(Lesson 2302)(03-31-18) Matthew 8:5-14-17
“And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them. When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.”
Today’s quote relates how Jesus continued to perform miracles by healing the sick.~
Saturday, March 31, 2018
Friday, March 30, 2018
Lesson 2301
(Lesson 2301)(03-30-18) Matthew 8:5-13
“And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.”
The first part of today’s quote relates the profound importance of faith to the doctrine of Jesus Christ.
In the latter part of the quote, Jesus related how, because of their lack of faith and their inablility to obey even the least of God’s laws, the Jews would lose their exclusive “chosen” status. The loss to the Jews, however, would be the gain to the rest of mankind, in that, the benefits of that “chosen” status, that had only included the Jews, would, from that point, be granted to all those who choose to accept, by faith, the eternal righteousness of Jesus Christ.~
“And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.”
The first part of today’s quote relates the profound importance of faith to the doctrine of Jesus Christ.
In the latter part of the quote, Jesus related how, because of their lack of faith and their inablility to obey even the least of God’s laws, the Jews would lose their exclusive “chosen” status. The loss to the Jews, however, would be the gain to the rest of mankind, in that, the benefits of that “chosen” status, that had only included the Jews, would, from that point, be granted to all those who choose to accept, by faith, the eternal righteousness of Jesus Christ.~
Thursday, March 29, 2018
Lesson 2300
(Lesson 2300)(03-29-18) Matthew 8:1-4
“When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him. And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.”
In the first part of today’s quote, Jesus performed a miracle, healing the leperous man simply by touching him. Jesus then compelled the leper to keep what had happened to him secret, by telling no one what had happened. As us related in the last part of the quote, Jesus told the man to go to his priest and give to him the required offering.
By instructing the leper, as Jesus did, He created an example for the leadership of the Jews as to how His ministry was in compliance with the Law of Moses. That was an important because, as the lessons will expose, the hypocritical Jewish hierarchy would soon set out to find even the smallest of reasons to destroy Jesus.~
“When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him. And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.”
In the first part of today’s quote, Jesus performed a miracle, healing the leperous man simply by touching him. Jesus then compelled the leper to keep what had happened to him secret, by telling no one what had happened. As us related in the last part of the quote, Jesus told the man to go to his priest and give to him the required offering.
By instructing the leper, as Jesus did, He created an example for the leadership of the Jews as to how His ministry was in compliance with the Law of Moses. That was an important because, as the lessons will expose, the hypocritical Jewish hierarchy would soon set out to find even the smallest of reasons to destroy Jesus.~
Wednesday, March 28, 2018
Lesson 2299
(Lesson 2299)(03-28-18) Matthew 7:21-29
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.”
Today’s lesson teaches us that simply believing that there is a God, and partially obeying His laws, is not enough to recieve the imputed righteousness required to attain eternal life.
At the point of His ministry referenced by today’s quote, Jesus had not yet fulfilled all that would be required of Him to create a path to eternal life. Therefore, there was no such path other than for those who were wholly committed, by faith, to the fact that God would provide a means by which their sins could be “justified”. (That faith is the same faith that saved all the biblical saints before the coming of Jesus Christ.)
Remember, Jesus Himself referred to His doctrine as a “mystery” that could only be exposed after His death. Paul said, “How that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit”. (Ephesians 3:3-5)
I hope that this will make it clear that the ONLY way to receive the righteousness necessary to qualify for eternal life, one must know and fully believe in the operation of God which is the offering of His only begotten Son as a ‘one time fits all’ sacrifice for the sins of all mankind. And that that operation could not be known, or understood, at the time Jesus offered today’s lesson.
Future study will make it easier to understand the full intent of this lesson.~
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.”
Today’s lesson teaches us that simply believing that there is a God, and partially obeying His laws, is not enough to recieve the imputed righteousness required to attain eternal life.
At the point of His ministry referenced by today’s quote, Jesus had not yet fulfilled all that would be required of Him to create a path to eternal life. Therefore, there was no such path other than for those who were wholly committed, by faith, to the fact that God would provide a means by which their sins could be “justified”. (That faith is the same faith that saved all the biblical saints before the coming of Jesus Christ.)
Remember, Jesus Himself referred to His doctrine as a “mystery” that could only be exposed after His death. Paul said, “How that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit”. (Ephesians 3:3-5)
I hope that this will make it clear that the ONLY way to receive the righteousness necessary to qualify for eternal life, one must know and fully believe in the operation of God which is the offering of His only begotten Son as a ‘one time fits all’ sacrifice for the sins of all mankind. And that that operation could not be known, or understood, at the time Jesus offered today’s lesson.
Future study will make it easier to understand the full intent of this lesson.~
Tuesday, March 27, 2018
Lesson 2298
(Lesson 2298)(03-27-18) Matthew 7:15-20
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”
In today’s quote, Jesus warned against teachers who would come among the people spreading false doctrines and gross distortions of the true gospel of Jesus Christ. The false teachers would come to infiltrate and confuse the efforts of the young churches long before the twelve apostles died. Roman catholicism is the most widely know of those false doctrines.
Roman Catholicism was borne out of the hypocritical and misguided pomp and ritual of the Pharisees and Sadducees, two of the major sects of Judaism.
