Newsletter 233 February 18, 2011
Mark 2:1-14
CAPERNAUM
This chapter of Mark’s book is filled with things that Jesus did; not so much what he said. We can know what he was saying as that is covered in the other books. I personally find the healing of the paralytic man to stand out from many of the others. That is probably because it is so graphic in nature and I may have seen the ruins of the building where it took place. Very near the ancient synagogue in Capernaum there are also the ruins of a house, reported to have been that of Simon Peter. If Jesus was staying in a house there, where better could he be than in Peter’s house? Typically, it had a flat roof made up of large tiles supported by cross beams and sealed with plaster to make it water proof. That plaster could easily be broken and the tiles lifted. Access to the roof was common as it served s a quiet, and cool deck for evening use and even as a sleeping place during the heat of the Summer. I picture all of the apostles doing that after a long day with the Lord..
1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house.
On this occasion, as he was teaching in the house in a packed room, the friends of the paralytic found that they could not get into the room with their friend on his mat, so they went to the roof, broke through the plaster, and lifting the tiles, they lowered him down before the Lord. I have personally experienced such gatherings.
2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them. (Mark 1:45, Mark 2:13)
3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. (Mark 2:3-12, Matthew 9:2-8, Luke 5:18-26, Matthew 4:24)
4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. (Luke 5:19, Matthew 4:24)
They were confident that, if they could reach Jesus, he would help them, and he did. But, note that he went beyond what they asked. Jesus used all his miracles to show his divinity, more than just for what was asked. Only God could forgive sins. He forgave the man’s sins first, then healed him.
5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. (Matthew 9:2)
Even in Galilee, there were those, here the scribes, who were seeking to destroy his message and deny his divinity. They did not even have to say anything, Jesus
Knew what was in their hearts just as he knows what is in our hearts today. Nothing is hidden from God. We are to be judged by what is in our hearsts as well as what is expressed and done.
6 But there was certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts,
7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only? (Isaiah 43:25)
8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts?
Four men brought him in, but he walked out on his own, cured. We can walk into a place of worship a sinner and walk out a saint through the power of Jesus Christ. In our hearts we repent of our sins, with our mouth we confess the divinity of our Lord, and we are freed of our sins through obedience to him in Christian baptism. We, with the Spirit, walk out a changed person. I have seen it happen time and times again.
9 Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? (Matthew 4:24)
10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,
11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.
12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion. (Matthew 9:8, Matthew 9:33)
13 And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them. (Mark 1:45)
14 And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him. (Mark 2:14-17, Matthew 9:9-13, Luk2 5:27-32, Matthew 9:9, Matthew 8:22)
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
FEBRUARY
20th. Sunday – Exodus 23,24, Mark 5:1-20, Psalm 23
21st. Monday – Exodus 25, 26, Mark 5:21-43, Proverbs 5:15-23
22nd. Tuesday – Exodus 27, 28, Mark 6:1-29, Psalm 24
23rd. Wednesday-- Exodus 29, 30, Mark 6:30-56, Psalm 25:1-11
24th. Thursday -- Exodus 31, 32, Mark 7, Psalm 25:12-22
25th. Friday – Exodus 33, 34, Mark 8, Proverbs 6:1-11
26th. Saturday-- Exodus 35, 36, Mark 9:1-32, Psalm 26
_________
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________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. ”
John 1:4
__________
See Spot Talk...
A guy is driving around and he sees a sign in front of a house: "Talking Dog For Sale."
He rings the bell, and the owner tells him the dog is in the backyard. The guy goes around the house and into the backyard and sees a handsome Labrador Retriever sitting there.
"You talk?" he asks.
"Yep," the Lab replies.
"So, what's your story?"
The Lab looks up and says, "Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young, and I wanted to help the government; so I told the CIA about my gift, and in no time at all they had me jetting from country to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured a dog would be eavesdropping.
I was one of their most valuable spies for eight years running. But the jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I wasn't getting any younger so I wanted to settle down. I signed up for a job at the airport to do some undercover security work, mostly wandering near suspicious characters and listening in. I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals. I got married, had a mess of puppies, and now I'm just retired."
The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks the owner what he wants for the dog.
"Ten dollars", says the owner.
The guy says, "This dog is amazing! Why on earth are you selling him so cheap?"
"Because he's a liar. He didn't do any of that stuff."
__________
PUBLICATION CLOSED FOR A BREAK FOR HEALTH REASONS. The evening of the 17th Bob lost all control over his right hand which just went limp and would not respond. A stroke was suspected, by all, including the hospital’s leading neurologist. The next two days were spent checking and double testing this, but Friday afternoon , after hours in the hospital’s huge MRI machine, it was decided it is not a stroke, but something else, and he was discharged and will go for outpatient cervical traction therapy. A damaged neck disk is suspected.
PUBLICATION WILL RESUME WHEN HE IS ABLE TO REGAIN THE USE OF HIS HAND.
_________
PREACH THE GOSPEL TO EVERY NATION - Mark 16:15,16
Send us the addresses of friends whose home language is not English,
bob2search@yahoo.com
• Their name
• Their language of choice
• Their e-mail address
• And we will do the rest !
(We use Google Translator)
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
JESUS DIED FOR THE SINS OF THE WORLD
Newsletter 232 February 11, 2011
John 3:16
From the very beginning of time the creator, (John 1:3) knew that giving the right to make his own decisions would mean that mankind would make wrong choices as well as right ones, thus He also made a plan through which he could anticipate an eternity of fellowship with him. This required much love demonstrated through his own suffering and death upon the cross of Calvary, (John 3:16,17). This plan, the Gospel (good news). we are to make known to the whole world. (Matthew 28:18-19, Mark 16:15-16).
This good news is that all is not lost because we have sinned. He loved us enough to die for our sins,. He was buried and lay in the tomb three days. But, He arose from the grave. There is life beyond the grave, wonderful life for His own, and one that will last for ever, in a permanent home. This world’s home is very temporary, and very basic compared to what he s preparing for the faithful.
His own have gone through the same three stages. They have died to sin, (Repented). They have been buried in the waters of baptism, and they have arisen from that grave, changed beings, free of their sins, and having the indwelling gift of the Hold Spirit. Christians are born again, and their destination is not in this world, but to be with God in Heaven,.
Matthew 27:45-56 (King James Version)
45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour. (Mark 15:33-41, Luke 23:44-49)
This would have been from our noon until 3:00 pm
46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (Psalm 22:1)
Jesus used Hebrew to address God Eli, and Aramaic for the other two words. It was important that the hearers also heard and understood.
47 Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias.
48 And straightway one of them ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink. (Psalm 69:21, Mark 15:36, Luke 23:36, John 19:29)
This drink might have prolonged his life, but would have resulted in his legs being broken as were those of the thieves. None of His bones were to be broken in fulfillment of prophesy.
49 The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him. (John 19:34)
50 Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. (Mark 15:37, Luke 23:46, John 19:30)im.
He chose when he would die.
51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; (Matthew 27:51-56, Mark 15:38-47, Luke 23:47-48, Exodus 26:31, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45, Hebrews 9:3, Matthew 27:54)
Only God could have torn away this massive curtain which separated the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies in the temple. This symbolized the fact that now saints have direct access to God and Heaven, His residence.
52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, (Acts 7:60)
These saints arose from the dead to join the Lord who had opened the way.
53 And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. (Matthew 4:5)
Their appearance to the people of the city gives undeniable proof of life after the separation that we call “death.”
