com/
PRAISE THE LORD !
We now have 571 blog pages
representing 70 languages.
_______________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"The Son of man is come to seek, and to save that which was lost”
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
♥
e-cards@dayspring.com
e-movies@dayspring.com
_______________
The Best Part of Waking Up...
A man and his wife were having an argument about who should brew the coffee each morning.
The wife says, "You should do it, because you get up first, and then we don't have to wait as long to get our coffee."
The husband says, "You are in charge of cooking around here and you should do it, because that is your job, and I can just wait for my coffee."
The wife replies, "No, you should do it, and besides, it is in the Bible that the man should do the coffee."
The husband replies, "I can't believe that, show me."
So she fetched the Bible, and opened the New Testament and showed him at the top of several pages that it indeed says:
"HEBREWS"
_____________
SPREAD THE WORD,
FORWARD THIS LETTER OR A TRACT TO TEN FRIENDS
TODAY
_________________
GOD ♥ YOU
OUR PERSONAL NOTE:
If you are interested, we have placed our home for sale at
Friday, June 5, 2009
SALVATION ONLY THROUGH CHRIST JESUS
Newsletter 143 June 7, 2008
===============================================================
SALVATION - ONLY THROUGH CHRIST JESUS
There are many churches. But Jesus Christ promised his church to come soon in Matthew 16:18 when he said “I will build my church.” It was not yet established, for he had not yet died and been resurrected. Those were the proof that he is indeed, the Lord, the fulfillment of many of the prophecies of old. Following the events of that first Pentecost after his resurrection, he would make use his powers to their full. Matthew 28:18. That power was both in heaven and earth., It was shown on that day in the marvelous events and the response of the people in their repentance, and baptism. Thousand were freed of their sins, and received the Holy Ghost as they were obedient in being baptized. Acts 2:38, and Acts 2:41. They were added to his church by Jesus Christ himself. Acts 2:47. Persecutions were quickly to follow. As always, Satan is quick to respond In this case, he used the established religion at hand, as he always does. There are only two religions, that which is Holy Spirit guided, Christianity, and that which is of men and is guided by Satan and his evil spirits, whether it is a perversion of Christianity or a purely earthly in origin, whether a cult or totally pagan.
Acts 4:5-12 (King James Version, I use it because it is Public Domain, not necessarily because it is the best translation available.)
5 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,
6 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.
7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?
8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, (Acts 2:4, Acts 13:9, Luke 23:13, Acts 4:5)
9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;
10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (Acts 2:22, Acts 3:6, Acts 2:24)
11 This is the stone which was set at naught of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (Matthew 21:42, Psalm 118:22, Mark 9:12)
12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Matthew 1:21, 1 Timothy 2:5, Acts 10:43:5, John 10:7-8, John 14:6)
It can not be put more clearly than is scripture, “there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” All authority is given to Christ Jesus. He is Lord over all, heaven and earth. He established his church, on Pentecost following soon after his resurrection and ascension back to Heaven. There is salvation him, his body, the church. His church has a message for the world. Worship the Lord of Heaven and Earth for he is the Lord of Lords and he is coming for his own to take them home, sooner than you think!
__________
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
JUNE
7th. Sunday - 2 Samuel 12,13, Acts 6, Psalm 71:1-8
8th. Monday - 2 Samuel 14,15, Acts 7:1-36, Psalm 71:9-18
9th. Tuesday - 2 Samuel 16,17, Acts 7:37-80, Proverbs 14:19-25
10th. Wednesday – 2 Samuel 18, Acts 8:1-24, Psalm 71:19- 24
11th. Thursday - 2 Samuel 19, Acts 8:25-40, Psalm 72
12th. Friday – 2 Samuel 20,21, Acts 9:1-22, Psalm 73:1-14
13th. Saturday - 2 Samuel 22, Acts 9:23-43, Proverbs 14:26-35
_________
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
http://stand2hope.stumbleupon.com
http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com
PRAISE THE LORD!
