(Lesson 2360)(05-31-18) Matthew 20:1-16
“ For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, And said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive. So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny. And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house, Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day. But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny? Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good? So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.”
The lesson to be learned from today’s quote is that the last to enter into the kingdom of God are just as important as was the first.~
Thursday, May 31, 2018
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
(Lesson 2359)(05-30-18) Matthew 19:16-30
“And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.”
In my opinion, today’s lesson is one of the most important that can be found in the New Testament. Therein, Jesus made it clear that one can only enter into heaven if that one is perfect and completely without sin. The looming question is, how do we achieve that required perfection if there is, “none good but one, that is, but God”?
(NOTE: Before continuing with this commentary, it is best to remember that at the time Jesus made the above remarks, the Law of Moses was still in full effect and would remain so until Jesus had completed His divine mission to be a sacrifice for ALL the sins of those who would choose to believe in Him.)
The reason Jesus quoted the rules of the old law to the young rich man, was because the young man was a Jew still bound by the Law of Moses. At that time, the ONLY means by which one could achieve perfection, under the law, was to live it. However, after Jesus had completed His divine mission and remitted the sins of all who beleived in Him, perfection is achieved by faith in Him. By faith we are made perfect before God because of the perfection of Jesus Christ imputed to us through faith.
In order to be perfect in the eyes of the Father, the children of God are no longer required to live above sin, seeing that Jesus died to “justify” our sins.~
“And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.”
In my opinion, today’s lesson is one of the most important that can be found in the New Testament. Therein, Jesus made it clear that one can only enter into heaven if that one is perfect and completely without sin. The looming question is, how do we achieve that required perfection if there is, “none good but one, that is, but God”?
(NOTE: Before continuing with this commentary, it is best to remember that at the time Jesus made the above remarks, the Law of Moses was still in full effect and would remain so until Jesus had completed His divine mission to be a sacrifice for ALL the sins of those who would choose to believe in Him.)
The reason Jesus quoted the rules of the old law to the young rich man, was because the young man was a Jew still bound by the Law of Moses. At that time, the ONLY means by which one could achieve perfection, under the law, was to live it. However, after Jesus had completed His divine mission and remitted the sins of all who beleived in Him, perfection is achieved by faith in Him. By faith we are made perfect before God because of the perfection of Jesus Christ imputed to us through faith.
In order to be perfect in the eyes of the Father, the children of God are no longer required to live above sin, seeing that Jesus died to “justify” our sins.~
Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Lesson 2358
(Lesson 2358)(05-29-18) Matthew 19:13-15
“Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.”
Today’s lesson tells us that we are not the determiners of what age a child is capable of deciding to chose Jesus as eternal savior. If a child is capable of making a profession of faith and does so willingly, that child is to be considered a brother/sister in Christ. ~
“Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.”
Today’s lesson tells us that we are not the determiners of what age a child is capable of deciding to chose Jesus as eternal savior. If a child is capable of making a profession of faith and does so willingly, that child is to be considered a brother/sister in Christ. ~
Monday, May 28, 2018
Lesson 2357
(Lesson 2357)(05-28-18) Matthew 19:1-12
“And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan; And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there. The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery. His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry. But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus explained the rules of the law concerning divorce and how Moses had altered those rules for the Jews because the people demanded it.
It is very important to note that when a man and woman are married in the sight of God, they are no longer two seperate people, but rather, when married, they become one individual. Today, it seems that even Christian people have forgotten that very important fact.
In 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, Paul explained how Christian people are to approach divorce; “Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is NOT to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is NOT to divorce his wife.”
Sadly, that rule is pretty much ignored in today’s “Christian” society.~
“And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan; And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there. The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery. His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry. But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus explained the rules of the law concerning divorce and how Moses had altered those rules for the Jews because the people demanded it.
It is very important to note that when a man and woman are married in the sight of God, they are no longer two seperate people, but rather, when married, they become one individual. Today, it seems that even Christian people have forgotten that very important fact.
In 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, Paul explained how Christian people are to approach divorce; “Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is NOT to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is NOT to divorce his wife.”
