The Mountain Audio: Recent Episodes
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Our verse: Eze 22:30 “So I looked for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before me..”
In this verse,God is looking for a person who will pray for others: others in need, others in trouble. The same is true in 2019.. God is looking for people who will pray.
Let's get down to the nitty gritty of learning this prayer skill! You have gained the courage to ask the question! “Can I pray for you?” or “Can I say a prayer for you?”
The server in the restaurant says, “Yeah, I'd like you to pray.” Now what you do?!
Some people will naturally be able to pray. Others will struggle wondering “how do I pray in public?”
Here are a few tips:
Realize that God has brought this person to you! This will give you confidence to pray. You are now the intercessor! What's that? That's a person who stands between God and one of His creatures. That's us! God is right there with you and the server in the restaurant. Some people's connection with God is damaged or completely severed. He sends you and me to help reestablish the God/creature connection. You use your connection, your faith in God, to help your new friend get reconnected to God! We have an example of this in the Old Testament book of Job. He cried out- “Oh that someone would hear me!” Job wished for an intercessor!
In our last episode, we talked about listening to and watching the people we meet. As you listen and watch you will know what to say. The Holy Spirit, God's invisible everywhere presence, will guide you to the right words.
Here's how it might go. First, be sensitive to the situation. If the person is working, be careful not to get them in trouble. Your prayer may be short and sweet. Maybe something like this:
“Lord, thank you for my new friend Aaron (or Meghan) Help him with... (put here what he asked you to pray for- work, health, finances relationships) God, be close to Aaron and help him come close to You, in Jesus' name, Amen.
It doesn't have to be a complicated or formal prayer. Relax and talk to God for your new friend! The best part of all this? You get better and better the more you practice. Start today. Give it a try. Ask the next person that crosses your path one of our 2 questions- Can I pray for you? or Can I say a prayer for you?
You, like our other Mountain friends, will be amazed at the results. You step out in faith and God shows up! As you practice and improve your technique, you will have great stories! Go to the Mountain link above- Click “Ask a Question” under the More tab and let us know what happened. We will share your stories right here on the Mountain.
Here's our prayer for you- Lord, bless our Mountain friends with courage and wisdom as they meet new friends and bring them to You in prayer. Amen!
Extra Resource Verses about intercession:
Isa 59:16 And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.
Job 31:35 Oh that one would hear me! behold, my desire is, that the Almighty would answer me
Ezekiel 22:30 So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one.”
And the best Bible verse about intercession:
Heb 7:25 (Jesus) is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because he always lives to intercede for them. God bless you as you pray for precious souls! The Mountain Team
Our Verse: Romans 12:12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
What if you had an almost magical device to help people wherever you went? You could change people and nations.
Here's a statistic to explain this unique social device: A Mountain Podcast friend has been doing an experiment for over 15 years. The results will surprise you.
Here's the experiment: Ask any person, no matter where they are, no matter who they are- one of these two questions:
“Can I pray for you?” or “Can I say a prayer for you?”
Over the years our friend has a 98% positive response! People just say Yes! Almost everyone wants to pray.
If few say “No” to prayer, we have an amazing opportunity. We can bring a huge number of people to God for His help. He listens regardless of the spiritual state of the person you're asking to pray.
So the BIG Question is- why isn't EVERYONE asking those around them to pray? Sadly it's fear and uncertainty. Most of us fear rejection! Happily it's a fear you can overcome!
So... let's find the path to overcoming that fear so you can start asking!
First, see the needs of the people around you. Look at and listen to those you meet. Be observant. You will see people full of fear and uncertainty. You'll see it in their eyes and hear it in their words. Us Jesus followers should be professional observers of human behavior. This is the meaning of empathy, feeling what others feel and responding with kindness.
Second, recognize the willingness of people to talk to God with a little help! You have a target rich prayer environment everywhere you go.
Third and most important is Practice! Just strike up a conversation and ask! Here are the two questions again:
“Can I pray for you?” or “Can I say a prayer for you?
Every time you ask... you get bolder. In time, it will be natural to ask, and the results will surprise and amaze you. People will open their lives to you. You will shake your head as you walk away. This is the Holy Spirit opening needy hearts right before your eyes! You'll smile!
You'll note we suggest 2 different questions as your tools. Why not just one?
Here's why: Some you meet come from a more formal tradition of prayer and church life. They are used to someone reciting prayers to communicate with God. Often this is done with great respect. Most of these people are comfortable with you saying a prayer for them. You can respect their tradition and “say a prayer”.
Others have been exposed to a more informal environment with God and His people. These new friends will be more comfortable with the idea of “praying”. They are less likely to be defensive when you ask “Can I pray for you?”
The more you practice these conversations, the more you will know which question works best. Find common ground through your work, social connections or family and God will lead you to the right question.
In summary: Be an people watcher. You will feel their needs and want to help. You will naturally be more friendly! Almost everyone WANTS prayer. Assume this when you meet people. And finally, practice! Write down the 2 questions until you have them memorized. The more you do it the easier it gets.
God will give you courage and you will help many hurting people! Start asking today and let us know what happens- Go to the Mountain link above- Click “Ask a Question” under the More tab.
Next episode... a little advice about how and what to pray after you ask the question!
Note: Pastor Kevin Miller's link above is a 5 part sensational series on the Lord's Prayer. It will revolutionize your prayer life! Enjoy!
Our verse again: Psalm 23:4 “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, You are close beside me.”
This episode is a continuation of our “Heroes” series. These concepts are echoed in an earlier episode, “Hot test”. This time we go a little deeper in discussing the dark difficult places Christians must go. We call it the “Dark Night of the Soul”.
God is training His children to do heroic works. Because He cared about a world in crisis, He prepared a worldwide rescue mission for humanity. Part one of this mission was sending Jesus into the world to die as a substitute for man's sins. Part two of the mission involves all Jesus' followers. We are prepped and sent out with the news that God is willing to forgive and restore all people to Himself. But...Part two is tough, sometimes impossible. Many are unwilling to receive, and many are angry at God. So...God builds His messengers tough to reach a tough crowd. One of His training tools is the “Dark Night”.
The “dark night” means a time of sorrow, danger and uncertainty in your life. Great troubles can accomplish great things in us. While hard to experience, troubles deepen our trust in God, they make us stronger in hardship. Troubles allowed by God make His servants tough and obedient.
Moses is an example of this process. As an infant, he was abandoned at river's edge by his mother. She hoped he would survive. What happened was better than she could have imagined. He became a prince! Adopted into the royal family of Egypt. He experienced wealth and privilege inside the most powerful empire on earth. But... then...everything changed! He murdered a man and had to flee. From wealth and prestige to lonely fugitive in the desert. God sent Moses solitude and poverty to prepare him for great work. After forty years of this humble life, God called Moses. From that training time forward he experienced brutal tests and eventually became leader of over a million people. God toughened him, then gave him heroic work...all in God's perfect time. (Note: He was 80 years old when he became leader! Full story Exodus 1-20)
It will similar for us. We will suffer troubles as God prepares us. Some of those troubles will appear unbearable. They may seem never to end. But... be brave! Trust God in your troubles! They will be completed in God's perfect time and you will walk without doubt into your work helping people get home to their Creator. This is one of the deep meanings of Romans 8:28, “God works all things together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.”
You don't have to be a Prince to be called by God...You can be just a regular man, woman, boy or girl. Your call from God, your work, is not based on your talents, but rather on God's call. There's a sad world all around crying out for love, We are being sent to help.
Your “dark night of the soul” will become a bright light in the world. You will help many people be warmed and healed by that light. Walk strong and true. Be patient and God will bring these things to pass.
Our Verse: 2 Chron 16:9 “God is searching everywhere for strong hearts to use!”
Ironman is down! Crushed, burnt, struggling to lift a steel girder off his chest. Is all lost? We all know what happens, even if we are watching the movie for the first time. He will draw on incredible reserves and win the day! Go Hero!
Our world desperately needs heroes. Thats why superhero movies make millions... we want heroes, determined people who face any challenge and say, “Come on! Let's do it!”
2019 is a wild scary ride. It's blasting us into an uncertain future. There are huge changes ahead for all. God is looking for courageous men and women willing to do the hardest things to help people and change the world.
Could you be one of those desperately needed heroes! Are you ready to consider what it might take to become a genuine hero?
First let's define what a true hero is and what a true hero does.
A hero is a person, facing immense challenge, who suffers and even risks death to accomplish the task, the goal, no matter how difficult. Heroes can reach deeper then seems possible. They have an indefinable something inside that makes them keep going.
Are you up for it? Are you willing to face insurmountable difficulty...and try anyway? If you can say yes, or even maybe, you are a candidate to be a hero.
You say, “OK, Jim, I think maybe God would let me do heroic work. How do I start? We have those details in Part 2 of Heroes 2019!
Correction- That verse is 2 Chron. 16:9! Here it is from NLT- “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong (for those) whose heart is perfect toward him.”
Our Verse: Happy are the people whose God is the Lord. Psa 144
What could make your new year the best ever? Most would say, and I think you would too, “I'd just like to be happy.”
News and events don't help...Politics, war, storms, family crises, money problems- all these things work against happiness. The world is full of problems large and small and/ you and I have to live with them. So, is it possible to find True Happiness... and how can you find it this year?
There are lots of opinions on what happiness is, so we need a definition. Here it is- “Your personal life state when your head and heart are at peace and satisfied with life, the good and the bad.”
Thus the question- Can I get peace and satisfaction?
A wise man once said “..people try to invent some sort of happiness for themselves apart from God.”
The plain Truth is... we've been sold a lie, an invention. Society and digital culture tell us “things” make us happy. That's all the stuff on the outside. Stuff you do- activities... and stuff you own. None of it brings lasting happiness. The biggest coolest trophy becomes junk, and our deeds are forgotten.
So, if happiness doesn't come from activities, people and stuff, where does it come from?
The only way to true peace, satisfaction and happiness is to know the source of happiness- the Prince of Peace. God the Father describes His Son as “Wonderful Counselor... Prince of Peace. Jesus is the source of happiness!
God designed us to only find peace when connected to Him. Disconnected from God (Christian or not!) means no peace, no happiness. When we creatures connect with our Creator, peace comes, even in a world full of stress and trouble.
Jesus, the Prince of Peace said this: “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give you is a gift the world cannot give.” John 14:27 Catch Part 2- practical tips for happiness in 2018 ... On the Mountain!
Once more our verse- Happy (blessed) are people whose God is the Lord. Psa 144:15
Check out the great quotes below. Second half of 2018 can be your best time ever!
Things that don't give lasting happiness- Human relationships, fame, academics, physical stimulation, chemicals, conquest, adventures- trekking tall mountains & diving the deepest sea.
C S Lewis: “And out of that hopeless attempt (to find happiness) has come nearly all that we call human history—money, poverty, ambition, war, prostitution, classes, empires, slavery—the long terrible story of man trying to find something other than God which will make him happy. God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing.”
Our Scripture: Romans 8:20 “The creation (mankind) was subjected to futility (emptiness).”
The famous philosopher and physicist Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) said, “There is a God shaped vacuum in the heart of every man which cannot be filled by any created thing, but only by God, the Creator, made known through Jesus”
Pascal was born to a life of privilege in his native France. As a brilliant mathematician in the 1600's, he defined amazing mathematical systems. He invented the first calculating device and established the first trolley system in Paris! Even with his great intellect, he was unable to find peace. At age 31, he encountered Jesus and became a vibrant Christian and defender of the Bible. He found real fulfillment and satisfaction through knowing God.
Pascal helps us understand that something is missing inside us, what he called a “God-shaped vacuum”. People try many things to fill this empty spot in their souls. Whatever you own, wear or put inside you will eventually leave you unsatisfied and unfulfilled. This is not an accident, but a plan by our Creator to reach our hearts.
Remember our verse? “The creation was subjected to futility- emptiness.” The Creation- thats all of us, were given this empty spot in our souls for a reason. He desires, He hopes that people will reach out to Him to fill their hearts- fulFILLment. The Lord Jesus in our hearts, no more God-shaped vacuum! Our hearts will be full!
Do you feel it? An emptiness inside? No fulfillment? Only total trust in Jesus can fill the hole in your soul!
Our Verse: John 14:12 “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works...”
Last episode we learned about First and Second Wave servants of God. Meet First Wave servant Lillian Trasher. In 1910, as a young woman, she went to a totally new field, southern Egypt. A scary place for westerners, and you won't believe what happened.
Our current series describes a improved version of you that can change the world. World changers can change people on the inside, and change the physical world for the good of all. (See RG LeTourneau link). Jesus describes a person that will do greater things than He did on the earth. Our contention... you may be that person! We have offered a couple male examples, now we present a woman who changed the world. With love, compassion and grinding hard work, she changed the face of Egypt.
Egypt has always been a difficult place to live. Because of this, thousands of children are orphaned to the streets. When Lillian discovered this human tragedy, she prayed. God sent her to help.
She suffered poverty, roadblocks, even expulsion. But she hung tough and over time, she helped house, clothe and educate thousands of kids.
She also inspired Egyptian women to help her. One of those was Camellia. She collected funds for Miss Lillian's work. Later, Camellia's daughter and granddaughter served in Egypt. Miss Lillian's work inspired 3 generations of Egyptian women! And...affected at least 10000 Egyptian children! Lillian Trasher, a true world changer!
Man or woman, old or young, you can do the same.
Don't miss the stories of Chuck Smith and RG LeTourneau, also World Changers. Others are ahead in future episodes. Stand by!
Bonus Material: The Mountain Team has regular interaction with the Egyptian folks mentioned above. They are truly amazing workers for Jesus. Miss Lillian would be proud!
Excerpt from “Lillian Trasher: The Greatest Treasure in Egypt” "When Lillian Trasher founded Egypt's first orphanage, others thought that a lone American woman with no means of support would surely be killed or starve to death. But Lillian - certain of God's guidance - stood by her earlier promise to Him, 'If ever I can do anything for You, just let me know - and I'll do it.' In the midst of poverty, war, and deadly epidemics, Lillian faced each day with a heart of trust, modeling the life she hoped her children would someday live in their own homes. During fifty tumultuous years, the Mother of the Nile cared for thousands of desperate children, with unwavering faith that God does indeed look after the orphans!”
June 2018 Challenge- Adopt Lillian's powerful promise- “Lord, if ever I can do anything for You, just let me know and I'll do it.”
Our Verse: Acts 18:27- Apollos thought about going to Greece, and the Christians in Ephesus encouraged him.
Let's consider what we call the Second Wave**. It's an idea that could inspire you to change the world.
First, let's explain the First Wave*- that's someone like the apostle Paul visiting Greece as the very first person to speak God's message there. After that initial entry, God sent others to continue the work. A man named Apollos showed up 18 months after Paul and taught the Greeks more about their faith in Jesus. Apollos continued Paul's work in Europe. He was the Second Wave!
To change the world, you become a Second Wave! World changers do not stand alone. Great men and women, the first wave, made it possible for you to be a second wave for Jesus. You become a 21st century Apollos, the Second Wave for Jesus right where you are. As you roll through life you inspire others to follow your wave. Wave follows wave of fiery, inspired souls changing the world for good.
So how can you be the Second Wave? First, absorb every detail about Jesus (read, study, practice your faith) and learn from those who've gone before you. Ask God, he'll bring those people into your life. He wants you meet them. It's how He prepares you to speak for Him. Next, find those people who will become the wave after you.
A couple examples- Paul the apostle was the First Wave. He was cutting brand new ground for Jesus. He inspired others like Apollos and Timothy to be his second wave. Think also of Moses and Joshua his helper. First wave, second wave. * More examples in earlier episodes in this series.
Our conclusion: World changers have two roles- Be a Second Wave learning from great people so you can do great things. Then.. build a Second Wave- with God's help, inspire others to be great! The result? The world will be a better place! Bonus Material: Definitions: First Wave- A person or persons who tell Jesus' story in brand new places. *Second Wave- The people following First Wavers continuing the work to more people.
Jesus' world changer challenge: “Truly, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.” John 14:12 Apollos' story- He didn't come from Paul's region, but from Alexandria, Egypt. He could have accompanied Mark, who tradition says went and preached as the First Wave to Egypt. He may have prepared Apollos as a second waver, not knowing he would end up in Greece some 600 miles NW of Egypt! Don't be surprised if God directs you as a second waver someplace you can't imagine, and...then sends your disciples/second wavers somewhere else altogether!
“Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well, had arrived in Ephesus from Alexandria in Egypt. He had been taught the way of the Lord, and he taught others about Jesus with an enthusiastic spirit and with accuracy. However, he knew only about John’s baptism. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preaching boldly in the synagogue, they took him aside and explained the way of God even more accurately. Apollos had been thinking about going to Achaia (Greece), and the brothers and sisters in Ephesus encouraged him to go. They wrote to the believers there, asking them to welcome him. When he arrived there, he proved to be of great benefit to those who, by God’s grace, had believed. He refuted the Jews with powerful arguments in public debate. Using the Scriptures, he explained to them that Jesus was the Messiah.” Acts 18 Be a Second Waver! Build a Second Wave behind you!
Our Verse: Psa 37:7 “Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for Him to act.”
Here is a staggering proposition...You can leave your permanent mark on the Earth, actually change the world. Wow!
In the next few episodes, we get down to the hard facts of how you can do great things. There's a little word here at the Mountain, one of our favorites, the word, “yet”. It's very important if you plan to change the world.
“Yet” is God's training tool to make great people. It's a ego limiter and a caution signal. In your head or your circumstances, God will say, “Not yet, wait..” Almost every world changer has great times of waiting before great times of serving. Read examples below.
Jesus explained it like this, “He that is faithful in least, will also be faithful in much.” Being faithful with little things takes time! It stresses our patience, but those little things, they are your passage to greatness.
You will learn many things: Patience, awareness, your personal limitations, things you can change, and things you can't.
Humility is a great outcome of waiting and doing small things. Do your small tasks with excellence, and the great tasks will come!
Doors before you may be closed. Be willing to wait. It's likely God is saying “not yet.” Be the very best you can be at whatever task is now before you, and your time will come!
When that right time comes, God will launch you into the great works he has planned for you! You can change the world and do greater works than Jesus did himself while on the planet. Read His promise in John 14:12. (Included below). People are desperate, suffering terribly. Through Jesus' power, you can bring hope and better lives to many, maybe millions!
John 14:12 “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.”
Examples of waiting: Acts 7:30- Moses, Genesis 41:1- Joseph, Galatians 1:18 & 2:1- Paul.
Romans 15:5 “May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus.”
Psa 27:14 “Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.”
Our Verse: “...anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works...” John 14:12
In this series, we are discussing the incredible possibility that you, one human, can change the world. You are listening to this because God is calling you to change the world. Buckle up! Ears and heart open to God's adventures for you!
We learned earlier that world changers do two things: they change people inside, their minds, their thoughts, or they change the physical world around them. And best of all, world changers can do both- change people and improve the world. Could this be you? Jesus said we could do “even greater works” than Him, and said later, “Ask for Anything!” That is an amazing promise! John 14:13
Let's consider one human who did both these things, RG LeTourneau. Born in 1888, he was a restless young man. He did many things- farmer, logger, iron worker, welder, designer. His life work became engineering and the invention of machinery.
At a young age, he became a Christian, a Jesus follower. He made many mistakes, was often prideful, but he continued to grow, spiritually and professionally. Eventually, he designed and built gigantic machines. These machines changed the world. In many countries, Bob's machines built the roads and dams we use today.
He started an engineering school, LeTourneau University. Thousands of people have built careers in engineering and affected the world for good. Mr. LeTourneau helped people around the world, always stating that God was his boss.
Could you be like Bob LeTourneau in the 21st Century? For 2025? For 2085? Yes... Absolutely, Yes!
Ask God for strength- both spiritual and intellectual, to leave your mark on the planet. He will be your strength!
More about World Changer Bob and LeTourneau University: He was a inventor/designer in the field of earth moving. He started his work life as an iron foundry laborer. In his time, dirt was moved by men and horses. It was slow and backbreaking work, often debilitating, sometimes fatal. RG thought there must be a better way, so he decided to invent equipment that would mechanize the process. He invented the first mechanical road grader. That led to the first mechanical earth moving machine. About this time, World War II began. He was tasked with others, including Henry Kaiser, to build equipment for the war effort. He produced an amazing 50%+ of the earth moving machines for the war effort world wide, literally millions of dollars worth of equipment. He continued his work after the war, converting an A-26 surplus bomber to civilian use to increase his travel ability, even across oceans. He left a great spiritual and social legacy, building special communities and orphanages in Africa and the Far East.
In 1946, he established LeTourneau Technical Institute in Longview, Texas. There are 5 schools in various disciplines with one of the best engineering schools available.
In 1989 LeTourneau Tech became LeTourneau University, a SACSCOC and ABET accredited, nondenominational Christian university, offering four-year and two-year degree programs in engineering, technology, the liberal arts, business, aeronautical science, education, and the sciences, plus master's degree programs in business and education.
The school's Yellow Ribbon Program is available to “any veteran who honorably served on active duty for at least 3 years since September 11, 2001.” Details- http://www.letu.edu/opencms/opencms/_Academics/
Our Verse: Psalm 23:4 “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.”
Let's restate our premise for this series. If we do the right things, we can change the world. Put another way, we can make it better for everyone. Being a world changer requires that you face what the Bible calls “the darkest valley”. This is a vital and required part of your life story.
Your adventures will include dark places. God says the whole world is dark without Christ. It's where all the sinners live. Its where we came from, and it's where we need to go. World changers can have great adventures, but it also means great difficulties, dark valleys. These difficulties are of two kinds:
The first difficulty is facing hardship to become tough and durable as God's servant; it's His training. We gain strength and experience to help our fallen world.
The second difficulty we will face is the opposition of the world. Jesus said, “I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.” John 15:19 Both our training and the world's opposition can make our path difficult, steep, dark. The more you train through life's difficulties, the stronger you will be.
Our brother Peter understood this: “Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.” 1Peter 4:12
So how do we deal with these “darkest valleys” of life? A few tips: 1. Stay close to your brothers and sisters.You will find strength and common purpose through your friends in Christ. God sends people to help you. 2. Read your Bible every day. Consolation and confidence shine on every page in Scripture. If you need help, ask your brothers and sisters where to read. If you have neglected your reading, get with it! Check this series for some guidance. http://bit.ly/YouStudyWord 3. Finally, realize that God is watching over you. He really is our good shepherd! He will train you and protect you so you can be a world changer!