Jesus, in His infinite wisdom, knew the future struggles that would be faced by those who would be faithful to His word. That was, no doubt, one of His reasons for saying; “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way that leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
The circumstances among the children of God today are exactly the same as they were when Jesus walked the earth. It is even moreso the obligation of the Children of God to root out those who preach false doctrines as the time rapidly approaches in which the lost may have left to accept the saving grace of God.
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)~
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”
In today’s quote, Jesus warned against teachers who would come among the people spreading false doctrines and gross distortions of the true gospel of Jesus Christ. The false teachers would come to infiltrate and confuse the efforts of the young churches long before the twelve apostles died. Roman catholicism is the most widely know of those false doctrines.
Roman Catholicism was borne out of the hypocritical and misguided pomp and ritual of the Pharisees and Sadducees, two of the major sects of Judaism.
Jesus, in His infinite wisdom, knew the future struggles that would be faced by those who would be faithful to His word. That was, no doubt, one of His reasons for saying; “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way that leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
The circumstances among the children of God today are exactly the same as they were when Jesus walked the earth. It is even moreso the obligation of the Children of God to root out those who preach false doctrines as the time rapidly approaches in which the lost may have left to accept the saving grace of God.
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)~
Monday, March 26, 2018
Lesson 2297
(Lesson 2297)(03-26-18) Matthew 7:13-14
“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
This lesson tells us that there is ONLY one way to gain eternal salvation. That way being through faith in the virgin born life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In the quote, Jesus also tells us that sadly there will only be a few who will discover that one path to eternal salvation.~
“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
This lesson tells us that there is ONLY one way to gain eternal salvation. That way being through faith in the virgin born life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In the quote, Jesus also tells us that sadly there will only be a few who will discover that one path to eternal salvation.~
Sunday, March 25, 2018
Lesson 2296
(Lesson 2296)(03-25-18) Matthew 7:7-12
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.”
Today’s quote contains a most wonderful promise, straight from the mouth of Jesus Himself. Therein, He promised that anything we want, as believing children of God, is only a faithful prayer away. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you”. What an awesome promise. ~
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.”
Today’s quote contains a most wonderful promise, straight from the mouth of Jesus Himself. Therein, He promised that anything we want, as believing children of God, is only a faithful prayer away. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you”. What an awesome promise. ~
Saturday, March 24, 2018
Lesson 2295
(Lesson 2295)(03-24-18) Matthew 7:6
“Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.”
Today’s lesson is a short one but none-the-less an important one. In this quote Jesus simply told His disciples not to waste their time with unbelievers. If a lost soul is willing to hear the word of God, by all means teach it. But, if that soul rejects the word, leave him/her to the wrath of God. The sins of those who reject Jesus Christ are not the responsibility of the children of God.~
“Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.”
Today’s lesson is a short one but none-the-less an important one. In this quote Jesus simply told His disciples not to waste their time with unbelievers. If a lost soul is willing to hear the word of God, by all means teach it. But, if that soul rejects the word, leave him/her to the wrath of God. The sins of those who reject Jesus Christ are not the responsibility of the children of God.~
Friday, March 23, 2018
Lesson 2294
(Lesson 2294)(03-23-18) Matthew 7:1-5
“Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.”
It seems that the essence, and right, of today’s lesson is almost nowhere to be found among today’s “Christian” churches. That fact is evidenced by the hypocrisy of the many who constantly rail against what they perceive to be the sins of those around them while outright ignoring, or attempting to justify, their own evils.
We, the children of God, are neither qualified, nor scripturally authorized to condemn the worldly actions of those around us. Our only duty to our fellow man/woman is to be candles to light the path to God’s amazing, saving grace. In today’s quote, Jesus very clearly warned that those who condemn will be condemned.
We should teach the word of God to every creature who is willing to listen, warning them of the impending wrath that surely awaits those who reject God’s soul saving grace, and then mind our own business.~
“Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.”
It seems that the essence, and right, of today’s lesson is almost nowhere to be found among today’s “Christian” churches. That fact is evidenced by the hypocrisy of the many who constantly rail against what they perceive to be the sins of those around them while outright ignoring, or attempting to justify, their own evils.
We, the children of God, are neither qualified, nor scripturally authorized to condemn the worldly actions of those around us. Our only duty to our fellow man/woman is to be candles to light the path to God’s amazing, saving grace. In today’s quote, Jesus very clearly warned that those who condemn will be condemned.
We should teach the word of God to every creature who is willing to listen, warning them of the impending wrath that surely awaits those who reject God’s soul saving grace, and then mind our own business.~
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Lesson 2293
(Lesson 2293)(03-22-18) Matthew 6:19-34
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”
Today’s lesson is one of my very favorites in that herein Jesus promised to fill every need for those of us who have placed our faith in Him.
My own life is proof that Jesus still stands behind the promises He made in this lesson. Without the ansered prayers and His divine intervention into my life, I would probably be homeless by now.
Whatever the question, faith in God through our Lord Jesus Christ is the answer.~
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”
Today’s lesson is one of my very favorites in that herein Jesus promised to fill every need for those of us who have placed our faith in Him.
My own life is proof that Jesus still stands behind the promises He made in this lesson. Without the ansered prayers and His divine intervention into my life, I would probably be homeless by now.
Whatever the question, faith in God through our Lord Jesus Christ is the answer.~
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Lesson 2292
(Lesson 2292)(03-21-18) Matthew 6:16-18
“But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.”