Sadly, that rule is pretty much ignored in today’s “Christian” society.~
Thursday, May 24, 2018
Lesson 2356
(Lesson 2356)(05-24-18) Matthew 18:21-35
“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus made it perfectly clear that the children of God are to forgive any brother or sister in Christ, no matter what the offense, or debt.~
NOTE: For the next few days, I will be vacationing .an area where there is no telephone or internet service. Therefore, I will be unable to post the daily lesson. I am very sorry for the interruption and will do everything I can to make it up to you.
The next lesson should be posted by Monday May 28. Again, sorry for the inconvenience.
~~~Austin~~~
“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus made it perfectly clear that the children of God are to forgive any brother or sister in Christ, no matter what the offense, or debt.~
NOTE: For the next few days, I will be vacationing .an area where there is no telephone or internet service. Therefore, I will be unable to post the daily lesson. I am very sorry for the interruption and will do everything I can to make it up to you.
The next lesson should be posted by Monday May 28. Again, sorry for the inconvenience.
~~~Austin~~~
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Lesson 2355
(Lesson 2355)(05-23-18) Matthew 18:19-20
“Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
Today’s lesson assures the children of God that if as many as two assemble themselves in the name of Jesus Christ, they are considered an “assembly” in the sight if God. The full power of the church is thereby given to so few as two members who have come together to do the work of Jesus Christ.
This lesson lays to rest the common misunderstanding that it is encumbent on every church member to take part in every pre-determined assembly.
I believe that, to best represent the cause Jesus Christ, one must go to where the sinners are. It does little good for the cause of Christ to sit in a crowded assembly just for the sake of being there.~
“Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
Today’s lesson assures the children of God that if as many as two assemble themselves in the name of Jesus Christ, they are considered an “assembly” in the sight if God. The full power of the church is thereby given to so few as two members who have come together to do the work of Jesus Christ.
This lesson lays to rest the common misunderstanding that it is encumbent on every church member to take part in every pre-determined assembly.
I believe that, to best represent the cause Jesus Christ, one must go to where the sinners are. It does little good for the cause of Christ to sit in a crowded assembly just for the sake of being there.~
Tuesday, May 22, 2018
Lesson 2354
(Lesson 2354)(05-22-18) Matthew 18:15-18
“ Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
In today’s quote, Jesus gave His instructions as to how the apostles were to settle disputes among themselves. A child of God is to first approach his/her offender to try and gain restitution. If that fails he/she is to take witnesses to confront the offending brother/sister, if that fails the issue is to be turned over to the body of the church. If that fails the offender is to be cast out of the church to face God's wrath.
It seems that today’s churches ignore these instructions for the most part, and allow small issues to fester to the point of, in some instances, the disassembly of the church as a purposefully functioning body.~
“ Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
In today’s quote, Jesus gave His instructions as to how the apostles were to settle disputes among themselves. A child of God is to first approach his/her offender to try and gain restitution. If that fails he/she is to take witnesses to confront the offending brother/sister, if that fails the issue is to be turned over to the body of the church. If that fails the offender is to be cast out of the church to face God's wrath.
It seems that today’s churches ignore these instructions for the most part, and allow small issues to fester to the point of, in some instances, the disassembly of the church as a purposefully functioning body.~
Monday, May 21, 2018
(Lesson 2353)(05-21-18) Matthew 18:12-14
“How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.”
In today’s quote Jesus made it clear that a brother or sister who has strayed from the church, but has come back home, is more important that those who never left.~
“How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.”
In today’s quote Jesus made it clear that a brother or sister who has strayed from the church, but has come back home, is more important that those who never left.~
Sunday, May 20, 2018
Lesson 2352
(Lesson 2352)(05-20-18) Matthew 18:8-11
“Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.”
In today’s quote, in essence, Jesus advised His disciples to do away with everything that might stand between them and thier acceptance of God’s saving grace. Jesus also warned that to stand between anyone, (“one of these little ones”), and God’s saving grace is also a damnable offence.~
“Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.”