Dark Valleys navigational aid: Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Our Verse: Matt 5:13-14 “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop”
So, what is a world changer? Heres our definition: A human who brings long-term change to the world, emotionally or physically. Said differently, that's a person who changes many people on the inside or alters the physical world- science, politics, daily life- for good. Let's drill down a bit: First, the emotional realm is the inside of people. Everything that happens in life, all of it, comes from inside people, their hearts their minds. What people think determines how the world goes and this thinking can be changed! Second, the physical realm– Some people are called to improve society and the world around us. Usually this is through public work in science and social interaction. This work fixes or improves our planet. God is likely calling you to help your world in one or both of these realms. You are naturally gifted for this work. Jesus promised his followers they would do “greater works” after he returned to Heaven. This is our challenge. What is our part in these "greater works”? Will you inspire thousands like Chuck Smith did? Check the last episode. Or...will you be part of the team that defeats cancer or other diseases? There is no limit to the challenges facing us today. And... there is no limit to the abilities God put in us, a pretty exciting possibility! We will meet people in upcoming episodes who used their abilities in amazing ways for good!
Father God, bless every Mountain listener. Help us affect people's hearts and minds to be better people! Grant us knowledge and skills to improve our world, to make it a better, safer place for all. In Jesus name, Amen.
Be a world changer! Here is Jesus' command to you: “let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Learn more in our series- You 3.0! right here on The Mountain.
Bonus- Summary- Real people like you...can leave a permanent mark on the earth! You have inherent talents and skills that can reduce suffering and evil on earth. God wants to use those skills, actually He implanted them in you before you were born! Ask Him, seek Him daily and you can change the world!
Our Verse: Heb 12:1 “...we are surrounded by...a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith”. A tribute to Pastor Chuck Smith.
Part of becoming a better you in 2018 is studying those people who changed the world before us... and we mean exponential change. They are part of “the HUGE crowd of witnesses” to the reality of Jesus Christ. These witnesses can inspire us to accomplish great things. (John 14:12)
Today's world changer was named Chuck. He was a bright average guy, a family man, and an adventurer for Jesus! He was disappointed with the churches around him. He's saw they spent a lot of time on programs and not much time talking about Jesus. He decided to change that. In Southern California, he began to teach the Bible verse by verse. He reached out to many young people. Many came and the church grew. Then it really grew... by the thousands! From a tiny group of 25, that church grew literally around the world! (Your speaker was actually there in that little church!)
I asked Chuck one time the secret of his success. First he smiled. He said people were always asking that question. Here is what he said: “I made a decision to teach God's word from the front to the back (Genesis to Revelation), all of it, verse by verse. God has done the work from that decision.”
Pastor Chuck was my first pastor. My life and faith were strengthened by his work. He taught the Bible, publicly, cover to cover all 66 books, 5 times. That took him 40 years. Pastor Chuck changed the world, including me.
Will you be like Chuck? A world Changer? It's possible. Actually it's more than possible. If you give yourself totally to Jesus, a servant for His purposes, you can be a world changer! Meet others like Chuck during our series- You 3.0. Exciting stories ahead!
Special Details- Pastor Chuck Smith Pastor Chuck was born June 1927. He came into the presence of Jesus on October 3, 2013. His personal vision was to expound (speak publicly) God's Word, verse by verse. He did this especially among the young, disenfranchised Americans of the 1960s. His simple and direct presentation of Jesus' life, death and resurrection was revolutionary to those young Americans. They responded powerfully in the thousands and became what most people now know as the "Jesus people movement”. Many young men and women were profoundly affected by Chuck's teaching. He became a solid landmark in the cultural swirl of the West and his life and message now live on through those he taught. Many of those people moved to other nations with the message of the Lord Jesus Christ. Pastor Chuck even lead a king to Christ in a western Pacific nation! Here is the summary: If a person dedicates his or her life to teaching and living the Word of God, thousands will benefit, nations will benefit. The entire world will be a better place. Well done and welcome Home, Pastor Chuck, enter into the joy of your Lord! Resources to learn more: Interview- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPL084GAcoo Last Interview- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw_-v1gkQKs Link to Chuck's Autobiography- https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B32EXSLdheKicWdSdXhXTDkyUE0/view
Our Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:17 “...anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”.
It's really true! That old person you were, the one who said, “I can take care of this myself!” is gone! That old you who cheated, lied, stepped on others... that person's gone. It's the exactly the same for a brand new Christian or a lifelong follower. Your new life has begun!
Last episode, we discussed how to become a better more productive person in 2018. We said a better you comes by pushing the junk out in your life with God's help. With that taken care of, let's discuss a growing trust in God, a life of faith in Him, not ourselves.
Trusting God is a process. We start small. At first, we trust a lot in ourselves, a little bit in God. Then, slowly, we learn to trust Him more and more. You start by saying to Him, “Lord, I will trust you with my life and my plans.” He hears this prayer and starts by giving you small opportunities to trust Him. As you trust Him, He gives you bigger opportunities. Often trust is built as you are forced to wait for God's answer. You wait for Him, He comes through, every time. (Lamentations 3:26)
Our Heavenly Father, our Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit are great teachers, full of patience! Our trust grows little by little! As a mature Christian you will trust God much more and yourself, not at all! It is a God transformation!
Then, LOOK OUT! You will become what God designed you to be! Without limits! The new you will become a world changer! In this series, you'll get to meet some world changing people. Don't miss it! Teaser: Our first world changer planted 1000+ churches worldwide!
Our Verse: 2 Cor 5:17 All new! You are created new in Jesus! Here it is- “...anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”
How can you be better in 2018? We call it- You 3.0!” A new version of you, different, more effective in your world!
While some of us may be happy with who we are today, most of us would like to be better. Note this is for all God followers, whether you are brand new Christian or a longtime follower of Jesus.
Let's start with a survey, an honest assessment of where we are today. It may help to write your answers.
First, consider the things in your life that don't please God. You know what they are... Are these things or habits ruling you today? Be honest and answer the question “can I stop doing this today?” God calls this “sin”, missing His standard of how to live your life. This analysis can be painful, but it is the only way to a better you.
If your answer is “No, I can't!”, here what to do:
A big part of getting where you want to go, is admitting where you are. God is listening. Tell Him all the problems and ask Him to change you. He will empower you to change (repent is the Bible word) “...His kindness leads us to repentance!” Romans 2:4
When you desire to change, God starts a process inside, no matter how long you have been entangled. He placed a tiny seed of faith in you. Romans 12:3. He will make it grow! Then, you are prepped for the Great Adventure of faith with Him. That leads to our 2nd and most important survey question:
Will you trust God with your whole life, your future in 2018?
We will explore that question in part 2 of You 3.0!
Today for Easter ...
Revelation 1:18 Jesus said, “I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever
Come with me into a small cold cave. The entrance is blocked with a big rock. On the floor, there's a bloody tortured corpse. The body is all wrapped up and very cold. No hope here, an evil end to a really good life.
There's a lot of sadness and despair among the dead man's friends.They had a great hopes, now they are dashed. Now they aren't even near this grave. “We thought that he'd do great things! Now he's dead!”
History records a story just like this, a story involving many witnesses, a story clearly believable.The dead man is Jesus of Nazareth. His death...nothing short of brutal, a victim of the Roman killing machine. Case closed. No more Jewish troubles. Sect leader dead...sect gone.
So they thought...
After laying cold and dead for three days, Jesus came to life. Warmth coursed thru his body, though the terrible wounds remained. Angels appeared at the blocked entrance and moved the stone. Tightly wrapped linen cloths including a handkerchief were removed. Early on the morning of his 3rd death day, Jesus came out of the grave alive! He did exactly what He promised. “No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again.” John 10:18 Jesus had full control.
The same power he used to TAKE UP his life is available to us! He offers us endless life. The same kind He has right now. That... is what Easter is all about!
Visit this weekend where the Bible is taught or listen here online- http://live.awaken.church. Have a blessed Resurrection Day! Picture Detail: This is the tomb! The Mtn team stood inside. Wow! It is real and it is EMPTY! Maybe you will go there someday to touch smell and feel the place where our Lord lay in death then walked out!
Our Verse: John 10:18 Jesus said, “...I have the authority to DIE when I want to and also I have authority to LIVE again.” (full verse below)
Lots of death all around us today...Looking at the picture above... it looks very final. People are fascinated, curious, but deep down, everyone is scared to die! People constantly seek ways to extend their lives and cheat death. But everybody “fears dying.”
Modern man tries to make death nicer. The body is whisked away for final disposition of the corpse. It's made up beautifully and put in a pretty box or... the body is burned and put in a can. None of this can banish our fear of dying.
How do you face the reality of your own death? You might say, “I'm young, I'm not gonna die!” From what's happening in our world today, there is no promise, death can come at any moment.
It would be nice to have an authority on death. Someone who really knows about life and death. Curiously, there's only one human who has that authority. Curiously, He explained prior to his death that he would go there. Finally, His death occurred just like he said. And then, unbelievably...He came out of his grave! He took back his life. (John 10:18 below) This is attested as true by his friends and also five hundred witnesses who saw him alive after. Many saw him die, many saw him alive again.
Rely on someone who's been to death and back. Because He's alive...He has the power of an endless life, just the thing we want! A life that goes on after death- and no more fear! This week, billions of people celebrate the Resurrection the event that ends your fear of dying forever! Catch Part 2- Alive! now available.
John 10:18 No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. Heb 2:15 Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.
Our Verse: Ephesians 4:29 “Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”
Cynics are everywhere...in the news, on social media, on TV. They say, “It's hopeless, the world's goin' down!” Will you be sucked into this? Here's some advice to make 2018 much more positive.
Culture, society and media constantly push cynicism..doubting the possibility of good or that life can get better, a defeatist attitude. A definition will help us- Cynicism is an attitude where one doubts the possibility of good change by human effort.
Cynics believe there are few good answers to life, they complain, criticize, quit. They are faithless people living in a troubled world. Christians can fall into the cynicism trap!
There is another way to view life and its the best- be a True Realist living by faith in a fallen world.
We all realize the troubles of the world are not fixable by human means. Yet, through them all, a small light always glows. This is God's continuing work to help us through all our troubles.
True realists, those with hope deep within, work in the troubles with words and deeds to heal the troubles.
That's us! We offer hope and forgiveness the same way God reached out to us in our hopelessness. And...we offer it to everyone!
Part of carrying your cross for Jesus is take the mercy you received and pass it on to others! Cynics say, “Forget the losers”, God says love every single one!
Don't be a cynic in 2018, be a true realist, living out our verse, “Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” 2018... our best year ever!
Our Verse: Col 3:13 “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
This is a sad story about 2 good men- Adam and Will. Both served on church staff; both had public responsibilities. But there was a problem. There was a sense of mistrust between them, and probably a bit of envy. On a Sunday, in the middle of the service, the two men met at the back of the sanctuary. One made a rather pointed comment about the other. The second man didn't take it well. He made some pointed comments right back, loud enough that people in the sanctuary overheard. This led to a burning resentment between them; they barely spoke to one another in the following weeks. Both of them were mature Christians. Both of them knew the right thing to do. Neither one did it. It took a long time, but finally they made peace. They didn't become friends, but they learned to live at peace with each another.
There's a good object lesson here for your 2018. Pride will often lead to conflict between fellow Christians and envy is often a component. Every follower of Jesus needs to be on guard against pride and envy. If we find ourselves wanting to be ahead or above another, or get their position, danger lies ahead. If you fall into the pride-envy trap, do your best to make peace with that other person. You may have to humble yourself before that person. You may not become lifelong pals, but you can make peace by not adding to the conflict.
We hope everything works out, but with humans, even Christians, it's not always possible. Here's the Apostle Paul in Romans, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” 12:18* That disclaimer “as far as it depends on you,” says that we have the responsibility to be the peacemaker no matter what.
Let's constantly ask God's help to forgive. It's our job and He will help us do it! Forgiveness is a must for a happy 2018!
Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. NLT If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. NIV
Our Verses: Happy are the people whose God is the Lord. Psa 144. And Colossians 3:13- Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
We all want to be happy. We want peace, we want to be satisfied with life. Strangely, we're often unhappy. We learned last time the way to happiness is to point our lives towards our Creator- the source of happiness. Here's step two: Forgive those who hurt you.
Immediately, most of us will say, “But you just don't understand what they did to me, there is no way I can forgive”. I get it! With our own resources, it's hard to forgive. But here are Jesus' words, “...when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.” Mark 11:25 Us first- forgive others the grudge we hold against them and then...our Father in heaven forgives our sins against others.
Here's the package: We trust God for strength to forgive others their bads, and God will forgive and forget the wrongs we have done. (and our “wrongs” are really bad!)
He wouldn't tell us to do this if we couldn't. Even better, He will empower us to forgive. What we can't do is supplied by Him, an ability to truly forgive others.
The Mountain team has experienced this and watched the "forgive process" in hundreds of people. You may not be able to forgive that person, but God can empower you to do it.
A prayer for all of us- Lord, You said, “Forgive”. Help me forgive those who have hurt me. In Jesus name. Amen” A simple prayer, but one that gets us on the right track. Dump that baggage! When you forgive, you get forgiven, and... you open the door to a life of peace, satisfaction and true Happiness!
Join us next time for “Fight in the Sanctuary”. Visit us at themountain.info, share this with a friend and join us again...on the Mountain! For more about the "forgive process" click Prayer Series link above.
Our Verse: Mt 2:11 The wise men “entered the house...bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
We love getting presents! It says we are loved. It says we are special.
Ever wonder where this tradition comes from? Here it is: Long ago, in a tiny village, God our Creator, started the tradition of presents. He didn't bring them Himself, but instead sent 3 travelers to start our tradition; it's why we give presents today. God the Father loved his son and decided to give him presents. Jesus was precious to Him. Here's what He said later: “You are my one dear Son; in you I take great delight.” Luke 3:22.
Now, if God gave presents to Jesus, shouldn't we give presents to those we love? Of Course!
It isn't the size or the cost of the gift that's important, it's the heart attitude. With our children and family members, we let them know that we love them, that they are special.
Take some time this Christmas season to slow down, to love your family and friends. Bless them with the most important gift of all- your love!
Christmas is a time to love, share and prepare. It's no accident that we celebrate Christmas at year-end. Make this a time to affirm your love, say it- “I Love You!”. Make a time of reflection together, thanking God for his blessing and protection this year. And finally make it a time of preparing. Preparing to make 2018 the best year ever.
If times are hard, ask God to be with you. Ask for His protection and help. He will bring you through the bad times. We have seen Him do it in our lives and in the lives of many others. He is faithful!
Many blessings on you and yours. May God grant you peace and time to love and be loved. Finally, God give you the best year ever in 2018!
Our Verse: John 1:14 “So the Word became human and made his home among us.”
We are all aware of the Christmas story, a miraculous event where a young virgin has a baby. We need the big story behind it all.
God, the Maker of all things, launched Himself onto the planet to meet with us. Every human is wired to want that meeting. At the beginning of earth, God designed people to look up to Him. Mankind made a terrible choice, they decided to ignore God, to go their own way. Right then God the Father made a plan to fix the world, to make a new meeting.
Here it is: God would become human-shaped, then, actually walk on the surface. More details- http://bit.ly/5JesusStories
So.. how did God land on earth? Here it is from an early Jesus follower, Luke: Spoken to Mary: “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.” 1:31 and... “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. 1:35
God used a human receiver, Mary, for His arrival on earth. He placed a supernatural seed in her womb, no human intervention. That baby is holy- His name-The Son of God. Many skeptics reject the idea of this process, but it's easily possible for God.
God did this so Jesus would be fully God, He is... and fully human.. He came from the womb of Mary.
God walked the earth for 33 years. Jesus fulfilled the mission, the plan of God to meet with us.
When we recognize and accept God's plan to meet us, we get “Peace on earth, good will to men” Thank You God for sending Jesus. PS Enjoy Christmas Church from anywhere! Click the Links!
Our Verse: Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”
You are home, there's money in the bank, everyone is healthy and safe. Things aren't perfect, but they are really good.
You are set to have a great Christmas. How can you make the best of this season? Not just for yourself, but for those in your life circle.
Here are some thoughts to give you and the family boost at Christmas:
Make Christmas a time of sharing and welcome. First make it a special time for your loved ones, bring them close, build memories, share the birthday of Jesus. It really is a birthday party for the ages! The special things you do for older family members and your children will build memories for the years to come. Read Jesus' birthday story in Matthew 1:18-24 and Luke 2:1-20. 2 men write God-inspired reports so you can know just how this once-ever event in human history came down.
Next bring others in to share The Best Birthday Party in history. Share your food and home with others that might be alone and need friends. What better way to celebrate the birth of One who loves every single person on earth?! It's the “goodwill toward men” part of the Christmas story!
You might consider putting up banners and sticky notes, outside and inside, sharing the words thousands of angels sang on Jesus' birthday: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
This is our prayer for you and yours: Bless our Mountain friends in the name of Jesus. Thank You, Heavenly Father, for the many good things You have given us, most of all, Your present to us- Jesus Your Son. Help us to copy You this December. You gave to the world, we will too! Amen.
Our Verse:1Tim 2:1 I urge you...pray for all people. Ask God to help them; speak up for them, and give thanks for them.
Yikes! The holidays are upon us! Soon it will be time to celebrate Christmas. Many will gather around the table and share good times. Others will find themselves alone and lonely. The question arises, “How can I best spend my Christmas in 2017?” Here's a little advice, no matter where you are or your situation.
First, whether you're happy or sad, surrounded with friends or alone and far away, start by talking to God. Ask Him to give you a good Christmas season. Ask this same thing for your relatives and friends. He makes a promise to you, “...Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7
Second, set your expectations lower. High expectations will likely will lead to disappointment. Movies and TV reinforce this false idea- that everything must be perfect. Us imperfect people will be spending time with other imperfect people, family, friends, neighbors. Plan on giving kindness and grace to your Christmas companions.
As the Mountain team preps for the holidays, we are doing these things- praying and setting reasonable expectations. These 2 things give you the best chance (not a guarantee!) of having an enjoyable Christmas.
Here's our Christmas prayer for you and yours- Father God, bless our Mountain listeners and their loved ones during this holiday. Bring them together with people who love them and people they can love. Bring peace on earth to us during this time. Happy Birthday, Lord Jesus! Amen!
In our companion episodes below, we address different life situations- the “bummer Christmas” and the “great Christmas” and how to make the best of either circumstance.
Our Verse: Psalm 40:2 “..He brought me up out of a horrible pit.”
Not every Christmas is Merry. Many face this Christmas holiday with loss, separation and loneliness. Think of those who live on after a horrible tragedy. Think of those who have lost loved ones. Think of those far from home.
How can you have a good Christmas when times are bad?
Let's consider some possibilities.
If possible, try not to be alone during the holidays. Often, trouble and sadness tempt us to stay alone. We avoid being with others. The best tool to combat these feelings is to be with others. If you are deployed or on the job far from home, phone calls and online resources may be the best way.
Plan to connect, have face time or make a schedule with your loved ones far away or your fellow church members. Don't be afraid to ask. We are tempted to say or think, “Aw, I don't want to bother them...” Don't let that keep you from spending time with others. The hurting inside you- loneliness, guilt, regrets, anger and fear, will get worse by being alone. Joining with others may not solve all problems, but being together builds an environment, where healing and restoration are possible.
If you are totally alone- The Mountain team suggests you join Christians online who are worshiping and sharing together.
A great online resource is Awaken.Church. It's a warm, caring group of Jesus' followers. http://awaken.church
On the Mountain App homepage, is the “Ask” button. If you have a special need during the holidays, write us... we will do our best to help.
Here is our Christmas prayer if you are hurting or sad... Father in heaven, bless our friends in this time of trouble. Bring them safely through the valley of the shadow of death and into Your light, Your safety. Protect them from evil with Your strength and fill the emptiness in their heart. Touch them deep inside with Your love, bring them safely through. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Our Verse: Rev 5:11 ...thousands and millions..they sang in a mighty chorus...
Now that we have discovered a bit about the book of Revelation, let's learn about the most amazing piece of choral music ever. Its described in chapter 5. Sometime in the future, the largest chorus in the history of the world will gather somewhere outside the earth. Remember, the Bible's final part, Revelation, “reveals” Jesus Christ. One of Jesus closest friends, John writes it out for us. He is lifted skyward from an island, Patmos, (near the southwest corner of Turkey) and transported into God's throne room. He sees and hears things that no other human being has ever seen or heard. One of the many things he experiences is a gigantic group of singers including strange creatures, earth animals and people. If you've experienced a large group of singers, you know it can shake your soul. It happened to John.
Here's his experience. The scene is amazing, he is in the presence of God, and describes the moment. It is stunningly beautiful, involving God the Father, Jesus, the Lamb of God, and all kinds of unique creatures, human, animal and spirits, present before God. Bear in mind that John is limited by human words in describing heavenly things. Here's John:
Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. And they sang in a mighty chorus: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered— to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.” And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang: “Blessing and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb!” And the four living beings said, “Amen!” And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped the Lamb.
We get a peek into the presence of God! One day we will join our voices with theirs and have the best choir in the history of the world! Get Ready!
Last episode we learned about everyone's post death experience. (Link below.) That episode explained the truth about a different life that happens after physical life here. So what happens when that life starts? Are there more details? There are. God tells us what comes next. It involves us and an amazing set of records.
There is a library in Heaven with many volumes.
First of all, there's God's Word- the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, it's there in Heaven, a record of God and mankind. Your eternal word, O Lord, stands firm in heaven. Psa 119:89 1 Pet 1:25 Isa 40:8 and Jesus said- Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear Mt 24:35
Also we have "The Books"- mentioned in Revelation 20 and 21– In them are recorded everyone's actions and thoughts from all history.
This means that everything you have ever done is recorded here. There are new entries in the millions every moment. Those who are not followers of Jesus will be judged by those records. (Remember the rich man who died in Luke 16? His actions are listed) All will answer for what they have done.
The apostle Peter says “They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.” Paul says “Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.”
But... there is something strange about these “Books”
While they constantly grow, they can also shrink! Every time a man or woman becomes a Jesus follower, all their prior actions and thoughts are deleted! The blood of Jesus shed on the cross is an amazing erasing agent- for sins! His death and your acceptance of his sacrifice for your sins deletes your complete record from the Books. They are expunged! In the same moment your guilty charges are erased, your name is entered in the best book, the Lamb's Book of Life. All about that in Part 2 of Heaven's Library!
Last time we learned about “the Books” , a permanent record in Heaven of everybody's deeds and thoughts. All things a man thinks and does are clearly entered, nothing will be secret any more. Sadly, it's also recorded when a person says, “No” or “I refuse” to Jesus and to God. God makes a record of those who desire to stand on their own works and those works will determine their eternal destiny.
