Bible Scripture Reading for Thursday 29 December 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for 29 December 2011"

Today's Blog Title: "The Restoration of Peter"

Since we have finished the Book of John, I would just like to comment on "The Restoration of Peter" from Chapter 21.  It is interesting to note that in the Book of John, is the only Gospel account of Jesus restoring Peter to His ministry after his three denials (John 18:17, 25-27, 21:15-19). Only a short time before this dramatic encounter with the risen Lord, Peter had boldly announced that he would give his life for Jesus.  Jesus responded by informing Peter that he would actually deny Him three times that same night  (John 13:37-38).

Later that evening after Jesus had Peter that he would deny Him three times, Jesus was arrested. While He stood trail before the chief priest, Peter hid outside in the courtyard.  Three times Peter was recognized as one of Jesus followers; three times he denied knowing Jesus, thus fulfilling the words of Jesus.  Luke 22:62 tells us that when Peter realized what he had done, He went out and "wept bitterly."

Can you just imagine, Peters emotions during his encounter with the resurrected Savior by the Sea of Tiberius.  He was in no doubt overjoyed to see the risen Lord.  But he was also ashamed and embarrassed about his desertion and denied of Jesus in His hour of greatest need.

Here by the Sea of Tiberius Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved Him.  Three times He asked just as Peter had denied Him three times.  The first two times, Christ used the Greek word "agapao", signifying a love commitment, a love of the will.  Peter responded with the Greek word, "phileo", indicting Peter's strong emotions for the Lord.  This word expresses warmth, fondness and friendship.

The Lord, when Peter acknowledged that he loved Him, gave him the task of feeding His lambs and taking care of His sheep.  Expressing our love for Christ means that we have a duty to do the work of God and to be faithful.  During the ministry of Christ here on this earth, Peter at times had difficulty with faithfulness.  Since Jesus was getting ready to ascend back to His Heavenly Father, He wanted to get a commitment from Him.

Please note that the third time that Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him our Lord used the word, "phileo," indicating a strong friendship.  Christ had taught that a friend who loves will lay down his life for a friend.  Peter had denied Christ three times.  So with Peter's final response to the question of "Do you love me?" from the Lord, he says, "You know that I love You," the Lord had drawn a commitment from Peter and assured the other disciples of the bond between Himself and Peter.  Jesus here in this exchange, demonstrated His COMPLETE FORGIVENESS of Peter thus showing us a Christians that just as Christ forgave we also should forgive those who do us wrong.  The Lord restored Peter to a position of leadership in the ongoing ministry of the gospel.

Today's Hymn: "Grace Greater Than Our Sin"

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt
Yonder on Calvary's mount out poured, There where the blood of the lamb was spilled
Grace, Grace, God's Grace, Grace that will pardon and cleanse within
Grace, Grace, God's Grace, Grace that is greater than all our sins

Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus Holy Spirit, how thankful we are that when we confess our sins to you, that You are faithful to forgive us of our sins and to cleanse us of All our unrighteousness.  May we as your servants go out into this dying and sinful world and proclaim the Good News of the Free Gift of Salvation that we have because of the the shed blood and resurrection from the grave of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Help us Lord to forgive those that have done us wrong just as you forgave us of our sins.  Thank You Jesus for Your Love, Mercy, and Grace. Amen

Today's Biblical Truth: "May we as Christians in unseen faith say, "My Lord and my God as we place our complete Faith and Trust in Jesus Christ."

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord our God with Gladness. Love God More Today.  Pray for our Brothers and Sisters in Christ who are being persecuted for their Faith and Trust in Jesus Christ.  Pray also for the God's Blessings on the Nation of Israel.  Always remember that when you have a spiritual Dilemma in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T," GOD whispers to you, "BUT I CAN."

"But Jesus looked at them and said, "With men it is impossible, but with God; for with God all things are possible." Mark 10:27

Your Sister in Christ,
Cindi

Bible Scripture Reading for Wednesday 28 December 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for 28 December 2011"

Today's Blog Title: "Love, Expressed In Caring"
Today's Scripture Reading: John 21:1-25
Today's Key Verse: John 20:18 "Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish."