We now have 576 blog pages
representing 70 languages
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord"
Acts 3:19
____________
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
ecards@dayspring.com
3-movies@dayspring.com
____________
This is allegedly a true story from the old airport in Denver: A major airline had cancelled a very busy flight and a lone check-in agent is busy trying to sort out all the displaced passengers. A very angry and aggressive man barges his way to the front of the line to confront her. He says that he is flying first class and demands to go on the flight.
The agent politely explains the situation and asks that people take their place in the line. The man starts screaming at her,
"Do you know who I am?" - at which the agent calmly picks up the microphone for the PA system, and announces to the airport,
"This is (airline name) gate B22 we have a gentleman here who does not know who he is. If anyone can come and identify him please do so."
____________
SPREAD THE WORD
FORWARD THIS NEWSLETTER OR A TRACT TO YOUR TO SOMEONE TODAY
____________
JUST A PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE MILLS HOUSEHOLD
Praises to the Lord for answered prayers. We have been approved for a subsidized apartment at Evergreen Senior’s Apartments in Plano. Our moving day is reserved for July 2nd. We have this month in which to sell our manufactured home, to finish packing, and to notify everyone of our changed address. Please pray with us now for a quick sale of the house and a trouble free move. We celebrated our 59th wedding anniversary this week, so neither of us is really eagerly anticipating moving day, or for that matter the days leading up to it.
Our mailing address will change from the first of July to be, Robert & Phyllis Mills, 600 Independence Parkway, apartment 3205, Plano, TX. 75075. As our phone and our email are a part of a Time Warner package, we do not anticipate any changes in those.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
TAKE NO THOUGHT FOR YOUR LIFE
Newsletter 137 April 26. 2009
When I logged on this morning, the topmost news fragment dealt with the many people who were struggling to make ends meet on an income of $250,000 a year. I thought I was alone. I have been struggling on an income of $28,000 a year, and live in Dallas, Texas. There are many others like me.
The problem is that we are trying to solve a problem that is not our responsibility. God created this world to be our temporary habitant, for the material phase of our being. Just as Adam and Eve were placed in Eden and given the responsibility to tend and care for it, we are here on this planet to tend and care for it. Our permanent habitant is Heaven. Jesus, speaking through Luke, the apostle makes this most clear. Man is not only physical, he is also, like God the Father, a spiritual being created to live in a spiritual home.
Luke 12:22-34 (King James Version)
22 And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
23 The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.
24 Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?
25 And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?
26 If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?
27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?
29 And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.
30 For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.
31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.
32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
33 Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
The bottom line is also the last line of Jesus’ lesson. “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.“
We are but caretakers, servants of the Lord and what we call our own, He created out of nothing. It is temporary. What Jesus has gone to prepare for us is permanent. When it is ready for His faithful stewards to move in, this temporary place will be abandoned and burned up. We are but the “little flock.” Our shepherd, whom we follow, Jesus, has gone ahead to lead us to our permanent home.
As he has said before, “Come, follow me:, I am the way, the truth and the life.”
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
APRIL
26th. Sunday – Joshua 17:14-18:28, Luke 22:47-71, Proverbs 10:21- 32
27th. Monday – Joshua 19, Luke 23:1-25, Psalm 51:10-19
28th. Tuesday – Joshua 20,21, Luke 23:26-56, Psalm 52
29th. Wednesday – Joshua 22,23, Luke 24:1-27, Psalm 53
30th. Thursday – Joshua 24, Luke 24:28-53, Proverbs 11:1-6
MAY
1st. Friday – Judges 1:1-2:15, John 1:1-28, Psalm 54
2nd. Saturday – Judges 2:16-3:31, John 1:29-51, Psalm 55:1-11
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com/
• http://scripturegems.blogspot.com/
• http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com/
• http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/
• http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/ (These letters as blogs)
• http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com/
• http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com/
• http://stan2hope.stumbleupon.com/
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com/
PRAISE THE LORD!