In today’s lesson Jesus provided instructions as to how His disciples should conduct themselves as they practiced the Hebrew tradition of fasting. Although fasting is rare among today’s “Christians”, it is my opinion that that expression of humility, should be just as common today as it was during the ministry of Jesus.
Although I have never practiced fasting as a means of humbling myself before God, I offer no excuses, I am just as guilty as anyone else who neglects this clear scriptural instruction.
May God help us all to better adhere to His divine word.~
“But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.”
In today’s lesson Jesus provided instructions as to how His disciples should conduct themselves as they practiced the Hebrew tradition of fasting. Although fasting is rare among today’s “Christians”, it is my opinion that that expression of humility, should be just as common today as it was during the ministry of Jesus.
Although I have never practiced fasting as a means of humbling myself before God, I offer no excuses, I am just as guilty as anyone else who neglects this clear scriptural instruction.
May God help us all to better adhere to His divine word.~
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
Lesson 2291
(Lesson 2291)(03-20-18) Matthew 6:14-15
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Today’s lesson is another short one, but none-the-less important. It is simply that if a perspective child of God is unable to forgive the sins of those around him/her, God will not forgive his/her sins.
Forgiving is sometimes difficult to do but forgiving is one of the most outstanding traits of the true children of God.~
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Today’s lesson is another short one, but none-the-less important. It is simply that if a perspective child of God is unable to forgive the sins of those around him/her, God will not forgive his/her sins.
Forgiving is sometimes difficult to do but forgiving is one of the most outstanding traits of the true children of God.~
Monday, March 19, 2018
Lesson 2290
(Lesson 2290)(03-19-18) Matthew 6:7-13
“ But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”
Today’s quote is a confirmation of yesterday’s lesson in that Jesus again condemned vain, repetitious prayer.
The essence of the quote tells us that we are to pray for what we need only once, then leave it to the will of God. He is omnipotent, He will not forget that we prayed, nor will He forget what we need; “for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.” To pray over and over for the same thing, to me, demonstrates a lack of faith. To praise God aloud, or to offer thanks aloud is not praying and can, and should, be done anytime anywhere.
In the body of today’s quote, Jesus left us an example of how we should pray.~
“ But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”
Today’s quote is a confirmation of yesterday’s lesson in that Jesus again condemned vain, repetitious prayer.
The essence of the quote tells us that we are to pray for what we need only once, then leave it to the will of God. He is omnipotent, He will not forget that we prayed, nor will He forget what we need; “for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.” To pray over and over for the same thing, to me, demonstrates a lack of faith. To praise God aloud, or to offer thanks aloud is not praying and can, and should, be done anytime anywhere.
In the body of today’s quote, Jesus left us an example of how we should pray.~
Sunday, March 18, 2018
Lesson 2289
(Lesson 2289)(03-18-18) Matthew 6:5-6
“And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.”
Today’s lesson is another very, very important one that is either, almost, totally and deliberately disregarded or grossly overlooked by the vast majority of so called Christians churches.
In today’s quote, Jesus was speaking directly to His disciples, (Its important to note that Christian people today are also supposed to be the disciples of Christ. Therefore, this directive teaching the disciples how to pray, and disallowing public prayer, was also aimed at us.) Therein, He made it perfectly clear that we are NOT to pray aloud in public. We are instead, to either totally conceal ourselves before praying, or pray silently so that no other person can overhear our prayer. “pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.“ There is NO room in this lesson for variation from that instruction.
Sadly, I know of NO denomination of “Christian” churches that abide by what Jesus taught concerning public prayer. Every one I have EVER accounted for, not only allows, but encourages standing public prayer during their services. Most refer to it as “leading” prayer. I have found NO scriptural reference allowing a Christian individual to “lead” prayer.
It is high time that true Christian people abide by what Jesus instructed His disciples to do.~
“And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.”
Today’s lesson is another very, very important one that is either, almost, totally and deliberately disregarded or grossly overlooked by the vast majority of so called Christians churches.
In today’s quote, Jesus was speaking directly to His disciples, (Its important to note that Christian people today are also supposed to be the disciples of Christ. Therefore, this directive teaching the disciples how to pray, and disallowing public prayer, was also aimed at us.) Therein, He made it perfectly clear that we are NOT to pray aloud in public. We are instead, to either totally conceal ourselves before praying, or pray silently so that no other person can overhear our prayer. “pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.“ There is NO room in this lesson for variation from that instruction.
Sadly, I know of NO denomination of “Christian” churches that abide by what Jesus taught concerning public prayer. Every one I have EVER accounted for, not only allows, but encourages standing public prayer during their services. Most refer to it as “leading” prayer. I have found NO scriptural reference allowing a Christian individual to “lead” prayer.
It is high time that true Christian people abide by what Jesus instructed His disciples to do.~
Saturday, March 17, 2018
Lesson 2288
(Lesson 2288)(03-17-18) Matthew 6:1-4
“Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.”
Today’s lesson is a simple one that is totally understandable witout commentary. ~
“Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.”