54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. (Mark 15:39, Luke 23:47, Matthew 27:36, Matthew 27:51, Matthew 4:3, Matthew 27:43)
Those who witnessed these things, even the pagan Romans, believed,
55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him: (Mark 15:40, Luke 23:49, John 19:25, Mark 15:41, Luke 8:2-3)
56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children. (Matthew 28:1, Mark 15:40, Mark 15:47, Mark 16:9, Luke 8:2, John 19:25, John 20:1, John 20:18, Matthew 20:20)
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
FEBRUARY
13th. Sunday – Exodus 9, 10, Matthew 28, Proverbs 4:20-27
14th. Monday – Exodus 11, 12, Mark 1:1-27, Psalm 21:1-7
15th. Tuesday – Exodus 13, 14, Mark 1:28-45, Psalm 21:8-13
16th. Wednesday-- Exodus 15, 16, Mark 2, Psalm 22:1-8
17th. Thursday - Exodus 17, 18, Mark 3, Proverbs 5:1-14
18th. Friday – Exodus 19, 20, Mark 4:1-25, Psalm 22:9-18
19th. Saturday-- Exodus 21, 22, Mark 4:26-41, Psalm 22:19-31
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
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Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said , Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Matthew 16:15,16
__________
Duck Tales...
Three women die together in an accident and go to heaven. When they get there, St. Peter says, "We only have one rule here in heaven: don't step on the ducks!"
So they enter heaven, and sure enough, there are ducks all over the place. It is almost impossible not to step on a duck, and although they try their best to avoid them, the first woman accidentally steps on one.
Along comes St. Peter with the ugliest man she ever saw.
St. Peter chains them together and says, "Your punishment for stepping on a duck is to spend eternity chained to this ugly man!" The next day, the second woman steps accidentally on a duck and along comes St. Peter, who doesn't miss a thing. With him is another extremely ugly man. He chains them together with the same admonishment as for the first woman.
The third woman has observed all this and, not wanting to be chained for all eternity to an ugly man, is very, VERY careful where she steps.
She manages to go months without stepping on any ducks, but one day St. Peter comes up to her with the most handsome man she has ever laid eyes on ... very tall, long eyelashes, muscular, and thin. St. Peter chains them together without saying a word.
The happy woman says, "I wonder what I did to deserve being chained to you for all of eternity?"
The guy says, "I don't know about you, but I stepped on a duck!"
John 3:16
From the very beginning of time the creator, (John 1:3) knew that giving the right to make his own decisions would mean that mankind would make wrong choices as well as right ones, thus He also made a plan through which he could anticipate an eternity of fellowship with him. This required much love demonstrated through his own suffering and death upon the cross of Calvary, (John 3:16,17). This plan, the Gospel (good news). we are to make known to the whole world. (Matthew 28:18-19, Mark 16:15-16).
This good news is that all is not lost because we have sinned. He loved us enough to die for our sins,. He was buried and lay in the tomb three days. But, He arose from the grave. There is life beyond the grave, wonderful life for His own, and one that will last for ever, in a permanent home. This world’s home is very temporary, and very basic compared to what he s preparing for the faithful.
His own have gone through the same three stages. They have died to sin, (Repented). They have been buried in the waters of baptism, and they have arisen from that grave, changed beings, free of their sins, and having the indwelling gift of the Hold Spirit. Christians are born again, and their destination is not in this world, but to be with God in Heaven,.
Matthew 27:45-56 (King James Version)
45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour. (Mark 15:33-41, Luke 23:44-49)
This would have been from our noon until 3:00 pm
46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (Psalm 22:1)
Jesus used Hebrew to address God Eli, and Aramaic for the other two words. It was important that the hearers also heard and understood.
47 Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias.
48 And straightway one of them ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink. (Psalm 69:21, Mark 15:36, Luke 23:36, John 19:29)
This drink might have prolonged his life, but would have resulted in his legs being broken as were those of the thieves. None of His bones were to be broken in fulfillment of prophesy.
49 The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him. (John 19:34)
50 Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. (Mark 15:37, Luke 23:46, John 19:30)im.
He chose when he would die.
51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; (Matthew 27:51-56, Mark 15:38-47, Luke 23:47-48, Exodus 26:31, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45, Hebrews 9:3, Matthew 27:54)
Only God could have torn away this massive curtain which separated the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies in the temple. This symbolized the fact that now saints have direct access to God and Heaven, His residence.
52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, (Acts 7:60)
These saints arose from the dead to join the Lord who had opened the way.
53 And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. (Matthew 4:5)
Their appearance to the people of the city gives undeniable proof of life after the separation that we call “death.”
54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. (Mark 15:39, Luke 23:47, Matthew 27:36, Matthew 27:51, Matthew 4:3, Matthew 27:43)
Those who witnessed these things, even the pagan Romans, believed,
55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him: (Mark 15:40, Luke 23:49, John 19:25, Mark 15:41, Luke 8:2-3)
56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children. (Matthew 28:1, Mark 15:40, Mark 15:47, Mark 16:9, Luke 8:2, John 19:25, John 20:1, John 20:18, Matthew 20:20)
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
FEBRUARY
13th. Sunday – Exodus 9, 10, Matthew 28, Proverbs 4:20-27
14th. Monday – Exodus 11, 12, Mark 1:1-27, Psalm 21:1-7
15th. Tuesday – Exodus 13, 14, Mark 1:28-45, Psalm 21:8-13
16th. Wednesday-- Exodus 15, 16, Mark 2, Psalm 22:1-8
17th. Thursday - Exodus 17, 18, Mark 3, Proverbs 5:1-14
18th. Friday – Exodus 19, 20, Mark 4:1-25, Psalm 22:9-18
19th. Saturday-- Exodus 21, 22, Mark 4:26-41, Psalm 22:19-31
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 771 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said , Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Matthew 16:15,16
__________
Duck Tales...
Three women die together in an accident and go to heaven. When they get there, St. Peter says, "We only have one rule here in heaven: don't step on the ducks!"
So they enter heaven, and sure enough, there are ducks all over the place. It is almost impossible not to step on a duck, and although they try their best to avoid them, the first woman accidentally steps on one.
Along comes St. Peter with the ugliest man she ever saw.
St. Peter chains them together and says, "Your punishment for stepping on a duck is to spend eternity chained to this ugly man!" The next day, the second woman steps accidentally on a duck and along comes St. Peter, who doesn't miss a thing. With him is another extremely ugly man. He chains them together with the same admonishment as for the first woman.
The third woman has observed all this and, not wanting to be chained for all eternity to an ugly man, is very, VERY careful where she steps.
She manages to go months without stepping on any ducks, but one day St. Peter comes up to her with the most handsome man she has ever laid eyes on ... very tall, long eyelashes, muscular, and thin. St. Peter chains them together without saying a word.
The happy woman says, "I wonder what I did to deserve being chained to you for all of eternity?"
The guy says, "I don't know about you, but I stepped on a duck!"
Thursday, February 3, 2011
AND THEN SHALL THE END COME!
Newsletter 231 February 4, 2011
Matthew 24:1-14 (King James Version)
Our scripture for today begins with the apostles calling the attention of Jesus to the temple of Herod the great. It had been, at that time, under construction some twenty years and was still being worked on seventy years later when it was totally destroyed by the Romans. Some of the stones being used in this work measured forty feet by twelve feet, by twelve feet. These still remain having been incorporated into the foundation wall at which many orthodox Jews still today gather to weep over the destruction of the temple itself. If this temple building still existed, Christians and Jews alike would have made it into an idol by this time, forgetting that we, ourselves, are the temple and God dwells within us.
1 And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. (Matthew 21:23)
2 And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. (Luke 19:44)
Keep in mind that when the construction began, many wept, because it was not going to nearly approach the beauty of Solomon’s temple.
3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? (Matthew 21:1)
Most of the prophecies of the end of the world, deal with the people, and the sinful lives of mankind, as in the days of Noah before the flood. This time, when the disciples asked for more information, he uses their question to explain end times. He used nature and the world itself. In another scripture, he refers to end times, telling them that it is like the fig tree. When you see it leafing, you know spring is near. The Mount of Olives provides a panoramic view of all of Old Jerusalem. The Temple site is directly west and lower, you can see over the walls and up the slope to the wall on the far side of the city. That is why, our tour bus began from that spot. It is probably about where this discussion took place.