Today our Blog on the Book of John will reach its climax as we come to the final chapter of this eyewitness account from John whom the Lord loved. John in this final chapter cannot help but go back and bring back some of the post-resurrection times Jesus spend with His disciples.

In verse 3 we see that Peter has decided to go back to his old trade of fishing.  He may have done this because He was restless or a feeling that he needed to support his family.  You will note that when Peter told the others that he was going fishing that they wanted to go with him. This reminds us that Peter really is the laeder of the disciples. 

The fishing trip was an exercise in futility.  They caught no fish.  We see that Jesus is at the shore and they don't recognized Him.  He tells them to cast out there nets one more time and when they did they caught so much fish that they could hardly pull it in.  John tells Peter that it is the Lord and Peter jumps into the sea and swims ashore to get to Jesus.

We as Christians need to realize that as we follow Jesus we cannot and will not want to go back to our old way of life.  Jesus calls us to something fresh and new.  We will find no real satisfaction except in doing His will.

Peter must have felt as we do when we fail the Lord: eager for acceptance, yet uncertain and ashamed.  We as Christians need to follow Peters example.  Peter was so eager to see Jesus again that he jumped out of the boat and swam ashore.  There he rushed to bring fish to Jesus when He asked for them. 

In verses 15-17, Jesus gently confronts Peter and asks, "Do you love Me?" three times-- once for each of Peter's eariler denials.  This discussion was probably conducted with hearing of the other six disciples.  Peter had publicly professed his loyalty before the Crucifixion and Jesus wants the othe disciples to understand Peter's restoration.  Jesus uses his old name "Simon," not "Rock," his new spiritual name.

"Tend" in verse 16 means to shepherd.  Lambs need to be fed, sheep need to be guided.  Peter was called to care for diverse people in different ways, just as Christ had done with the disciples.

Twenty five times in the Gospel of John Jesus uses the expression Verily, verily (KJV) to introduce a concept the hearer might have difficulty believing.  This intensive expression emphasized that what was stated was true because God is True.  Jesus in verse 18 predicts the manner of Peter's death.  Tradition tells us that Peter was crucified upside down, for he did not feel worthy to die as the Lord had.

In verse 21 Peter says to Jesus, "But Lord, what about this man?" (refering to John).  Jesus rebuked Peter for asking about John's calling.  Jesus tell Peter that he should be concerned with following God's will himself and nor worrying about God's Will for others.  There was an important principle here.  We as Christians need to concentrate on folllowing where Jesus leads them.  The church is not a hierarchy, with overseers telling others what God's Will is for them.  The church is an organism and each Believer is directly connected with Jesus Christ, the church's living head.  We each are to love and follow Him--and let others follow wheer they are led.

John closes his Gospel on a nore of regret because there is so much more He could share about Jesus, but there would not be enough books published in the whole world to record His Works and Words. 

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ, don't let sin drive you from the Lord.  Hurry back to Him and show your love by ready obedience.

(This closes our Blog Study on the Book of John.  Beginning on Monday 2 January 2012, we will head back into the Old Testament and go into the Book of Isaiah.  Thursday's Blog will be more on the "Restoration Of Peter," and Friday will be a writing from Philippians 4:8-9.) 

Today's Hymn: "One Day"

One Day when Heaven ws filled with His praises, One day when sin was a black as could be
Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin, Dwell among menm my example is He
One day they led Him up Calvary's mountain, One day they nailed Him to die on the tree
Suffering anguish, despised and rejected, bearing our sins, my Redeemer is He!
One day they left Him alone in the garden, One day He rested from suffering free
Angels came down over His tomb to keep vigil; Hope of the hopeless, my Savior is He
One day the grave could not conceal Him no longer One day the stone rolled away from the door
Then He arose, over death He had conquered,  Now is ascended, my Lord evermore
One day the trumpet will sound for His coming, One day the skies with His glories will shine
Wonderful day, my beloved ones bringing; Glorious Savior, this Jesus is mine!
(Refrain)
Living, He loved me; dying, He saved me; Buried, He carried my sins far away
Rising He justified freely forever; One day He's coming-O glorious day!

Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit how we praise You as our everlasting God.  Thank You for the strength and hope that you give to those that have put there faith ad trust in You. Help us Lord, as we serve You, to run and not be weary, to walk and not faint.  May we keep our hearts and eyes fixed upon You and may we always pray our prayers in accordance with Your perfect Will.                                               Amen

Today's Biblical Truth: "The strength of believers, who are nourished by God, is compared to the strength of an egale."

Click on the Link at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com for Today's Scripture Reading from Romans 8:22-25."

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord our God with Gladness. Love God More Today.  Pray for our Brothers and Sisters that are being persecuted for their Faith and Trust in Jesus Christ.  Pray also for God's Blessings on the Nation of Israel.  Always remember that when you have a spiritual dilemma in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T,"  GOD Whispers to you, "BUT I CAN."

"The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, In those who hope in His mercy." Psalm 147:11

Your Sister in Christ,
Cindi





 

Bible Scripture Reading for Tuesday 27 December 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for 27 December 2011"

Today's Blog Title: "The Evidence Is In"
Today's Scripture Reading: John 20:1-31
Today's Key Verse: John 20:30-31 "And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this Book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name."

Several different followers went to the grave of Jesus and discovered the empty tomb on the first day of the new week. From the very beginning the church has set aside Sunday, the first day of the week, and commemorated, the resurrection of Jesus.  While it was still dark, Mary Magdalene arrived ahead of the other women.  Mary Magdalene, out of whom Jesus had cast out seven demons, was the last at the cross and the first at the grace.

Jesus upon His resurrection had passed through the linen strips.  The linen strips that they had wrapped Jesus in when they buried Him were still laying in the EMPTY tomb.  No one who would have come to steal the body would have taken the time to unwrap it and leave it behind.  The handkerchief around Christ's head had been folded and laid aside.  This would indicate that Jesus did not rush out of the tomb, but took the time to leave His grave clothes neatly folded.

The other disciple in verse 8 is believed to have been John and when he saw the empty tomb and the grave clothes believed that Christ has raised from the dead.  Mary Magdalene in verses 10-16 was the first to see Jesus after His resurrection.  She did not recognize the person she was talking to was the Lord and her first reaction to Him was, "Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away?" Then Jesus said to her, "Mary," and she said to Him, "Teacher."  Mary then clings to Christ as if she would never let Him go.  Jesus tells her that He could not stay because he had to ascend to His Father.

Jesus then tells her, "I am ascending to my Father and my Father, to my God and to your God." In verse 17 you will note that before His death, Jesus always spoke of my Father.  In this post resurrection message to Mary it is the first time that He adds "And your Father."  Only by His death and resurrection could Jesus bring those who believed in Him  into God's Family.

In verse 22 it says, "And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit."  The ministry to which Jesus called the disciples required spiritual power.  Jesus here in this verse breathe the Spirit into the disciples. At Pentecost the Spirit unified the believers into one body and empowered then to testify of Jesus.  The reception of the Spirit here was like the breath of life that God breathed into Adam.  Yet the gift here was not a human spirit, but the Spirit of the Living God.

In verse 23 when Jesus says, "If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven," but the apostles did not take these words of Jesus to mean that they had power to forgive sins.  Neither the apostles nor the church had the power to forgive specific sins or prevent forgiveness for any individual.  Jesus was speaking of the responsibility of the church to declare the gospel to all the world, so that those who believe in Jesus can find the precious gift of forgiveness.

The story of Thomas serves as a climax to the theme of John's Gospel.  Thomas struggled with unbelief and doubt and insisted on the most unmistakable proofs.  His phrase in verse 25, "Unless I see the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe," rightly shift the issue of belief and unbelief from the intellect to the will.  Yet when confronted by Jesus he recognized Him, fell on his knees and believed.  We as Christians can other present Jesus to others as clearly as possible.  When they recognize Him they will either choose to believe, or choose not to believe.