In today’s quote, in essence, Jesus advised His disciples to do away with everything that might stand between them and thier acceptance of God’s saving grace. Jesus also warned that to stand between anyone, (“one of these little ones”), and God’s saving grace is also a damnable offence.~
Saturday, May 19, 2018
Lesson 2351
(Lesson 2351)(05-19-18) Matthew 18:7
“Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!”
In today’s quote, Jesus warned His disciples of attempted *“offences” (Stumbling blocks, or entrapments) that are sure to come. Jesus knew that His followers would come into all kinds of danger and would be tricked and humiliated as they advanced His message and cause.~
*Strong’s bible dictionary defines the word “offences”, as it is applied in today’s quote, as; stumbling blocks, barriers, or traps.
“Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!”
In today’s quote, Jesus warned His disciples of attempted *“offences” (Stumbling blocks, or entrapments) that are sure to come. Jesus knew that His followers would come into all kinds of danger and would be tricked and humiliated as they advanced His message and cause.~
*Strong’s bible dictionary defines the word “offences”, as it is applied in today’s quote, as; stumbling blocks, barriers, or traps.
Friday, May 18, 2018
Lesson 2350
(Lesson 2350)(05-18-18) Matthew 18:1-
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”
When Jesus was asked “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heave?”, He assured His disciples that the most humble would be the greatest.
Jesus described a new candidate for conversion to Christianity as one having thrown off all the vanity of the world, one who had assumed, by faith, the humility of a little child. Jesus then went further to warn that anyone who dared to interfere with one of those who had humbled themselves before God would face the unlimate wrath of God.~
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”
When Jesus was asked “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heave?”, He assured His disciples that the most humble would be the greatest.
Jesus described a new candidate for conversion to Christianity as one having thrown off all the vanity of the world, one who had assumed, by faith, the humility of a little child. Jesus then went further to warn that anyone who dared to interfere with one of those who had humbled themselves before God would face the unlimate wrath of God.~
Thursday, May 17, 2018
Lesson 2349
(Lesson 2349)(05-17-18) Matthew 17:22-27
“And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry. And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.”
Today’s lesson again relates how Jesus told His disciples that He would soon be given over to the Jews to be killed, and that He would rise from the grave on the third day to fulfill His divine mission to become a, one time fits all, sacrifice for the sins of all those who would come to believe in Him.
In the latter part of today’s quote, Jesus demonstrated that it was imcumbent on those from other lands to pay due taxes. By doing so, being a from Gallilee, Jesus disclosed that He was considered by His own people to be a stranger in His home land.~
“And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry. And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.”
Today’s lesson again relates how Jesus told His disciples that He would soon be given over to the Jews to be killed, and that He would rise from the grave on the third day to fulfill His divine mission to become a, one time fits all, sacrifice for the sins of all those who would come to believe in Him.
In the latter part of today’s quote, Jesus demonstrated that it was imcumbent on those from other lands to pay due taxes. By doing so, being a from Gallilee, Jesus disclosed that He was considered by His own people to be a stranger in His home land.~
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
Lesson 2348
(Lesson 2348)(05-16-18) Matthew 17:14-21
“And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”
Today’s lesson assures the children of God that if our faith remains strong, we have the power to move mountains, or heal the sick.
We are promised time and again troughout the New Testament that if we simply pray for anything truly believing that God will answer our prayers, we WILL receive what we pray for within God’s will, even to the point of changing the face of the earth.
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8)~
“And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”
Today’s lesson assures the children of God that if our faith remains strong, we have the power to move mountains, or heal the sick.
We are promised time and again troughout the New Testament that if we simply pray for anything truly believing that God will answer our prayers, we WILL receive what we pray for within God’s will, even to the point of changing the face of the earth.
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8)~
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
Lesson 2347
(Lesson 2347)(05-15-18) Matthew 17:10-13
“And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things. But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.”
In today’s quote, Jesus confirmed that John the Baptist was representative of, and an equal to Elias.~
“And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things. But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.”
In today’s quote, Jesus confirmed that John the Baptist was representative of, and an equal to Elias.~
Monday, May 14, 2018
Lesson 2346
(Lesson 2346)(05-14-18) Matthew 17:1-9
“And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.”