We now have 570 blog pages
representing 70 languages.
_______________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"The Son of man is come to seek, and to save that which was lost”
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
♥
e-cards@dayspring.com
e-movies@dayspring.com
_______________
Who Came First?
A computer scientist, a surgeon, and a civil engineer were gathered at the pub. The surgeon boasts, "Surgery is the oldest technology in the world! It's in the Bible. God removed Adam's rib while he slept. This is clear evidence that surgery pre-dates all other technological endeavors!"
Without so much as a beat, the civil engineer says, "Well, before that, God formed the Earth, the stars, and everything from nothing but chaos. He created rivers, mountians and oceans. This was clear evidence that civil engineering pre-dates all other technological endeavors."
Not to be outdone, the computer scientist points out, "Yes, but where do you think the Chaos came from?"
_____________
SPREAD THE WORD,
FORWARD THIS LETTER OR A TRACT TO TEN FRIENDS
TODAY
_________________
GOD ♥ YOU
OUR PERSONAL NOTE:
This week we checked back on two affordable Seniors Retirement apartments we had placed our name on the waiting list a year and a half ago. We are near the top of the list on both. One said we could move in late June, as the present occupants have just served notice they were leaving, but we are not quite that ready. Today, being the semi--annual yard sale in our community there will be a lot of people cruising the streets, so I have placed a second “For sale by owner” sign out on the main frontage street with a special offer, just for the day! Next week we will place it with an agent who will set his own price if it is not reserved today.
When I logged on this morning, the topmost news fragment dealt with the many people who were struggling to make ends meet on an income of $250,000 a year. I thought I was alone. I have been struggling on an income of $28,000 a year, and live in Dallas, Texas. There are many others like me.
The problem is that we are trying to solve a problem that is not our responsibility. God created this world to be our temporary habitant, for the material phase of our being. Just as Adam and Eve were placed in Eden and given the responsibility to tend and care for it, we are here on this planet to tend and care for it. Our permanent habitant is Heaven. Jesus, speaking through Luke, the apostle makes this most clear. Man is not only physical, he is also, like God the Father, a spiritual being created to live in a spiritual home.
Luke 12:22-34 (King James Version)
22 And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
23 The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.
24 Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?
25 And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?
26 If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?
27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?
29 And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.
30 For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.
31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.
32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
33 Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
The bottom line is also the last line of Jesus’ lesson. “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.“
We are but caretakers, servants of the Lord and what we call our own, He created out of nothing. It is temporary. What Jesus has gone to prepare for us is permanent. When it is ready for His faithful stewards to move in, this temporary place will be abandoned and burned up. We are but the “little flock.” Our shepherd, whom we follow, Jesus, has gone ahead to lead us to our permanent home.
As he has said before, “Come, follow me:, I am the way, the truth and the life.”
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
APRIL
26th. Sunday – Joshua 17:14-18:28, Luke 22:47-71, Proverbs 10:21- 32
27th. Monday – Joshua 19, Luke 23:1-25, Psalm 51:10-19
28th. Tuesday – Joshua 20,21, Luke 23:26-56, Psalm 52
29th. Wednesday – Joshua 22,23, Luke 24:1-27, Psalm 53
30th. Thursday – Joshua 24, Luke 24:28-53, Proverbs 11:1-6
MAY
1st. Friday – Judges 1:1-2:15, John 1:1-28, Psalm 54
2nd. Saturday – Judges 2:16-3:31, John 1:29-51, Psalm 55:1-11
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com/
• http://scripturegems.blogspot.com/
• http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com/
• http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/
• http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/ (These letters as blogs)
• http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com/
• http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com/
• http://stan2hope.stumbleupon.com/
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com/
PRAISE THE LORD!
We now have 570 blog pages
representing 70 languages.