Now let's consider the most important book in history- the Lamb's Book of Life. Jesus is the “Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world”, it's His book. It records the people who have eternal life with Him. It is not a book you read, like your Bible, it's one you get to be in, like God's family record. Every person who receives Jesus as Savior and Lord is entered. My name is there next to the other M's, and the thief who died next to Jesus is listed. And..new names are being entered until the end of time.
A curious process is involved- When a person surrenders his or her life to Jesus- says. “I belong to you, Lord”, 2 things happen.
First, all your bad acts and thoughts prior to that moment are erased, deleted from “the Books”. They are completely gone, washed away like a bright red stain to “whiter than snow” It's like the judge saying, ”All charges are dismissed, you are free to go.” This is why guilt is gone and a person is full of joy. The weight and record of sins is gone.
Second, your name is entered in the Lamb's Book of Life with millions of others!
This is the beautiful work of our Father in Heaven. Being in the Book of Life is the ultimate belonging and the ultimate freedom. It is what you were created for. It is the start of adventures both in this life and in the amazing life to come. Your name is important to God. You are listening or reading this because He wants your name in the Book of Life in Heaven's Library! Read it all in Revelation 20:11-15
Our Verse: John 4:24 “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship Him in spirit and in truth.”
The Mountain has a great pastor friend, Huck. His church family isn't large, but after many years, they have changed the world- first their town then...places around the world!
Through the years, Huck has come up with great sayings to help people understand God things. Here's one- “The truth usually is found in the middle between two extremes.”
Christians through the centuries have often ended up extreme- whether in how they express themselves or in what they believe. More intellectual or more devotional. Louder, quieter. More works or more faith.
We like extremes. It shows we're serious. Extremes make leaders look dynamic, and extremes draw attention. The problem is extremes can lead to error and pride. A joyful noise can turn into yelling. A teaching can become a means to control people. Middle ground, moderation, a balance, is always healthy. Jesus explained this balance in our verse- “...true worshippers will worship God in spirit and truth.”
Spirit means emotion. We feel, we weep, we smile. God wires us so His Spirit and our spirit (more-http://bit.ly/me3parts) can communicate. It's rich, it's beautiful!
Truth is the objective facts of life. We have God's truth on paper and electronically. (More-http://bit.ly/DivineDatastream.) His words explain His ways. We study His words, we know the facts.
Let's seek balance between spirit and truth, emotion and facts.
If someone is extreme in what they emote, or what they teach, be careful. Maybe even find other friends to hang with. Don't buy in! Aim for the middle between 2 extremes. You are likely to be in balance, following God in a way that honors Him and helps everyone in your world.
Note: In our divided societies, reason and agreement happen easier between non-extreme, that's balanced, people. God will let you know, in every relationship, what to do, when to do it and how much. He really likes order. Mtn Team
Our Verse: Isa 2:3 Come let us go up to the Mountain of the Lord.
A bit more on why we do The Mountain App and Podcast. Here it is....
Life is full of noise and stress, full of difficult situations and difficult people. Sometimes we slam into the walls of life- troubles, sickness, dangers... or the “moral wall” when we do wrong and just don't know which way to go! The world around us is changing at a frantic pace, much of it filled with fear of disaster and more war. All of us need a quiet place, a place to think, a place to find answers...
That place is The Mountain App and Podcast! It's like a mountain, a remote quiet place to think. We make a digital quiet place right on your device. Think through the big questions, and just maybe find help toward real answers. Deep questions, the hard questions of life, can weigh us down and affect our relationships. God cares about your questions and has answers that will satisfy.
He designed the ones and zeros of human communication, then sent us an immense data stream. More here- http://bit.ly/DivineDatastream. All the Mountain Team does is help you access that data! We share stories of all kinds, past, present and future that bring genuine hope in this noisy troubled world...a hope that can make you strong so you can help others and make the world a better place. That is a worthy goal! So, choose an episode, hit play and trek the Mountain for discovery and adventure. If you are new to the Mountain, click links below or 1 click back for more episodes. You can change your world and we'll help ya do it. Let's Go!
PS Share every episode you like with a friend, and help us make the Mountain Podcast/App grow!
Heaven's Library- http://bit.ly/Heavenlibrary 3 Courageous Girls- http://bit.ly/Mach3girls The Jesus Stories- http://bit.ly/5JesusStories
This episode wraps the The Daniel Adventures. How about news you can really believe? 2017 real news!
Daniel 7:13 “I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds... He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence.”
Every day we see and hear “fake news”. Wouldn't it be great to have some facts, some trustworthy news? We have both from Daniel!
Daniel's adventures are great and teach us bravery and wisdom, but let's consider why we have this book.
God placed Daniel in Babylon. He gave him dreams, visions and a platform to communicate historic future news, God's future plan for mankind.
Genuine news fills this book. God has informed mankind, He has broadcast news about the future. Here's what Daniel wrote...God helping him: “I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations..., so that all people would obey him. His rule is forever... His kingdom will never be destroyed.”
Here's how it happens- Jesus, the “Son of man” mentioned above, will come before His Father and be given Kingship of the Earth. He will then appear to every person on the planet. He will have world-wide and absolute authority. Every city, every country, every continent will be His.
And...”His rule is forever- it will never end..”
This is not dusty old news, not “fake news”, it is genuine! There is an actual day, it's on God's calendar, when this will happen. Make sure you are ready for “That Day!”
Seven “Jesus Return Day” verses: Matt 25:31- Jesus: “...when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered in his presence.” Matt 25:13- Jesus: “So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.” Acts 1:11- Angel report as Jesus went up to Heaven: “Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go.” 1 Cor 1:8- Paul: “He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns.” Phil 1:6- Paul: “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Titus 2:13- “we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.” I Peter 1:7- Peter: “your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.
Search the term “that day” for more verses. This is a widely taught, widely accepted truth in the Bible. You can believe it! Many blessings on you and yours! The Mountain Team
Daniel 5:27 “...the God who holds your breath in His hand and owns all your ways, you have dishonored. The fingers of the hand were sent from Him”
Human fingers appeared out of thin air and began writing on the wall. What was happening? A thousand partiers had done the unspeakable.
Years before, the king's dad or granddad conquered Daniel's hometown, Jerusalem. He took holy objects from the temple there and carried them to Babylon.
Now, years later, the kid has become king and commands a servant to get the holy objects for his party. They drink and party with golden offering cups made for God- a BAD idea!
God stepped in. No one would desecrate His holy things. He wrote a terrible judgement right on the wall.
Here it is: MENE (may-nay), MENE, TEKEL, U'PHAR'SIN.
A woman in the crowd told the king, “I remember this guy who knows about secrets, Daniel.”
Daniel was called and interpreted the writing on the wall. Not good!
“King...God has weighed you. Your evil life, combined with trashing God's holy things, shows you weigh nothing. Tonight your life ends and this kingdom is over.”
That very night, enemy troops slipped into Babylon, captured the city, and executed the king; just as God said through Daniel just hours earlier.
Dishonoring God will cost. It can cost physical life as it did the young king. It can cost the eternal soul as well. Some will curse God and pay a terrible price like the king. But... you and I can honor God like Daniel. The result? A rich fulfilling life, meaningful work and good relationships. All the best of life! Daniel's test- http://bit.ly/hungrylions
Backstory: Babylon no long exists as a city. Its ruins now lie within modern day Baghdad. It has a long history. In our story, we see the brutal end of a brutal kingdom and a new kingdom rise- Medo-Persia led by King Darius. While the details vary with historians, the short and bitter of that terrible night goes like this. Babylon was a strongly fortified city with gigantic walls. The Tigris River watered the areas around and through the city. It flowed thru gates under the walls. The surrounding armies were stymied by the imposing walls and the sharpshooter bowmen. But...Darius was not to be deprived. He and his commanders found an “outside the box” solution. “If we can't go over the walls, let's go under!” They waited until a party night (We don't know which celebration it was. Daniel 5 says there was an “event”.) When all the revelers were soused and sauced, the Medo-Persians struck. Commandos slipped through the gates or bars where the Tigris flowed under the walls. Deadly knives and swords finished off guards in the dark until they reached and opened the gates. Then it was a fait accompli. The victors poured into the city killing and conquering. The palace fell, Belshazzar fell before King Darius and the terrible prophecy “Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin” was fulfilled. Shake your fist in God's face and no one stands...judgement will come. King Belshazzar mocked God and died brutally. Daniel honored God and his life continued. King Darius took over and Daniel became his prime minister. But... as you heard in Ep 7, there was a BIG test ahead! Daniel's test- http://bit.ly/hungrylions
Our verse: Daniel 4:33 The king, “ate grass like a cow, lived this way until his hair was as long as eagle's feathers and his nails were like bird's claws.”
We've heard a lot about this king, we call him Nebb. (Nebuchadnezzar) Daniel and his friends served in his government. God was using Daniel to display His power in Babylon, since it remains the most powerful empire in history. God humbled the biggest, most powerful human- it's king, to show all humans that no one is immune to being brought low. He gave the king many warnings, even miraculously saving three Hebrew boys from fiery death before his eyes. Sadly, his pride won.
One year after God's warnings, Nebb stood on the roof of his palace and bragged. “By my own mighty power, I have built this beautiful city.” Instantly, his mind snapped. He became like an animal, eating grass and living in the forest. This went on for months or years. More here: http://bit.ly/kingcow
God wasn't done, He was making a point for all of us. A day came, he looked up to the sky and his mind returned. It was a different mind. Here is what he said, “I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise, glorify and honor the King of heaven. All His acts are just and true, and He is able to humble the proud.”
This is the same process for us. God wants to give us a different mind- the mind of Christ. There's an easy way and a hard way. You can guess which is better! Let's humble ourselves before God.. We become the person He wants us to be. Daniel is full of good lessons for us!
Next episode: Hungry lions, violent death! On the Daniel Adventures!
Our verse: Daniel 6:16 “So at last the king gave orders for Daniel to be arrested and thrown into the den of lions.”
Welcome back to the Daniel adventures. We have experienced dreams, giant gold statues, a raging furnace and the fall of a world class city. This story is just as wild and crazy. There are four players in the action. Actually, two individuals and two groups-The king, Daniel the prophet, a group of bad guys, and a group of hungry lions!
A new king, Darius, had defeated the Babylonians and taken power. This king really liked Daniel. So much so, that he decided to make Daniel the prime minister of his kingdom. This didn't sit well with the king's other administrators... they were jealous! They hatched a scheme that got Daniel thrown to the lions.
Remember that God is using these stories to help us understand that He protects His people. Some might say the reason Daniel didn't get eaten is because the lions weren't hungry. If you read the end of the story, you'll find out, hungry they were!
Here's the tale- grudgingly, King Darius gave the order for Daniel to be thrown into the lion's den. So there was no funny business, he had the den mouth protected by his royal seal. The king spent a sleepless night worrying for his friend. Early in the morning he ran to the den and cried out, “Daniel, servant of the living God! Was your God, whom you serve so faithfully, able to rescue you from those lions?”
Daniel's reply is great- “Long live the king! My God sent his angel to shut the lions’ mouths so that they would not hurt me, for I have been found innocent in God's sight.”
Two lessons here for us- Be faithful and God will protect you and yours. The other one- You will come to a bad end if you hurt God and His people.
Next time: Disembodied hand...and Death! PS- Audio says King Cyrus. Oops! our bad...it's Darius!
Our verse: Daniel 3:19 “With fury burning in his eyes, Nebuchadnezzar ordered the furnace heated 7 times hotter than usual!”
Welcome back to the Daniel adventures! This time our story changes direction. We learn about Daniel's friends- Shadrach, Meshech and Abednego. In chapter 3, citizens of Babylon were required to bow down to a golden statue of the king- 90 feet tall!
Some jealous officials noticed Daniel's friends not bowing. “We got 'em”, they said. These three men honored the true God in heaven, so they would not bow down to a statue.
Well, the king was told, and things got hot quick!
Nebb asked our boys, “I hear you 3 refuse to serve my gods and do not bow down and worship the golden statue. Is that true?
What followed is one of the bravest statements ever! Basically, they told the king, “We won't defend ourselves, we're ready. God can deliver us, but if He doesn't, we still won't bow down.” (Read the whole statement in Dan 3:16-18)
The king commanded them thrown into a giant furnace. Strong soldiers tied them up and threw them in. As they tossed them in, all the soldiers were incinerated. The three young men weren't even touched by the fire.. and their ropes disappeared! The king stared into the furnace and saw not three, but four people. And the fourth... looked like “a son of the gods!” More here- http://bit.ly/Sonheaven
The king called out to them, “Servants of God, Come out, right now, Come out!”
Out they came. Their clothes were not burned and they didn't even smell like smoke!
The king's final statement explains a lot. "...no god I have ever heard of is able to rescue as this God has rescued his servants today.”
God takes care of his servants no matter what. You can trust Him!
Next: Judgement Dream- Powerful king humbled! correction- The number of Bab soldiers is not in the text.
Our verse: Daniel 2:28 “...there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and he has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in the future.”
Welcome back to the Daniel adventures! Here's what happened with the king's crazy dream...
When we left our 4 young men in Babylon, they were scheduled for execution! As part of the king's counselors, they were sentenced to death for not knowing (and interpreting) the king's scary dream. Only one man didn't freak out and prepare to die, our friend Daniel. As the executioner arrived, Daniel asked, “Why has the king issued such a harsh decree?” Give me some time to pray and maybe God will reveal the dream. Arioch, the one with the big axe, helped Daniel get an audience with the king.
Daniel was allowed time by King Nebb and during the night, “the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision.”
Here's the king's question, “Is this true Daniel? Can you tell me my dream and what it means?”
Daniel used this moment well. While he could have taken credit, Daniel made it very clear about how he knew. “...there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets” He gave God full credit for revealing the dream.
A couple take-aways for us: Wise words well thought out can help you avoid terrible consequences. Daniel kept calm and reasoned with both the executioner and the king. “Give me time” he asked. He asked his friends to pray for the answer to this life and death situation. God heard their prayers! Daniel trusted God to reveal something totally unknown to any man...and He did!
Daniel entered the king's presence with full knowledge of the earth-shaking dream. He would explain the king's future and the future of mankind.
We will learn much more about Nebb's world history dream in a future episode!
Next on Daniel Adventures- Men Burnt to a Crisp and 3 Inflammable Men!
Our Verse: Daniel 2:5 “I'm serious. If you don’t tell me my dream, you die!”
Welcome back to the Daniel adventures! A young man serving God in an amazing one of a kind adventure..
Dream world is a crazy place. Sometimes you remember every detail, sometimes they disappear- Poof! soon as you're wake up. It's really hard to figure out!
This happened to a powerful king long ago. This particular dream was very important and he knew it. As a matter of fact, this dream would outline future world history. God sent the dream to a king named Nebuchadnezzar. (you met him in the earlier Mountain episode “King to Animal” http://bit.ly/kingcow) Then God placed Daniel near the king. God had decided to reveal political and spiritual world history for all to see- long before the events happened. Why? So all men would know that God knows all things and can reveal them whenever He wants.
The dream shook the king. He yelled for his Babylonian counselors, demanding they explain the dream. Being type “A” personalities, they said, “O Great King, tell us what you've dreamed and we'll will tell you what it means.” King: No! you tell me! Counsellors: Nobody can do that! Ya have to tell us! King: Oh yeah? Off with your heads if you don't explain it! Counsellors: Yikes, O, Great King, NO Man on earth can do this! King: You are useless! Executioner! Bring the Axe!
Soon, Arioch, the chief executioner, was standing at Daniel's door, axe in hand. Daniel asked Arioch, “Why this harsh decree? While Arioch did his best to explain, Daniel got permission to visit the King. Humbly he asked for a little more time to see if God would reveal the dream. When Daniel got home, he asked his friends to “pray and plead for mercy so that God would “reveal the mystery.”
Next- Crazy Dream Part 2! God reveals the Dream!
Our Verse: Daniel 1:8 (Daniel) “asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat unacceptable foods.”
Welcome back to the Daniel adventures, one of the most exciting stories in the Bible. A young man serves God in an amazing one of a kind adventure..
This time- An ethics test for our four young men...
“Eat this Babylonian food and we dishonor God!” It was a hushed conversation in the room of the four hostage boys. They knew the food from the king's table had been sacrificed to a Babylonian idol.
This might be a little hard for us modern folks to understand. Think about someone giving you some money you knew was made selling drugs. You would know it was dirty. Most likely your conscience would say, “Nah, I don't want it, it's dirty.” (More about Conscience here http://bit.ly/HotcoalSoul)
This is similar to the situation of Daniel and his friends. They wanted very much to fit in in their new society, but realized they couldn't do what their Babylonian instructor asked. Eating food sacrificed to a Babylonian god violated their ethics- what they knew to be right. Daniel met with the head of the king's food service and offered a deal. “Feed us vegetables and water for ten days and check us out after that.” The food manager liked Daniel and his friends, but said, “If you guys start looking skinny and pale, the king will cut my head off!”
The manager thought it over and said, “Okay, let's give it a try.” Amazingly, after ten days, Daniel and his friends looked great. Actually, they looked better than the other hostages! They were allowed to eat non-idol food and continue their education. Together, these young men committed to do what was right and God covered them! They passed the test! And... this test was preparation for Really Big tests ahead!
Don't worry about “fitting in” with modern day culture. Do what you know is right, and you'll prosper, just like Daniel!
Next, Crazy Dream Part 1, Executioner at the door!
Our Verse: Dan 1:3 “...young men of Judah’s royal family and noble families...were brought to Babylon as captives.”
Welcome back to the Daniel adventures! It's one of the most exciting stories in the Bible. A young man's one of a kind adventure serving God. Now, Part 3...Slaves!
It was a grim day. Destruction all around, merciless executions. Surrender into the brutal hands of Babylonian troops. A deal was cut. “Give us the hostages. Give us your gold. We'll let you live.” A puppet government was established, the hostages collected and it was over, but not for the hostages. They were transported 600 miles over land to Babylon; there to be brainwashed, reprogrammed to Babylonian standards. Remove the brain trust from conquered enemies and they became pliable, controllable and taxable!
One of these hostages was Daniel. From noble, maybe royal heritage, he was an intelligent boy about 20 years old. Ripped from everything familiar, he had no idea what lay ahead. But... God had big plans for him!
Once in the enemy capital, the hostages were processed. New names, new food, new language, it was a blur of the unfamiliar. Only the quick learners survived, those who couldn't cut it, were out. Daniel and his friends crammed high speed courses of Babylonian language, history and culture. After 3 years, final oral exams before the king himself! High tension test, pass or fail.
Here's what happened on exam day: “The king talked with them, and no one impressed him as much as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah.”
All four passed with flying colors! They would serve the greatest empire in world history and perform 10 times better than anyone else.
Next episode- No evil food for us! Backgrounder info: It's nearly 600 miles from Israel to Babylon through arid, terrible country. Our political hostages were probably stunned by the industry and development as they neared the capital city. Finally, they arrived before Babylon's massive gates. (some suggest 2 chariots could race along the top of the city walls.) It's king, Nebuchadnezzar, had conquered much of the Middle East, what we call the Fertile Crescent, modern day Mosul and Baghdad, Iraq. The King selected the best and brightest from conquered nations to be trained as advisors. These young prisoners could be formed (read brain-washed) to the Babylonian philosophy. They could also return to their homelands as puppet leaders for the King. They were enrolled in a massive cram course, three years long, learning the Babylonian language, literature and science. Only fast learners- Mensa level types, survived the course load! The language was completely different for the hostages. Grasping the academics was massive, and while they learned it, they had to learn all the culture and manners as well. Only with God's help could they thrive and excel. Tune in soon for more on The Daniel Adventures.
Note: Daniel's 3 friends are referred to in this episode by their Hebrew names. Find their Babylonian names in Daniel 1:7
Our Verse Again: Matt 24:15- Jesus said, “spoken by the prophet Daniel..”
Welcome back to the Daniel Adventures, one of the most exciting stories in the Bible. It involves a young man serving God in an amazing one of a kind adventure.. Now... Prequel 2 of The Daniel Adventures!
Let's meet a young man who was exile, slave, hostage, dream interpreter, prisoner on death row, and finally, prime minister of not one, but 4 world governments. He is one of the wisest and most amazing men who ever lived. Maybe, you will be a Daniel of the future.
This episode explains Daniel's adventures at the human level. He lived somewhere in or around Jerusalem. He came from a wealthy family and attended the best schools. Suddenly, his days living the good life ended when an enemy army surrounded his city. Terror struck the people as their enemies glared and laughed! Negotiations took place and the city surrendered. Part of the surrender deal was high value hostages that would go back to the conquering army's capital, Babylon. Because of his youth and position in society, Daniel was selected. He was likely between 17 and 20 because he is called a “young man”. These hostages were not a “chain gang” like we might imagine, but still it was a fearful moment as Daniel and the others left Jerusalem for the last time. Daniel would never return.
Daniel and his companions were destined to affect nations during their lifetimes. Daniel would see multiple kings and their kingdoms rise and fall before his eyes. He would even foretell one king's death on the very night he was executed. God would give Daniel a supernatural overview of all world history.
Finally as an old man Daniel would die and his prophetic writings be closed until the last days of world history.
Our Lord Jesus validates Daniel's life and writings by referring to him in his lessons to his disciples. Read it in Matthew- first book of the New Testament.
Next...Slaves of Babylon, on the Daniel Adventures!
Our verse: Matt 24:15- Jesus said, “spoken by the prophet Daniel..”
Welcome to the Daniel adventures! This is one of the most exciting stories in the Bible. It involves a young man serving God in an amazing one of a kind adventure.. This prequel is God's view of Daniel and the world. Prequel 2 explains Daniel's ground level view of his world and future events. These two viewpoints, the heavenly and the earthly, will help us grasp this earth-shaking message.
Here's the story from God's viewpoint- God chose Daniel to explain the history of mankind. He wanted every person to know what would happen if man chose to rule the planet on his own. Through Daniel's dreams, visions, and interactions with world leaders, God explained what would happen both in Daniel's time and throughout history...even to our 21st Century and beyond.
God allows us to see all the kingdoms of man. He even includes two kingdoms yet future at the writing of the book-The Roman Empire and the final kingdom of man led by one human individual.