4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. (Jeremiah 29:8)
5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. (Matthew 24:11, Matthew 24:24, Acts 5:36, 1 John 2:18, 1 John 4:3)
When Christ returns, he will not arise from among men. He shall come from heaven and there will be no question, everyone shall know, and every knee shall bow before him. He has not yet come. And as we read on, there are things still to come to be, but it is nearing. We can see that as well. en, he will descend
6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. (Revelation 6:4)
There will continue to be wars, famines, earthquakes and we could add meteors, volcanoes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and epidemics. Aside from the wars, the rest of these are all things happening in nature, just gone wild in intensity and frequency..
7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. (2 Chronicles 15:6, Isaiah 19:2, Revelation 6:8, Revelation 6:12, Acts 11:28, Revelation 6:5-6)
But, these only indicate the beginning. More is to come!
8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. (Matthew 24:8-20, Luke 21:12-24)
9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. (Matthew 10:17, John 16:2, Matthew 10:22, John 1518-)
10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. (Matthew 11:6)
In many parts of the world, the things are already happening, the evil pitted against the Godly. Even among the Godly, thee shall be false against true..
11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. (Matthew 7:15, Matthew 24:24)
12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
The result shall be that even those of faith, will grow discouraged and grow cold.
13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (Matthew 10:22)
14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. (Matthew 14:23, Romans 10:18, Colossians 1:6, Colossians 1:23, Luke 2:1, Luke 4:5, Acts 11:28, Acts 17:6, Acts 17:31, Acts 19:27, Romans 10:18, Hebrews 1:5, Hebrews 2:5, Revelation 3:10, Revelation 16:14)
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
FEBRUARY
6th. Sunday – Job 34, 35, 36, Matthew 25:1-23, Psalm 18:25-36
7th. Monday – Job 37, 38, Matthew25:24-46, Psalm 18:37-42
8th. Tuesday – Job 39, 40, Matthew 26:1-30, Psalm 18:43-50
9th. Wednesday-- Job 41, 42, Matthew 26:31-56, Proverbs 4:10-19
10th. Thursday - Exodus 1, 2, 3, Matthew 26:57-75, Psalm 19:1-6
11th. Friday – Exodus 4, 5, Matthew 27:1-31, Psalm 19:7-14
12th. Saturday-- Exodus 6, 7, 8, Matthew 27:32-66, Psalm 20
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 732 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: ”
Matthew 12:35
__________
www.andiesisle.com
____________
OLD MAN - NEW CAR
A senior citizen drove his brand new Corvette convertible out of the dealership.
Taking off down the road, he floored it to 80 m.p.h., enjoying the wind blowing through what little hair he had left.
"Amazing," he thought as he flew down I-20, pushing the pedal even more.
Looking in his rear view mirror, he saw a state trooper behind him, lights flashing and siren blaring.
He floored it to 100 mph, then 110, then 120.
Suddenly he thought, "What am I doing? I'm too old for this," and pulled over to await the trooper's arrival.
Pulling in behind him, the trooper walked up to the Corvette, looked at his watch, and said, "Sir, my shift ends in 30 minutes. Today is Friday.
If you can give me a reason for speeding that I've never heard before, I'll let you go."
The old gentleman paused. Then said, "Years ago, my wife ran off with a State trooper.
I thought you were bringing her back."
"Have a good day, sir," replied the trooper.
Matthew 24:1-14 (King James Version)
Our scripture for today begins with the apostles calling the attention of Jesus to the temple of Herod the great. It had been, at that time, under construction some twenty years and was still being worked on seventy years later when it was totally destroyed by the Romans. Some of the stones being used in this work measured forty feet by twelve feet, by twelve feet. These still remain having been incorporated into the foundation wall at which many orthodox Jews still today gather to weep over the destruction of the temple itself. If this temple building still existed, Christians and Jews alike would have made it into an idol by this time, forgetting that we, ourselves, are the temple and God dwells within us.
1 And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. (Matthew 21:23)
2 And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. (Luke 19:44)
Keep in mind that when the construction began, many wept, because it was not going to nearly approach the beauty of Solomon’s temple.
3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? (Matthew 21:1)
Most of the prophecies of the end of the world, deal with the people, and the sinful lives of mankind, as in the days of Noah before the flood. This time, when the disciples asked for more information, he uses their question to explain end times. He used nature and the world itself. In another scripture, he refers to end times, telling them that it is like the fig tree. When you see it leafing, you know spring is near. The Mount of Olives provides a panoramic view of all of Old Jerusalem. The Temple site is directly west and lower, you can see over the walls and up the slope to the wall on the far side of the city. That is why, our tour bus began from that spot. It is probably about where this discussion took place.
4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. (Jeremiah 29:8)
5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. (Matthew 24:11, Matthew 24:24, Acts 5:36, 1 John 2:18, 1 John 4:3)
When Christ returns, he will not arise from among men. He shall come from heaven and there will be no question, everyone shall know, and every knee shall bow before him. He has not yet come. And as we read on, there are things still to come to be, but it is nearing. We can see that as well. en, he will descend
6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. (Revelation 6:4)
There will continue to be wars, famines, earthquakes and we could add meteors, volcanoes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and epidemics. Aside from the wars, the rest of these are all things happening in nature, just gone wild in intensity and frequency..
7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. (2 Chronicles 15:6, Isaiah 19:2, Revelation 6:8, Revelation 6:12, Acts 11:28, Revelation 6:5-6)
But, these only indicate the beginning. More is to come!
8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. (Matthew 24:8-20, Luke 21:12-24)
9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. (Matthew 10:17, John 16:2, Matthew 10:22, John 1518-)
10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. (Matthew 11:6)
In many parts of the world, the things are already happening, the evil pitted against the Godly. Even among the Godly, thee shall be false against true..
11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. (Matthew 7:15, Matthew 24:24)
12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
The result shall be that even those of faith, will grow discouraged and grow cold.
13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (Matthew 10:22)
14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. (Matthew 14:23, Romans 10:18, Colossians 1:6, Colossians 1:23, Luke 2:1, Luke 4:5, Acts 11:28, Acts 17:6, Acts 17:31, Acts 19:27, Romans 10:18, Hebrews 1:5, Hebrews 2:5, Revelation 3:10, Revelation 16:14)
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
FEBRUARY
6th. Sunday – Job 34, 35, 36, Matthew 25:1-23, Psalm 18:25-36
7th. Monday – Job 37, 38, Matthew25:24-46, Psalm 18:37-42
8th. Tuesday – Job 39, 40, Matthew 26:1-30, Psalm 18:43-50
9th. Wednesday-- Job 41, 42, Matthew 26:31-56, Proverbs 4:10-19
10th. Thursday - Exodus 1, 2, 3, Matthew 26:57-75, Psalm 19:1-6
11th. Friday – Exodus 4, 5, Matthew 27:1-31, Psalm 19:7-14
12th. Saturday-- Exodus 6, 7, 8, Matthew 27:32-66, Psalm 20
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 732 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: ”
Matthew 12:35
__________
www.andiesisle.com
____________
OLD MAN - NEW CAR
A senior citizen drove his brand new Corvette convertible out of the dealership.
Taking off down the road, he floored it to 80 m.p.h., enjoying the wind blowing through what little hair he had left.
"Amazing," he thought as he flew down I-20, pushing the pedal even more.
Looking in his rear view mirror, he saw a state trooper behind him, lights flashing and siren blaring.
He floored it to 100 mph, then 110, then 120.
Suddenly he thought, "What am I doing? I'm too old for this," and pulled over to await the trooper's arrival.
Pulling in behind him, the trooper walked up to the Corvette, looked at his watch, and said, "Sir, my shift ends in 30 minutes. Today is Friday.
If you can give me a reason for speeding that I've never heard before, I'll let you go."
The old gentleman paused. Then said, "Years ago, my wife ran off with a State trooper.
I thought you were bringing her back."