Today’s lesson tells us How Jesus and His disciples were called up with Moses and Elias to Hear God the Father confirm Jesus as His Son, and that the disciples (all of us) should accept Him and obey what He commanded.~
“And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.”
Today’s lesson tells us How Jesus and His disciples were called up with Moses and Elias to Hear God the Father confirm Jesus as His Son, and that the disciples (all of us) should accept Him and obey what He commanded.~
Sunday, May 13, 2018
Lesson 2345
(Lesson 2345)(05-13-18) Matthew 16:24-28
“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.”
It is very important that we make particular note of what is said in the first sentence of today’s quote. According to the quote, Jesus said; “take up thy cross”. It is important to know that the “cross” as it is applied in the quote, is defined in the bible dictionary as a “club”. Therefore, in essence, the quote, in English, would be ‘take up your club (or weapon) and follow me.’
The point that Jesus was making to his disciples, is that, they should arm themselves for what was ahead of them, and to be prepared for the long haul as they followed Him.
In the last part of the quote, Jesus assured His disciples that He would return to reward those who had proven, throught their efforts, to be worthy of Him.
It is also worthy of note that all good comes from Christ, therefore, being worthy of Christ is to have faith in Him to impute His righteousness.~
“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.”
It is very important that we make particular note of what is said in the first sentence of today’s quote. According to the quote, Jesus said; “take up thy cross”. It is important to know that the “cross” as it is applied in the quote, is defined in the bible dictionary as a “club”. Therefore, in essence, the quote, in English, would be ‘take up your club (or weapon) and follow me.’
The point that Jesus was making to his disciples, is that, they should arm themselves for what was ahead of them, and to be prepared for the long haul as they followed Him.
In the last part of the quote, Jesus assured His disciples that He would return to reward those who had proven, throught their efforts, to be worthy of Him.
It is also worthy of note that all good comes from Christ, therefore, being worthy of Christ is to have faith in Him to impute His righteousness.~
Saturday, May 12, 2018
Lesson 2344
(Lesson 2344)(05-12-18) Matthew 16:21-23
“ From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”
Todays lesson tells us how Jesus told His disciples that He would be taken and killed by the Jewish hierarchy, and that He would rise again on the third day to fulfill His divine mission to overcome sin for all of those who would come to put their faith in Him.
Hearing Jesus’ words, Peter, in essence, boisterously proclaimed that he would not allow that to happen, whereafter, Jesus scolded Peter, saying; “ Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”
It is very important to note that Peter, the man to whom Jesus referred as “Satan” is the same man that Jesus had, just a short time earlier, handed the “keys to the kingdom” and, the man to whom Roman Catholicism refers as the “Holy Father” of the church. Whereas, in truth, Peter was just a man, nothing more, nothing less. He was just a vessel, chosen by Jesus, to spread the good news of the coming of the savior. It is my belief that Jesus chose him as the first member of His church because Peter was the first to recognize Jesus as the Messiah, the only begotten Son of God. ~
“ From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”
Todays lesson tells us how Jesus told His disciples that He would be taken and killed by the Jewish hierarchy, and that He would rise again on the third day to fulfill His divine mission to overcome sin for all of those who would come to put their faith in Him.
Hearing Jesus’ words, Peter, in essence, boisterously proclaimed that he would not allow that to happen, whereafter, Jesus scolded Peter, saying; “ Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”
It is very important to note that Peter, the man to whom Jesus referred as “Satan” is the same man that Jesus had, just a short time earlier, handed the “keys to the kingdom” and, the man to whom Roman Catholicism refers as the “Holy Father” of the church. Whereas, in truth, Peter was just a man, nothing more, nothing less. He was just a vessel, chosen by Jesus, to spread the good news of the coming of the savior. It is my belief that Jesus chose him as the first member of His church because Peter was the first to recognize Jesus as the Messiah, the only begotten Son of God. ~
Friday, May 11, 2018
Lesson 2343
(Lesson 2343)(05-11-18) Matthew 16:13-20
“When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.”
Today’s lesson tells us that, after Peter told Jesus that He was indeed the Messiah, the Son of God, Jesus said, “thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” By making that statement, Jesus made Peter the first member of His (Jesus’) church and granted Peter the power to increase or decrease the membership.