God has recorded these things so men will know that He truly IS.. the ruler of all men for all time. (Listen to the “King to Animal” http://bit.ly/kingcow and “True Matrix” http://bit.ly/Goddmatrixx episodes for more details)
For a time, men will prevail, but ultimately God himself will rule all men. This is described in Daniel 2:35- a mountain grows up and covers the whole earth. The mountain is a symbol of God's Kingdom. Further explanation came in 90 AD in Revelation 11:15 “...there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever.”
The book of Daniel is part of God's notice that the day is coming when He will rule the earth, and Jesus will be King of all Kings.
Our verse- Acts 17:6 This was said about Paul and Silas, 1st Century God followers “These men are turning the world upside down!”
The Roman world of the 1st Century was revolutionized by the gospel- the story of Jesus. The entire civilized world was flipped, but not upside down, rather Right Side UP!
Today, God's followers are flipping the world, right side up, just like Paul and Silas did 2000 years ago! That's our job in 2017! The Mountain Team is you the listeners and our production team. While our production team is a awesome bunch- Linda, Sam, Michael and all those cool Beta group testers...we are NOTHING without you the Mountain listeners! You give us bits of your busy day to listen in! Thank you! Together we have launched and shared over 100 Mountain audio episodes and sent them around the world. That includes almost 6000 hits!
So what's coming up on the Mountain?
We are about to release a multi-part series- “The Daniel Adventures”- one of the greatest adventure stories of all time. Daniel and his friends were true World Flippers! Don't miss a single episode!
Wanna flip your world? Live a righteous life, love and help every person God brings your way. Make your neighborhood, town, state and nation a better place.
Got suggestions for the Mountain? Here's how: Go to the "Ask Us” button on the home screen, or ask when you click the “More" button on our website- themountain.info. Tell us what you think.
Now may God pour His blessings on every part of your life! Remember, the world thinks you want to turn it upside down, but, the fact is, your life, well lived, will actually turn it right side up! World flippers make the world a better place!
Click the episode link below to hear about the new features on the Mountain- especially you new Mountain listeners! Help us grow by clicking “Share” every time you listen!
Our Verse: 2 Tim 2:25 That God will grant them repentance.
Last time we talked about God's mechanism called repentance. We discovered that repentance is a gift from God and not from ourselves. Let's meet one Bible person who learned the hard way. A mighty king, Nebuchadnezzar, ruled the Empire of Babylon with brutal force. One day, as he strolled the roof of his palace, He ballooned with pride over his achievements. God had warned him earlier, “Break from your wicked past and be merciful.”
Instead, he bragged, “‘Look at this great city of Babylon! By my own mighty power, I have built this city,” Dan 4:30 He refused God's warning so God banished him to the wilderness. For months, maybe years, Nebb lived like an animal- “He ate grass like a cow, and he was drenched with the dew of heaven. He lived this way until his hair was as long as eagles’ feathers and his nails were like birds’ claws.” Dan 4:33 One day he looked up to heaven and his mental faculties returned. Here is what he said, “After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High God. Dan. 4:34
His insane pride was broken. He finally recognized that God rules over the kingdoms of men, He had repented- Changed his mind.
God is stronger than any man or kingdom. He is able to humble those lifted up in pride and bring them low. He did it to Nebuchadnezzer and He did it to me. If we are wise, if we listen to God's advice, we will yield and change our way before God has to humble us. It will save us a lotta pain and benefit our loved ones and everyone else! Humble hearts make a better world!
Our verse: Heb 7:16 “but by the power of an Indestructible Life.”
We talk about the Fountain of youth. We support research seeking genetic fixes so that we can live long beyond a normal age. All of mankind seeks an Indestructible Life. It is often said there are two things that are absolutely certain- death and taxes. You might escape taxes, but you cannot escape the day of your death. Everyone wants to escape that day, everyone wants to live forever. There is one who escaped, and with his escape, He showed us the escape hatch. Jesus said “though a man die, yet shall he live. I am the resurrection and the life.”
Check this in Col 1:6- This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives.
The escape hatch to an Indestructible Life is Jesus' amazing story- He came to earth, He lived a perfect sinless life, then He died. While dying is the end for us, it wasn't for Him. He laid cold in the grave for three days, but then warmth coursed thru his body and He “picked up his life” again.
Let's consider His words: “The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again.”
Jesus proved He had an Indestructible Life. He now offers an escape hatch from death by believing Him and following Him. You can have an Indestructible Life if you become a follower of Jesus. (If you are already a follower- please click n share these words with a friend.) Press on!
Our Verse: Acts 20:22 “And now I am bound by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem.”
Conviction is a strange word. It can mean on lot of different things. We are going to focus on what the Bible says about conviction. It has two different functions. But before we get to that, let's define the word.
Conviction is a strong sensation in heart and mind of what to do or not do.
In the negative sense, conviction is correction from God, a nudge great or small, to stop a certain behavior or thought pattern. We might say, “I am convicted, I can't go in that place.” or “Every time I say or think that, I'm convicted.” God is guiding us into the right path. This is what we call conscience, a part of our human makeup from God.
In the positive sense, conviction means God directing our mind to what He wants us to do.This is what we see in the verse above. God wanted Paul to go to Jerusalem. Inside his mind, in his thoughts, God spoke to him, “Go to Jerusalem”. Paul told his friends and they were not happy. They knew it meant trouble and maybe death. Nevertheless, Paul followed his conviction and went.There were terrible troubles awaiting for him in Jerusalem, but with God's help, he survived!
So how does this work for us?
We make decisions every day, about where we live, who we hang out with and what we do. God chooses to be a part of those decisions. He designed us with a conscience, the place inside us where we are “convicted.” It's God's installed guidance systems for humans, part of your human software. Sometimes you just know, “that's not right, I can't do that.” One friend of The Mountain calls this the "moral wall”. It's something he mentally bumps up against when making a decision.
Summary: There's a mechanism inside each one of us that helps us decide what's right and wrong.That's our conscience. Conviction is God's action on our conscience to do what's right. It sometimes feels like a hot coal in our soul, and we are wise to obey. Do what's right when God convicts your conscience, and you will feel great. And again, You will make the world a better place.
Our Verse: Phil 2:13 “God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”
Ever feel frustrated with God? It seems like He gives us rules that we can't keep. We know He wants us to live a righteous life, but we just don't seem to have the will power to do it. Deep inside us, we know what's right. So how do we obey Him??
Here it is. When God tells us to do certain things and how to live, He also promises to help us do it! That's what our verse above is all about. God tells us to avoid doing wrong things, but avoiding wrong doesn't depend on us. He works inside us, in our heart and mind, so we can obey Him.
Let's see how this actually works.
Because you have a daily friendship, a personal connection, with God, He places a desire inside you to do the right thing- He “wills it”. As we follow Him each day and read His instructions, the Bible, we get a desire to do right. This desire moves from our heart to our mind. We begin to think the right thing in our mind. This finally translates into actions (doing right) with our body.
From God to our heart, into our mind and then done in our body. You will find yourself doing the right thing and the results are sweet. Bear in mind this is a lifelong process. We are daily being “holified,” made holy by God. All this comes directly from your Father in Heaven and everyone, your whole world, benefits!
You will be frustrated in life. But you don't have to be frustrated with God's commands. You can say, “Lord, I will trust You to help me do what You want.”
Philippians 2:13 is a promise you can depend on. God will give you the ability to obey His commands. He is your Father in Heaven and He wants you to succeed. God (really) is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.”
Our Verse: Psa 37:4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
Some things are just plain impossible! Here is an example of God giving a woman her childhood wish- something that could not happen... Without Him!
A small girl sits in a darkened theater. She watches an amazing movie. At the climax of the film the orchestra in silhouette plays a powerful classical piece. That little girl imagines being in that orchestra. But, even then, she knows it is impossible for her to be in that orchestra.
That was our friend Jeanette just a short time after she learned to play the violin. She was watching Fantasia by Walt Disney. As she grew up she understood she could never be in that movie's orchestra. But God had seen the desire in that little girl's heart. Right then he made a plan that would shock her many years later.
That little girl grew up to become a concert violinist. She became a follower of Jesus. Eventually she married and moved away from her home country . Through an amazing series of events, Jeanette moved to the western United States. There she became a teacher of the violin. One day she received a phone call. She was asked to join a movie sound track orchestra, a honor granted to few. She would join an exclusive group of musicians to provide the soundtrack for an upcoming movie. Finally, the name of the movie was announced. Fantasia 2!
God remembered the little girl's dream and granted her wish. Many years later, she was in the Fantasia orchestra!
What's your dream? Maybe you have thought, It's impossible, No Way! Ask God in faith and hold on! Nothing is impossible for Him! (Luke 18:27 “What is impossible for people is possible with God.”)
Our verses: I John 5:3 “Loving God means keeping his commandments, and his commandments are not a burden.” Isa 28:10 “...precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, Line upon line, line upon line, Here a little, there a little.”
Earlier we discussed God's will. We explained that God's will means His thoughts and His personal principles. The things He wants for humanity and for you.
He wrote these principles out for us in the 10 Commandments. They are a guide to relationship with God and with people. Later, Jesus came to earth and explained the 10 Commandments more fully. This is why it is so important to study your Bible. As you read or listen, you'll begin to understand the principles and ask God for help to do them.
Jesus summed up all of God's principles with two basic commands. First, Love God with all your mind, body, soul and strength. When you love God with all that you are, your mind, your body, your soul, your strength, you won't love things that harm you. The simple principle is loving God comes before everything else. When we see Him as First, then all other things fall into their proper place.
Here is the second command of Jesus- Love your neighbor just like you love yourself. It's easy to love yourself. It's difficult to love your neighbor in the same way that you love you, yet this is God's command, His principle.
You may ask, “Can I do this, obey God's principles?
When you follow Jesus as your Master, He empowers you to obey God's principles, the 10 Commandments and the two great commandments of the Lord Jesus. He helps you live by God's principles. As you do, you gain confidence to know God's will for you. It begins to affect every decision you make...even where you live and what you do! And... you will help others understand God's ways. The world will be a better place because you do!
Summary: God's will is known by understanding God's principles. He makes them available to you!
Our Verse: Phil 4:6 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Last time, we defined worry, it's a faithless emotional reaction to life's issues. It's a useless exercise that solves/ nothing.
How do we do this verse? What's our strategy to conquer worry?
Here are three basic steps:
First, memorize Bible verses about faith and about worry. Put God's Word in your heart. Psalm 119:11 says “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You..”
Step two- Speak those verses when you feel worry coming on. The Word of God is powerful when you speak it and it counteracts worry or anxiousness.
Step three- Listen to or read out loud those verses when you feel worry attacking your mind.
These steps build a habit of choosing the “Faith in God thought” from Scripture instead of the “worry thought.”
Daily Bible reading and listening will hone your ability to destroy worry thoughts. As you grow and change into a disciplined follower, a disciple of Jesus, you can face all the worry thoughts of life with powerful faith in God thoughts.
Through your Bible resources, either electronic or paper, do a search for verses related to faith and verses related to worry. Save these in a document you can easily access on your computer, tablet or phone. When a worry thought starts to creep in, open your doc and read or speak your personal list of “Faith in God thought” verses. Your faith in God grows and you will destroy worry thoughts! Finally, our Philippians verse commands prayer and supplication. Talk to God about your worries and submit your life to His care.
Go one click back to episode text for a “Faith in God thoughts” list.
Mt 6:34 Isa 26:3 Phil 4:6-7 Mark 11:22-24 Luke 10:40 Matt 6:27 Matt 6:31-32 Prov 12:25 I Peter 5:7
Our Verse: Matt 6:34 Jesus said, “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
Worries! We all have them. Most of us have piles of them, tugging on our minds every day and keeping us awake at night. So... how can we deal with worries? The Lord Jesus shows us how!
Let's understand some things about worry, then set a strategy to conquer it!
A definition: Worry is faithless emotional reaction to life's issues. A useless exercise that solves nothing.
Worry is not trusting God to help us, and it's destructive. It makes us ineffective to those around us and those who depend on us. It's final form is depression, where we give up. We quit and everybody suffers.
For this reason, we need to counter-attack worry when it comes.
Heres the strategy: God has promised to be with us in difficulty, to bring us safely through. Our counter attack against worry starts with remembering what God said. We push out the worry thought with a “Faith in God” thought.
An example: We have lost someone very dear to us. We feel alone, abandoned. Many good things we experienced are no longer possible. The worry comes- “I am alone, what will happen to me. How will I live from now on?” We attack that worry thought with our “Faith in God” thought- I am not alone! God said “I will be with you, I will never leave you or forsake you.” This thought and speaking these words will, in time, kill off the worry thought. In our experience, it's a growing process to let the Faith in God thought become the strongest in your mind. Sometimes God brings a friend to help you stand, sometimes He wants you to trust Him directly.
Fact: Your faith in God can overcome worry. Jesus said, “Dont worry about tomorrow. Another NT writer said, “don't be anxious for anything, but in everything give Thanks!” It is possible to conquer worry!
Next Part 2 Destroying Worry! A Strategy...
Our Verse: I Cor 3:19 the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God.
Text: We left a few details out in our last episode on wisdom. There are actually two kinds of wisdom, one that's really great, and one that's really bad. The great wisdom, we talked about it last time, is God's wisdom. The other kind, the bad- failure wisdom, is man's wisdom.
So/ what do you mean Man's wisdom?
For this discussion, man's wisdom means non-God solutions to life's issues, attempts to solve life's problems while excluding God. Humans not under God's authority make their own rules. Most times these rules exalt one person or one government over another. Those who are above do what they want, those that are under are forced to obey. Human wisdom is about pride and control, God's wisdom is about humility and obedience.
Down through the centuries, men have continually dominated other men. They have used many cunning devices to enforce control over others. Wars and great suffering have been the result. Man's machines and philosophies often damage our earth and people.
Using human wisdom, man dreams up even religious practices to control others and get what they want. They use God's name, but their own human wisdom, to get what they want. That is hypocrisy in it's purest form.
Don't be fooled by this failure wisdom for genuine wisdom. Reading any history book will tell you that human wisdom is a total failure.
The only authentic wisdom we can get in this world comes from God Himself. His wisdom has proven again and again to be the best. You can depend on His wisdom.
Our brother James (3:5) describes it, “the wisdom from God is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good results.”
Man's wisdom wrecks just about everything. God's wisdom make's the world a better place.
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Our verse is John 10:18 Jesus said: “No one takes (my life) from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again.”
Some blame the Romans for Jesus' death. Some think the Jews caused it. But the truth is- Jesus decided the day of his death. There were other players of course, the Romans, the Jews, even that slimy betrayer, Judas Iscariot. Pontius Pilate thought he was judging Jesus, but Jesus told him- “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above.” The director, the master of that death day was Jesus. He entered Jerusalem voluntarily. He prayed publicly, though quietly, in the garden of Gethsemane. He knew exactly what would happen because it was His plan, the plan to become a blood sacrifice for all souls. Blood sacrifice means DEATH. He didn't want to suffer, He chose to suffer. He would become the substitute for our sins.
But... death was only half the story. Listen again to what he said- “I lay my life down voluntarily, I have authority to lay it down and I have authority to take it up again. The day we Christians celebrate is Take Life Up Day! Three days after Jesus brutal execution, he came out of the grave, he took his life up again. Jesus is the one and only Conqueror of death. Every human lives and dies, Jesus has died and lives again and now He lives forever.. Let's be very happy that Jesus' “Take Life Up Day”- Easter is our “Take Life Up Day!”. Many blessings on every Mountain listener!
Our Verse: 1 Cor 1:30 Christ Jesus became for us wisdom...
First let's define this word wisdom.
Wisdom is the combination of knowledge and understanding to make good decisions. Knowledge is just that, information, the details, the facts. Understanding is the management of that information to reach a good conclusion. If the information is managed well, a wise decision results.
It is therefore necessary to have correct knowledge then manage that knowledge well to reach a wise decision. Failure to reach wise decisions happens when inaccurate or incomplete knowledge is used.
Here's an example: Your marriage is in trouble. Someone gives you this advice. "Just be tough with your spouse and tell 'em how it is". Poor advice inaccurate knowledge about relationships makes them crash. Good knowledge, wise advice would say, give a little, be patient, work together.
Another example: You are moving up in your company. Someone is saying things about you that aren't true. Your pride says “strike back” “get em!”, but wisdom tells you to let your actions speak louder than your critic's words. It's likely you will be vindicated.
Maybe it's about sports: Your whole team is riled up, some angry and shouting. It's tempting to join in, but you realize it's better to think this out before taking action.
So how do we get wisdom, this ability to make good choices?
Heres our verse again: Jesus became wisdom for us. Your relationship with Him brings wisdom. He gives us solid knowledge and helps us understand life and people.
Here's the verse- Proverbs (2:6) ...the Lord grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
God helps us make good decisions. Read His guidelines in His Book. You will become wise! Be patient, it's a lifelong process! More details in James 1:5
Your Father in Heaven wants you to be wise for the good of all people. Next episode- the difference between God's wisdom and man's wisdom.
Our Verse: 2 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment! NLT
Did you ever drink your milk so fast that it drenched your lip? I have. It's cold, tasty and you can't get enough!
Some things in life are so good you just want to chow down! God's Word, the Bible, is just like that. God Himself plants a hunger in the soul of all people to know and understand Him. We all want to know more about Him. When a person becomes a God follower, a new thing happens inside the soul. You get hungry for Him and His ways! This is why one writer of the New Testament explains it as the hunger of the baby for its mother's milk. And, the best thing thing is, the more you read, the hungrier you get! In earlier Mountain episodes, we discussed God's Word and how to get into it. You can listen and read all about this in the series “God's Book” down below on the Series button. In five episodes, we cover various topics- What is the Bible? What is Inspiration? How do I understand the Bible? Which Version for me? And Diving into the Bible. We also cover the “dry times” when nothing seems to click in the episode “Closed!”. Even then, God is at work in you, changing you to the person He wants you to be.
As we mentioned before, if you are new to the faith, a great place to start is the Gospel of John. It's the fourth book in the New Testament, and it's written by one of Jesus' closest friends.
Make a special time each day to chow down on God's Word. It is as important to your soul, as food is to your body! As the writer says, “Cry out for this nourishment now that you have a taste of the Lord's goodness!” You will be a strong follower of our King and a member of the Mountain Team!
Our Verse: Deuteronomy 29:29 “The Lord our God has secrets known to no one.
It often manifests with an aching way down deep. You lost something or someone and the pain just won't go away. We want the pain to go away, but it lingers. By understanding our episode verse “God has secrets known to no one”, we may find a way to be accept loss.
“Missing things” means people and circumstances that don't work out like we want. There are things in this life we will not be able to keep. There are events in this life that we may never understand. These things and events are within the secrets of God. In our earlier episodes about faith, we learned that trust is the center of our relationship with God. As we grow in trust toward God, we can better accept these things, these God secrets, that we cannot understand or resolve. As with most of our Christian life, trust is slowly gained. Living the Christian life day by day builds our trust. Talking to Him, reading our Bibles, and caring for those around us allows us to trust Him, especially for the missing things.
One missing thing might be a broken relationship. A love lost, a person lost. Some of these God restores, others He does not. Sometimes He brings a substitute. In these deep pains, we learn to trust God more.
Another missing thing might be an opportunity. You have dreamed, planned and worked hard to reach some goal. Suddenly you find the opportunity is gone! At this point, as a Christian, you must trust God that He has another opportunity better for you and those around you. He sees all things ahead and wisely prepares the path for each of us.
Someday, God will replace all missing things. Here is what He says, “Look! I make all things new.” Rev 21:5 “God Himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” Grow in Christ and get ready!
Our Verse: Luke 7:9 Jesus said, “I tell you, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!”
He was powerful. He was a killer, a Roman Centurion; leader of one hundred trained Roman soldiers. With other legions, they had conquered the known world of 50 BC to 30 AD. One day, this Roman officer experienced a miracle in his own house!
This man heard about Jesus while down range in Israel. He heard that Jesus performed miracles. (that's events outside the laws of physics) He might have seen one or been nearby. However he knew, he believed. He sent this message to Jesus:
“Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed.” Luke 7:7
Servants carried his message to Jesus. This officer valued his servant much like an owner or manager today values a good worker. Because he had faith, trust in Jesus, he knew that Jesus didn't need to come to his house. When Jesus got the message, he knew the faith of that soldier.
Without even seeing each other, without touching the servant, Jesus healed! He never entered the soldier's house! Later when everyone compared notes, the healing had occurred just when Jesus said it would!
That is a happy ending! The centurion got home and found his servant completely well!
This miracle demonstrates that Jesus is omniscient- He sees and knows everything. Jesus knew the man's faith without seeing him and commended him for it- “I have not seen such great faith in all Israel!” That soldier, that centurion, was a Faith Powerhouse!
God is powerful. He is faithful to us and He will answer our needs when we reach out to Him believing. “Anything is possible if a person believes.” Mark 9:23
Our Verse: Matt 14:31 Jesus said: “Why did you doubt Me?”
In the next 2 episodes, you are going to meet two men, and two very different experiences! One is a country boy fishing for a living, the other a career Roman officer, from a rich family, serving in a foreign land. Both learned to put their faith, their trust, in the Lord Jesus Christ.
First the faith flop- Peter. He was well-meaning, a tough commercial fisherman in great shape. He was your true "Ready, fire, aim” sort of guy. Sincere as they come, but often saying and doing things that made others roll their eyes! Jesus challenged Peter to use his faith to walk on the surface of a lake. Now this is clearly in the realm of miracles, a unique phenomena that could only come directly from God. 200 pound men are not supported by the surface tension of water. Although Pete wasn't a scientist, he certainly understood the principle.
He actually stepped out of the boat and stood on the surface of the water. Jesus said “Come” and Peter obeyed. As long as Peter was looking at Jesus he did fine, the water supported his weight. But then Peter lost his focus on Jesus and started watching those waves. Eyes on the waves and off Jesus...well, let one of the guys in the boat tell the story...
When Peter saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me? Jesus gently scolded Peter. Our brother learned a great lesson there on the lake. “I need to keep my eyes on Jesus and not my surroundings.” Wise words indeed!
Next on the Mountain- Meet a Roman officer who becomes a Faith Powerhouse!
Our Verse: Hebrews 13:5,6 God has said, “I will never fail you, I will never abandon you.” So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, I will have no fear.
Today we introduce Machmuda, a young Gypsy mother of 2 in Serbia, near Greece. Gypsies are a unique people group. Thought to have originated in India, they have migrated around the world and now live in many countries. We met Machmuda while traveling through Serbia. She had recently become a Christian, and shared an amazing story.