"Have a good day, sir," replied the trooper.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
LET ME BE FIRST
Newsletter 230 January 28, 2011
I have just completed reading the book, “House of the Seven Gables” authored by Nathaniel Hawthorne. It was published in the mid-nineteenth century after Mr. Hawthorne had lived in Salem and seen an actual house that inspired his imagination. It seems that there exists in the documents of Waldo County a record of similar incidents which occurred in such a house.
It being Salem, a wealthy man owned the site next to a poor man’s home, and in order to build a giant English style castle of a house he declared his neighbor to be a witch and had him hanged. In the process the man seemed to cast a spell on his tormentor, and that he and his descendents would die choking on blood. The third one to do so also had delusions of his own importance and wealth, and the story leads up to his death and restores the property to the original families through the descendents of both.
The whole story began with the fact that a man of great wealth coveted the tiny bit of land on which his neighbor had built his tiny home. His covetousness led to his lying, and his lies to murder. That murder resulted in a whole series of evil results. The same sort of situation resulted when King David looked down upon his neighbor’s rooftop and coveted Bathsheba. In this text, Jesus knips it in the bud when the mother of James and John came seeking a position of influence and power for her sons in His kingdom to come.
Matthew (King James Version)
20:20-28
20 Then came to him the mother of Zebedees children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. (Matthew 10:35-45, Mark, Matthew 4:21, Matthew 10:2, Matthew 8:2)
I learned long ago, when sons-in-law, or really anyone, comes asking, “do me a favor,” the only possible reply is, “what is it?”
21 And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. (Matthew 19:28)
Clearly, they had no idea what they were asking, and his reply shows that. With any commitment there is a result. You are setting in motion a whole series of possible future events. Sign surety for a car or a house and you are actually just buying that item as a gift. They are asking, because they have a bad record, and you haven’t. Matthew Henry sums it up, “Nothing makes more mischief among brethren, than desire for greatness.” Jesus knew that they would all suffer for their faith, and would all die a martyr’s death except John.
22 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. (Isaiah 51:17, Jeremiah 49:12, Matthew 26:39, Matthew 26:42, Luke 22:42John 18:11)
Here again, their reply, shows that they have no idea what they are really asking for. Had he told them, they would have fled in fear, losing their reward, a reward of far greater value than anything they could possibly suffer.
23 And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father. (Acts 12:2, Revelation 1:9, Matthew 13:11, Matthew 25:34)
24 And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren.
25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. (Matthew 20:25-28, Luke 22:25-27)
The goals of the world are wealth, power, prestige, but all these things are of this earth only. None of them carry over into eternity. When we died to sin, were buried in baptism, and arose to a new life, we were showing our trust in Him. We were starting over, born anew to live for ever. It does not bother me that ninety percent of my wardrobe was worn by someone else several years ago. He will provide all that we need.
26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; (Matthew 23:11, Mark 9:35, Mark 10:43, Luke 22:26)
Almost weekly, this past year, I have been asked if I did not want to work for another degree, free tuition even. What would I use it for? So I could add “Dr” to my signature? I leave that to those who need it because they are teachers by profession. We all can and should serve.
27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Matthew 8:20, Matthew 26:28, John 13:13+, 2 Corinthians 8:9, Philippians 2:7, 1 Timothy 2:6, Titus 2:14, Hebrews 9:28, Revelation 1:5)
We are his disciples just passing along His message. (Matthew 28:20)
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
JANUARY
30th. Sunday – Job 16, 17, 18, Matthew 21:29-46, Psalm 17:6-10
31st. Monday – Job 19, 20, Matthew 22:1-22, Psalm 17:11-15
FEBRUARY
1st. Tuesday – Job 21, 22, Matthew 22:23-48, Proverbs 3:21-35
2nd. Wednesday-- Job 23, 24, 25, Matthew 23:1-22. Psalm 18:1-6
3rd. Thursday - Job 26, 27, 28, 28, Matthew 23:23-39, Psalm 18:7-15
4th. Friday – Job 29, 30, 31, Matthew 24:1-25, Psalm 18:16-24
5th. Saturday-- Job 32, 33, Matthew 24:26-51, Proverbs 4:1-9
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 734 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“Whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.”
Matthew 12:32
__________
You Never Know What You're Gonna Get...
Sally was driving home from one of her business trips in Northern Arizona when she saw an elderly Navajo woman walking on the side of the road. As the trip was a long and quiet one, she stopped the car and asked the Navajo woman if she would like a ride.
With a silent nod of thanks, the woman got into the car. Resuming the journey, Sally tried in vain to make a bit of small talk with the Navajo woman.
The old woman just sat silently, looking intently at everything she saw, studying every little detail, until she noticed a pink bag on the seat next to Sally.
"What in bag?" asked the old woman.
Sally looked down at the white bag and said, "It's a box of chocolates. I got it for my husband".
The Navajo woman was silent for another moment or two. Then speaking with the quiet wisdom of an elder, she said: "Good trade."
---------------
Gmail users, follow our Buzz entries
I have just completed reading the book, “House of the Seven Gables” authored by Nathaniel Hawthorne. It was published in the mid-nineteenth century after Mr. Hawthorne had lived in Salem and seen an actual house that inspired his imagination. It seems that there exists in the documents of Waldo County a record of similar incidents which occurred in such a house.
It being Salem, a wealthy man owned the site next to a poor man’s home, and in order to build a giant English style castle of a house he declared his neighbor to be a witch and had him hanged. In the process the man seemed to cast a spell on his tormentor, and that he and his descendents would die choking on blood. The third one to do so also had delusions of his own importance and wealth, and the story leads up to his death and restores the property to the original families through the descendents of both.
The whole story began with the fact that a man of great wealth coveted the tiny bit of land on which his neighbor had built his tiny home. His covetousness led to his lying, and his lies to murder. That murder resulted in a whole series of evil results. The same sort of situation resulted when King David looked down upon his neighbor’s rooftop and coveted Bathsheba. In this text, Jesus knips it in the bud when the mother of James and John came seeking a position of influence and power for her sons in His kingdom to come.
Matthew (King James Version)
20:20-28
20 Then came to him the mother of Zebedees children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. (Matthew 10:35-45, Mark, Matthew 4:21, Matthew 10:2, Matthew 8:2)
I learned long ago, when sons-in-law, or really anyone, comes asking, “do me a favor,” the only possible reply is, “what is it?”
21 And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. (Matthew 19:28)
Clearly, they had no idea what they were asking, and his reply shows that. With any commitment there is a result. You are setting in motion a whole series of possible future events. Sign surety for a car or a house and you are actually just buying that item as a gift. They are asking, because they have a bad record, and you haven’t. Matthew Henry sums it up, “Nothing makes more mischief among brethren, than desire for greatness.” Jesus knew that they would all suffer for their faith, and would all die a martyr’s death except John.
22 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. (Isaiah 51:17, Jeremiah 49:12, Matthew 26:39, Matthew 26:42, Luke 22:42John 18:11)
Here again, their reply, shows that they have no idea what they are really asking for. Had he told them, they would have fled in fear, losing their reward, a reward of far greater value than anything they could possibly suffer.
23 And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father. (Acts 12:2, Revelation 1:9, Matthew 13:11, Matthew 25:34)
24 And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren.
25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. (Matthew 20:25-28, Luke 22:25-27)
The goals of the world are wealth, power, prestige, but all these things are of this earth only. None of them carry over into eternity. When we died to sin, were buried in baptism, and arose to a new life, we were showing our trust in Him. We were starting over, born anew to live for ever. It does not bother me that ninety percent of my wardrobe was worn by someone else several years ago. He will provide all that we need.
26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; (Matthew 23:11, Mark 9:35, Mark 10:43, Luke 22:26)
Almost weekly, this past year, I have been asked if I did not want to work for another degree, free tuition even. What would I use it for? So I could add “Dr” to my signature? I leave that to those who need it because they are teachers by profession. We all can and should serve.