At the close of this Chapter, John states the purpose of this Book.  His purpose was to convince his readers that Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah who fulfilled God's promises to Israel. Jesus is the Son of God. God in the flesh.  That by believing these things, a person obtains eternal life.

Today's Hymn: "Amazing Grace" (Chris Tomlin)

Amazing Grace, How sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I am found, was blind but now I see
Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear, the hour I first believed
My chain are gone, I've been set free, My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood, His mercy reigns.  Unending love, Amazing Grace
The Lord has promised good to me, His word my hope secures,
He will be my shield and my portion be, as long as life endures
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow, The sun forbear to shine
But God, who called me here below, Will be forever mine, Will be forever mine
You are forever mine.

Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, how wonderful is truly is to receive your Amazing Grace.  How thankful Jesus, we are to You, that you paid our death penalty when you died and shed your blood upon the Cross of Calvary and took our sins upon Yourself.  Help us Lord to keep our faith strong and to keep our eyes fixed upon Thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary.
                                                                                                                                                Amen
Today's Biblical Truth: "The cosmic and earthly chaos are indications that the decisive and consummate rule of God is approaching."

Click on the link at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com for Today's Bible Verse from Acts 1:9-11.

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day. Go in Peace and Serve the Lord our God with Gladness. Love God More Today.  Pray for our Brothers and Sisters in Christ who are being persecuted for their Faith and Trust in Jesus Christ.  Pray also for God's Blessing on the Nation of Israel.  Always remember that when you have a spiritual dilemma in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T," GOD Whispers, "BUT I CAN.".

"By humility and fear of the Lord, Are riches and honor and life." Proverbs 22:4

Your Sister in Christ,
Cindi

Bible Scripture Redaing for Sunday 25 December 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for 25 December 2011"

"MERRY CHRISTMAS" and "HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS'

Today Bible Verses:

Matthew 1:21-23 "She will give birth to a son, and you are to five to Him the Name of Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord and said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they shall call Him Immanuel-- which means, "God with us."

Luke 1:6-14 "So it was while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered.  And she brought forth her first born Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a mange, because there was no room for them in the inn.  Now there in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, and angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.  Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.  For there is born to you this day in the City of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.  And this will be a sign to you: You will find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, laying a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying: "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"   

The Main characters in Matthew and in Luke in the Christmas Story are Joseph, Mary and the Baby Jesus, and without the birth of Jesus we would have no Christmas Story.

Joseph: the husband of Mary, was legally but not physically the father of Jesus.  Though a carpenter in Nazareth,  he was a legal heir of King David. He was a just and God fearing man who faithfully carried out God's command regarding Mary and the birth of Jesus. Joseph must have felt betrayed when Mary was discovered to be pregnant.   Even Even so, he was willing to protect her by arranging a private divorce.  Matthew 1:19 calls Joseph a just man and reminds us that righteousness is not a stern insistence on the letter of the law, but is incorporated in mercy and compassion.  Joseph is mentions in Scriptures only in the Gospels and only in relation to Christ's childhood.  The silence of the Scriptures on Joseph would suggest that perhaps Joseph died before the time of Christ's ministry.

Mary: the mother of Jesus was godly young women, but bot without sin, either original or actual sin, since she herself refers to her need of a Savior. Luke 1:46-56, records Mary's magnificent prophetic poem.  Mary undoubtedly thought deeply on the visits to her, and may have composed her poem over a period of weeks, guided by the Spirit who spoke through her.   She was betrothed ( a Jewish custom legally equivalent to marriage), to Joseph of Nazareth. During this time the Holy Spirit supernaturally causes her to conceive Jesus apart from any human fatherhood, and she remained a virgin until after the birth of Jesus.  Mary probably grew up in Nazareth.  Following her formal marriage to Joesph and the birth of Jesus she lived in Bethlehem for about two years, spent a short time in Egypt and then raised her family in Nazareth.  Except for the birth narratives and a few times in the Gospels, Mary is seldom mentioned.  She mentioned shortly before the Day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts 1:14.    