Her father-in-law had repeatedly stolen food money meant for her children. He was too strong to oppose, so she cried out to Jesus to help her. One night, God sent a terrible nightmare to her father-in-law. The dream made it very clear that he was to give her the money. Trembling, he came the next morning and returned the money.
As she told us this story, tears flowed, but then, she began to smile. Solemnly, she reached into her small purse and pulled out a few dinars, the local currency. She said, “I want to pay my first ever offering to God, I am thankful that He helped me and my children.”
Her behavior was the farthest thing from normal Gypsy culture. Getting and holding wealth is everything for them. My friend, a pastor, was able to receive her small gift. It was all smiles and happiness as she honored God.
Machmuda was growing into a beautiful Christian woman step-by-step, as she walked by faith obeying God. Here's the moral of the story: If you put God first, and cry out for His help He will take care of you. Pray for your sister Machmuda, that she will be blessed as a woman and a mom. She is truly a God honoring Determined Woman!
Our Verse: I John 5:5 And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God.
In our series, three young women stand strong for God, determined to do the right thing.
Today meet Janette, from Eastern Europe. Her battle was different from Iqbal's. At an early age, she was discovered to be a musical genius. She blossomed into an outstanding professional violinist. She received many honors and became a star performer in her country's national orchestra. She traveled internationally as a performing artist. Through a dramatic chain of events, Janette accepted Christ as her Savior. She continued to receive benefits and accolades in her professional career, but deep down she felt her first priority was to serve Jesus. The day came when she told her father she must leave the orchestra and her career. She would be sell her expensive violin. That Janette was a professional violinist meant everything to her father. He became very angry and said “You are no longer my daughter, LEAVE!” It was a time of great sadness for Janette. She followed her conviction and sold that precious violin. In the following years, she served God. He brought her a strong godly husband and eventually gave back her music. Jesus said, “Everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life.” This verse became Janette's reality- she gave up all to serve Jesus, He gave back even more! He blessed her then...and He continues to bless her to this day. Oh..and a PS Her pop became a Christian, they were fully reconciled and now he waits in Heaven for her! Best ending you could have. God truly is good!
Next: Machmuda's Miracle!
Our Verse: 1 John 5:5 Who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God.
Here are 3 stories of modern day girls who fought battles. God helped them “win the battle against the world”. Iqbal, Janette and Machmuda.
Iqbal lives in Serbia, near Greece. It's a place where ancient feuds don't die, they continue for many years. As a young girl, she was forbidden to walk on certain paths near her village. The people who traveled those paths were on the other side of a local feud involving her people. All of her people were under a terrible obligation called hak-marr-yah. This meant that when anyone in her family saw any member of the opposing family they were required to kill them! And... they were required to kill her! It sounds crazy, but that was the rule of the feud.
The time came when the young people of Iqbal's village realized it was ridiculous to continue the feud. Iqbal and others said “We can't continue doing this. This is not pleasing to God. We need to change this.” So while the older people continued hak-marr-yah, the blood feud, Iqbal and her friends made a plan. They decided to declare a day called Pie-ah-teem, roughly translated forgiveness and redemption. On a certain day in the mid 90's,they declared “Pie-ah-teem- A day of forgiveness”. Young and old agreed to bring their feud to an end. No longer would Iqbal walk some paths and avoid others fearing for her life. A new peace and security came to her village. Sometimes it takes one or more people to stand for what's right and publicly proclaim it. Iqbal stood up and won her battle, let's follow her example, both men and women!
Next time: Janette and the violin.
Our Verse: John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
It gets harder and harder each day to find truth in our world. Many data streams today are corrupted with lies and misrepresentations- Think elections or Wikileaks! This makes many of us unwilling to accept any information. The result- we end up cynical.
We all yearn for data that we can trust, that we know to be accurate, reliable, true. There actually is such a data stream. This information has been recorded by God Himself as a way of communicating with us. This data stream is His words, the Bible. It's complex, involving huge amounts of information. All of this information requires decryption, a special key to unlock it. Because of our pride, we don't want to ask God for the key. He works inside each one of us to break down that pride so we can humbly ask.
And what is this key, this tool to unlock God's words? It's a personal connection with Him, what we might call the faith key. You reach out to Him, “God show me the answers” and suddenly and progressively, He unlocks the information, you begin to understand. He gives you both facts and personal experience with Him so your trust, your faith, is based on reality and feelings!
It takes a lifetime to decrypt God's data stream. Parts of His message are very clear and easy to understand; other parts remain encrypted, closed. Daily reading of His words is our process to grasp His information.
Jesus spent his 33 year mission providing data about God and His ways. His coming was one of many ways God provided factual evidence for His existence. That evidence is God's data stream. Unlock your Bible with your faith and you will find satisfying answers.
Our Verse: Genesis 3:6 “Eve took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband...and he ate it too.”
As we look at the world today, we see disaster, tragedy, suffering. Deep within, we struggle to understand it all. Why is there so much evil and suffering in the world? God tells us the answer to this in the book of Genesis. We can identify the exact moment when sin came into the world. By sin we mean an act of disobedience to what God said.
In God's design of the world, He allowed a tree to grow which produced a special kind of fruit. When people ate the fruit, it empowered them to perceive two things, all good and all evil. This “good and evil” tree was placed in the garden to give men a choice- a choice to do good or a choice to disobey. God instructed Adam and Eve to eat from all the trees in the garden except this one. He warned them what would happen if they did.
God is the ultimate Chooser. Whatever He wants, He can do. He designed us humans to be like Himself, able to choose. This is why the good and evil tree was created and placed in the Garden.
People worldwide can choose good or evil. Their choices make our world the place it is today. God allows these choices for a time. There will come a perfect moment in world history when every person, man, woman and child will have chosen. The next moment after that, God will complete His work to redeem the world. He will make it totally new. All the bad choices will be forever gone and good choices will be the only desire of those living on the earth. The God story has a truly amazing, happy and complete ending. Then a whole New Story will begin, one we talk about in other Mountain episodes. Dont miss that Story!
Last time we asked What is prayer? It is two way communication between a human and God. Listening to and talking with God come naturally when you become His child by faith in Jesus.
You might ask- Does Prayer really work? Does God hear me, will He answer me? The Answer: Absolutely!!
Jesus taught in Matt 7:7 “ASK, and you will receive what you ask for. SEEK, and you will find. KNOCK, and the door will be opened to you. Everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. His instructions are clear!
There are some things we need to remember as we pray- If we are doing or thinking sinful things we can block our prayer connection to God.
Psalm 66, If I regard sin in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.
When we are walking obediently with Him, amazing things can happen! The earnest prayer of a man in right standing with God has great power and wonderful results! James 5:16
Prayer answers come in different ways- Yes, No and Wait! We trust God for what we need when we need it. His answer may be something spiritual, material or emotional. He sees all and knows what is best for us His children!
Waiting sometimes means He wants us to listen for His voice, to wait for His instructions- both in our heart and thru reading our Bible. Yup, He can speak to you thru those pages!
Prayer is real and prayer works! Millions of God followers have learned how and talk to our Father in Heaven every day! Go for it!
Our verse- Psalm 27:8 When You, God, said, Seek my face...my heart said to you, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.
Many of us wonder, How do I pray? Will God hear my prayer?
First, God is everywhere 24/7, He is omnipresent. He never says “leave a message”. He is always listening for us. And... He wants to talk to us if we listen.
Here's a definition- Prayer is two way communication between a human and God- it can be spoken words or from your mind. Prayer sometimes comes from deep in the soul without words and most times God speaks to your mind- to inside you.
There is no position, formal attitude or certain words required for Him to hear you. You talk with God, honest and respectful. He knows everything, He's omniscient. He even knows the words you will speak, but He loves to hear from those He created.
Finally, He is omnipotent, all powerful. He can do everything we need. This is why Jesus taught all His followers to pray, “ Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6.
Jesus taught us how to pray. He is our example. He prayed regularly and with all His heart. He tells us to pray in the Lord's Prayer, again, Matthew 6 You can read how Jesus prayed in John 17 in the New Testament. Hurting people pray simple- a blind man said “Jesus have mercy on me” , a convicted criminal said “Lord remember me!” You can always come to God, no formality or special words are required, just respect. We should be ready to hear... as well as to speak. Make regular times to pray and listen- and be ready anytime to ask God for help! Hebrews 4 says- “let us come boldly to the throne of Grace to receive mercy and grace in time of need.”
Our Verse: 2 Peter 1:21 ...those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.
Do you ever wonder what those strange prophecies really mean? Have you noticed how they can include both the present time of the prophet and future times as they are spoken? Let's try to find a way to study and understand Old Testament prophecy. The ancient prophets were speaking to the people of their times. God spoke through them to instruct and correct their leaders, friends and neighbors. God also included in their prophetic messages events in the future. Most prominent among these future events was the life and mission of the Lord Jesus Christ. God also foretold world events in the final times prior to Christ's return to earth.
In handling Old Testament prophecies, we need an intellectual structure. Here it is:
First, accept that not all prophecy is understandable yet. Many future events in Scripture are yet to be revealed. God will, in His time, open people's understanding and reveal future events.
Second, Seek God's wisdom to understand the prophecies of Scripture. At the right time, God will reveal parts of his Word to you personally, those things you don't yet understand.
Third, God seeks spiritually mature people both to deliver prophecies and bring public understanding of prophecies. We have examples of this in the Old and New Testaments. Daniel, a wise and godly man, was the human vehicle God used to bring many prophecies. Some he delivered are yet to come.
Jesus prophesied His own death, His future return to earth and many other things. Early Christians, like Agabus and Peter, likewise delivered prophecies for their time and for the future.
Don't stress as you read Old and New Testament prophecies. Ask God for wisdom as you read, and He will reveal everything you need to know.
In summary: Not all prophecies are understandable today. Seek God's help to understand prophecies. Seek to be a spiritually mature believer.
Our Verse: Luke 10:24 Jesus told his students, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you have seen. I tell you, many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, and they didn’t see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn’t hear it.
You know that feeling when the wind changes direction; it happens at my house. The wind usually comes from the south, but sometimes the wind turns and starts to blow from the north. When this happens, we know cold weather is on the way.
The ancient prophets felt something like this. Things had been the same for centuries, but now they sensed a change was coming, much like a change in the weather. They wrote about a series of events that would touch all mankind. They sensed God was about to change the world/ by sending part of Himself among men. He communicated and they recorded evidence of the coming of Christ long before he arrived.
First century God followers knew these writings. As they walked and talked with Jesus, the ancient prophecies came true before their eyes! After Jesus returned to Heaven, His followers wrote about their adventures with Him, that's the New Testament. Today, we get it all, the ancient prophecies and the New Testament fulfillment of them.
God now lets you to see the entire picture, that's your Bible! Now/ you can know His plan to make all things right in the world. It will all happen. Let's be patient and diligent as His followers. Do your work well, love and serve those in your world and at just the right moment His Kingdom will come.
Here's Peter, one of Jesus' students, writing about those ancient prophecies: This salvation was something even the prophets wanted to know more about... They were told that their messages were not for themselves, but for you. And now this Good News has been announced to you...so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching.
Mountain Friends- May your experience be filled with joy and confidence as you read God's message!
Our Verse: Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God made the heavens and the earth.
It's hard to watch any science show on TV or a movie without hearing this phrase. “Millions and millions of years”, our acronym- MAMOY…The phrase is a clever device to help people not be responsible to God. One of the New Testament writers says that men are "willingly ignorant” of the things of God” Many humans choose not to believe. It's just too painful to concede that God truly exists and made the heavens and the earth. Because if He did, every single person is responsible to Him, their Creator.
One way people avoid being responsible to God is the “theory” of evolution. First claimed true in 1859, it's believers needed millions of years for the theory to work. Now, 159 years later, modern followers keep adding more millions, claiming 150 to 200 million years! Why? Because for any possibility of evolution happening, you need an immense amount of time. Scientists claiming the faith of evolution need more time! Just remember it is a theory not a fact!
One part of MAMOY faith is transitional species, (Sadly, there are none!) Some proposed the “hopeful monster” theory. Evolutionist R. Goldschmidt opined “that a reptile laid an egg that a bird hatched out of.”
Another problem is the missing bones. If animals and people had populated earth for MAMOY (millions and millions of years) there would be immense piles of their bones world wide. Where are those pesky bones? They simply don't exist!
A much simpler and solid hypothesis is built on believing what God wrote us in His book. His first words to us: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Seeing the complexity of human and animal life, we know there is a Creator.
So...before you unthinkingly accept a theory claiming MAMOY (millions and millions of years), consider God and the huge volume of evidence from our Creator!
Our Verse: Rev 3:11 Speaking about every true God follower, Jesus said, “they will be citizens in the city of my God—the new Jerusalem. And... “I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God.”
There are exciting times ahead for those in Jesus. A day is coming when we will leave this physical body and move into another dimension, our new forever home. Jesus made this fact clear to his followers before He left the earth. He said, “I am going to prepare a place for you. When everything is ready, I will come and get you.” Not too long after that, His disciples watched him rise off the ground and disappear into a cloud. We know from an earlier Mountain episode that Jesus now sits at the right hand of the Father in heaven. One of his tasks there is preparing a new city for all God followers. Your new home will have a beautiful river, fruit trees and many other marvels impossible to describe. No need for a passport, you will be a naturalized citizen of New Jerusalem.
We've all heard of New Delhi and New York, but New Jerusalem will be unlike any human city ever built.
This may be a little difficult to grasp, but our New Jerusalem will be 1400 miles CUBIC. Yes, you heard that right, CUBIC. These dimensions are given in Revelation 21. There will be three entrance gates on each side of the city and it will be full of thankful God followers just like you and me.
And...according to our verse above, you and I will become a solid part of the structure of the city- pillars in the temple of our God. It will be our forever home. You will never have to leave. There will be many.. adventures there, so get ready. Things utterly unimaginable await us in our new forever home, New Jerusalem.
Our Verse: Mark 11:22 Jesus taught, “Have faith in God. Truly, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart.
So, just what is Faith exactly?” Here's a simple definition- Faith is personal trust in God. A deeper definition says- Faith is a mental and spiritual conviction where you believe God will do just what He promised you. (Conviction means you believe something with all your being.)
Let's consider some facts: Every single human can believe in God, no matter what they have said or done. Faith exists in every human being. God puts it there so all can believe. Faith can be exercised and it can grow. Rom 4:20 Jesus says faith is like a very small seed.
One important caution: Faith is not just a feeling or hope for something good or useful. We may have faith in a person or a philosophy, but that is not true faith.
The best word to explain faith is trust. With your God-given faith, you trust Him instead of yourself, others and circumstances of life. Trusting people often ends with disappointment. Trusting God is always a win for you and for those around you.
He builds this trust, this faith, in us so we can live better in a broken world. and over time change our broken world for the better! Life is messy, it's full of problems and problem people. Trusting God through the messes make your faith grow. Rom 4:20 Faith becomes stronger faith! Faith that's real, and faith that's powerful!
In a future Mtn episode, you will meet 2 men who Jesus helped with their faith. Our regular Mtn friend Pete the fisherman and an officer in the Roman Army. Meet a faith flop and a Faith powerhouse!
Our Verse: Rev 1:1 This is a revelation (a revealing) from Jesus Christ...
The Bible's final part, Revelation, “reveals” Jesus Christ. He is the center. We are given the details by one of Jesus closest friends, John. He is lifted from an island off the coast of Turkey and transported into God's throne room. Amazing as it sounds, that's just what happened. God gave us a peek into His personal Room so we could know about it. Revelation, the book, is about things that will happen to all mankind before God changes the world from man's rule and authority to His.
Here are the basics to get you started: God describes how man has worshipped Him, both right and wrong, thru the ages. He describes how the world will unite to rule themselves. No God for us please!
He describes the government that will form in the final days of earth's history. Then He describes it's demise and that of it's structure and leaders.
Revelation describes a world gone berserk because God is gone from it. It will be a very dangerous and scary time for all people. Many parts of the book are echoed in the ancient books of Daniel, Ezekiel and Zechariah. Much that Jesus taught while on earth is connected to events in this book.
Finally, the book describes a brand new time for planet Earth. A day will arrive when Jesus actually appears on the earth at Jerusalem and assumes royal authority over the entire planet. He will bring in an era of peace unlike anything we humans have ever known. The entire absence of war. The entire absence of violence, by animals and men. The world will be entirely cleansed of all things bad, both physical and spiritual.
It's all there. Written in the first Century, Revelation has stood the test of time. Parts of it have already occurred, parts of it are yet to occur. It is a story of grim future events and a bright forever future for all who put their trust in God, our Creator. Get ready, it is coming. We don't know when, just that it truly is!
Ask God for wisdom, dive in! He will lead as you read!
Our Verse: Jer 38:11 “Put these rags under your armpits, they'll protect you from the ropes.”
Today's story is about a genuine hero. His name- Ebedmellech. He lived about 2600 years ago. We call him Ebb. As a official in the King's household, He became aware of the prophet Jeremiah's imprisonment. He risked his own position to save Jeremiah from a terrible dungeon. When he asked for Jeremiah's release, amazingly, the king consented. (The king respected Jeremiah, but caved in to his counsellors and had him jailed.) Ebb immediately mounted a rescue mission. With 30 men, he headed for the dungeon. Jeremiah had been thrown into a sewer full of mud. It was dark and it stunk. His enemies decided to throw him in the stone tank, put a stone on top and slowly starve him to death. Out of sight, out of mind. Our hero, Ebb, watched all this happen and knew Jeremiah's fate. He approached the king humbly asking for his release. The king was a total wimp but knew Jeremiah served God. He didn't want him dead and quietly agreed to a rescue.
All this time, Jeremiah gave up, he quit! no possibility of rescue for him; he felt abandoned. But God had another plan, and it involved an Ethiopian slave, our pal Ebb. Completely outside Jeremiah's perception, God mounted a rescue plan! Jeremiah had been faithful to God, and God would be faithful to him.
It's really hard to describe what Jeremiah felt as the stone was moved. Dust and sunlight poured in the hole above him. A face looked down and said these words, “Put these rags under your armpits, they'll protect you from the ropes.” The mud around him squelched as he was pulled out!
God was faithful to Jeremiah. He uses people and circumstances we can't imagine to help us in our troubles. Be faithful to God and He will be faithful to you!
Read the whole rescue mission in Jeremiah 38
Our Verse: Luke 15:18 “I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you”
Jesus story is about a wealthy teen or 20something who made some big relational and financial mistakes! The story in Luke has lots of parts but we'll just focus on the kid. He decides to leave home and take his money “now”. He says, “Dad, I want my inheritance now". Being just a kid he blows the money. His life plummets, all his friends desert him and he finally ends up in a pig sty. Take it from one who knows... a pig sty is a very uncomfortable place! Cold, wet and muddy. He is so hungry he decides to eat the pig food. At this moment, he realizes the servants at his dad's house are eating good food while he eats garbage. He emotionally wakes up and says, “It's time to go back to my father.”
As one writer put it, “This was his lowest depth-- perishing unpitied, alone in the world, and ready to disappear from it unmissed.”
He knows it's a big risk. His dad may not accept him back because of his foolish actions. But with no options available, he's decides to make the trek home.
Here's the clincher, He realized he made a mistake. He turned around and went back home and made it right. This is what we do with God our Father in heaven. We realize we've been mistaken in running our own lives, and go on home and make it right with Him. This is a real-life example of repentance, turning around, making a 180 and doing what's right.
King to Animal episode-http://subsplash.com/themountain/v/b1b0142
If you are at your lowest depth, perishing, alone and feeling ready to disappear, this story may be for you.
The young man's pop received him with love and forgiveness. Your Father in heaven will do the same for you. Don't wait, start your new life right now!
Enjoy reading the whole story in Luke 15 in the New Testament.
Our Verse: Isa 28:10 God tells us everything over and over—one line at a time, one line at a time, a little here, and a little there.
Text: Can we decode God's complex message? There are many deep and sometimes hard to understand connections in Scripture, so how/ can we understand?
We need a decryption key to God's message. This key, the most critical element to understanding the Bible, is God's presence in your life. He is the Key. While invisible to your eyes, God makes Himself present to everyone through what we know as His Holy Spirit. This everywhere presence of God is first described in Genesis 1:2 as the Spirit of God hovered over the waters of earth.”
As we grasp the key- recognizing His presence, we begin to understand His message.
As you read, God decrypts! At first, you will see a simple picture of Him, a little like kindergarten, the basics of faith. As you grow in understanding and mature as a Christian, you will see His design and understand more, like the verse above, a little here, and a little there. And the result, Your faith, your trust grows.
Reading Scripture helps you to build a mental library of Bible verses. You begin to weave these verses together into a pattern, like a tapestry. From that pattern comes a full picture of God and His ways, and a picture of you.
In an earlier episode we talked about comparing verses. As you read your Bible, you will see these connections.You will find connections within the New Testament and connections between the Old and New Testaments. I am always finding these connections. They validate the essentials of our belief, God's forgiveness, His justice and mercy and His willingness to communicate with us! Finding the connections in Scripture helps us understand who He is, and what He wants from us.
Our verse: Gen 1:28 “...God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it.”
God tells us humans from the very beginning that humanity is to be fruitful. Just what is He talking about and how do we respond?
Let's consider... Fruitfulness involves many things. Primarily it means having a family and increasing the number of people here. Second it means to take care of the earth. To make the earth a beautiful place to raise your family and be with your friends. God made this the rule of life for all people at the very beginning of time.
How about a definition from God's perspective? “Fruitiful” means producing more humans and ruling over and using the earth in a way that helps everyone on it.
Sadly mankind has messed up these guidelines and forgotten how to do it right. People today seek physical satisfaction as the primary goal and use up the earth for one's own ends without considering affects them or others.
Our task is to reverse this trend among people everywhere. We are to be “fruitful”- productive in our lives on earth. This means we use the Golden Rule, treating others just like we want to be treated. Our concern pointed outward, not inward. It means we will raise and protect our families and treat them well.
We will take care of the physical earth, not wasting what God made, but instead using and developing it for the benefit of all. This includes the digital world of electrons and machines.
We are the next wave of Christians- God followers, following millions of others throughout history from Adam and Eve. We continue to bring good to the world. We are helpers and healers. Education, the arts, the professions, like law science, medicine. While there is degradation in these fields, we have unlimited opportunities to love God and our fellow humans.