27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Matthew 8:20, Matthew 26:28, John 13:13+, 2 Corinthians 8:9, Philippians 2:7, 1 Timothy 2:6, Titus 2:14, Hebrews 9:28, Revelation 1:5)
We are his disciples just passing along His message. (Matthew 28:20)
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
JANUARY
30th. Sunday – Job 16, 17, 18, Matthew 21:29-46, Psalm 17:6-10
31st. Monday – Job 19, 20, Matthew 22:1-22, Psalm 17:11-15
FEBRUARY
1st. Tuesday – Job 21, 22, Matthew 22:23-48, Proverbs 3:21-35
2nd. Wednesday-- Job 23, 24, 25, Matthew 23:1-22. Psalm 18:1-6
3rd. Thursday - Job 26, 27, 28, 28, Matthew 23:23-39, Psalm 18:7-15
4th. Friday – Job 29, 30, 31, Matthew 24:1-25, Psalm 18:16-24
5th. Saturday-- Job 32, 33, Matthew 24:26-51, Proverbs 4:1-9
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 734 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“Whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.”
Matthew 12:32
__________
You Never Know What You're Gonna Get...
Sally was driving home from one of her business trips in Northern Arizona when she saw an elderly Navajo woman walking on the side of the road. As the trip was a long and quiet one, she stopped the car and asked the Navajo woman if she would like a ride.
With a silent nod of thanks, the woman got into the car. Resuming the journey, Sally tried in vain to make a bit of small talk with the Navajo woman.
The old woman just sat silently, looking intently at everything she saw, studying every little detail, until she noticed a pink bag on the seat next to Sally.
"What in bag?" asked the old woman.
Sally looked down at the white bag and said, "It's a box of chocolates. I got it for my husband".
The Navajo woman was silent for another moment or two. Then speaking with the quiet wisdom of an elder, she said: "Good trade."
---------------
Gmail users, follow our Buzz entries
Thursday, January 20, 2011
JESUS WALKED ON THE SEA
Newsletter 229 January 21, 2011
Q&A AFRICA TRACTS GEMS BIBLE STUDIES BOOKLETS BOOKS
Standing outside the ancient synagogue where Capernaum once flourished, and looking beyond the small harbor below one can see the far shore of the Sea of Galilee. On the beautiful day we were there, it is hard to picture that violent storms often descend with a vengeance just out there. Galilee is only fourteen miles long, and eight broad at its widest, but it is also over a hundred and fifty feet deep at its deepest. This is where Jesus astounded his Apostles by walking across the sea to join their boat as they were struggling in the face of a strong wind. This all happened just after he had fed the five thousand. As we left the harbor, we noted a fishing boat that had been altered to appear like they did of Jesus’ day. The high bow had probably been added so it could be used in a film, or so tourists could hire it and take pictures of it. Ours was a modern ship that could carry all the passengers of our tour bus at one time.
Matthew 14:22-33 (King James Version)
22 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.
(Mark 6:45-51, John 6:15-21)
23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. (Mark 6:46, Luke 6:12, Luke 9”28, John 6:15)
Having sent the twelve on by boat, Jesus went up to a nearby mountain to pray alone with His Father. He often took Peter, James and John with him; the boat may have well belonged to Peter so, understandably he stayed with his boat.
As they were battling a head wind, they would have been tacking back and forth and making very slow headway. They may have been using oars as well. I will always remember an entire day when our ship, in convoy, just managed to stay in one spot because of such a wind.
24 But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. (Acts 27:4)
25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. (Matthew 24:43, Mark 13:35)
A third of the group had been fishermen, and professional sailors, are superstitious by nature. That is why they were terrified. One of the few times that we traveled to Africa by ship, the captain commented to me that his crew considered it very bad luck to have either women or missionary passengers aboard. That may be based on the account of Jonah or Paul. Both times they wanted to throw the offender overboard. .
26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. (Luke 24:37)
27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. (Mark 9:2, Matthew 17:7, Matthew 28:5, Matthew 28:10, Mark 6:50, Luke 1:13, Luke 1:30, Luke 2:10, Luke 5:10, Luke 12:32, John 6:20, Revelation 1:17)
28 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
Peter was torn between his absolute faith in Jesus, but his experience on the water. He made a good start, but then looked down and started to sunk like a rock.
Peter was tormented by two
29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? (Matthew 6”30, Matthew 8:26, Matthew 16:8)
32 And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
33 Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God. (Matthew 4:3)
God often permits us to be, likewise, tempted in order to test our faith and to encourage us to work harder to strengthen it. Just as Jesus was there to offer a hand to Peter, he is here with us in our times of peril reaching out His hand to lead us onward. We need not face our problems alone. He loves us!
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
JANUARY
23rd. Sunday – Genesis 46, 47, Matthew 15:21-39, Psalm 14
24th. Monday – Genesis 48, 49, 50, Matthew 16, Proverbs 3:1-10
25th. Tuesday – Job 1, 2, 3, Matthew 17, Psalm 15
26th. Wednesday-- Job 4, 5, 6, Matthew 18, Psalm 16:1-6
27th. Thursday - Job 7, 8, 9, Matthew 19, Psalm 16:7-11
28th. Friday – Job 10, 11, 12, Matthew 20, Proverbs 3:11-20
29th. Saturday-- Job 13, 14, 15, Matthew 21:1-22, Psalm 17:1-5
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 733 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“Strait is the gate and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Matthew 7:14
__________
How To Give Your Cat A Pill...
1. Pick up cat and cradle it in the crook of your left arm as if holding a baby. Position right forefinger and thumb on either side of cat's mouth and gently apply pressure to cheeks while holding pill in right hand. As cat opens mouth, pop pill into mouth. Allow cat to close mouth and swallow.
2. Retrieve pill from floor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in left arm and repeat process.
3. Retrieve cat from bedroom, and throw soggy pill away.
4. Take new pill from foil wrap, cradle cat in left arm, holding rear paws tightly with left hand. Force jaws open and push pill to back of mouth with right forefinger. Hold mouth shut for a count of ten.
5. Retrieve pill from goldfish bowl and cat from top of wardrobe. Call spouse from garden.
6. Kneel on floor with cat wedged firmly between knees, hold front and rear paws. Ignore low growls emitted by cat. Get spouse to hold head firmly with one hand while forcing wooden ruler into mouth. Drop pill down ruler and rub cat's throat vigorously.
7. Retrieve cat from curtain rail, get another pill from foil wrap. Make note to buy new ruler and repair curtains. Carefully sweep shattered figurines and vases from hearth and set to one side for gluing later.
8. Wrap cat in large towel and get spouse to lie on cat with head just visible from below armpit. Put pill in end of drinking straw, force mouth open with pencil and blow down drinking straw.
9. Forget it. The cat will leave you at the first chance it gets. Wouldn’t you if you hated pills that much?
---------------
Bob has a birthday, February 8th. (A secret, he is 83.)
Q&A AFRICA TRACTS GEMS BIBLE STUDIES BOOKLETS BOOKS
Standing outside the ancient synagogue where Capernaum once flourished, and looking beyond the small harbor below one can see the far shore of the Sea of Galilee. On the beautiful day we were there, it is hard to picture that violent storms often descend with a vengeance just out there. Galilee is only fourteen miles long, and eight broad at its widest, but it is also over a hundred and fifty feet deep at its deepest. This is where Jesus astounded his Apostles by walking across the sea to join their boat as they were struggling in the face of a strong wind. This all happened just after he had fed the five thousand. As we left the harbor, we noted a fishing boat that had been altered to appear like they did of Jesus’ day. The high bow had probably been added so it could be used in a film, or so tourists could hire it and take pictures of it. Ours was a modern ship that could carry all the passengers of our tour bus at one time.
Matthew 14:22-33 (King James Version)
22 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.
(Mark 6:45-51, John 6:15-21)
23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. (Mark 6:46, Luke 6:12, Luke 9”28, John 6:15)
Having sent the twelve on by boat, Jesus went up to a nearby mountain to pray alone with His Father. He often took Peter, James and John with him; the boat may have well belonged to Peter so, understandably he stayed with his boat.