_______________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"The Son of man is come to seek, and to save that which was lost”
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
♥
e-cards@dayspring.com
e-movies@dayspring.com
_______________
Who Came First?
A computer scientist, a surgeon, and a civil engineer were gathered at the pub. The surgeon boasts, "Surgery is the oldest technology in the world! It's in the Bible. God removed Adam's rib while he slept. This is clear evidence that surgery pre-dates all other technological endeavors!"
Without so much as a beat, the civil engineer says, "Well, before that, God formed the Earth, the stars, and everything from nothing but chaos. He created rivers, mountians and oceans. This was clear evidence that civil engineering pre-dates all other technological endeavors."
Not to be outdone, the computer scientist points out, "Yes, but where do you think the Chaos came from?"
_____________
SPREAD THE WORD,
FORWARD THIS LETTER OR A TRACT TO TEN FRIENDS
TODAY
_________________
GOD ♥ YOU
OUR PERSONAL NOTE:
This week we checked back on two affordable Seniors Retirement apartments we had placed our name on the waiting list a year and a half ago. We are near the top of the list on both. One said we could move in late June, as the present occupants have just served notice they were leaving, but we are not quite that ready. Today, being the semi--annual yard sale in our community there will be a lot of people cruising the streets, so I have placed a second “For sale by owner” sign out on the main frontage street with a special offer, just for the day! Next week we will place it with an agent who will set his own price if it is not reserved today.
Friday, April 17, 2009
THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP
Newsletter 136 April 19. 2009
Matthew 16:24-27, Mark 8:34-38
This account is also found in Matthew and Mark, all three of the synoptic gospels. Only John does not include it.
A BAD SITUATION
As an introduction before we come to the scripture itself, let us look at three other scriptures, each of which is written by the apostle Paul. They all come from the book of Romans.
The first shows the need for salvation of all mankind. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) It was not just Adam and Eve who sinned, but all have sinned. This, then, is the background situation.
Add to that the fact that “the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:23) But, “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17).
GOD MADE A PLAN
This wasn’t something that just came about, God started right from Eden with the first steps to prepare a people who could accept and follow Jesus. Over those many years he sent many prophets to promise a savior to come. Both the Old Testament books, and the book of Matthew record many of those, however it is the book of Luke that we are presently reading.
Luke 9:23-27 (King James Version)
23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (Matthew 10:38, Luke 14:27)
24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. ( Soul - Matthew 10:39, Luke 17:33, John 12:25)
25 For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? (Hebrews 10:24)
26 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. (Matthew 10:33, Luke 12:9)
27 But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God. (Matthew 16:28)
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
APRIL
19th. Sunday – Joshua 6,7, Luke 19:28-48, Psalm 48
20th. Monday – Joshua 8,9, Luke 20:1-26, Psalm 49:1-10
21st. Tuesday – Joshua 10, Luke 20:27-47, Psalm 49:11-20
22nd. Wednesday – Joshua 11,12, Luke 21:1-19, Proverbs 10:11-20
23rd. Thursday – Joshua 13,14, Luke 21:20-38, Psalm 50:1-15
24th. Friday – Joshua 15, Luke 22:1-23, Psalm 50:16-23
25th. Saturday – Joshua 16-17:13, Luke 22:24-46, Psalm 51:1-9
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com/
• http://scripturegems.blogspot.com/
• http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com/
• http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/
• http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/ (These letters as blogs)
• http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com/
• http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com/
• http://stan2hope.stumbleupon.com/
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com/
PRAISE THE LORD !
We now have 569 blog pages
representing 70 languages.
_______________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?”
Luke 18:8
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
♥
e-cards@dayspring.com
e-movies@dayspring.com
_______________
I Just Wanna Bang On The Drum All Day...
A researcher arrives in Borneo to gather data for his thesis. Accompanied by his trusty guide, he seeks out a very remote locale for researching the mating behaviour of the giant rat of Sumatra.