Jesus: whose name means Immanuel "God Will Us." Jesus whose birth creates praise among the angels whom appeared to the shepherds and proclaimed the Good News that would bring good tidings of great joy, that a Savior was born which was "Christ the Lord."  Why was this announcement made to Shepherds in the fields? Perhaps because shepherds were of a very low social status.  How appropriate to announce the Good News to ordinary folks rather than to the rich and famous. Jesus who was God's Son and His "gift" to us, was born in a manger, in a stable or a cave.   His birth was announced to the shepherds by angels and "His Star" allowed 
wise men to come and worship Him and present Him with gold, frankincense and myrrh.

May we a Christians on this Christmas Day realize that Christmas isn't about giving and receiving gifts.  Its all about the free gift of God that He gave us at the birth of His Son Jesus Christ.  May we always remember that the reason that we have Christmas is because of Christ.  If you take Christ out of Christmas you have mas which a is nothing word unless Christ is added with the word mas.  In this day and age, people say "Merry Xmas," and "Happy Holidays."  We as Christians who believe in "Christ", need not care who feelings may get hurt  by saying, "Merry Christmas," because if it weren't for the Birth of Christ there  would be "NO HAPPY HOLIDAYS," because of the eternal death we would face without CHRIST and His SALVATION.  Because of His Birth, and because His Death and Resurrection, we now have HOPE through Jesus that began on that glories night when the Light of the world came to us in the darkness of night.



Jesus: "The Lord Saves
Immanuel: "God Is with Us"

Strive to remain conscious of God's Presence, even in your busiest moments.  Take the time to talk to God about whatever delights, you whatever upsets you, and whatever is on your mind. When we as God's Children, take these tiny steps of daily discipline, taken one after the other, it will keep us close to God on the path of life that leads to His throne.

May God's richest Blessings be we with you and your families on this CHRISTMAS DAY, as we joyfully Celebrate the wonderful Birth of Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, the Light of the World and our Redeeming Savior.

Your Sister in Christ,
Cindi 

Bible Scripture Reading for Friday 23 December 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for 23 December 2011"

Today's Blog Title: "The Life of Jesus Was Given, Not Taken"
Today's Scripture Reading: John 19:1-42
Today's Key Verse: John 19:30 "So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit."

As chapter 19 opens we see that Pilate has Jesus scourged.  Scourging was part of a capital sentence. But in the case of Jesus it was inflicted prior to His formal judgment.  This scourging consisted of a whip, split into several strips, into which sharp bones were embedded so as to cut flesh.  The crown of thorns, the purple robe, and the mocking "Hail, King of the Jews", were used to ridicule his claim to be a king.  When the soldiers hit Him in the face and body it was probably with their fists.

Pilate had Jesus scourged hoping that when he brought Him back in front of the Jewish people with His back bleeding and tore apart, blood running down His face from the crown of thorns and the striking that He had received on His face body that the people would have compassion on Him and want Him released.

The Jewish leaders anticipated an outburst of pity and as soon as Jesus was brought back out by Pilate they began demanding the death of Jesus by yelling out, "Crucify Him, Crucify Him!" Pilate again tells the crowd that He can find NO FAULT in Him.  Three times Pilate had publicly pronounced Jesus innocent.  If he had wanted to know the truth, he would have believed what Jesus had already told him.

Pilate brings Jesus back inside and asks him some questions which Jesus did not answer.  He then says to Jesus,  "Do you not know that I have the power to crucify You or release You?"  Jesus acknowledges to Pilate that he has the power to take His life, but only because God allowed him to have that power.