As they were battling a head wind, they would have been tacking back and forth and making very slow headway. They may have been using oars as well. I will always remember an entire day when our ship, in convoy, just managed to stay in one spot because of such a wind.
24 But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. (Acts 27:4)
25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. (Matthew 24:43, Mark 13:35)
A third of the group had been fishermen, and professional sailors, are superstitious by nature. That is why they were terrified. One of the few times that we traveled to Africa by ship, the captain commented to me that his crew considered it very bad luck to have either women or missionary passengers aboard. That may be based on the account of Jonah or Paul. Both times they wanted to throw the offender overboard. .
26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. (Luke 24:37)
27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. (Mark 9:2, Matthew 17:7, Matthew 28:5, Matthew 28:10, Mark 6:50, Luke 1:13, Luke 1:30, Luke 2:10, Luke 5:10, Luke 12:32, John 6:20, Revelation 1:17)
28 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
Peter was torn between his absolute faith in Jesus, but his experience on the water. He made a good start, but then looked down and started to sunk like a rock.
Peter was tormented by two
29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? (Matthew 6”30, Matthew 8:26, Matthew 16:8)
32 And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
33 Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God. (Matthew 4:3)
God often permits us to be, likewise, tempted in order to test our faith and to encourage us to work harder to strengthen it. Just as Jesus was there to offer a hand to Peter, he is here with us in our times of peril reaching out His hand to lead us onward. We need not face our problems alone. He loves us!
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
JANUARY
23rd. Sunday – Genesis 46, 47, Matthew 15:21-39, Psalm 14
24th. Monday – Genesis 48, 49, 50, Matthew 16, Proverbs 3:1-10
25th. Tuesday – Job 1, 2, 3, Matthew 17, Psalm 15
26th. Wednesday-- Job 4, 5, 6, Matthew 18, Psalm 16:1-6
27th. Thursday - Job 7, 8, 9, Matthew 19, Psalm 16:7-11
28th. Friday – Job 10, 11, 12, Matthew 20, Proverbs 3:11-20
29th. Saturday-- Job 13, 14, 15, Matthew 21:1-22, Psalm 17:1-5
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 733 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“Strait is the gate and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Matthew 7:14
__________
How To Give Your Cat A Pill...
1. Pick up cat and cradle it in the crook of your left arm as if holding a baby. Position right forefinger and thumb on either side of cat's mouth and gently apply pressure to cheeks while holding pill in right hand. As cat opens mouth, pop pill into mouth. Allow cat to close mouth and swallow.
2. Retrieve pill from floor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in left arm and repeat process.
3. Retrieve cat from bedroom, and throw soggy pill away.
4. Take new pill from foil wrap, cradle cat in left arm, holding rear paws tightly with left hand. Force jaws open and push pill to back of mouth with right forefinger. Hold mouth shut for a count of ten.
5. Retrieve pill from goldfish bowl and cat from top of wardrobe. Call spouse from garden.
6. Kneel on floor with cat wedged firmly between knees, hold front and rear paws. Ignore low growls emitted by cat. Get spouse to hold head firmly with one hand while forcing wooden ruler into mouth. Drop pill down ruler and rub cat's throat vigorously.
7. Retrieve cat from curtain rail, get another pill from foil wrap. Make note to buy new ruler and repair curtains. Carefully sweep shattered figurines and vases from hearth and set to one side for gluing later.
8. Wrap cat in large towel and get spouse to lie on cat with head just visible from below armpit. Put pill in end of drinking straw, force mouth open with pencil and blow down drinking straw.
9. Forget it. The cat will leave you at the first chance it gets. Wouldn’t you if you hated pills that much?
---------------
Bob has a birthday, February 8th. (A secret, he is 83.)
Friday, January 14, 2011
WHEN RELIGIOUS LEADERS REBEL
Newsletter 228 V January 14, 2011
One needs only flip through the pages of history, or even the Bible, or today, even a newspaper, to realize that sincerity does not necessarily result in finding the truth. When we lived in Lewisville on a short dead-end street at the edge of the city, a number of people sought us following the directions of electronic navigation only to find that the roads have been changed and now even eliminated entirely. After turning the wrong direction, I have learned not to rely on my own instincts as to which direction I am driving.
In spiritual matters, more is at risk. Even greater care must be taken. Many a supposed authorities has been followed, with tragic results. Consider Mary Baker Eddie, Joseph Smith, and any number of others. They, possibly, are many of them sincere in their belief, but they can not all be right. In fact they may all be wrong. Widen the field, and consider Constantine, the Crusades, the Inquisition, the religious persecutions that motivated massive numbers moving to the “New World” in our own history. Then consider, the Eastern religions, Hinduism, Islam, and such like. They are incompatible with one another. They can not all be right.
But there is one standard, not originating of man, but of God. It’s prophesies are fulfilled, it’s messengers thus confirmed, and it’s message to be truth. It’s followers are known by their love for one another and for mankind, even their would be enemies. Our lesson today includes a quotation from one of those prophets. Matthew quotes from Isaiah, prophesies in reference to the Messiah, Jesus the Son of God.
Matthew 12:14-21 (King James Version)
14 Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him. (Matthew 26:4, Mark 14:1Luke 22:2, John 7:30, John 7:44, John 8:59, John 10:31, John 10:39, John 11:53)
The Jewish nation considered the Pharisees to be their unquestioned authority in matters of religion, yet the Son of God clashed with them again and again. Why? Because their personal religion was a sham. They knew God’s law, and the prophecies, but, in today’s world, we would say that they considered themselves above the law, (hypocrisy), and they interpreted the prophecies, being fulfilled right before their very eyes, wrongly. They wanted a material, political, Messiah. If he provided their every need, so much the better.
15 But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all; (Matthew 4:23)
He withdrew from them for they were trying to force the very things he had rejected during Satan’s temptations in the wilderness. They wanted food, a miraculous leader, and freedom from the hated Romans, but leaving their religion alone.
He performed his miracles as proof that he is the Son of God, as the prophets had told them. His is a Spiritual kingdom readily accepted by the Gentile, non-Jewish world. (verse 18 and 21)
16 And charged them that they should not make him known: (Matthew 6:4, Matthew 9:30, Matthew 17:9)
17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, (Isaiah 42:1-4)
18 Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall show judgment to the Gentiles. (Isaiah 42:1, Matthew 3:17, Matthew 17:5, Luke 4:18, John 3:34)
.
19 He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. (Isaiah 42:2)
20 A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. (Isaiah 42:3)
21 And in his name shall the Gentiles trust. (Romans 15:12)
When its religious leaders rebel against God, the world is the loser. Know the truth and the truth shall make you free.
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
JANUARY
16th. Sunday – Genesis 32, 33, Matthew 12:22-50, Proverbs 2:1-11
17th. Monday – Genesis 34, 35, Matthew 13:1-23, Psalm 10:1-11
18th. Tuesday – Genesis 36, 37, Matthew 13:24-43 Psalm 10:12-18
19th. Wednesday-- Genesis 38, 39, 40, Matthew 13:44-58, Psalm 11
20th. Thursday - Genesis 41, Matthew 14:1-21, Proverbs 2:12-22
21st. Friday – Genesis 42, 43, Matthew 14:22-36, Psalm 12
22nd. Saturday-- Genesis 44, 45, Matthew 15:1-20, Psalm 13
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 732 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“…strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Matthew 7:14
__________
Legal Semantics...
A lawyer runs a stop sign and gets pulled over by a sheriff's deputy. He thinks that he is smarter than the deputy because he is sure that he has a better education.
He decides to prove this to himself and have some fun at the deputy's expense...deputy says, "License and registration, please."
Lawyer says, "What for?"
Deputy says, "You didn't come to a complete stop at the stop sign ..."
Lawyer says, "I slowed down, and no one was coming."
Deputy says, "You still didn't come to a complete stop. License and registration, please."
Lawyer says, "What's the difference?"
Deputy says, "The difference is, you have to come to a complete stop, that's the law. License and registration, please!"