Today’s lesson is a simple one that is totally understandable witout commentary. ~
Friday, March 16, 2018
Lesson 2287
(Lesson 2287)(03-16-18) Matthew 5:20-48
“ For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery. Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus explained the difference in the way most perceived the old Law as opposed to how it was actually meant to be perceived. In essence, Jesus was telling His followers that, under the old Law, in order to enter God’s kingdom, one would be required to take on perfection in everything. In other words, it was/is virtually impossible for the flesh of mankind to enter into heaven through the Law. To confirm what I’ve said to be true, we must only read the very last verse of today’s quote wherein Jesus said; “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
We know that it is impossible for mankind to be perfect in the flesh. Therefore, Jesus came as God in man to live the perfect, sinfree life to provide the total righteousness that is required for entry into heaven. Praise God, every soul of mankind can achieve that same righteousness simply by that soul placing his/her trust in Jesus Christ, through faith in the same.
In order to be saved by the grace of God we must only believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Since Jesus gave His life for those of us who believe we are no longer required to fulfill the requirements of the old Law, Jesus has already done that for us. We are only required to accept His gift.~
“ For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery. Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus explained the difference in the way most perceived the old Law as opposed to how it was actually meant to be perceived. In essence, Jesus was telling His followers that, under the old Law, in order to enter God’s kingdom, one would be required to take on perfection in everything. In other words, it was/is virtually impossible for the flesh of mankind to enter into heaven through the Law. To confirm what I’ve said to be true, we must only read the very last verse of today’s quote wherein Jesus said; “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
We know that it is impossible for mankind to be perfect in the flesh. Therefore, Jesus came as God in man to live the perfect, sinfree life to provide the total righteousness that is required for entry into heaven. Praise God, every soul of mankind can achieve that same righteousness simply by that soul placing his/her trust in Jesus Christ, through faith in the same.
In order to be saved by the grace of God we must only believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Since Jesus gave His life for those of us who believe we are no longer required to fulfill the requirements of the old Law, Jesus has already done that for us. We are only required to accept His gift.~
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Lesson 2286
(Lesson 2286)(03-15-18) Matthew 5:17-20
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to FULFIL. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, TILL ALL BE FULFILLED.”
Today’s quote makes it very clear that, *except for Jesus’ twelve chosen apostles, the old Law of the Jews was to remain in full effect throughout all the time that Jesus walked the earth. That does NOT mean that the old Law would remain in effect throughout all time, seeing that Jesus also made it clear that the old Law would be completed, or made of no affect, after He had “FULFILLED” it.
The dictionary definition of the word “fulfill" is to; “bring to completion or reality, achieve or realize (something desired promised or predicted); to carry out (a task, duty, or role) as required, pledged, or expected.”
The divine mission of our Lord Jesus Christ was to obey and fulfill every tiny bit of the old Law for all of us who believe in Him because God had determined that we, mankind him/herself, are incapable of obeying it. Therefore, to perfectly fulfuill the law required that God Himself appear on earth in the form of a man (Jesus) to accomplish perfection under the law, which, praise God, He did.
This is a very, very important lesson because the vast majority of today’s so-called Christians erroneously contend that mankind, in order to gain eternal life, must still obey the “Ten commandments” or all the laws of the Old Testament. Laws that pertained to the Jews ONLY in the first place.~
*Jesus exempted His apostles from some parts of the law. An example is that none were baptized in water, which was a distinct element of the Law.
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to FULFIL. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, TILL ALL BE FULFILLED.”
Today’s quote makes it very clear that, *except for Jesus’ twelve chosen apostles, the old Law of the Jews was to remain in full effect throughout all the time that Jesus walked the earth. That does NOT mean that the old Law would remain in effect throughout all time, seeing that Jesus also made it clear that the old Law would be completed, or made of no affect, after He had “FULFILLED” it.
The dictionary definition of the word “fulfill" is to; “bring to completion or reality, achieve or realize (something desired promised or predicted); to carry out (a task, duty, or role) as required, pledged, or expected.”
The divine mission of our Lord Jesus Christ was to obey and fulfill every tiny bit of the old Law for all of us who believe in Him because God had determined that we, mankind him/herself, are incapable of obeying it. Therefore, to perfectly fulfuill the law required that God Himself appear on earth in the form of a man (Jesus) to accomplish perfection under the law, which, praise God, He did.
This is a very, very important lesson because the vast majority of today’s so-called Christians erroneously contend that mankind, in order to gain eternal life, must still obey the “Ten commandments” or all the laws of the Old Testament. Laws that pertained to the Jews ONLY in the first place.~
*Jesus exempted His apostles from some parts of the law. An example is that none were baptized in water, which was a distinct element of the Law.
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Lesson 2285
(Lesson 2285)(03-14-18) Matthew 5:1-16
“And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Today’s quote relates that after Jesus had amassed a great crowd of people, He began preach the standard of righteousness that would be required to enter the kingdom of heaven.
In the final part of the quote, Jesus encouraged His followers to remainopen and vigilent in their in their search for righteousness so that their efforts could be seen by the world around them.
Today's so called Christians seem to be caught in the rut that Jesus was teaching against in today’s lesson. They show up at “church” two or three times per week, to occupy the same pew they have occupied for years, while doing nothing toward spreading the good news of the amazing, saving grace of God through Jesus Christ.
I am not trying to discourage church attendance, I’m only saying that our work for Christ consists of much more than merely sitting in a pew two or three times per week waiting for some lost soul to come and sit beside us so by just being there, we might possibly influence him/her to seek out Jesus.
The message Jesus taught in today’s quote clearly informs us that we should “let our light shine” so that others, through us, can see the awesome benefits of following our Lord Jesus Christ.~
“And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Today’s quote relates that after Jesus had amassed a great crowd of people, He began preach the standard of righteousness that would be required to enter the kingdom of heaven.