Pilate stilled wanted to release Jesus so the Jews shifted their focus from a religious charge to a political one.  This new plea now forced Pilate to choose between yielding to n indefinite sense of right or escaping the danger of  an accusation at Rome.  Pilate knowing that he was handing over an innocent man to be put to death caved in and handed Jesus over to the Jewish leaders to be Crucified.

After the scourging, beating on and blood lost, Jesus was forced to carry His cross as was the custom, to the place of the skull or Golgotha.  Jesus was crucified with two robbers on each side of Him.  When Pilate had a title that was written and placed at the top of the cross of Jesus that said, "JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS" the Jewish leaders complained to Pilate but he told them, "What I have written, I have written." 

Four women attended the crucifixion, and they remained while the disciples flee except for John who returned.  Several of the women mentioned here in verse 25 had accompanied Jesus and His disciples, taking care of their daily needs.  In verse 27 Jesus places the care of His mother into the hands of John. 

In verse 28 Jesus says, "I thirst."  When Jesus has received the sour wine from the sponge that was attached to a hyssop stick, he did take a sip because one of the agonies of crucifixion was incredible thirst which added to the terrible pain.  When the sour wine touched His lips Jesus said, "It is finished", and bowing His head He gave up His spirit."

The soldiers broke the legs of the two thieves but when they came to Jesus they saw that He was already dead yet one other soldiers pierced His side with a spear and only blood and water came out indicating that Jesus was already dead, because only blood would have flowed from a living body.

In verse 38-42 we see that Joseph of Arimathea come to Pilate and asks permission to take the body of Jesus for burial.  Joseph along with Nicodemus buy 100 pounds of of spices that was intended to cover the entire body of Jesus, a common burial custom.  Jesus at the close of Chapter 19 is buried in the tomb of Joseph which had not been used.  This too was a prophecy: "The Messiah would be buried in a rich man's grave." Isaiah 53:9. 

 Due to the length of today's writing there will be no hymn today.

Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit today read from John's eye witness account of the crucifixion of Christ we all need to realize that not only were the Jewish people responsible for the death of Jesus but so were we the Gentiles.  Pilate as we saw today had 3 opportunities to release Jesus knowing that He was innocent but would not because he feared of an uprising.  As sinners Father, we placed that crown of thorns on the head of Jesus, we slapped, hit and spat upon him, we nailed his hands and feet to the cross, we placed that spear in his side, but praise God he shed that blood that we as sinners might be reconciled to God through that shed blood. Thank You Father for Your Love, Mercy and Grace.
                                                                                                                    Amen  
Today's Biblical Truth: "Jesus submitted Himself voluntarily to the ordeal that was ordained by God."

Have a God filled and Spirit Led Day. Go in Peace and Serve the Lord our God with Gladness.   Love God More Today.  Pray for our Brothers and Sisters in Christ who are being persecuted for their Faith and Trust in Jesus Christ.  Pray also for God's Blessings be on the Nation of Israel.  Always remember that when you have a spiritual dilemma in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T," GOD Whispers to you, "BUT I CAN."

"Praise Him for His mighty acts; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness." Psalm 150:2

Your Sister in Christ,
Cindi
     

Bible Scripture Reading for Friday 22 December 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for 22 December 2011"

Today's Blog Title: "Standing Before Pilate"
Today's Scripture Reading: John 18:28-40 (Part 2)
Today's Key Verse: John 18:36 "Jesus answered,"My kingdom is not of this world.  If my kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here."

Today is the finish of Chapter 18. In the first part of Chapter 18 we read John's account of the Arrest and Jesus, His mock trials before the Jewish Leaders, and Peters denial of Jesus three times before the rooster crowed just as Jesus had told him.

In John 18:28-40 (19:1-16) and we read John's most significant contribution, however is his detailed description of the trial before Pilate and the frustrated attempts of that weak governor to release a person he knew was very well innocent. 

As Jesus stood before Pilate He admitted to being a king, but totally confused Pilate by asserting His kingdom had neither land nor troops.  Even here as Jesus stood before Pilate He seems to reach out to Pilate than defend Himself.  If only Pilate will listen to (hear and respond correctly) to what Jesus says he will learn (by experience) the truth (reality) Jesus is describing.  