Lawyer says, "If you can show me the legal difference between slow down and stop, I'll give you my license and registration and you give me the ticket, if not you let me go and no ticket."
Deputy says, "Exit your vehicle, sir." At this point, the deputy takes off his gloves and starts slapping the lawyer and says, "Do you want me to stop or just slow down?"

One needs only flip through the pages of history, or even the Bible, or today, even a newspaper, to realize that sincerity does not necessarily result in finding the truth. When we lived in Lewisville on a short dead-end street at the edge of the city, a number of people sought us following the directions of electronic navigation only to find that the roads have been changed and now even eliminated entirely. After turning the wrong direction, I have learned not to rely on my own instincts as to which direction I am driving.
In spiritual matters, more is at risk. Even greater care must be taken. Many a supposed authorities has been followed, with tragic results. Consider Mary Baker Eddie, Joseph Smith, and any number of others. They, possibly, are many of them sincere in their belief, but they can not all be right. In fact they may all be wrong. Widen the field, and consider Constantine, the Crusades, the Inquisition, the religious persecutions that motivated massive numbers moving to the “New World” in our own history. Then consider, the Eastern religions, Hinduism, Islam, and such like. They are incompatible with one another. They can not all be right.
But there is one standard, not originating of man, but of God. It’s prophesies are fulfilled, it’s messengers thus confirmed, and it’s message to be truth. It’s followers are known by their love for one another and for mankind, even their would be enemies. Our lesson today includes a quotation from one of those prophets. Matthew quotes from Isaiah, prophesies in reference to the Messiah, Jesus the Son of God.
Matthew 12:14-21 (King James Version)
14 Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him. (Matthew 26:4, Mark 14:1Luke 22:2, John 7:30, John 7:44, John 8:59, John 10:31, John 10:39, John 11:53)
The Jewish nation considered the Pharisees to be their unquestioned authority in matters of religion, yet the Son of God clashed with them again and again. Why? Because their personal religion was a sham. They knew God’s law, and the prophecies, but, in today’s world, we would say that they considered themselves above the law, (hypocrisy), and they interpreted the prophecies, being fulfilled right before their very eyes, wrongly. They wanted a material, political, Messiah. If he provided their every need, so much the better.
15 But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all; (Matthew 4:23)
He withdrew from them for they were trying to force the very things he had rejected during Satan’s temptations in the wilderness. They wanted food, a miraculous leader, and freedom from the hated Romans, but leaving their religion alone.
He performed his miracles as proof that he is the Son of God, as the prophets had told them. His is a Spiritual kingdom readily accepted by the Gentile, non-Jewish world. (verse 18 and 21)
16 And charged them that they should not make him known: (Matthew 6:4, Matthew 9:30, Matthew 17:9)
17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, (Isaiah 42:1-4)
18 Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall show judgment to the Gentiles. (Isaiah 42:1, Matthew 3:17, Matthew 17:5, Luke 4:18, John 3:34)
.
19 He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. (Isaiah 42:2)
20 A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. (Isaiah 42:3)
21 And in his name shall the Gentiles trust. (Romans 15:12)
When its religious leaders rebel against God, the world is the loser. Know the truth and the truth shall make you free.
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
JANUARY
16th. Sunday – Genesis 32, 33, Matthew 12:22-50, Proverbs 2:1-11
17th. Monday – Genesis 34, 35, Matthew 13:1-23, Psalm 10:1-11
18th. Tuesday – Genesis 36, 37, Matthew 13:24-43 Psalm 10:12-18
19th. Wednesday-- Genesis 38, 39, 40, Matthew 13:44-58, Psalm 11
20th. Thursday - Genesis 41, Matthew 14:1-21, Proverbs 2:12-22
21st. Friday – Genesis 42, 43, Matthew 14:22-36, Psalm 12
22nd. Saturday-- Genesis 44, 45, Matthew 15:1-20, Psalm 13
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 732 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“…strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Matthew 7:14
__________
Legal Semantics...
A lawyer runs a stop sign and gets pulled over by a sheriff's deputy. He thinks that he is smarter than the deputy because he is sure that he has a better education.
He decides to prove this to himself and have some fun at the deputy's expense...deputy says, "License and registration, please."
Lawyer says, "What for?"
Deputy says, "You didn't come to a complete stop at the stop sign ..."
Lawyer says, "I slowed down, and no one was coming."
Deputy says, "You still didn't come to a complete stop. License and registration, please."
Lawyer says, "What's the difference?"
Deputy says, "The difference is, you have to come to a complete stop, that's the law. License and registration, please!"
Lawyer says, "If you can show me the legal difference between slow down and stop, I'll give you my license and registration and you give me the ticket, if not you let me go and no ticket."
Deputy says, "Exit your vehicle, sir." At this point, the deputy takes off his gloves and starts slapping the lawyer and says, "Do you want me to stop or just slow down?"

Tuesday, January 4, 2011
THE BEATITUDES
Newsletter 227 January 7, 2011
One commentary notes that three fifths of the book of Matthew is composed of direct quotations from the words of Jesus. That would be the red letters in your red letter New Testament. Whether he was speaking directly for the benefit of the disciples, or for the assembled multitudes is not really clear. What he said would be heard by all, and this first twelve verses form the basis which he will expand over the next three chapters of that we call, the Sermon on the Mount, and this sermon is typical of all his teaching ministry.
He began in the same way most teachers did in his day. He sat down and probably began to teach his disciples, with the multitude listening in. At that time, His method became very different. He did not expound on a portion of the Law. He spoke with authority. What he said, and how he said it, was totally different, and they were amazed. No teacher they had ever heard, taught in this way..
Matthew 5:1-12 (King James Version)
1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: (Matthew 5-7, Luke 6:20-49, Mark 3:13, Luke 6:17, Luke 9:28, John 6:3, John 6:15)
2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, (Matthew 13:35, Acts 8:35, Acts 10:34, Acts 19:14)
We, and they, understand the words, but what did he mean?
3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:3-12, Luke 6:20-23, Matthew 5:10, Matthew 19:14, Matthew 25:34, Mark 10:14, Luke 6:20, Luke 22:29f)
In their world, as in ours today, thinks in material ways. To be poor is not good. It is not to be sought. It is something to be avoided. We think of the poor, somehow, as being failures. Today people choose to gain a college degree with their eye on the financial rewards that would make possible, so colleges use this as a lure to gain students. The higher the degree, the greater the hope for financial rewards. Christians need to think in Spiritual terms. We need to seek that which is lasting, eternal.
4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. (Isaiah 61:2, John 16:20, Revelation 7:17)
The world thinks of mourning as negative, but unless we are mournful over Spiritual relationships, whether our own or of the body, the church, there is not likely to be any change made.
5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. (Psalm 37:11)
This is meekness as opposed to pride, not weakness. The Pharisees were a proud, stiff necked people. They took pride in their imagined superiority over others.
I have a lovely guest towel given to me by the Alumni office of the Lincoln Christian University. It is a gift intended to be a reminder that Jesus took a towel and washed the feet of his disciples. He came to serve. Christians are here to serve. This is my reminder.
6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. (Isaiah 55:1, 2 John 4:14, 2 John 6:45f, 2 John 7:37)
Seek the truth and you will find it. Years ago, I started to offer basic studies through the mail. They swept throughout English speaking African nations and resulted in a number of men seeking greater teaching. Invitations come to come work in their lands came from four different countries. Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, and Southern Rhodesia, as they were called then. One of those countries now has a Christian University, and the others have their own missionaries. Where a hunger and thirst are created, God makes a plan. He answers every sincere prayer. The result is schools, hospitals, universities, and above all, churches. He will make a way.
7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. (Proverbs 11:17, Matthew 6:14, Matthew 6:15, Matthew 15, Matthew 18:33-35)
When we learn to be loving and forgiving of others, God will do the same for us when we come to stand before Him.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. (Psalm 24:4, Hebrews 12:14, 1 John 3:2, Revelation 22:4)
From the heart of mankind arise evil thoughts and criminal acts. From the pure heart, comes loving concern. “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (Matthew 5:45, Luke 6:35, Romans 8:14)
“Do unto others as you would they should do unto you.”