This is where you come in for 2017. This can be the best year ever for you, your family, the world around you. You have your natural skills and acquired skills to be “fruitful”- a real world, everyday help to make the world better. Take some time here at the new year to do an inventory of your natural and acquired skills. (many resources online) Then pray and ask your Father in Heaven how you might use those skills to bless yourself, your family and others. He will supernaturally energize you to use your gifts for the benefit of others. Our prayer for you- Father, please bless this Mountain listener, He or she is Your child, and gifted to be fruitful in this world, help us make the world better for every single person, In Jesus' name, Amen! Happy 2017!
Mtn Friends, meet Pastor Dan Bruce as he shares how any man can be great if he trusts God.
Pastor Dan: ” Every father, every husband, every man, every person, yearns for significance...” “Men can become laser beams of focus... we yearn to be heroes.”
Here is the link for Pastor Dan's full message “Grace Alone”: themountain.info/dan-bruce. More great messages by God's faithful speakers soon. Press on in your faith and become GREAT through...Grace Alone! PS/FYI- Pastor Dan, leading Faith Assembly Church in Imperial, CA. is a dear friend and excellent Bible teacher. Visit their site (ivfaithassembly.org) for great messages to boost your God Adventures! When you visit Faith Assembly, say Hi from the Mountain Team!
Our verse: Prov 16:25 There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.
Text: Our Mountain friend Ted recounts his story with a lesson:
“Alto! Alto!” the officer shouted, pointing at the sign indicating a one way street. I had not noticed the sign, but had seen my final destination from a side street before making the wrong way turn. ”De sentido único”, he said standing by my vehicle. One way only! Newly married, and on our honeymoon, I was mortified. I tried to explain I only had a short way to go, and there wasn't any traffic. I also told him that I wasn't aware it was one way until he stopped me. As he stood in front of my vehicle motioning me to turn around, it was clear I wouldn't reach my destination going “my” way. Happy to avoid any other consequence (like a fine), I immediately complied.
All of us are sincerely mistaken at times. We really think our way is the best way. It goes against our pride to admit that we are going the wrong way. If you continue in the wrong direction, you end up farther and farther from your destination. And, you may face penalties. Thankfully, the policeman helped him go the right way. God sometimes takes that policeman's role with us. He says “Stop, not this way, a different way.
This is why Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life..” Following His way is the true direction. Life is a whole lot better when we follow his instructions.
Our discussions here on The Mountain are designed to help you understand God's instructions. The fact is his instructions are not bad, they really are good. So, if you're hearing Alto, Alto! pay attention, stop. You will be much happier when you do. Many of our Mountain friends listened to God and life is good. Join us on trek to the Mountain of the Lord!
Our Verse: Mt 7:12 “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.”
So just where does the Golden rule come from, and what does it mean? Some quote the Golden Rule without any idea of where it originated. It is not just a warm fuzzy adage, but a statement from our Lord Jesus Christ when He walked the earth. Jesus explained the rule and many other things in Matt 5, 6, and 7 in the New Testament. It is a wonderful read.
Here's what it says: “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.”
It is a simple but profound statement. The Lord Jesus explains in crisp terms how you can best live in the world among often difficult people.
Here's what the rule means: First, Jesus challenges us to act. “Do” to others. The Golden Rule is action not feelings. Second, ask and answer the implied question- What would I like others to do for me? I want people to treat me kindly, respect me and help me with my challenges and problems. Now, take your answer and apply it to your neighbor (family, friend or acquaintance). Be Kind, be respectful and offer them/ the kind of help you want.
Notice the second part of Jesus statement- The Golden Rule is the essence of all ancient Biblical writings. This means “doing” the Rule helps you grab the essence of truth, the very heart of it. The knowledge and instructions of the Old Testament are reduced to their essence by Doing to others.
You now have the pulsing hot core of what love is all about. Less selfishness. More kindness. Doing to others is the best possible thing you can do to improve your life and help others. Press on Dear Friends! Mtn Ed.
Our Verse: Phillipians 3:14 I press on to the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
You're trying to read your Bible. You read, but you don't seem to get anything out of it. Nothing seems to click. What's this all about? Some days, some weeks, every word seems to jump right off the page, but not today. What's up?
Every God follower has times like this. It's not abnormal. Think of it as a winter season.
As you look at those winter trees, it looks like nothing is happening. But actually there's a lot happening. It's just that the action is not visible. Deep underground the tree is prepping for springtime. It is gathering strength for the time of growth.
It's the same for a Christian. There are times of big action and growth and also times of apparent inaction when God is preparing you for new adventures.
We can be strategic during these times. First, recognize the slow time for what it is. Dedicate special time for prayer. It's our Mountain concept of getting away from screens and noise to a quiet place to hear from God and tell him how you feel. He may tell you about things you need to change as His follower. Try reading other parts of your Bible. The Psalms is always a good place when you're having hard times. Often the writers of the Psalms are having tough times themselves. You will relate to their struggles and God's answers.
For sure you will come out of that dry time. I have! God will send times of refreshing, newness, when hope returns and Scripture crackles with energy!
This is one of the cycles of life- Dynamic action times and times to wait. Out in front of you, in time and space, God is there setting things up. People and events are being arranged and He will lead you to them at just the right moment. Press on, as our verse says, to the high calling of God in Christ Jesus!
Our Verse: Isa 46:10 Only I (God) can tell you the future before it even happens.
God knows the end of time from the beginning of time. It is a part of His nature to know all things. Our human term for this is omniscient- all knowing. This means that every fact from all time is known to God. Bible study, as explained in the prior two episodes, helps us understand this phenomenon about God.
Today, let's focus on one element of our Bible data analysis– Prophecy. The entirety of God's Word, Old Testament and New, is an amazing matrix of knowledge. Included in that matrix is the foretelling of events in human history. Events are foretold years or even centuries before they happen.
The key prophetic events foretold in the Bible relate to Jesus of Nazareth. History is actually His story.
Here is a great example: Isa 9:6 “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he shall be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”
This foretelling of Jesus life was written over 600 years before his birth. Many other facts, including his birthplace, were foretold hundreds of years before He arrived.
God simply knew these historical dates and events and communicated them into the minds of prophets like Isaiah long before they happened. No one but God can tell us the future before it happens.
Now... that is only the events in the past! There are also future events foretold in the Scriptures. That is a future episode! Maybe more than one!
God wants us to have confidence in Him and His words. Get right to your work- comparing different verses, and your confidence in God will grow.
Our Verse: Acts 2:21 Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
God really is wise in handling His creatures. Some of them just don't get what He is saying. This is the story on one such creature.
Some years back, man named John started working with a loud, disrepectful kid. It took a lot patience...and prayer! The kid was a smart aleck. John just kept talking about Jesus, all the time! Trusting that God could change his heart.
He kept telling him to “accept Jesus”. John was different and challenged the kid's lifestyle. He told John, “I just want to live my life my way. I have a plan and no body and no Thing is going to get in my way”. John just kept praying, alone and with friends at church.
Through some crazy circumstances, the kid's plan got interrupted! Jesus made Himself real to the kid. One day, John and him bowed their heads and prayed. Jesus came into their prayer and gave the kid a brand new life- right on the shop floor!
And... you have probably guessed who that kid was.
Don't resist God however He approaches you, maybe through a person or any one of a hundred different ways. He knows the perfect way to talk with you!
To “receive or accept Jesus” means to entrust your life to Him. It is to believe in your heart and speak with your mouth words something like this: “Lord Jesus forgive my sins and come into my life. Be my Master, my Lord!
When you “receive Jesus”, your whole life changes, it becomes new. You yearn to know more about God, and... you begin to understand His words... the Bible. Don't resist Him like the kid, it can be painful. You get a new life no more fear, no more guilt, free to love God and help your world! Once again- “...all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12 PS Your friend can bow his or her knee...Keep praying!
Our Verse: Isa 28:10 God tells us everything over and over—one line at a time, one line at a time, a little here, and a little there.
As you remember, the first part of Bible study is getting the data. You do this through “regular reading” Now let's tackle Part 2- Comparing different verses. That verse in the last episode said, “rightly dividing the word of truth”. That means comparing different verses to understand God better.
Like a spiritual cryptologist you are analyzing and decrypting God's data in the Bible. You begin to review different passages, “one line at a time” as described in the verse above. The first century Christians did the same thing. They only had the Old Testament, and had heard it since they were little kids. Some of the verses they had memorized suddenly made sense to them as followers of Jesus. They “compared different verses” of the Old Testament with what Jesus did and said “It's true!” They got it. They realized the truth of Scripture by what they had experienced with the Lord Jesus.
Today we have the New Testament, a record of Jesus life. We compare the many promises in the Old Testament with the New Testament story of Jesus and discover the same thing- It's True! It just makes sense! “Comparing different verses”, the second part of Bible study, helps us understand the Bible is true!
Here's an example: Isaiah 7:14 The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel, meaning ‘God is with us. We connect this Old Testament prophecy about Jesus with it's New Testament fulfillment in Matt 1:20 and Luke 1:35. These two passages and others validate the birth of Jesus as God's Son.
Here's the Summary: Gather data about God through “regular reading”. Analyze that data through “comparing different verses”. The result? Your faith, your trust in God will grow!
Next on the Mountain: Prophecy. What's that?
Our Verse: 2 Tim 2:15 Study to show yourself approved to God...rightly dividing the word of truth.
Christians tend to be a bit shaky about this term Bible Study. Many people have a Bible, but don't know how to crack the Book. You can “crack the code” in the greatest book ever written. Let't figure out how!
Our goal as Jesus' followers is to really know our Bibles. Not just head knowledge, but genuine heart knowledge about God. Bible Study is the way this happens.
First, a simple definition- Bible Study is a mental spiritual process in 2 parts- regular reading and comparing different verses.
“Regular reading” is the download. “Comparing different verses” is the analysis. Since His comms are supernatural, God's help, His mind, is required to understand His words.
Let's start with “Regular reading”. This simply means getting God's data in your mind and heart. You read, He helps, and you grasp and understand His message. It's the “study” part of our verse above.
This data capture means you read or listen to a part of the Bible each day. In daily pieces, you “install” God's instructions inside you.
This spiritual download takes time. Be patient and be diligent. Our verse above says you should “Study to be approved” You will be working and applying yourself to get the data about God. Jesus explained the Father would send the Holy Spirit “teaching you everything and reminding you of everything I have told you.” John 14:26
There is not limit on how much you can download, except maybe your eyes and ears! Plow right through the New Testament than jam on through the Old. As you read, God helps with the next part of Bible Study, “comparing different verses”.
All about that next time in Bible Study part 2.
Our Verse: 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance ASV
All is an interesting word in the Bible. It is a small word with a big meaning for every person. Let's see how that little word applies to you, me and eternity!
A popular idea is that God will choose some people and reject others. This makes some people prideful, thinking they are better, but others become terribly afraid, thinking God will never choose them.
Both kinds of people suffer from a critical lack of information! The proud religious person is mistaken about God's selection process for eternity! They think that by doing good things, God will owe them Heaven. However, it is “not by works of righteousness we have done, but by His mercy He has saved us” There just is no earning Heaven.
At the other end of the spectrum are folks that live in absolute panic they won't be chosen. They see God as angry, like an impossible to please father, just waiting to squash them. They feel hopeless.
But... There's really great news! And it's about our little big word...ALL!!
When you read what God says, you will not be mistaken with the proud, the self-righteous or discouraged with those afraid of God.
The Bible says- “The Lord is longsuffering (patient) toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance.” This means- He is patiently waiting for every person to turn to Him.
He actually wants every person with Him in His coming Kingdom.
Let's believe what He said. It is the most important decision we will ever make.
Our Verse: 1Timothy 2:8 I would that men would pray always!
How about an amazing statistic? A person we know has been conducting a experiment for over 15 years and the results are almost unbelieveable.
Here's the experiment: Ask any person, no matter where they are, no matter who they are- one of these two questions:
“Can I pray for you?” or “Can I say a prayer for you?”
In 15+ years of asking, our friend has a conservative 98% of people saying “Yes”. A person's social and economic position doesn't matter, almost everyone wants to pray.
There are a few who refuse, but given all the strange circumstances of life, that's to be expected. God still has a plan for the “No” folks. If 2% or less say “No”, we all have a truly historic opportunity. We can bring a huge number of people before God for His help.
So why isnt EVERYONE asking? Fear. Uncertainty. A fear of rejection! So... let's find a way to overcome that fear so we can start asking!
First, see the needs of people around you. Our world is full of fear, uncertainty and death! People are afraid. You see it in their eyes and their words.
Second, recognize the willingness of people to talk to God with a little help! (Our friend's experiment is proof of the target rich environment of willing people.)
Third, Practice! Strike up a conversation and Ask! Here are the two questions again:
“Can I pray for you?” or “Can I say a prayer for you?
God will give you insight from the conversation to know which question to use.
Here's why two different questions. Some folks come from a more formal tradition of prayer. These people are comfortable with “Saying a prayer” Others are more casual and they're comfortable with the idea of “praying”. The more you practice with conversations, the more you will know which question works best.
God will give you courage and you will help many hurting people!
Our Verse: John 8:12 Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow Me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.'
A powerful statement by Jesus Christ- He says He is the Light. Following Him gives us light to live the best kind of life.
Imagine a blind person, one who has never seen anything. Ask him, “What's it like to be blind?” He can't tell you. Having never seen, he has no contrast to his darkness. This is the way of humans who have not experienced the light of Christ.
Here's a definition: Unbelief is a state of mind and heart where God is refused and spiritual blindness results.
The person who has yet to experience this light of Jesus walks in darkness and uncertainty. The Psalms calls this “slippery places”. That means dangerous places. Walking through life in the dark, putting your confidence in yourself and on things can lead you and others to disaster.
An unbelieving person chooses to refuse. “I don't believe in God.”
This can happen in spite of conspicuous God evidence all around.
Thankfully unbelief doesn't have to win. Jesus opens eyes, just like those 2 blind men. He opens them every day and around the world.
Us blind guys who get to “see” Jesus are thrilled. As we look back, we “see” that He was there all the time, leading, protecting and even speaking to us.
Unbelief is spiritual blindness. Jesus heals that blindness. Our part is to humbly ask. He will do the rest!
In Matt 19:28 Our Lord Jesus spoke of “the age when all things are renewed and He, the Son of Man, would sit on his glorious throne.”
It was a sad moment. The first man and his wife slowly walked away. Their beautiful safe home, the Garden, was no longer theirs. A mighty angel was stationed at the east side of the Garden. A flaming sword flashed back and forth guarding the way to the tree of life. Paradise was lost to them, lost for ages to come. Read it in Genesis 3.
But...God promised a day of restoration. Our verse above says, “all things will be restored. There would be a very long time of sadness and hardship, but finally Eve's faraway descendants would reenter Paradise.
Today, God's plan for the eventual restoration is underway. He is now giving all living people an opportunity to be part of the future Garden. By studying the Scriptures, you can understand this truth.
Revelation 21 describes not just a Garden, but an immense city where many of the features of the original Eden will be present. There will be many trees, some of them healing sources for the nations of the earth. There will be much fruit on the trees with different crops ripening constantly. The writer, John, describes the River of Life, a surging abundant flow that benefits all in the great city.
All who are followers of Jesus will live in this city. He will sit on a glorious throne in the midst of it all. He will be coronated King of all Kings!
You will be a citizen of the city, it's name- New Jerusalem. Enjoy many of the details in Revelation chapter 21. It is coming! Paradise will be restored and you will live there!
Our Verse: Rev 19:16 “On his robe at his thigh was written this title: KING OF ALL KINGS AND LORD OF ALL LORDS.”
In past episodes, we considered two titles of Jesus- “Son of Man” and “Lamb of God” Now we consider His greatest titles- King of all Kings and Lord of all Lords.
You might have a different idea about this word Lord. It is widely used in movies and media. You might have heard of the Lords of Flatbush or Lord of the Rings, but our term- Lord of Lords, is different. It means He is the ultimate Authority. Jesus Christ will be the Ruler over every tribe, language, people group and nation!
At God's exact time, Jesus will depart from Heaven. Here it is from the New Testament- “...at just the right time, Christ will be revealed from heaven...”. I Timothy 6:15. He will place His foot on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, proceed thru the Golden Gate on the east side of the Temple mount, and take His place as King of all Kings.
So we see He will carry 2 titles- King of all Kings and Lord of all Lords. As King of Kings, He will take His rightful seat as ruler of Planet Earth. As Lord of Lords, He will take total and final authority over every person.
These things are clearly stated in the Bible.
We don't know when this will happen, but His coming is absolutely sure. That Day will arrive and Jesus will take His rightful place. Many false christs will appear before His return, but when that moment comes, every person on earth will know! Luke 17:24
Let's be ready for that Day, by recognizing His Lordship now. His coming and coronation will be a Day of joy, huge smiles and wild cheering!
Come Lord Jesus!
Our Verse: John 1:29 Behold the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world. ...He is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has been set apart from sinners and has been given the highest place of honor in heaven Heb 7:26
Last time we discussed the Lord Jesus as the Son of Man, a title He affirmed. This title explained His mission role as one like us.
But He had another mission role, “set apart from sinners”, as The Lamb of God.
John the Baptist, like an announcer today, proclaimed on seeing Jesus, “ Behold the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.”
John pointed to the special sacrificial role that Jesus came to fulfill. People all over the world understand the concept of blood sacrifice. The animal takes the guilt of the one making the sacrifice. This has been true since the days of Abraham, our ancient ancestor. Even today blood sacrifices remain in many nations.
Jesus did something shocking. Instead of sacrificing an animal for sin, He offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice. His destiny? To be a Holy blood sacrifice for us!
Jesus bled on a terrible execution device, a Roman cross. God accepted Jesus' sacrifice for our sins. Our part is to accept what He did.
People have a hard time accepting that another would bear the punishment of their sins. This is a supernatural transaction between you and God. He set it up this way and we must accept His wisdom.
Do you accept what Jesus, the Lamb of God, did for you?
Next...Lamb of God as Lord of Lords in Heaven!
Our Verse: Heb 4:15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same testings we do, yet He did not sin.
So...how is it that Jesus is like me?
When you think of Jesus Christ, what comes to mind? Kind, Supernatural, wise? We often see him smiling, helping, in every sense a divine person, unlike us humans.
But the Bible has interesting things to say in describing Jesus as He really is, His real character and his real mission.
Knowing what the Bible says helps because many popular descriptions of Jesus are tinged with imagination and fiction. (wander off into myths 2 Tim 4:4) God's Word, the Bible, is the true record of His life and personality.
Let's consider some Jesus likenesses. Likeness to us and our struggles. He experienced sadness, the death of friends, and betrayal by a close friend. He experienced physical pain- He was hungry, cold, beaten and brutally executed. He was rejected by those He came to help- his own people. His family called Him crazy and didn't believe in His mission. Mark 3:21 John 7:5 He was tempted in all the ways we are with one great difference- He never fell to any sin.
So in every way, Jesus can feel what we feel and truly understand us.
This likeness to us helps us relate to Him and He to us. When we pray, Jesus Christ hears us and understands us... He has been where we are. Because He has all knowledge (omniscient) He instantly knows the best solution to help us. His answers to our prayers are wise and always work out for our ultimate good.
Jesus came as the Son of Man, relating to each of us. He is our High Priest in Heaven. You can go to Him knowing He will understand your every need and desire!
Next- Part 2- Jesus- Lamb of God!
Our Verse: Daniel 2:35 The rock that knocked the statue down became a great mountain that covered the whole earth.
Mountains are often mentioned in the Bible. Mt Sinai is the place God gave us the Ten Commandments. Jesus prepared for His ministry on a mountain Mt 4:8, and He returned to Heaven from a mountain. Mt 28:16
There are 2 pictures God shows us through mountains- First, a visual image of His coming Kingdom. Second, places where God speaks to us.
Mountains offer a powerful picture of God, describing His power, His place above all human history, and His worldwide Kingdom coming someday.
Daniel the prophet describes a dream in which a stone transforms into a mountain which covers the earth. This world encompassing mountain represents the kingdom of God that will one day cover the entire world. The Lord Jesus is the stone. (Romans 9:33) He will dramatically return to Earth and end all human kingdoms. More about this prophecy in Daniel chapter 2!
While God has big plans for the world, He still wants to talk to us! This is a second purpose of mountains and why we designed The Mountain program.
God chooses quiet remote places to talk to us. Big events happen on mountains. Big events are foretold on mountains. He leads us away from the noise of daily life to instruct us and let us share our troubles. Jesus slipped away from the crowds to talk to His Father and share quiet time with His students, the disciples. Our Mountain episodes are a way to escape the flood of input and contemplate the things of God and our souls. If you get to meet with God on a high mountain, great, but its not required, you can to meet with God anywhere, even on this screen! Any quiet spot, even your closet, will do! You can get instructions and tell Him your troubles. Taking the spiritual climb toward God is the only way to prepare for life's challenges. You might not be able to physically climb to solitude, but God makes a lofty spiritual retreat with Him wherever you are. Prayer takes us to a place high above the struggles of life. So join us on The Mountain. We'll share a quiet thoughtful place where we learn to spend time with God. He is willing and available. Let's trek there together!
Our Verse: John 8:11 Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you, Go and sin no more.”
Her hair messed up, maybe her dress torn, the woman was pushed to the center of the crowd. Her captors despised her. They were clean upstanding citizens, she was trash. She should die!
While the story of those guys dragging her is interesting, this one is about the girl. We don't know her name, but we know her story. She was caught in the act of adultery, and was about to be executed by stones being thrown at her body. Thats the way they executed people in the first century.
However, Jesus was also in the Temple that day and something historic happened!
He knew everyone's story in the crowd around Him. He could look into their very souls. As He looked into her soul He saw the truth- she was ready to receive His help. He knew she could change so He told her- “I don't condemn you, go and sin no more.” From that point, she disappears from Scripture as far as we know. But the powerful lesson between her and Jesus remains.
Jesus forgave her. He told her to change. He saw her whole life, the good and the bad and said, “I don't condemn you.” The crowd wanted blood, Jesus gave mercy!
This same mercy she received can be ours. It comes with a command to live a new life with His help. Help us Lord to turn around and live for You!
Read this story for yourself in the Gospel of John Chapter 8 Look closely... the woman called Jesus “Lord”!
As Jesus died, an mysterious event happened to herald something completely new in the world. Explanation here...
Our Verse: Matt 27:51 At that moment, the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, rocks split apart, and tombs opened.
Imagine the scene- The priests in Jerusalem hurry into the heart of the Temple. All is quiet, lots of gold and beautiful furnishings. And in the middle of it all, at the center, the rich colorful curtain protecting the Holy of Holies is torn right down the middle- top to bottom!
Some amazing events are recorded in the Bible. One of them is an eerie result immediately after the death of Jesus Christ on the cross.