Around dusk of the first day, he's sitting by the campfire with his guide when in the distance, he hears tribal drums. They get louder. The guide announces, "I don't know guys, I don't like the sound of those drums."
Dusk turns to evening. The drums get louder. The guide says, "I really don't like the sound of those drums."
Evening turns to dead of night. The drums get louder and louder, until it is obvious that the drummers must be quite close. The guide cries out again, "I really don't like the sound of those drums!"
Suddenly the drums stop, and a voice from the darkness cries out,
"Hey dude, lay off. He's not our regular drummer."
_____________
SPREAD THE WORD,
FORWARD THIS LETTER OR A TRACT TO TEN FRIENDS
TODAY
_________________
GOD ♥ YOU
Matthew 16:24-27, Mark 8:34-38
This account is also found in Matthew and Mark, all three of the synoptic gospels. Only John does not include it.
A BAD SITUATION
As an introduction before we come to the scripture itself, let us look at three other scriptures, each of which is written by the apostle Paul. They all come from the book of Romans.
The first shows the need for salvation of all mankind. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) It was not just Adam and Eve who sinned, but all have sinned. This, then, is the background situation.
Add to that the fact that “the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:23) But, “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17).
GOD MADE A PLAN
This wasn’t something that just came about, God started right from Eden with the first steps to prepare a people who could accept and follow Jesus. Over those many years he sent many prophets to promise a savior to come. Both the Old Testament books, and the book of Matthew record many of those, however it is the book of Luke that we are presently reading.
Luke 9:23-27 (King James Version)
23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (Matthew 10:38, Luke 14:27)
24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. ( Soul - Matthew 10:39, Luke 17:33, John 12:25)
25 For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? (Hebrews 10:24)
26 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. (Matthew 10:33, Luke 12:9)
27 But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God. (Matthew 16:28)
READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009
APRIL
19th. Sunday – Joshua 6,7, Luke 19:28-48, Psalm 48
20th. Monday – Joshua 8,9, Luke 20:1-26, Psalm 49:1-10
21st. Tuesday – Joshua 10, Luke 20:27-47, Psalm 49:11-20
22nd. Wednesday – Joshua 11,12, Luke 21:1-19, Proverbs 10:11-20
23rd. Thursday – Joshua 13,14, Luke 21:20-38, Psalm 50:1-15
24th. Friday – Joshua 15, Luke 22:1-23, Psalm 50:16-23
25th. Saturday – Joshua 16-17:13, Luke 22:24-46, Psalm 51:1-9
LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com/
• http://scripturegems.blogspot.com/
• http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com/
• http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/
• http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com/ (These letters as blogs)
• http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com/
• http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com/
• http://stan2hope.stumbleupon.com/
• http://47yearsinafrica.blogstream.com/
PRAISE THE LORD !
We now have 569 blog pages
representing 70 languages.
_______________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
"Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?”
Luke 18:8
SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:
♥
e-cards@dayspring.com
e-movies@dayspring.com
_______________
I Just Wanna Bang On The Drum All Day...
A researcher arrives in Borneo to gather data for his thesis. Accompanied by his trusty guide, he seeks out a very remote locale for researching the mating behaviour of the giant rat of Sumatra.
Around dusk of the first day, he's sitting by the campfire with his guide when in the distance, he hears tribal drums. They get louder. The guide announces, "I don't know guys, I don't like the sound of those drums."
Dusk turns to evening. The drums get louder. The guide says, "I really don't like the sound of those drums."
Evening turns to dead of night. The drums get louder and louder, until it is obvious that the drummers must be quite close. The guide cries out again, "I really don't like the sound of those drums!"
Suddenly the drums stop, and a voice from the darkness cries out,
"Hey dude, lay off. He's not our regular drummer."
_____________
SPREAD THE WORD,
FORWARD THIS LETTER OR A TRACT TO TEN FRIENDS
TODAY
_________________
GOD ♥ YOU
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