At the end of verse 37 Jesus tells Pilate, "Everyone who is of the truth hears my voice."  Pilate responds with "What is Truth?"  This question can mean three things: (1) a cynical denial of the possibility of knowing the truth (2) a contemptuous jest at anything so practical as abstract truth and (3) a desire to know what no one has been able to tell him.  Jesus in His bearing of the truth was the seal of God.  If Pilate really wanted to know the truth, he would have understood what Jesus was saying.   Pilate then goes back out the the Jews gathered outside and tells them that he CAN FIND NO FAULT in Him.

Chapter 18 closes with Pilate being told that a prisoner should be released in honor of the Passover.  Pilate jumped at the possible compromise.  By promising to release Jesus on account of the custom rather than proclaiming Him innocent, Pilate would avoid insulting the Jewish leaders, who had already proclaimed Him guilty.  Pilate asks the yelling mob "do you want me to release Barabbas or the King of the Jews?" The crowd yells, "not Jesus but Barabbas."  The crowd wanted Barabbas released, who was not only a robber, but a rebel and a murderer, instead of Jesus Christ, the King of kings, and Lord of lords.

Today's Christmas Hymn: "The Little Drummer Boy"

Come they told me, a new born king to see. Our finest gifts bring, to lay before the King, so to honor Him when we come
Pa rum pum pum
Little baby, I am a poor baby too. I have no gift to bring, that's fit to give our King. Shall I play for you, on my drum?
Pa rum pum pum
Mary nodded, the ox and lamb kept time.  I played on my drum for Him, I played my best for Him, and then He smiled at me, me and my drum
Pa rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum

Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, as we start our travels to gather together with family and friends, we ask Lord that You will watch over all who travel, that You protect those that travel to and from their destinations.  We ask Lord just as the drummer boy, that in our daily lives we will give to you all our best in serving You, and reaching out to those that are in need of Your Loving and Saving Grace.  May we keep our minds focused on You, and the reason that we Celebrate This Christmas Season.

Today's Biblical Truth: "Our desire should not be to isolate ourselves from the world, but to use Christ's word and the Holy Spirits power to serve Him while we are here on this earth."

Click on the link at www.cindi-davis.blogspot.com for Today's Bible Verse from Acts 1:9."

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord our God with Gladness. Love God More Today.  Pray for our Brothers and Sisters in Christ who are being persecuted for their Faith and Trust in Jesus Christ.  Pray also for God's Blessings on the Nation of Israel.  Always remember that when you have a spiritual dilemma in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T," GOD Whispers to you, "BUT I CAN."

"Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips shall praise You." Psalm 63:3

I would love to hear from those of you who are reading this Blog.  Please add a comment at the end of this Blog or email me at cindilynn53@yahoo.com.  Also if there is a favorite Hymn that you would like me to add as the Hymn of the Day please let me know.  Let me know where you are from and your first name as well so I can give you credit for the suggestion.

Your Sister in Christ
Cindi   

God's Words of Wisdom from the Bible for Tuesday 20 December 2011

"Greetings in the Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for 20 December 2011"

Today's Blog Title: "The  Trials of Jesus"
Today's Scripture Reading:  Various Scripture Reading from Various Gospel Accounts on the Trials of Jesus
Today's Key Verse: John 18:12-14 "Then the detachment of troops and the captain and the officers of, the Jews arrested Jesus and bound Him.  And they led Him away to Annas first, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas who was high priest that year. Now it was Caiaphas who advised the Jews that it was expedient that one man should die for the people."

Today is part 2 of John Chapter 18.  Today we will Read about the trials of Jesus that come not only from the Book of John but from the three other Gospel accounts of these trails.  Listed before is the people that Jesus stood before after His arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane."