The temple in Jerusalem had a special inner room known as the Holy of Holies. Only one man, the high priest, was allowed in this part of the temple. He entered the area once a year to provide a blood sacrifice for the people. One tradition says he entered this room with a rope around his ankle. The reason for this- if he was not right with God, he could be struck dead by the holiness of God and would need to be dragged out.
The critical fact is- this room was truly holy, a sacred place not open to regular people. As Jesus hung on the cross, not far from this holy room, He was about to open the way for all of us to go into the presence of God. At the moment he died, the curtain protecting the holy room was torn. It was ripped top to bottom. This was God opening the way to Himself, His holy presence. No longer would His presence only be available to a select few. Everyone now can come into God's presence through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Heaven's door is now open to every single person!
Our Verse: Eccl. 1:14 King Solomon said, “I observed everything under the sun, and really, it is all vanity—like chasing the wind. “
A famous king, Solomon, called life Vanity. We could translate that as meaningless! We set out to do great things from a young age. We are full of aspirations as we look to a prosperous future and a happy life. We work hard for our family, building a life and possessions. But all around us people are dying, many of them people we love, and deep down, we know our time will come, when we breathe our last. We all want to live on forever, but ultimately we face the door called death. King Solomon realized that when he died, he would leave all he had made, his stuff and his accomplishments, to someone else, not knowing what would happen to those things in the future.
The fact is all systems in the world are constantly winding down, including us! We all face human entropy, loss of energy. Some tell us things are getting better and better, but every single person faces the inevitable, when the last breath goes out.
So how can we prepare for the last moment in a meaningless world? King Solomon gives us wise advice in his talk called Ecclesiastes. It's just after the Psalms in the Old Testament. Remember he is called the wisest man who ever lived and here is what he said, “Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is duty of every person.”
It's really good advice. When you follow God and obey his commands you will find that life is not meaningless, but full of meaning- both this life and the one to come. Catch the “Ripped Curtain Phenomenon” episode to learn about a safe door to eternal life! We hope these discussions make you strong and clear-eyed for the adventures of life!
Our Verse: 2 Tim 2:25 That God would grant them repentance. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.
God uses supernatural mechanisms to help us. One of these is repentance or turning around. Its weird and scary for some of us, but hang in there.
Repentance, what we can call “turning around”, is the ability to change mind and heart toward God. It changes how you look at everything- God, people and your whole world. And... this is something for everyone!
Turning around means changing direction. You are headed one way, you stop, pivot to face the opposite direction, and begin moving that way. You might call it a “total 180”. Some will say, Hey, Selfish actually feels pretty good. Why change?
God warns us that eternity is ahead. With the last breath, every human will give an account to God. The life of selfishness and God rejection will have a tragic end. The life of turning and serving God will lead to more life than you can imagine. The Why of turning is about how you live now and in eternity.
So, how do people “turn around”, what you call repent? Is it up to me or What??
Actually, God tells us! He says, “The goodness of God leads you to repentance!” It doesn't depend on us, it depends on Him! He leads us through people, circumstances and sometimes He speaks. He leads us to Himself.
When we realize this, we begin to turn. In that moment, His power takes over! We just begin to turn, with little strength and God Himself steps in and His kindness leads us to repentance.
It's Gods love for you, His Kindness! It may have already happened to you or... it is about to happen.
Next time- Powerful King does 180!!
Our verse Acts 11:26 “...in Antioch, the disciples were first called Christians.”
A concept here on the Mountain is this- Words are important, and really have a meaning. This is true of one of the most important words you will ever hear- Christian.
Youve probably heard it used as an adjective- “That's not very christian...”, but the Bible word Christian is not an adjective. It means little Christ, or a human copy of Christ. It is a noun meaning a human with an actual relationship with Jesus. Those people in Antioch began to act like Jesus, doing the things He did and saying what He said. They were human versions of Jesus Christ. Just using the name Christian is not proof that one actually is.
Some use the name Christian, then act badly. These people are fake! They don't have new life from Jesus, that actual relationship. It's tempting to blame God for these people, but more accurate to blame them!
There are 2 ways a person really is a Christian: The eternal way and the earthly way.
Here's the eternal way- authentic Jesus followers possess a unique life force different from physical life. The Bible calls this “born of the Spirit”. (John 3) We cannot detect this eternal life force, God alone sees the inside- the heart.
Now... the earthly way to spot a real Christian- True Jesus followers become new people. The way they talk and act demonstrate they are real Christians. When you watch them, they are doing good and giving God the credit. That is a Christian!
Jesus said, “...by their fruits you shall know them.” (Matt 7:16) By “fruits”Jesus means their deeds, what they produce, how they live and treat others. If the “fruit” is good, that person demonstrating love, honesty, kindness and truth, its likely you are watching a real Christian!
Our Verse: Acts 2:44 “And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had.”
First let's determine what a church is. Most of us think of that fancy building with a cross on the top. The building isn't the church! It's simply the place where the church gathers! In the Bible, church means a group of people who believe that Jesus is the Christ, Savior and coming King. They also believe God is alive and true and the Bible is His message to us. The Church in the largest sense is composed of all people who believe these things worldwide. A local church is a smaller subset of this worldwide group of people.
A definition: A church is a group of people who meet together to honor God and help others.
So how do I find the right people to be a church with?
The very first church mentioned in Acts didn't have a building but met publicly and in homes. Here are some things they did: They followed the teachings of the apostles, the things Jesus taught them. They were together, sometimes at one house, sometimes at another. They were happy and thanked God for everything. They ate together and prayed together and they helped each other when there was a need.
A local church of Jesus followers should do these things. Here's a test to help you find your church: Take time to get to know a group, maybe visit 4 or 5 times. That way you will get a better feel of how this group does these things.
Some questions to have on your mind and maybe ask:
Do the leader or leaders read and teach from the Bible? Is Jesus held high with respect and honor? Is personal faith in Jesus taught as the only means to get to heaven? Are God and His Kingdom first in everything done?
Finally, the most important thing is God's leading. Ask Him to help you find your church, a place to serve others and receive many good things. Church is a home for us, a place of safety and belonging. You can have a new family with your brothers and sisters in Christ!
What happens when I die? That's the question on everyone's mind! Here's dependable information so you can know for sure!
Our verse- Hebrews 9:27 It is appointed for men once to die, but after this the judgement.
Physical death is not the end, just the end of life on earth. Every person enters a new realm when they die- Eternity!
There are two distinct groups of people in history- Those who lived before 33 AD, and those who lived after.
The first group waited for Jesus to rise from the dead. In Luke 16, He tells the story of 2 men, a poor beggar and a rich man. “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, and his soul went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with poor Lazarus at his side. He cried, “Father Abraham, send Lazarus! I am tormented in this flame.” Both men were alive with feelings and memories. They waited for the resurrection.
You and I are in the second group- Jesus came out of His tomb and opened Heaven's door. He “tasted death for everyone” Heb 2:9 and “destroyed him who had the power of death, the devil.” Heb 2:14 And here's the great news! Jesus promised the thief dying beside him, “Today you will be with me in Paradise”. Mt 23:43
Jesus took Lazarus and the thief straight to Heaven! Eph 4:8 And that identical experience can be ours!
Paul the Apostle says- We are confident, yes, and well pleased to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord! 2 Cor 5:8
You can be present with the Lord... if you are in Christ- Ask Him like this:
Lord Jesus, I believe you died for me and rose again. Forgive my sins, be my Savior and Lord! In Jesus name, Amen.
What happens when I die? That's the question on everyone's mind! Here's dependable information so you can know for sure!
Our verse- Hebrews 9:27 It is appointed for men once to die, but after this the judgement.
Physical death is not the end, just the end of life on earth. Every person enters a new realm when they die- Eternity!
There are two distinct groups of people in history- Those who lived before 33 AD, and those who lived after.
The first group waited for Jesus to rise from the dead. In Luke 16, He tells the story of 2 men, a poor beggar and a rich man. “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, and his soul went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with poor Lazarus at his side. He cried, “Father Abraham, send Lazarus! I am tormented in this flame.” Both men were alive with feelings and memories. They waited for the resurrection.
You and I are in the second group- Jesus came out of His tomb and opened Heaven's door. He “tasted death for everyone” Heb 2:9 and “destroyed him who had the power of death, the devil.” Heb 2:14 And here's the great news! Jesus promised the thief dying beside him, “Today you will be with me in Paradise”. Mt 23:43
Jesus took Lazarus and the thief straight to Heaven! Eph 4:8 And that identical experience can be ours!
Paul the Apostle says- We are confident, yes, and well pleased to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord! 2 Cor 5:8
You can be present with the Lord... if you are in Christ- Ask Him like this:
Lord Jesus, I believe you died for me and rose again. Forgive my sins, be my Savior and Lord! In Jesus name, Amen.
Our Verse: Acts 2:44 “And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had.”
First let's determine what a church is. Most of us think of that fancy building with a cross on the top. The building isn't the church! It's simply the place where the church gathers! In the Bible, church means a group of people who believe that Jesus is the Christ, Savior and coming King. They also believe God is alive and true and the Bible is His message to us. The Church in the largest sense is composed of all people who believe these things worldwide. A local church is a smaller subset of this worldwide group of people.
A definition: A church is a group of people who meet together to honor God and help others.
So how do I find the right people to be a church with?
The very first church mentioned in Acts didn't have a building but met publicly and in homes. Here are some things they did: They followed the teachings of the apostles, the things Jesus taught them. They were together, sometimes at one house, sometimes at another. They were happy and thanked God for everything. They ate together and prayed together and they helped each other when there was a need.
A local church of Jesus followers should do these things. Here's a test to help you find your church: Take time to get to know a group, maybe visit 4 or 5 times. That way you will get a better feel of how this group does these things.
Some questions to have on your mind and maybe ask:
Do the leader or leaders read and teach from the Bible? Is Jesus held high with respect and honor? Is personal faith in Jesus taught as the only means to get to heaven? Are God and His Kingdom first in everything done?
Finally, the most important thing is God's leading. Ask Him to help you find your church, a place to serve others and receive many good things. Church is a home for us, a place of safety and belonging. You can have a new family with your brothers and sisters in Christ!
Our verse Acts 11:26 “...in Antioch, the disciples were first called Christians.”
A concept here on the Mountain is this- Words are important, and really have a meaning. This is true of one of the most important words you will ever hear- Christian.
Youve probably heard it used as an adjective- “That's not very christian...”, but the Bible word Christian is not an adjective. It means little Christ, or a human copy of Christ. It is a noun meaning a human with an actual relationship with Jesus. Those people in Antioch began to act like Jesus, doing the things He did and saying what He said. They were human versions of Jesus Christ. Just using the name Christian is not proof that one actually is.
Some use the name Christian, then act badly. These people are fake! They don't have new life from Jesus, that actual relationship. It's tempting to blame God for these people, but more accurate to blame them!
There are 2 ways a person really is a Christian: The eternal way and the earthly way.
Here's the eternal way- authentic Jesus followers possess a unique life force different from physical life. The Bible calls this “born of the Spirit”. (John 3) We cannot detect this eternal life force, God alone sees the inside- the heart.
Now... the earthly way to spot a real Christian- True Jesus followers become new people. The way they talk and act demonstrate they are real Christians. When you watch them, they are doing good and giving God the credit. That is a Christian!
Jesus said, “...by their fruits you shall know them.” (Matt 7:16) By “fruits”Jesus means their deeds, what they produce, how they live and treat others. If the “fruit” is good, that person demonstrating love, honesty, kindness and truth, its likely you are watching a real Christian!
Our Verse: Phillipians 3:14 I press on to the high calling of God in Christ Jesus
You're trying to read your Bible. You read, but you don't seem to get anything out of it. Nothing seems to click. What's this all about? Some days, some weeks, every word seems to jump right off the page, but not today. What's up?
Every God follower has times like this. It's not abnormal. Think of it as a winter season.
As you look at those winter trees, it looks like nothing is happening. But actually there's a lot happening. It's just that the action is not visible. Deep underground the tree is prepping for springtime. It is gathering strength for the time of growth.
It's the same for a Christian. There are times of big action and growth and also times of apparent inaction when God is preparing you for new adventures.
We can be strategic during these times. First, recognize the slow time for what it is. Dedicate special time for prayer. It's our Mountain concept of getting away from screens and noise to a quiet place to hear from God and tell him how you feel. He may tell you about things you need to change as His follower. Try reading other parts of your Bible. The Psalms is always a good place when you're having hard times. Often the writers of the Psalms are having tough times themselves. You will relate to their struggles and God's answers.
For sure you will come out of that dry time. I have... God will send times of refreshing, newness, when hope returns and Scripture crackles with energy!
This is one of the cycles of life- Dynamic action times and times to wait. Out in front of you, in time and space, God is there setting things up. People and events are being arranged and He will lead you to them at just the right moment. Press on, as our verse says, to the high calling of God in Christ Jesus!
Our Verse: 2 Tim 2:15: Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth
So Jim, how do I get started? Do I just start in Genesis...?”
How about a few ideas... First a bit about the Bible's design:
There are two main parts to the Bible, the Old Testament and New Testament. (Testament means will) The Old Testament covers the time from Earth's creation to the life of Jesus. The New Testament describes His life and also focuses on the future, especially the book of Revelation. Here's an old saying about the Bible- "the Old Testament is the New Testament concealed, the New Testament is the Old Testament revealed.”
Amazing factoids about Jesus are woven throughout the Old Testament. Jesus appears and is described in many ways and His future mission to earth is described in detail.
The New Testament chronicles Jesus' mission to earth and decrypts, reveals many Old Testament statements. Jesus fulfills many Old Testament prophecies with supernatural precision.
Start in the New Testament in the Gospel according to John. (easy to find in the Table of Contents) This is a biography of Jesus by one of his closest friends. It's a first person account of Jesus' life, death and resurrection.
From there, read the other three biographies, Matthew, Mark and Luke. Each of these writers capture different aspects of Jesus' life and mission. After that, continue through the New Testament ending with the book of Revelation.
This New Testament foundation will help you understand the Old Testament. Old Testament history, teaching and stories give us wisdom and help us understand the whole story of God and Man. More on the Old Testament soon!
Gods Word, the Bible, is a living book. (Hebrews 4:12). Its ultimate author is God, so it has supernatural power to give you hope! So dive in and enjoy!
Our Verse: Psa 119:11 Thy Word I have hidden in my heart that I don't sin against you.
You say, “I want to follow God. I'd like to know about Him and what He expects from me. I get it that the Bible is His Book. So WHICH Bible is right for me?”
First, some facts... God wants to communicate with you. Jesus came and explained much about Himself and the Father. Finally, the whole story of God, Jesus and man was recorded in the Bible!
Since there are many different kinds of people and languages, He tailored His message to meet the needs of all people, and to different time periods. That's why, today... we have many different versions.
Okay okay, Jim...I got it! But what about me? How do I pick?
If you are alone and have only one Bible, go ahead...read it. God will lead you. If you can choose a Bible: Find a version you can understand... Hold on Jim! What is a version?! OK a definition- A Bible version is a translation of ancient documents or older bible texts by a group of people or an individual who want to produce a new, more understandable Bible. Bible translators help adapt God's message to their times.
Now where were we? Find a VERSION you can understand. Some are written for people with big vocabularies, some for those with smaller ones. Nothing wrong with starting with a more simple version. If you have a friend who follows God, ask about a version that will work for you. He or she may have an extra Bible or know where you can get one. Many churches will give you a free Bible, hopefully in a version you can understand and enjoy.
Many Bible versions are available on the Web. Some are free and come in many languages. You can read online or download to your device.
I started just like you. It's a great God adventure, so dont wait! Get a Bible and start reading today!
Next: Where to Start??
In earlier episodes, we explained what the Bible is and how God sent it through humans. But... understanding it requires more than academic skill! Maybe you tried to read the Bible and came up with a big blank.. “I just don't get this!”
The first and most important thing is having a right relationship with God. His Book is designed to work in the hearts and minds of people who recognize His leadership. As we accept His authority in our lives, we come into right relationship with Him.
The Bible says- ...the man or woman without Jesus does not receive the things of the Spirit because they are spiritually understood. I Cor 2:14
This passage goes on to say “...we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ”
Having the “mind of Christ” means that Jesus lives inside you! He helps you understand what He said and what He wants you to do. It's truly supernatural!
I was a complete blank about God before I accepted Jesus. I didn't get anything about God, I was a Bible illiterate! When I gave my life to Him He opened His book to me! I understood! I began to eat it up every day; I loved His book and couldn't get enough. Over time, I have learned God's ways and His plan for me. Having the “mind of Christ” makes all the difference!
Here is our conclusion: to understand the Bible you must have the “mind of Christ”. Then the wonders and mysteries of the Bible will open to you. It becomes a light, a guide, for all of life's adventures! The Bible says: Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path Psa 119:105
Next: Which Version for me?
Our verse: 2 Timothy 3:16, "All Scripture is inspired and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."(NIV)
Christians call the Bible “inspired”. What exactly does that mean?
Inspiration means the spiritual mental physical process of God communicating through humans and to humans. God chose certain of His followers and passed His thoughts to them. They wrote these thoughts down using their minds and hands. This was a living, dynamic process between God and the writer using different physical mediums- Stone, Clay, metal, parchment and ink.
Over the centuries, God preserved these written thoughts and instructions and moved other followers to gather them finally into the Bible, His book available to nearly every human being. In this amazing multi-century download to us, God also let the writers include their own experiences, both sad and victorious. (Example- Jer 10) His message is clear. He shows life and its troubles graphically and how coming close to Hi m brings hope and real answers for life.
Some fear this “inspiration” process using humans could corrupt God's message. The solid, empirical evidence- many people living the Bible way over centuries and many fulfilled prophecies- proves it true. Jesus said- ““Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear. “ Mark 13:31
Our conclusions: God communicated with us. He used people to do it. You and I can have total confidence that God preserved His words to us.
Next- Part 3 Understanding the Bible
God, Creator of all things, communicates with us thru written words, what nearly all people know as the Bible, the best selling book of all time. Some estimate there are over 5 billion copies in the world, with about 100 million copies sold each year! That doesn't include it's free availability on the Web! It is available in over 2000 languages so nearly all people can read it!
What is this hugely popular book? Is it an honest history of humanity? Yes Is it a guide to living a right life? Yes! Is it the key to understand the present and the future? Yes! Finally, is it information you can bet your life on? Without a doubt, it is!
Some say writers and translators changed God's message to us. This is totally false. If God, the all powerful,Omnipotent wanted to communicate with you... could He? The answer's simple... Of course. He secured His message for you and me, you can trust God. I and many others over 2000 years have tested the Word of God finding it True in every sense of the word.
In summary, the Bible is a message, a series of instructions and knowledge from God. He sent it through humans as His chosen means. It is to all people and it is to you personally. It remains reliable throughout centuries of world wide cultural change. He promised to establish and protect it for all time, and He has. Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear.” Mt 24
Next, What is Bible inspiration?
Our Scripture: Romans 8:20 “The creation (mankind) was subjected to futility (emptiness).”
The famous philosopher and physicist Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) said, “There is a God shaped vacuum in the heart of every man which cannot be filled by any created thing, but only by God, the Creator, made known through Jesus”
Pascal was born to a life of privilege in his native France. As a brilliant mathematician in the 1600's, he defined amazing mathematical systems. He invented the first calculating device and established the first trolley system in Paris! Even with his great intellect, he was unable to find peace. At age 31, he encountered Jesus and became a vibrant Christian and defender of the Bible. He found real fulfillment and satisfaction through knowing God.
Pascal helps us understand that something is missing inside us, what he called a “God-shaped vacuum”. People try many things to fill this empty spot in their souls. Whatever you own, wear or put inside you will eventually leave you unsatisfied and unfulfilled. This is not an accident, but a plan by our Creator to reach our hearts.
Remember our verse? “The creation was subjected to futility- emptiness.” The Creation- thats all of us, were given this empty spot in our souls for a reason. He desires, He hopes that people will reach out to Him to fill their hearts- fulFILLment. The Lord Jesus in our hearts, no more God-shaped vacuum! Our hearts will be full!
Do you feel it? An emptiness inside? No fulfillment? Only total trust in Jesus can fill the hole in your soul!
Our Verse: Matt 20:30 “Be quiet!” the crowd yelled at them. But they only shouted louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us.”
It was hot and dusty in Jericho, a no-where desert town east of Jerusalem! The excited crowd grew as Jesus entered. The proclaimed Messiah was in their town!
As He passed through, the word swept ahead of the crowd, and two blind men, sitting on the edge of the road, realized that Jesus would pass right by them!
Everyone in Jericho wanted to see and hear Him. Rumors had it that people were getting healed when He touched them. Some even said He made blind people see, a detail not lost on the two blind guys!
As the noise of the crowd increased, they knew He was close and they started yelling “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” It was a slim chance that Jesus would even notice them with so many people crowding the road! Everyone was straining to hear Jesus' words and these two bums were yelling! The crowd said, “Shut UP, we're trying to hear!” The blind guys said, “ Forget you!” and yelled even louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”
Jesus stopped. He noticed them! He said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord, we want to see!” Jesus felt sorry for them and touched their eyes. Instantly they could see! Then they followed him” Matt 20:32
They yelled, they were healed, and they followed Him.
A precious lesson for us. We cry out for Jesus' mercy, He heals body and soul. Then... like the two seeing men, we follow Jesus.
Sometime when you are feeling that your part doesn't matter, remember this amazing story from World War II. While flying over Germany, an American B-17 bomber came under heavy artillery fire. Deadly 20mm shells slammed into the fuselage finally hitting the plane’s gas tanks! A direct hit usually causes a terrible explosion and everyone dies. But strangely, the plane didn't explode!
Fuel poured from the ruptured tanks. Without a drop of fuel to spare, the crippled plane landed safely. The ground crew pulled eleven unexploded shells from the bomber’s fuel tanks. When they opened the shells they made a shocking discovery. Ten of the shells contained no explosives. Nothing! The eleventh shell had no explosives, but it wasn’t empty. Inside was a scrap of paper with a scrawled message: “This is all we can do for you now.”
Later, they learned the origin of the note. The Nazis had forced prisoners to work in a munitions factory. At great personal risk, these prisoners sabotaged as many shells as they could. The note was their signal to their fellow fighters that they had not given up. Those brave prisoners would never know the value of their sacrifice. Their small unseen efforts saved the lives of the flyers.
Sometimes the small things we do appear insignificant, just like the prisoners manufacturing duds. Our small acts of kindness and mercy can bring great results in this life and for eternity!