In the final part of the quote, Jesus encouraged His followers to remainopen and vigilent in their in their search for righteousness so that their efforts could be seen by the world around them.
Today's so called Christians seem to be caught in the rut that Jesus was teaching against in today’s lesson. They show up at “church” two or three times per week, to occupy the same pew they have occupied for years, while doing nothing toward spreading the good news of the amazing, saving grace of God through Jesus Christ.
I am not trying to discourage church attendance, I’m only saying that our work for Christ consists of much more than merely sitting in a pew two or three times per week waiting for some lost soul to come and sit beside us so by just being there, we might possibly influence him/her to seek out Jesus.
The message Jesus taught in today’s quote clearly informs us that we should “let our light shine” so that others, through us, can see the awesome benefits of following our Lord Jesus Christ.~
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Lesson 2284
(Lesson 2284)(03-13-18) Matthew 4:18-2
“And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him. And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.”
In the first part of today’s quote Jesus started the selection of His apostles. He first selected Peter, Andrew, James and John. (The significance of Peter being selected first will arise in later lessons.
The rest of the quote relates how Jesus traveled throughout the region preaching “the gospel of the kingdom” and how Jesus began to amass a huge following as he healed all manner of illnesses among the people.~
“And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him. And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.”
In the first part of today’s quote Jesus started the selection of His apostles. He first selected Peter, Andrew, James and John. (The significance of Peter being selected first will arise in later lessons.
The rest of the quote relates how Jesus traveled throughout the region preaching “the gospel of the kingdom” and how Jesus began to amass a huge following as he healed all manner of illnesses among the people.~
Monday, March 12, 2018
Lesson 2283
(Lesson 2283)(03-12-18) Matthew 4:12-17
“Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
The first part of today’s quote relates how Jesus, by His actions, further fulfilled Old Testament prophecy.
There is also another part of this lesson that is very important to take into account. That is, how Jesus, when He began to teach, taught the exact same message that John the Baptist had taught. That message was; “Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (As these lessons progress, we will also learn that this message is the exact same message that Jesus instructed the seventy two disciples to go and explicitlyto the Jews.)
The clarity of Jesus’ message distinctly tells us that neither He nor John were preaching ‘Christianity’, as such, because ‘Christianity’ had no yet been fully defined or established, nor could it be until Jesus had fulfilled His divine purpose as a perfect sacrifice for the sins of mankind. But rather, both John and Jesus taught (only) the Jews to prepare themselves for the time when the “kingdom heaven” would fully arrive.~
“Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
The first part of today’s quote relates how Jesus, by His actions, further fulfilled Old Testament prophecy.
There is also another part of this lesson that is very important to take into account. That is, how Jesus, when He began to teach, taught the exact same message that John the Baptist had taught. That message was; “Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (As these lessons progress, we will also learn that this message is the exact same message that Jesus instructed the seventy two disciples to go and explicitlyto the Jews.)
The clarity of Jesus’ message distinctly tells us that neither He nor John were preaching ‘Christianity’, as such, because ‘Christianity’ had no yet been fully defined or established, nor could it be until Jesus had fulfilled His divine purpose as a perfect sacrifice for the sins of mankind. But rather, both John and Jesus taught (only) the Jews to prepare themselves for the time when the “kingdom heaven” would fully arrive.~
Sunday, March 11, 2018
Lesson 2282
(Lesson 2282)(03-11-18) Matthew 4:1-11
“Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.”
Today’s quote relates how Jesus was handed over to the Satan to be tempted by all the evil riches the world has to offer.
The quote also demonstrates how Satan has power and free reign, granted by God, over all the world. That is evidenced by Satan’s having had the power to give Jesus any worldly thing He wanted if Jesus would only bow to him.
There are many scripturally uneducated who, thinking God is in control of all things for good, will ask; “How can a just God allow a child to be killed in some horrible way?” The answer to that question is easy, God is not controlling what goes on in this earth unless one of His own asks for divine input, in which case, God will provide whatever is asked. Satan is in control of the everyday goings and comings of this earth. The death of any child is the work of the devil in some form. However, if one gives him/herself over to the will of God through faith in Jesus Christ, then prays for anything that one might want, God will intercede and override.
Jesus, when He returns, will take away Satan’s power over the earth. That will be made evident in future lessons.
Probably the most important thing that should be taken from today’s quote is that Jesus DID NOT give in to the temptation of Satan, but rather stayed true to the righteousness of God in Himself. Through that righteous perfection we, by faith in Jesus Christ, are granted the righteousness that is required to hold dominion over Satan and to enter into a heavenly eternity with God the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. ~
“Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.”
Today’s quote relates how Jesus was handed over to the Satan to be tempted by all the evil riches the world has to offer.
The quote also demonstrates how Satan has power and free reign, granted by God, over all the world. That is evidenced by Satan’s having had the power to give Jesus any worldly thing He wanted if Jesus would only bow to him.
There are many scripturally uneducated who, thinking God is in control of all things for good, will ask; “How can a just God allow a child to be killed in some horrible way?” The answer to that question is easy, God is not controlling what goes on in this earth unless one of His own asks for divine input, in which case, God will provide whatever is asked. Satan is in control of the everyday goings and comings of this earth. The death of any child is the work of the devil in some form. However, if one gives him/herself over to the will of God through faith in Jesus Christ, then prays for anything that one might want, God will intercede and override.