The Trials of Jesus

BEFORE JEWISH RELIGIOUS LEADERS

Preliminary hearing before Annas                  Although the Romans had deposed Annas, but in
(John 18:12-24)                                                  the eyes of the Jews he still functioned as the high
                                                                             priest, because the office was for life. Annas
                                                                             questioned Jesus, but Jesus demanded a legal
                                                                             hearing
Hearing before Caiaphas                                  Caiaphas was the high priest appointed by the
(Matthew 26:57-67; Mark 14:53-65)                Romans. Two witnesses testified against Jesus
                                                                             and Caiaphas asked Jesus if He was the Messiah.
                                                                             Jesus answered yes, and Caiaphas concluded that
                                                                             Jesus was guilty of blashemy.
The Trial before the Sanhedrin                        The council of religious leaders confirmed   
 (Matthew 27:1-2; Mark 15:1                            Caiaphas's conclusion.  In this trial, Jesus
  Luke 22:66-71)                                                  admitted He was the Son of God and declared 
                                                                              that He will sit on the right hand of God the
                                                                              Father.

BEFORE ROMAN AUTHORITIES

First Hearing Before Pilate                              The Jewish religious leaders brought Jesus to
(John 18:28-27; Matthew 27:11-14;                 Pilate in order to get permission to execute Him.
Mark 15:2-5; Luke 23:1-5)                               They accused Him of treason. Pilate saw Jesus
                                                                             innocence, but briefly questioned Him. In this
                                                                             interview, Jesus revealed to Pilate that His
                                                                             kingdom was not of this earth.
Hearing before Herod                                       Pilate send Jesus to Herod because Jesus was from
(Luke 23:6-12)                                                    Galilee, the region ruled by Herod.  Jesus
                                                                             remained silent before Herod.
Final Hearing Before Pilate                              Pilate did not want to condemn an innocent man,
(John 18:38-19:16; Matthew 27:15-26;            but he was afraid of another Jewish uprising. 
Mark 15:6-15; Luke 23:13-25)                          Therefore he finally gave in to the cries of the
                                                                              crowd to "Crucify Him."

In verse 37 Jesus admitted to being a king, but totally confused Pilate by asserting His kingdom had neither land nor troops.  Even here Jesus seems to reach out to touch Pilate rather than defend Himself.  If only Pilate will listen to (hear and respond correctly) what Jesus says he would have learned (by experience) the truth (reality) Jesus is describing.  Pilate here shrugs off the appeal with a scornful "What is truth?"  Pilate sees Jesus as harmless, and he is willing to let Jesus go, but the people would have nothing to do with that.   

Today's Christmas Hymn: "Mary Did You Know"

Mary did you know, that you baby boy will one day walk on water? Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that you baby boy has come to make you new? This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you.
Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to the blind? Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with His hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod? And when you kissed your little baby, you have kissed the face of God
The blind will see, the deaf will hear and the dead will live again. The lame will leap, the dumb will speak the praises of the Lamb
Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all Creation? Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations
Did you know that your baby is heaven's perfect Lamb? The sleeping child you're holding is the "GREAT I AM"

Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, how thankful we are Father for you love for us that You sent your Son the unblemished and perfect Lamb to become the sacrifice upon the Cross of Calvary for our sins in that whomsoever would come to Him would be washed is His life giving blood.  May you grant us the boldness to go out and speak to those around us about the Free Gift of Salvation that You Abba Father have given us through Jesus Christ Your Son and our Lord and Savior.   May all Praise and Glory be given to You now and forever.
                                                                                                                                           Amen
Today's Biblical Truth: "The loving relationship  of believers to each other is the greatest witness to Jesus Christ."

Have a God Filled and Spirit Led Day.  Go in Peace and Serve the Lord our God with Gladness. Love God More Today.  Pray for our Brothers and Sisters who are being persecuted for their Faith and Trust in Jesus Christ.  Also pray for God's Blessings on the Nation of Israel.  Always remember that when you have a spiritual dilemma in your life and you yell out, "I CAN'T," GOD Whispers to you, "BUT I CAN."

"But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave, For He shall receive me." Psalm 49:15.

Your Sister In Christ,
Cindi