eternity bible study: Recent Episodes
eternity
The righteous shall live by faith. Live above your circumstances. To realize Christ in every circumstance is to know him.
Living in a dependency on what others think of you and how you measure up according to works is it self a form of bondage. How do you live? Living and being justified by faith in God, not by works, is freedom. Live by faith, not by works.
Job is a message for modern day man. Jesus Ordains Brokenness.
The new relationship with yourself. When you quit, trusting yourself, you realize you are a sinner and are far from God.
A new relationship with God. When you repent you allow God to forgive you, and bless you with his love.
A new relationship with others. When you pray for others and forgive others as God forgive you.
What do you seek? Seek to serve, not success. Self righteousness versus lack of spiritual wisdom. Wisdom is greater than age, money, power, and human success. The self-righteous Job, vs the three wise guys. An argument is a failure of acknowledgment, of one another, and of God.
Job replies to his friends, God’s majesty is unsearchable. Job continues, I will maintain my integrity. Job continues. Where is wisdom?
Job asks why do bad, wicked people get away with so much? Why does God let it happen? Bildad reflects, if Job has it been broken, if Job’s heart is in the right place, and who can be right with God?
Job and his friends go back-and-forth. Wisdom from men without acknowledging wisdom of God.
Zophar speaks, Job, you deserve worse. Job replies, the Lord has done this. Job continues, I will still hope in God.
Job’s character and wealth. Satan allowed to test Job. Satan takes Job’s property and children.
The Jews destroy their enemies. The feast of Purim inaugurated. The greatness of Mordecai.
Forgiveness begins with godly grief, then repentance. It’s between you and God, not anyone else, in order that your earnestness might be revealed in the sight of God.
Whatever our circumstances are, we have comfort in the endurance, the power, and the righteousness of Christ, right now.
Treasures in jars of clay. Think about this, when you are feeling down and overwhelmed.
The rebuilding of the Temple begins a new period the letter to king Darius. The decree of Darius. The Temple is finished and dedicated.
Rebuilding the altar. Rebuilding the temple. Adversaries oppose the rebuilding. The king orders the work to cease.
Josiah reigns in Judah. The book of the law found. Judah’s decline. Jerusalem captured and burned. The proclamation of Cyrus. Real rest, restores real worship…
King Manasseh. A story of sin, forgiveness, and an important lesson that after forgiveness life can still be hard. Sin still has consequences that sometimes a forgiven person still has to live with.
Hezekiah organizes the priests. The lord delivers Jerusalem. Hezekiah’s pride and achievements.
Jehoram reigns in Judah. Ahaziah reigns in Judah. Athaliah reigns in Judah. Joash made king. Athaliah executed.
Jehoshaphat’s prayer. The Lord delivers Judah. The end of Jehoshaphat’s reign. Jehoram reigns in Judah.
Egypt, plunders Jerusalem. Abijah reigns in Judah. Asa reigns in Judea. Asa’s religious reforms.
Solomon worships at Gibeon, prays for wisdom, and is given great wealth. Solomon prepares to build the Temple.
David organizes the priests. David organizes the musicians. David organizes the gatekeepers, the treasurers, the military, and leaders of the tribes. David’s charge to Israel. David prays for the assembly. The death of David.
David builds an altar. David prepares for Temple building. David identifies Solomon to build the temple.
We trust God for our salvation, but we don’t trust him for the problems of life. Trust God, not numbers, not men. Sometimes we trust the wrong things. Don’t glory in might or numbers; glory and trust in God.
Those who have never been of told him will see, and those who have never heard will understand…
Build others up by your behavior… strengthen other… Keep your eyes on Christ and his righteousness, and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Whoever does serves, Christ is acceptable to God and approve by men. People can really see whether you live out the Scriptures in your actions. Let us pursue what makes for peace and mutual upbuilding.
Love one another, don’t judge or begrudge one another. Let us pursue what makes for peace and mutual upbuilding…
Love one another, not judge one another.. Don’t do anything for God unless you have a conviction about it. God wants us to be whole hearted for him..
God’s righteous judgement. The Universal Truth- God will judge my heart… and my actions…
When your hope, joy and peace come under attack. The material hope joy and peace versus the spiritual, hope joy and peace.
Jehu anointed King of Israel. Jehu executes the House of Ahab, Hezebel, and the House of Baal.
Elisha promises food. The Shunammite’s land restored. Hazel murders Ben-hadad. Ahaziah reigns in Judah.
Naaman healed of leprosy. Gehazi’s greed and punishment. Pride can get in the way of faith.
Ahab killed in battle. Elijah denounces Ahaziah. Elijah taken into Heaven. Elisha succeeds Elijah.
Naboth’s vineyard. The Lord condemns Ahab. Ahab and the false prophets. Micaiah prophesies against Ahab. Ahab killed in battle.
Elijah predicts a drought. Elijah and the widow. Elijah raises the widow’s son. Elijah confronts King Ahab.
Solomon’s benediction. Solomon’s sacrifices. The Lord appears to Solomon. The Queen of Sheba. Solomon’s great wealth.
Solomon builds his palace. The Ark brought into the Temple. Solomon blesses the Lord. Solomon’s prayer of dedication.
David’s prayer of gratitude (chapter 7), David’s victories (chapter 8). David’s kindness to Mephibosheth (chapter 9).