Jesus, when He returns, will take away Satan’s power over the earth. That will be made evident in future lessons.
Probably the most important thing that should be taken from today’s quote is that Jesus DID NOT give in to the temptation of Satan, but rather stayed true to the righteousness of God in Himself. Through that righteous perfection we, by faith in Jesus Christ, are granted the righteousness that is required to hold dominion over Satan and to enter into a heavenly eternity with God the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. ~
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Lesson 2281
(Lesson 2281)(03-10-18) Matthew 3:13-17
“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Today’s quote relates how Jesus came to John the Baptist and requested that John baptize Him in water. It is very important that we understand why Jesus made that request. In order to accomplish that we must first understand the true definition of the word “baptize”. We must also understand what the act accomplishes and why it was necessary for Jesus to submit Himself to it.
The root word “baptize”, since it was transliterated from the Greek “baptiso” has been assigned multiple definitions that distort and mis-represent its original intent in the Greek language. However, the definition of the word when it is correctly applied, in most usages within the New Testament text, is; to fully immerse something or someone into; some condition, doctrine or substance for the desired effect of permanently altering the physical or spiritual state of said something or someone. As the word is applied in today’s quote, it implies that Jesus, by being immersed in pure water, would be cleansed of all inherent “filth of the flesh” so the He could righteously and permanently fulfill His Godly requirement to be the perfect, sin free sacrifice for the sins of mankind.
Jesus DID NOT request John’s water baptism to become the Son of God, He was born the Son of God. Jesus required water baptism as a step to fulfill every aspect of the divine laws of the Hebrews. In order to fulfill the Law, Jesus was required to live and obey every tiny commandment of the old Law. Jesus would later say; “For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law. till all be fulfilled.” (Matthew 5:18) This means that until Jesus had completed His divine requirement of fulfilling every whit of the old Law at the end of His ministry, and had ascended back to the Father in heaven, the old Law of the Hebrews would remain if full effect binding Jesus and every other Jew to the obedience of it.~
This topic will be discussed further as these lessons progress.
“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Today’s quote relates how Jesus came to John the Baptist and requested that John baptize Him in water. It is very important that we understand why Jesus made that request. In order to accomplish that we must first understand the true definition of the word “baptize”. We must also understand what the act accomplishes and why it was necessary for Jesus to submit Himself to it.
The root word “baptize”, since it was transliterated from the Greek “baptiso” has been assigned multiple definitions that distort and mis-represent its original intent in the Greek language. However, the definition of the word when it is correctly applied, in most usages within the New Testament text, is; to fully immerse something or someone into; some condition, doctrine or substance for the desired effect of permanently altering the physical or spiritual state of said something or someone. As the word is applied in today’s quote, it implies that Jesus, by being immersed in pure water, would be cleansed of all inherent “filth of the flesh” so the He could righteously and permanently fulfill His Godly requirement to be the perfect, sin free sacrifice for the sins of mankind.
Jesus DID NOT request John’s water baptism to become the Son of God, He was born the Son of God. Jesus required water baptism as a step to fulfill every aspect of the divine laws of the Hebrews. In order to fulfill the Law, Jesus was required to live and obey every tiny commandment of the old Law. Jesus would later say; “For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law. till all be fulfilled.” (Matthew 5:18) This means that until Jesus had completed His divine requirement of fulfilling every whit of the old Law at the end of His ministry, and had ascended back to the Father in heaven, the old Law of the Hebrews would remain if full effect binding Jesus and every other Jew to the obedience of it.~
This topic will be discussed further as these lessons progress.
Friday, March 9, 2018
Lesson 2280
(Lesson 2280)(03-09-18) Matthew 3:11-12
“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance. but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
Today’s quote is another one of the most important yet underexplained lessons in the whole of the New Testament.
In the quote, John said, “ I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance.” By phrasing the statement the way he did, John clearly separated his water baptism from the baptism that Jesus would come to provide. John very succinctly related that water baptism is ONLY a prepatory step toward repentance that has NOTHING to do with the salvation of one’s eternal soul.
John, speaking of Jesus, also said, “he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost (God the Father, Jesus, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are one in the same)”, “and with fire:”
Therein, John declared that Jesus was far more powerful than he, and that the baptisms Jesus would perform would immerse the receivers into the Holy Ghost (The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost as one) and fire. The baptism that Jesus peforms for those who believe in Him IS the baptism that saves one’s eternal soul.
It is very important that anyone studying the bible fully understand all of what is actually being said in every lesson in the New Testament. Sadly, most so-called Christians erroneously believe and contend that water baptism is pre-requisite to eternal salvation, or, in other words, that one must be baptized in water to be permitted into heaven. Nothing is further from the truth. As is made so vividly clear in today’s lesson, water baptism and the baptism of, and or into, Jesus Christ are two very different baptisms.~
There will be much more discussion of this subject as these lessons proceed.
“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance. but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
Today’s quote is another one of the most important yet underexplained lessons in the whole of the New Testament.
In the quote, John said, “ I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance.” By phrasing the statement the way he did, John clearly separated his water baptism from the baptism that Jesus would come to provide. John very succinctly related that water baptism is ONLY a prepatory step toward repentance that has NOTHING to do with the salvation of one’s eternal soul.