At this point it behooves us to remember that at the time Jesus made that statement, all of the Jews (With the exception of the apostles) were still subject to the rules of the old Hebrew law binding them to the obedience of it.
After Jesus had ascended back to heaven completing His divine mission as the ultimate sin remitter, All the rules concerning the church, as we see in the acts of the apostles”, would change, granting all authority over earthly control of the church to it’s membership.
Roman Catholicism bases the majority of it’s erroneous contention that the pope, bishops and priests have the authority to forgive sin on what is said in today’s lesson. It is so horribly sad that so many lost souls have fallen victim that that wholly false contention.~
“When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.”
Today’s lesson tells us that, after Peter told Jesus that He was indeed the Messiah, the Son of God, Jesus said, “thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” By making that statement, Jesus made Peter the first member of His (Jesus’) church and granted Peter the power to increase or decrease the membership.
At this point it behooves us to remember that at the time Jesus made that statement, all of the Jews (With the exception of the apostles) were still subject to the rules of the old Hebrew law binding them to the obedience of it.
After Jesus had ascended back to heaven completing His divine mission as the ultimate sin remitter, All the rules concerning the church, as we see in the acts of the apostles”, would change, granting all authority over earthly control of the church to it’s membership.
Roman Catholicism bases the majority of it’s erroneous contention that the pope, bishops and priests have the authority to forgive sin on what is said in today’s lesson. It is so horribly sad that so many lost souls have fallen victim that that wholly false contention.~
Thursday, May 10, 2018
Lesson 2342
(Lesson 2342)(05-10-18) Matthew 16:5-12
“And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus warned His apostles that the Pharisees and Sadducees (Jewish hierarchy) would do everyhing in their power to distort and destroy the new law of salvation by grace through faith.
Today, in almost every set of religious tenets, the pure, original gospel of Jesus has been so distorted so as to be almost un-recognizable. Modern churches spend more time with totally unscriptural pomp and ritual than they do with the spreading the good news of the amazing grace of God. Therefore, this lesson is just as important to the children of God today as it was when Jesus taught it.~
“And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus warned His apostles that the Pharisees and Sadducees (Jewish hierarchy) would do everyhing in their power to distort and destroy the new law of salvation by grace through faith.
Today, in almost every set of religious tenets, the pure, original gospel of Jesus has been so distorted so as to be almost un-recognizable. Modern churches spend more time with totally unscriptural pomp and ritual than they do with the spreading the good news of the amazing grace of God. Therefore, this lesson is just as important to the children of God today as it was when Jesus taught it.~
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Lessonn 2341
(Lesson 2341)(05-09-18) Matthew 16:1-4
“The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.”
Again, in today’s lesson, Jesus rediculed the Pharisees and Sadducees, (The leaders of the two most prominent sects of the Jews), because of their hypocrisy and total lace of understanding.~
“The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.”
Again, in today’s lesson, Jesus rediculed the Pharisees and Sadducees, (The leaders of the two most prominent sects of the Jews), because of their hypocrisy and total lace of understanding.~
Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Lesson 2340
(Lesson 2340)(05-08-18) Matthew 15:29-39
And Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto the sea of Galilee; and went up into a mountain, and sat down there. And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet; and he healed them: Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel. Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way. And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude? And Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes. And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground. And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full. And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children. And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.”
In today’s quote, Jesus again healed many sick, lame and possessed people. He also performed another miracle by again feeding a mass of people with just a little bread and a few fishes.
If our faith were to be as strong as that of Jesus, we too could perform those miracles. “And
WHATSOEVER ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you shall ask anything in my mane, I will do it. (John 14:13-14)~
And Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto the sea of Galilee; and went up into a mountain, and sat down there. And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet; and he healed them: Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel. Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way. And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude? And Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes. And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground. And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full. And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children. And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.”
In today’s quote, Jesus again healed many sick, lame and possessed people. He also performed another miracle by again feeding a mass of people with just a little bread and a few fishes.