So when you feel your part doesn't matter, remember this story and this verse, Do good to all people, especially your brothers!
Our Verse: Matthew 17:27 Jesus tells Peter, “We don't want to offend them, so go down to the lake and throw in a line. Open the mouth of the first fish you catch, and you will find a large silver coin. Take it and pay the tax for both of us.”
This is one of my very favorite stories in the Bible. We are all curious about miracles. Some doubt they ever happen. But, in this story, Peter experiences one. So what is a miracle? Heres a definition- A miracle is an observable event that occurs outside the laws of physics. Peter's event matches this definition. More on miracles in future episodes.
One day Jesus and Peter took a walk. They discussed the importance of paying their taxes. Jesus explained that so as to not offend the local religious leaders, Peter should pay taxes for both of them. However the way Jesus told Peter to pay them was unique. He told Peter to go catch a fish! Say what? Jesus told told Peter to go fish for his taxes. He took a line and hook, caught a fish and opened it's mouth. And what do ya know...a coin in the fish! You can imagine the shock for this poor fisherman!
There, in truly the most unlikely place in all Israel, was a coin equal to taxes for Jesus and Peter! We don't know the mechanism that Jesus used, but the result was a miracle! Peter had earlier said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God!” Jesus helped Peter's faith grow thru the coin in the fish!
There were many other ways that Jesus demonstrated that He truly was the Son of God. That day Peter was further convinced. We may not find a coin in the mouth of our trout or bass, but we know from this story and others in the Bible that God can easily work miracles. He will decide if you need one.
Our Verse: John 18:10 “Then Peter drew a sword and slashed off the right ear of Malchus. But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?”
Some Bible stories teach us how to act in critical situations. As you know, we don't always do the right thing. One of these stories concerns our Bible friend Peter. The time had finally come for Jesus to go to the cross for mankind. Before He was arrested, Jesus took his disciples to a quiet garden to pray, the Garden of Gethsemane. Out of concern for their master, and at his instruction, some of his disciples brought swords. One of them was Peter.
Suddenly, out of the dark, angry men led by Judas Iscariot piled into the garden. Burly Peter's adrenaline spiked! In an attempt to defend Jesus, Peter drew his sword and slashed at a man named Malchus. Sadly, or maybe for the good, he was more fisherman than swordsman and missed, cutting off Malchus' ear! As you can imagine, it could've been a bloody mess! Instead, Jesus reached out and touched the wounded ear and healed it. Actually, He reattached it! Malchus totally understood Jesus' power in that moment! The violence could have been much worse if Jesus had not stopped it!
So what can we learn from this adrenalin-filled event?
First, don't react in your own strength like Peter. A mess usually follows. Second, if you do mess up, ask Jesus to repair the damage. He is both able and willing to help you! And... if you have an adrenaline problem... you know, anger in a flash.. over time... Jesus can heal that too!
Our Verse: Acts 12:13-14 Peter knocked at the door in the gate, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to open it. When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed that, instead of opening the door, she ran back inside and told everyone, “Peter is standing at the door.”
Peter, a follower of Jesus and ringleader of the Christians was jailed and left in chains with a heavy guard. However, God had a different plan! In the middle of the night, He miraculously released Peter, leaving him standing outside the prison! I'll tell that story soon! Acts 12:4
This story isn't about Peter, but a young servant girl named Rhoda. In the wee hours of the morning Peter headed for a friends house, and knocked. Rhoda, on gate duty, heard the knock and listened for the visitor before opening the gate. (sound thinking, Rhoda!) Peter identified himself. “It's me Peter, let me in!” When she recognized his voice... after all he was the leader of all Jesus followers, she lost it and ran for the house! “Hey! You wont believe this, but Peter's not in the prison... he's at the gate!' Those inside were praying, most likely for Peter. When Rhoda burst in saying Peter was outside, they said, “you're crazy! He is in the prison!” “No, No”, she said, “He's at the gate!” They said to her, “it must be Peter's angel” All this time, Peter is knocking and maybe a bit frustrated and afraid. Finally... someone went to check and the crowd went wild! There he was, alive and free!
Here's the Lesson- God does miracles, then and now. God can use anyone He wants, it might be young Rhoda, it might be us. He is wise and knows best. And He has a sense of humor! Rhoda saw close up that God helps people in awful situations. Her story teaches us that same lesson. God can save us from anything!
In Genesis 9:13 God says, “I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant with you and with all the earth.”
It's just finished raining. There's a fresh smell in the air. Out across the field or over the hills is one of the most beautiful sights in the world, a rainbow!
We know the physical cause, light passing through water droplets, but there is a deeper spiritual meaning for the rainbow.
Many centuries ago, all the people descended into a time of world-wide lawlessness. It got so bad, that God observed, “the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and He saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil” Genesis 6:5
This might be a bit hard to conceive that every person was evil all the time, but with the stunning evil across the world today, you can see it's possible.
God destroyed the entire human race except one family of 8- that was Noah and his family.
A time came when it was all over and the earth was restored. God made a promise to the 8 survivors. Here it is from Genesis, “When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will appear in the clouds, and I will remember my covenant with you and with all living creatures. Here is the holy promise or covenant He made to us-
Never again will the floodwaters destroy all life. Gen 9:14
God has kept His promise to preserve all people! This is because He loves every one of His creatures. The rainbow appearing in the clouds is the physical evidence of His beautiful promise.
Next time you see a rainbow, remember... it's God's promise to you!
Our Verse, once again: Rev 5:9 For you Jesus, were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. Last time we learned about God's amazing world wide family. Its just like the rainbow with its beautiful and different colors, and... everyone is welcome.
Let's meet some of these amazing people...
The Chicken Lady lives in a tiny village along the Nile. Her home is humble and her one animal, a chicken, lives on her roof. She is poor but full of joy. Her bright smile lights the room as she hugs her chicken and gives God thanks! Tom is a retired businessman. At 65, he helps younger men learn about God and how to be good at their work. His enthusiasm is infectious! Rudy is a former Russian soldier. He is burly and tough. He has travelled far and wide in Russia and abroad for Jesus. He is ready for any adventure. Elizabeth, at 18, is in college and hoping to graduate early. Born with a debilitating disease, she told her doctor that God had allowed the illness for His glory. In spite of limitation, she is active in church and will serve Jesus wherever He chooses. Finally, Daniel, a man of Egypt. At age 16, while a deacon in the Coptic Church, he supernaturally met Jesus. Today, as an adult, he travels the world, sharing Jesus with those people mentioned in our verse- every tribe, language, people and nation.
You'll meet more interesting people here...all part of God's Human Rainbow!
Our Verse: Rev 5:9 For you Jesus were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. This is a first person report based on my 47+ years of personal observation in at least 30 countries around the world. God has a beautiful human rainbow of those who follow Him.
People often think of Christians as a certain kind of people. They often think in social or cultural terms about religious folks- they go to certain buildings, they say certain things, and they may dress certain ways. They mistakenly conclude that only certain people can be Christians.
But the facts tell us otherwise. In every corner of the earth, God is constantly touching lives. There are no walls, no limitations on who He draws to follow Him. It is possible for every single human, all 7 plus billion of them, to experience a personal one on one relationship with Him. Our brother Peter the Apostle writes in the Bible- The Lord is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants all- everyone to repent or turn to Him 2 Peter 3:9 What Great News! He is patiently waiting for each of us, every tribe, every language, all people, every nation!
This gives us confidence as we approach God. He is not angry with us, He wants us to come to Him. Obviously we can't come on our own terms, but on His terms and in the way He chose, thru His Son, Jesus.
In Part 2, you get to meet some of the amazing people in God's Human Rainbow.
So now I'm a believer in Jesus, how do I live? How does this three part me work?
Let's start with our spirit. As Christians, our spirit talks with God. We both talk and listen, that's what prayer is. Now the line is open with God. We can get instructions and let Him know all our needs. Way better than texting!
Next is your soul. It is you, unique in all the world. God creates each person one of a kind, a bit like snowflakes. It's your DNA, all your experiences, all your memories. He designed you to live eternally right beside Him. Before Jesus, we lived for ourselves, our souls alone in the world without Him. In Jesus, we live a new growing soul life. We become all He designed us to be- for Him, for ourselves and for those around us.
Finally, the body. This is the tough part! All our lives we have lived to please our bodies. Our very first cry was “Feed me!” We are selfish to the core. Satisfying our body was number one! When God makes our spirit alive, things begin to change. The Bible calls this sanctification. (A big word we will get to later!) Through God's way of reading His Book, praying and being with other God followers, we begin to want new things in our bodies. We lose old desires and gain new ones that honor Him. God will help you.
A little caution in defining humans in three parts! Actually we are a unity just like God. Our three parts are deeply intertwined just like Him! We use human words to describe a wonderful supernatural design from God's own hand.
When your spirit talks with your Father, it will help your soul and body. All that you think and all that you are will benefit. Your body will not rule you anymore. And the great result is your spirit, soul and body will be preserved forever!
Just what am I? Is this life all there is? Am I just a body, a physical structure that rots when I die? God designed us like Himself, the Father, Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit. We are designed to be spirit, soul and body, 3 parts just like Him!
Let's define each human component- Spirit is that part of you that communicates with God. This part of you is designed to live forever. Your soul is your entire self, your person, your thoughts, every experience from birth to this moment. Your body is your physical self, the biological structure that experiences the world thru the five senses. It provides housing for your soul and spirit.
I know you've heard the phrase, body soul and spirit. God describes it differently. He says “Your whole spirit soul and body.” A person without Christ living inside is a body and a soul without spiritual life.
When Christ lives inside you, you have an alive spirit a soul and a body.
With your alive spirit, you will be able to talk to God and hear His voice.
It's Jesus' life death and resurrection that makes all this happen! We are reborn, and restored to God's design! And you He has made alive who were dead in trespasses and sins.” Eph 2:1
Learn all about this in John chapter 3. Even an old man named Nicodemus got it!
God's invitation to become a living spirit,a complete person, is to everyone on earth- including you!
Next on the Mountain- A new you living for God!
That friend at work keeps telling you about Jesus. He says you need to believe in or “accept Jesus.” It's strange, makes you feel defensive. “Why should I change my life for someone who (maybe) lived 2000 years ago? Is it true? Can't I just live like I want?”
Well, your friend didn't come on his own, he is a messenger. He is delivering God's offer of eternal life through Jesus. You say, “God is making me an offer?” Yup!
Here's the story: Humans have been disconnected from God. It started ages ago in the Garden of Eden. Man chose his own way and rejected God's way, resulting in a big disconnect between God and people.
This God disconnect couldn't be fixed by us. “You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions.” Unless God did something, no connection was possible. “All of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to Himself through Christ.”
Jesus came from heaven, entered the human tribe and made reconnection possible through His life, death and resurrection (1 Cor. 15:3). “Accepting Jesus” simply means accepting God's offer. Everybody now has the right to be God's child if they accept His offer.
Here's the summary: Man is disconnected, Jesus made a reconnection, we accept God's offer to reconnect with Him through Jesus.
It doesn't get any cooler than that! Connected to the God of all Creation, guided by Him daily. Protected by Him, living a true adventure with Him... and... with the last breath, ushered into His presence to live and enjoy all He has forever.
So if you haven't already, Accept the Offer! God, I accept what Jesus did. I want to connect with You now and forever!
Coming, a personal tale of reconnection with God!
A redeemer is a person with the assets to pay a ransom. A ransom is a payment to get something back.
Oh it feels so good when the bad guy gets his. We all want justice, speedy justice on others, but none on us. The truth is the whole human tribe, all of us, face justice for what we have done. We have “fallen short of the glory of God” (Rom 3:23).
God is Just. He is all that is right and true and that includes justice against wrong, all wrong. So how can there be Love and Justice? His solution was to allow Jesus to take our place as the guilty party. Justice was served and God demonstrated His love for us.
We are guilty. Our thoughts and actions can dishonor God and hurt others. This guilt is why Jesus paid a blood ransom.
Remember, the redeemer has the assets to pay the ransom.
Titus 2:13-14 “Jesus Christ gave himself for us to redeem us...”
1 Pet 1:18-19 “And the ransom he paid was not mere gold or silver. It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God.”
So Jesus paid our ransom. God the Father accepts Jesus death as payment for our wrongs. He is just and...He can forgive!
So how do we get this forgiveness, this ransom for our souls?
We believe what Jesus did. “Jesus, I believe you took my place in judgement, You are my redeemer. I am guilty, and You paid for me. I accept!
When you do this, you are reborn! You get a new life, free from all guilt. Jesus, the Redeemer, paid the ransom so we could be free!
Here's an odd phenomenon in God's order—Blood can clean!
Here on earth blood ruins things, but God's ways are higher and different!
Sin is an indelible stain on the human soul, like a bloodstained shirt. Sin inside us make a stain on the soul like a bloodstain on the cloth. Just like a bloodstain can't be removed, we can't remove guilt from our soul, whatever kind of act is involved. Once the act or thought is done, the conscience is permanently stained with the memory. This causes some to attempt soul cleansing through religious rites or practices. Sadly, human acts to wash the soul don't work. Some people even go insane with guilt. Jesus met a crazy man, alone, screaming, crying, hurting himself. (Read the story in Mark 5.) He restored him, made him a new man and the great news is...He is still doing it today!
So what is the cleaner for the guilty conscience?
It is Jesus' blood shed on the cross. People like us get His same touch of healing by trusting Him to forgive our sins, cleaning our souls of guilt for the wrongs we have done. Jesus is the “Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).
God says, “Come now, and let us reason together, though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (Isa. 1:18).
Today's Action: Talk to Jesus. Tell Him you accept the soul cleaning power of His blood. Accept His ransom, His payment for your soul. Start a new life of trust in Him. You will have a clean conscience and a freedom unlike anything you have ever experienced!
There is a mysterious drawing power to the Cross of Jesus. He explained the pull of His death to bring all people toward Him. “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.” Every person feels this. Some will deny it, but it's true. The soul that sins shall die; He took our “death sentence.” He was perfect, the Lamb of God, without sin or disobedience. The terrible punishment we deserve- He took. He swapped places with us- took our sins on Himself- those awful things you and I have thought and done. The Innocent One took the place of the guilty! In the Psalms Jesus said, “I delight to do thy will, O my God” (Psa 40:7).
God's will that Jesus delighted in was the redeeming of every human. Paying the sin price, the ransom, to bring us back, those “having no hope, without God in the world.” We are given hope because Jesus died for us. This amazing selfless act causes all people past and present to look up to His cross. Jesus is the only way to enter eternity safely. “Now in Christ Jesus you who were sometimes far off are made near by the blood of Christ.” All who are far away from God can come near because Jesus died on the Cross, God's magnet to draw all people!
Eph 2:12 “That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.”
Many of us know His story: Born in Bethlehem, He taught many people, He healed people. He fed huge crowds with little food, He raised dead bodies to life, adults and children. He died on a Roman execution ground, and after 3 days, came out of his grave alive. He spent 40 days with his disciples, proving he was alive, and finally “as they watched, he was taken up and a cloud received Him out of their sight.” That leads to a very Big Question: Where is Jesus Now?
We have a first person account by one of Jesus early followers, a man named Stephen.
He was telling people around him about Jesus. Some of them were ashamed about killing Jesus and they began to stone Stephen. As he was dying he saw Jesus in heaven and said, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!” (Acts 7:56).
Eight other times this picture is described in God's Word, the Bible.
Peter the Apostle says this: “Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept his authority: (1 Peter 3:22). The Apostle Paul says “set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand” (Col 3:1). Jesus is there interceding for us. He's like our defense attorney, even when we are far from Him. Jesus knows all about your life and asks the Father to help you. He sends the Holy Spirit to teach and comfort you through life's troubles.
He is not willing any should perish but that all should turn to Him. (2 Peter 3:9 ) He desires all men to be saved. (1 Tim 2:4) The message is clear: Jesus is alive and He's in Heaven for you!
Today's Verse: John 5:25 Jesus said, “Don’t be so surprised! the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God’s Son, and they will rise again.”
One of Jesus' closest friends lived near Jerusalem. They had many good times- talking, dining and spending time with friends. While Jesus was traveling, Lazarus became ill and finally died. His two sisters had sent a message to Jesus to return, but he did not. He told his disciples, “Lazarus is dead.” He was in a cold cave wrapped in a burial shroud. When Jesus approached the grave, Martha his sister said, “by now the smell will be terrible, he's been dead 4 days!”
Let's consider this from Lazarus point of view- It might have been something like this:
I was very sick, weak, I stopped breathing. It was quiet... A place of rest. Then... I heard a voice! “Lazarus! Come forth!” Instantly there was a strange warmth flowing over me where I been so cold. I was warm, but tightly bound. I could breathe! Somehow, I got up. I made tiny movements toward the opening. Suddenly all was white! I felt tugging on the cloth. I could move my arms and feet. Last the cloth around my head then Bright light! The first thing I saw... My Lord Jesus, my friend. I walked away from death!
Lazarus heard Jesus voice just like He promised in John 5- again... “...the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God’s Son, and they will rise again.”
Jesus was there as Lazarus walked out of the tomb. Later, He demonstrated His power by walking out of His own Grave. Heres what He says- “The Father has life in Himself, and He has granted that same life-giving power to His Son. John 5:26 You and I don't have to be afraid of death! Jesus gives eternal life to all those who follow him. When death comes, we will open our eyes and see Jesus just like Lazarus!
Jesus said- “Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying”. John 11:25
Our Verse: Rev 1:7 “Behold He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him. Acts 10:42 He (Jesus) is ordained of God to be the Judge of the living and the dead.
Last time, we learned that Jesus is the Messiah and came to die and redeem men to God. He came as Savior- One who saves. That was part one of His mission. Jesus' contemporaries wanted a king, instead, Jesus died as Savior of all people.
Part 2 of Jesus mission as Messiah is now underway and moving toward completion. He will come as King, more than that- as King of Kings. The Ruler and Judge of mankind. He will set all things right worldwide.
God, in His wisdom and love, has made a preparation time before Jesus' return. It is a time of choosing- God or the kingdoms of man. This time period began as Jesus “was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight” Acts 1:9 This time period will end with the visible return of Jesus to Earth. An angel told His followers, ”Someday He will return from heaven in the same way you saw Him go.” Acts 1:11
So what should we do during this waiting time? It is a time for everyone to choose their allegiance, the Messiah or themselves.
Many wish God would just be done with it and come back. But... What if He returned before you chose Him? You would be left out!, and the same would be true for millions of others across the planet. He is patiently waiting, He is patiently pleading with all people. God is not willing that any should die, but that all should come to the knowledge of the truth. In Romans 10, it's called Confess and Believe. If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. God has allowed 2000 years and counting with His offer of forgiveness and eternal life through Jesus. I came, You can too. Jesus the Messiah is coming back! Let's be ready!
Our Verses: Matt 11:3- John the Baptist's followers asked Jesus- “Are you the Messiah we’ve been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?” Matt 26:63 A high religious leader demanded, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?”
Strong Questions about a messiah! Messiah means the anointed one. Our Lord Jesus has the title of Christ. These 2 words-Messiah and Christ are synonyms. Both describe one who is to come; One above all others sent by God to heal and repair the world. When Jesus came to earth, His people, the Jews, were expecting the Messiah. There were clear Bible references to this. But...they had a different idea of what the Messiah would do. Their messiah was a king who would conquer Rome. Even his disciples thought this. Acts 1:6 They didn't understand the Old Testament reference to the death of the Messiah for his people. Isa 53. They engaged in wishful thinking- their goal was freedom from their oppressors and that couldn't happen if the Messiah died.
Jesus had a different mission, a two part mission- first to redeem mankind through His death and resurrection; the second, to prepare mankind for His coming Kingdom. (we'll explain that in the next episode) Jesus Christ came as Messiah of all mankind, not just Israel. He would first die to pay for the sins of mankind and later... come back as King. On the day of His death the high religious leader demanded, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” Jesus said “I am”. Mark 14:62
In summary, Both the ancients (men like Moses Deut 18:15 and Daniel 9:25) and Jesus contemporaries knew a Messiah or Christ was coming. All the prophecies about the Messiah were fulfilled by Jesus of Nazareth. He is the Messiah. Next time, Messiah Part 2- Time to Decide!
We all want to know what God is like. We can use some human concepts to better understand our Creator.
God's person and character are described with 3 great words- omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent. Omni simply means ALL. God shows us these things about Himself. Life on earth and the order of space demonstrate physically His power to create and control all systems, the entire Universe. Our Creator teaches us that “since the creation of the world, His invisible attributes (Things about Himself) are clearly seen by us, even His eternal power...” Romans 1:20
Our first word is Omnipresent- God is present everywhere, at all times past present and future. He is right there beside you and He's at the farthest edge of the universe. (Jer 23:24) By Omniscient we mean He has ALL knowledge, not one thing missed, every fact in the whole universe is known by Him. Jesus said “the very hairs on your head are all numbered.” Matt 10:30 Potency means power. God is omnipotent! He has power over every created thing in the universe. God says: “I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.” He “works out everything to conform with the purpose of His will.”
Here's our Conclusion: If God is all these things, we must humble ourselves before Him trusting Him each day of our lives. Man is puny next to God and unable to save himself here on earth or in the life to come. Jesus Christ, God's Son “sustains everything by the mighty power of his command” Heb 1:3
Let us follow God and obey Him in all our ways.
There are great verses in the Bible confirming these truths. We make them available on the Mountain just for you!
This story explains why human works to earn God's acceptance can't work. We all have an unfixable spiritual defect, the programming in our soul is permanently damaged. The urge to disobey God and hurt and control others, it's in our nature. Everyone tries to fix this defect, some through religious practice.
Jesus told the story of 2 men trying to fix this problem-
Luke 18:9 “Two men went to pray. One was a religious leader, and the other was a despised tax collector. The leader stood alone and prayed:‘I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and I don’t commit adultery. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income. ’ “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner. ’ Jesus concludes, “I tell you, this sinner, not the religious leader, went home justified before God.
Jesus says humility and not religious acts make you right with God. Let's define “Religious acts” are human efforts to gain God's favor.
That religious leader performed “religious” duties and felt he was better than others. People “seek to establish their own righteousness” by performing religious acts.
Actions and duties to earn God's acceptance just don't work! All our righteousness is like dirty rags to God. Self righteousness is not righteous!
The humble heart of the tax collector is the right way. “God be merciful to me, a sinner! God accepts humble people! Trying to earn your way to God will fail. Asking for mercy makes you right with Him and opens Heaven's door to you!