John, speaking of Jesus, also said, “he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost (God the Father, Jesus, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are one in the same)”, “and with fire:”
Therein, John declared that Jesus was far more powerful than he, and that the baptisms Jesus would perform would immerse the receivers into the Holy Ghost (The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost as one) and fire. The baptism that Jesus peforms for those who believe in Him IS the baptism that saves one’s eternal soul.
It is very important that anyone studying the bible fully understand all of what is actually being said in every lesson in the New Testament. Sadly, most so-called Christians erroneously believe and contend that water baptism is pre-requisite to eternal salvation, or, in other words, that one must be baptized in water to be permitted into heaven. Nothing is further from the truth. As is made so vividly clear in today’s lesson, water baptism and the baptism of, and or into, Jesus Christ are two very different baptisms.~
There will be much more discussion of this subject as these lessons proceed.
Thursday, March 8, 2018
Lesson 2279
(Lesson 2279)(03-08-18) Matthew 3:7-10
“But when he (John the Baptist) saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.”
In today’s quote, John, being rightfully suspicious of their presence, made it clear to the Pharisees and Sadducees that simply being Jews would not protect them from the ultimate wrath of God. He demanded they bring evidence of their sincerity.
This lesson is the turning point at which God, seeing that the majority of the Jews, especially their leadership, were incapable of obeying His laws, extended His loving Grace to those Jews who would be obedient, and soon the Gentiles.
The last verse in today’s quote says, in essence, that God’s connection to the Jews, as His chosen people, had ended. “And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.”~
“But when he (John the Baptist) saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.”
In today’s quote, John, being rightfully suspicious of their presence, made it clear to the Pharisees and Sadducees that simply being Jews would not protect them from the ultimate wrath of God. He demanded they bring evidence of their sincerity.
This lesson is the turning point at which God, seeing that the majority of the Jews, especially their leadership, were incapable of obeying His laws, extended His loving Grace to those Jews who would be obedient, and soon the Gentiles.
The last verse in today’s quote says, in essence, that God’s connection to the Jews, as His chosen people, had ended. “And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.”~
Wednesday, March 7, 2018
Lesson 2278
(Lesson 2278)(03-07-18) Matthew 3:5-6
“Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.”
The first biblical application of the transliterated word “baptize” appears here in today’s quote. “Baptize” is an English word that was transliterated from, or created to replace, the Greek word “baptizo”, (sometimes written as “baptidzo”).
According to the dictionary to transliterate is to; “write or print (a letter or word) using the closest corresponding letters of a different alphabet or language”. In this example “baptize” is a newly created English word that replaces the original Greek word, “baptizo” as it was applied in the Greek version of today’s quote.
Transliteration simply carries forth the sound of the original word, it DOES NOT carry forth the explicit meaning or intent of the original word. It is very important to remember this as these lessons continue.
Today’s quote relates that many Jews throughout the region of Judea went to John recieving water baptism and confessing their sins.
It is very, very important to understand that water baptism was NOT something new to the Hebrew people at the time of John’s ministry and that it had NOTHING to do with Christianity. Water baptism was an ancient Hebrew tradition according to their divine law. Water baptism was always required of a Jew before he/she could enter into ANY kind of religious ceremony or service , for example, in order to enter into the tabernacle (or temple) to pray, offer sacrifice or confess sins, all Jews were required to receive some form of water baptism, or washing. It was used to ceremonially bathe away the external filth of the earth. This can be easily confirmed by a brief study of Jewish religious history. I recommend reading the thoughts of Maimonedes, a 12th century Jewish scholar.
Water baptism did not then, nor does it now have anything to do with washing away sins. Those who approached John for water baptism were simply following old Hebrew law and tradition by cleaning their bodies and preparing themselves to confess their sins before God.~
This subject will be further discussed as theses lessons progress.
“Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.”
The first biblical application of the transliterated word “baptize” appears here in today’s quote. “Baptize” is an English word that was transliterated from, or created to replace, the Greek word “baptizo”, (sometimes written as “baptidzo”).
According to the dictionary to transliterate is to; “write or print (a letter or word) using the closest corresponding letters of a different alphabet or language”. In this example “baptize” is a newly created English word that replaces the original Greek word, “baptizo” as it was applied in the Greek version of today’s quote.
Transliteration simply carries forth the sound of the original word, it DOES NOT carry forth the explicit meaning or intent of the original word. It is very important to remember this as these lessons continue.
Today’s quote relates that many Jews throughout the region of Judea went to John recieving water baptism and confessing their sins.
It is very, very important to understand that water baptism was NOT something new to the Hebrew people at the time of John’s ministry and that it had NOTHING to do with Christianity. Water baptism was an ancient Hebrew tradition according to their divine law. Water baptism was always required of a Jew before he/she could enter into ANY kind of religious ceremony or service , for example, in order to enter into the tabernacle (or temple) to pray, offer sacrifice or confess sins, all Jews were required to receive some form of water baptism, or washing. It was used to ceremonially bathe away the external filth of the earth. This can be easily confirmed by a brief study of Jewish religious history. I recommend reading the thoughts of Maimonedes, a 12th century Jewish scholar.
Water baptism did not then, nor does it now have anything to do with washing away sins. Those who approached John for water baptism were simply following old Hebrew law and tradition by cleaning their bodies and preparing themselves to confess their sins before God.~
This subject will be further discussed as theses lessons progress.
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
(Lesson 2277)(03-06-18) Matthew 3:1-4
“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.”