If our faith were to be as strong as that of Jesus, we too could perform those miracles. “And
WHATSOEVER ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you shall ask anything in my mane, I will do it. (John 14:13-14)~
Sunday, May 6, 2018
Lesson 2338
(Lesson 2338)(05-06-18) Matthew 15:1-20
“Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable. And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus exposed the Scribes and Pharisees for the hypocrites they really were.
They claimed righteousness on the trivial things while being wholly disobedient on the things that really mattered.
Sadly, the “Christian” world is full of just such hypocrites today. While living by the easy rules and ignoring those that truly matter.
If all those who claim to bear the cross of Christ would actually bear it, what a wonderful world this would be. ~
“Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable. And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.”
In today’s lesson, Jesus exposed the Scribes and Pharisees for the hypocrites they really were.
They claimed righteousness on the trivial things while being wholly disobedient on the things that really mattered.
Sadly, the “Christian” world is full of just such hypocrites today. While living by the easy rules and ignoring those that truly matter.
If all those who claim to bear the cross of Christ would actually bear it, what a wonderful world this would be. ~
Saturday, May 5, 2018
Lesson 2337
Lesson 2337)(05-04-18) Matthew 14:34-36
“And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret. And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased; And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.”
Today’s lesson demonstrates the awesome power of Jesus Christ as He healed the multitudes, because of their faith, simply by allowing them to touch His clothes. ~
“And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret. And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased; And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.”
Today’s lesson demonstrates the awesome power of Jesus Christ as He healed the multitudes, because of their faith, simply by allowing them to touch His clothes. ~
Friday, May 4, 2018
Lesson 2336
(Lesson 2336)(05-04-18) Matthew 14:22-33
“And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.”
In today’s lesson, we learn that when Jesus called Peter to walk on the water, and when Peter’s faith began to give way, causing him to begin to sink, Jesus reached out His hand and pulled Peter to safety.
That is a great lesson for those of us today who are saved yet, in spite of our best intentions, still, inevitably, allow our faith to waver. When this happens, as Jesus demonstrated with Peter, He will reach out and redeem us from our own weak faith by pulling us back to the security of His promise to the believer. What a powerful blessing. To God be the glory!~
“And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.”
In today’s lesson, we learn that when Jesus called Peter to walk on the water, and when Peter’s faith began to give way, causing him to begin to sink, Jesus reached out His hand and pulled Peter to safety.
That is a great lesson for those of us today who are saved yet, in spite of our best intentions, still, inevitably, allow our faith to waver. When this happens, as Jesus demonstrated with Peter, He will reach out and redeem us from our own weak faith by pulling us back to the security of His promise to the believer. What a powerful blessing. To God be the glory!~
Thursday, May 3, 2018
Lesson 2335
(Lesson 2335)(05-03-18) Matthew 14:13-21
“When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities. And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals. But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes. He said, Bring them hither to me. And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.”
In today’s quote, Jesus performed the amazing miracle of the “five loaves and two fishes” through which He fed five thousand people and had much food left over. ~
“When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities. And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals. But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes. He said, Bring them hither to me. And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.”
In today’s quote, Jesus performed the amazing miracle of the “five loaves and two fishes” through which He fed five thousand people and had much food left over. ~
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
Lesson 2334
(Lesson 2334)(05-02-18) Matthew 14:1-12
“At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask. And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's head in a charger. And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother. And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.”
Today’s lesson relates how Herod came to kill John the Baptist and how Jesus reacted to the news.~
“At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask. And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's head in a charger. And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother. And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.”
Today’s lesson relates how Herod came to kill John the Baptist and how Jesus reacted to the news.~
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Lesson 2333
(Lesson 2333)(05-01-18) Matthew 13:53-58
“And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed thence. And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.”
Today’s lesson tells us that when, after performing many miracles and teaching God’s word, Jesus returned to His own homeland. There the people whom He had known, all of His life, rejected His teaching causing Him to leave them again in their unbelief.~
“And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed thence. And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.”
Today’s lesson tells us that when, after performing many miracles and teaching God’s word, Jesus returned to His own homeland. There the people whom He had known, all of His life, rejected His teaching causing Him to leave them again in their unbelief.~
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