10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (1 Peter 3:14, Matthew 5:3, Matthew 9:14, Luke 6:20, Luke 22:29)
Christ was persecuted. I understand that world wide there is more persecution for faith than ever before. If he was persecuted, his body, the church, will continue to be as well.
.
11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. (1 Peter 4:14)
There will always be those who are quick to speak evil of others.
12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (2 Chronicles 36:16, Matthew 23:37, Acts 7:52, 1 Thessalonians 2:15, Hebrews 11:33, James 5:10)
True joy comes through the knowledge that you are going your best to serve the Lord.
The beatitudes are to the New Testament, what the ten commandments were to the Old Testament. They don’t replace the ten commandments, they expand them and apply them through Jesus Christ our Lord.
__________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
JANUARY
9th. Sunday – Genesis 19, 20, Matthew 8, Psalm 7:1-9
10th. Monday – Genesis 21, 22, 23, Matthew 9:1-17, Psalm 7:10-17
11th. Tuesday – Genesis 24. Matthew 9:18-38, Psalm 8
12th. Wednesday-- Genesis 25, 26, Matthew 10:1-23, Proverbs 1:20-33
13th. Thursday - Genesis 27, 28, Mathew 10:24-42, Psalm 9:1-6
14th. Friday – Genesis 29, 30, Matthew 11, Psalm 9:7-12
15th. Saturday-- Genesis 31, Matthew 12:1-21 Psalm 9:13-20
_________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 731 titles)
Ctrl/click to follow these links
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Matthew 6:33
__________
MONEY
Money may be the husk of many things but not the kernel. It brings you food, but not appetite; medicine, but not health; acquaintance, but not friends; servants, but not loyalty; days of joy, but not peace or happiness.
- Henrik Ibsen
An old miser kept a tame jackdaw, that used to steal pieces of money, and hide them in a hole, which a cat observing, asked, "Why he would hoard up those round shining things that he could make no use of?" "Why," said the jackdaw, "my master has a whole chestfull, and makes no more use of them that I do."
- Jonathan Swift
Money is human happiness in the abstract: he, then, who is no longer capable of enjoying human happiness in the concrete devotes his heart entirely to money.
- Arthur Schopenhauer
If moral behavior were simply following rules, we could program a computer to be moral.
- Samuel P. Ginde
One commentary notes that three fifths of the book of Matthew is composed of direct quotations from the words of Jesus. That would be the red letters in your red letter New Testament. Whether he was speaking directly for the benefit of the disciples, or for the assembled multitudes is not really clear. What he said would be heard by all, and this first twelve verses form the basis which he will expand over the next three chapters of that we call, the Sermon on the Mount, and this sermon is typical of all his teaching ministry.
He began in the same way most teachers did in his day. He sat down and probably began to teach his disciples, with the multitude listening in. At that time, His method became very different. He did not expound on a portion of the Law. He spoke with authority. What he said, and how he said it, was totally different, and they were amazed. No teacher they had ever heard, taught in this way..
Matthew 5:1-12 (King James Version)
1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: (Matthew 5-7, Luke 6:20-49, Mark 3:13, Luke 6:17, Luke 9:28, John 6:3, John 6:15)
2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, (Matthew 13:35, Acts 8:35, Acts 10:34, Acts 19:14)
We, and they, understand the words, but what did he mean?
3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:3-12, Luke 6:20-23, Matthew 5:10, Matthew 19:14, Matthew 25:34, Mark 10:14, Luke 6:20, Luke 22:29f)
In their world, as in ours today, thinks in material ways. To be poor is not good. It is not to be sought. It is something to be avoided. We think of the poor, somehow, as being failures. Today people choose to gain a college degree with their eye on the financial rewards that would make possible, so colleges use this as a lure to gain students. The higher the degree, the greater the hope for financial rewards. Christians need to think in Spiritual terms. We need to seek that which is lasting, eternal.
4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. (Isaiah 61:2, John 16:20, Revelation 7:17)
The world thinks of mourning as negative, but unless we are mournful over Spiritual relationships, whether our own or of the body, the church, there is not likely to be any change made.
5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. (Psalm 37:11)
This is meekness as opposed to pride, not weakness. The Pharisees were a proud, stiff necked people. They took pride in their imagined superiority over others.
I have a lovely guest towel given to me by the Alumni office of the Lincoln Christian University. It is a gift intended to be a reminder that Jesus took a towel and washed the feet of his disciples. He came to serve. Christians are here to serve. This is my reminder.
6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. (Isaiah 55:1, 2 John 4:14, 2 John 6:45f, 2 John 7:37)
Seek the truth and you will find it. Years ago, I started to offer basic studies through the mail. They swept throughout English speaking African nations and resulted in a number of men seeking greater teaching. Invitations come to come work in their lands came from four different countries. Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, and Southern Rhodesia, as they were called then. One of those countries now has a Christian University, and the others have their own missionaries. Where a hunger and thirst are created, God makes a plan. He answers every sincere prayer. The result is schools, hospitals, universities, and above all, churches. He will make a way.
7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. (Proverbs 11:17, Matthew 6:14, Matthew 6:15, Matthew 15, Matthew 18:33-35)
When we learn to be loving and forgiving of others, God will do the same for us when we come to stand before Him.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. (Psalm 24:4, Hebrews 12:14, 1 John 3:2, Revelation 22:4)
From the heart of mankind arise evil thoughts and criminal acts. From the pure heart, comes loving concern. “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (Matthew 5:45, Luke 6:35, Romans 8:14)
“Do unto others as you would they should do unto you.”
10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (1 Peter 3:14, Matthew 5:3, Matthew 9:14, Luke 6:20, Luke 22:29)
Christ was persecuted. I understand that world wide there is more persecution for faith than ever before. If he was persecuted, his body, the church, will continue to be as well.
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11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. (1 Peter 4:14)
There will always be those who are quick to speak evil of others.
12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (2 Chronicles 36:16, Matthew 23:37, Acts 7:52, 1 Thessalonians 2:15, Hebrews 11:33, James 5:10)
True joy comes through the knowledge that you are going your best to serve the Lord.
The beatitudes are to the New Testament, what the ten commandments were to the Old Testament. They don’t replace the ten commandments, they expand them and apply them through Jesus Christ our Lord.
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RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
JANUARY
9th. Sunday – Genesis 19, 20, Matthew 8, Psalm 7:1-9
10th. Monday – Genesis 21, 22, 23, Matthew 9:1-17, Psalm 7:10-17
11th. Tuesday – Genesis 24. Matthew 9:18-38, Psalm 8
12th. Wednesday-- Genesis 25, 26, Matthew 10:1-23, Proverbs 1:20-33
13th. Thursday - Genesis 27, 28, Mathew 10:24-42, Psalm 9:1-6
14th. Friday – Genesis 29, 30, Matthew 11, Psalm 9:7-12
15th. Saturday-- Genesis 31, Matthew 12:1-21 Psalm 9:13-20
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THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Matthew 6:33
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MONEY
Money may be the husk of many things but not the kernel. It brings you food, but not appetite; medicine, but not health; acquaintance, but not friends; servants, but not loyalty; days of joy, but not peace or happiness.
- Henrik Ibsen
An old miser kept a tame jackdaw, that used to steal pieces of money, and hide them in a hole, which a cat observing, asked, "Why he would hoard up those round shining things that he could make no use of?" "Why," said the jackdaw, "my master has a whole chestfull, and makes no more use of them that I do."
- Jonathan Swift
Money is human happiness in the abstract: he, then, who is no longer capable of enjoying human happiness in the concrete devotes his heart entirely to money.
- Arthur Schopenhauer
If moral behavior were simply following rules, we could program a computer to be moral.
- Samuel P. Ginde
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