Today’s quote introduces John the Baptist. The lessons in this quote are very important to remember because they establish the ultimate purpose for John’s coming, which was; “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.”. John’s intended message was also clearly affirmed in the quote; “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”.
At this point it is also very important to recognize that John was a devout Jew and was fully bound to every element of the old Hebrew law. That is important to remember because in order to fully understand how John was to “Prepare ye the way of the Lord,” one must understand both his divine motives and methods. Understanding John’s motivation and methods will greatly help the bible student understand why John was so important to the establishment of Christianity. However, Christianity could not be established until after the death, burial, resurrection and ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is also important to make note that John was preaching repentance, he did NOT preach the fundamentals of Christianity. That will become clearer as these lessons progress.’
“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.”
Today’s quote introduces John the Baptist. The lessons in this quote are very important to remember because they establish the ultimate purpose for John’s coming, which was; “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.”. John’s intended message was also clearly affirmed in the quote; “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”.
At this point it is also very important to recognize that John was a devout Jew and was fully bound to every element of the old Hebrew law. That is important to remember because in order to fully understand how John was to “Prepare ye the way of the Lord,” one must understand both his divine motives and methods. Understanding John’s motivation and methods will greatly help the bible student understand why John was so important to the establishment of Christianity. However, Christianity could not be established until after the death, burial, resurrection and ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is also important to make note that John was preaching repentance, he did NOT preach the fundamentals of Christianity. That will become clearer as these lessons progress.’
Monday, March 5, 2018
Lesson 2276
(Lesson 2276)(03-05-18) Matthew 2:19-23
But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.”
Today’s quote tells us that after the appearance of the angel who gave Joseph the all clear concerning Herod, Joseph brought Jesus out of Egypt and back to Israel. However, rather than returning to Jerusalem, Joseph took Jesus and His family to live in Nazareth, fulfilling yet another Old Testament prophecy.~
But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.”
Today’s quote tells us that after the appearance of the angel who gave Joseph the all clear concerning Herod, Joseph brought Jesus out of Egypt and back to Israel. However, rather than returning to Jerusalem, Joseph took Jesus and His family to live in Nazareth, fulfilling yet another Old Testament prophecy.~
Sunday, March 4, 2018
Lesson 2275
(Lesson 2275)(03-04-18) Matthew 2:11-18
“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.”
In the first part of today’s quote, the wise men, suspecting Herod’s treachery, left after giving their gifts and worshiping Jesus, and returned home avoiding Herod.
An angel of the Lord warned Joseph to take Jesus into Egypt to escape the wrath of Herod where he stayed until Herod had died.
The actions of the wise men so infuriated Herod that he killed all the babies under two years old. We should note that all the actions mentioned in today’s quote fulfilled prophesies that had been made years and years before. ~
“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.”
In the first part of today’s quote, the wise men, suspecting Herod’s treachery, left after giving their gifts and worshiping Jesus, and returned home avoiding Herod.
An angel of the Lord warned Joseph to take Jesus into Egypt to escape the wrath of Herod where he stayed until Herod had died.
The actions of the wise men so infuriated Herod that he killed all the babies under two years old. We should note that all the actions mentioned in today’s quote fulfilled prophesies that had been made years and years before. ~
Saturday, March 3, 2018
Lesson 2274
(Lesson 2274)(03-03-18) Matthew 2:1-10
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.”
Today’s quote relates the coming of the magi, or “wise men”, who, following the guidance of the Eastern Star had come to bring gifts and to worship our Lord Jesus at His birth. The wise men are historically recorded as having come from either Persia (Iran) or Babylon (Iraq).
The quote also relates the beginning of king Herod’s efforts to kill Jesus whom he feared.~
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.”
Today’s quote relates the coming of the magi, or “wise men”, who, following the guidance of the Eastern Star had come to bring gifts and to worship our Lord Jesus at His birth. The wise men are historically recorded as having come from either Persia (Iran) or Babylon (Iraq).
The quote also relates the beginning of king Herod’s efforts to kill Jesus whom he feared.~
Friday, March 2, 2018
Lesson 2273
(Lesson 2273)(03-02-18) Matthew 1:18-25
“Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Today’s quote relates the virgin Mary’s miraculous conception of our Lord Jesus. It also marks the beginning of our means to eternal salvation. Jesus, God in the flesh concieved that day, would become a perfect sacrifice for the sins of all those who will place their faith in Him. What a glorious announcement. Praise God for his amazing grace.~
“Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Today’s quote relates the virgin Mary’s miraculous conception of our Lord Jesus. It also marks the beginning of our means to eternal salvation. Jesus, God in the flesh concieved that day, would become a perfect sacrifice for the sins of all those who will place their faith in Him. What a glorious announcement. Praise God for his amazing grace.~
Thursday, March 1, 2018
Lesson 2272
(Lesson 2272)(03-01-18) Matthew 1:1-17
“The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias; And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations.”
Today’s quote contains all the generations of mankind from Adam to Jesus. Knowledge of this lineage is very important because it confirms and gives chronological creedence to many elements of both the Old and New Testaments and provides steadfast and confirmed reference points.~
“The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias; And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations.”
Today’s quote contains all the generations of mankind from Adam to Jesus. Knowledge of this lineage is very important because it confirms and gives chronological creedence to many elements of both the Old and New Testaments and provides steadfast and confirmed reference points.~
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