Abigail appeals to David’s better nature. We learn discretion. Don’t try to work out your own salvation. Let God do it. There is only one salvation plan, it is God’s. We learn David lives by faith, and let’s God work out the details.
Gentiles hear the Gospel. The Holy Spirit baptizes the gentiles. The church in Antioch.
Joshua to succeed Moses. Like a parent’s advice to children; remember what I’ve tried to teach you…
Fellowship with Christ means allowing Him to wash our feet; to cleanse us of our sins, so we can walk in the light.
Mary anoints Jesus at Bethany. The plot to kill Lazarus. The triumphal entry. Some Greeks seek Jesus.
The testimony of John the Baptist. Behold, the lamb of God. Jesus calls the first disciples. Jesus calls Philip and Nathaniel.
Vengeance on Midian. Reuben and Gad settle in Gilead. Recounting Israel’s journey. Boundaries of the land. Cities for the Levites. Hold on to God’s promise.
Laws about sacrifices. A Sabbath breaker executed. Tassels on garments. Korah’s rebellion.
Spies sent into Canaan. Report of the spies. The people rebel. Moses intercedes for the people. God promises judgment. Israel defeated in battle.
The people complain. Elders appointed to aid Moses. Quail and a plague. Miriam and Aaron oppose Moses.
The seven lamps. Cleansing of the Levites. Retirement of the Levites. The Passover celebrated. The cloud covering the tabernacle.
The plot to kill Jesus. The Lord’s Supper. Who is the greatest? Jesus foretells Peters denial.
Jesus and Zacchaeus. The parable of the 10 minas. The triumphal entry. Jesus cleanses the temple.
The parable of the wedding feast. The parable of the great banquet. The cost of discipleship.
Jesus sends out the 12 apostles. Jesus feeds the 5000. The transfiguration. Jesus sends the 72. Jesus rejoices in the Father’s will.
A sinful woman forgiven. Women accompany Jesus. The parable of the sower. Jesus calms the storm. Jesus heals a man with a demon. Jesus heals a woman and Jairus’s daughter.
Jesus heals a centurion’s servant. Jesus raises a widows son. Messengers from John the Baptist.
The return to Nazareth. The boy Jesus in the temple. John the Baptist prepares the way.
The Sabbath year. The year of Jubilee. Redemption of property. Kindness for poor brothers. Redeeming a poor man.
Laws concerning the burn offering, the grain offering, the sin offering, the guilt offering, and the peace offering.
Jesus delivered to Pilate. Pilate delivers Jesus to be crucified. Jesus is mocked. The crucifixion. The death of Jesus.
The plot to kill Jesus. Jesus anointed at Bethany. Judas to betray Jesus. The Passover with the disciples.
The parable of the tenants. Paying taxes to Caesar. The resurrection. The great commandment. Whose son is the Christ? Beware of the scribes. The widows offering.
Jesus teaches about divorce, faith, wealth, his death, and leadership. Jesus heals blind Bartimaeus.
Know Jesus: see him with perfect vision in his glory. Lack of faith VS lack of prayer. Being a leader VS being a servant. Humility of a child. Greatness VS humbleness. Fire of punishment VS fire of tribulation (salt, preserves, purifies).
Know Jesus: He feeds 4000. The Pharisees demand a sign. Jesus heals a blind man in stages. Peter confesses Jesus is Christ, but doesn’t understand the gospel (like a partially blind man).
Join Mutale as she reviews this great chapter of Mark. Jesus feeds the 5000, walks in the water, and quiets the storm.
Only God heal. Jesus heals a demon possessed man, a woman with a bleeding disorder, and raises a little girl from the dead.
John the Baptist prepares the way. Jesus’ baptism and temptation. Jesus begins His ministry.
The third plague: gnats. The fourth plague: flies. The fifth plague: Egyptian livestock die.
The Parable of the Talents. The Final Judgement. The plot to kill Jesus. Jesus anointed at Bethany. Judas to betray Jesus. The Passover with the disciples.
The Sadducees (politicians) and Pharisees (preachers) try to trap Jesus. Their wisdom is no match for Jesus’ wisdom. It’s the same with our world’s wisdom today; it is no match for God’s wisdom.
Jesus teaches about John the Baptist, his messenger, and a messenger for us too. Jesus teaches about repentance.
Jesus sends the Apostles for a short term mission. John the Baptist questions Jesus’ ministry.
Jesus heals the sick, gives sight to the blind, gives voice to the mute, and raises the dead. The Disciples become Apostles.
The Sermon on the Mount - The Beatitudes - Be like Christ - Be sons of your Father who is in heaven.
Joseph’s return to Egypt a second time to buy food. They bring Benjamin, and Joseph puts them to the test.
Jacob sent to Laban. Esau marries an Ismaelite. Jacob’s dream. God’s unconditional love/promise— meets a conditional response...
Issac and Rebecca. A story of faith, love, trust, humility. An example of the gospel message of Jesus Christ. Fulfilled prophecy of Christ’s gospel message. A glimpse of the resurrection, as the bride and bridegroom are united. A story of comfort in God’s love and provision.
God destroyed Sodom, but saves with mercy. We have to loose everything of the world to gain our life with God. We can’t look back when we leave a sinful world behind. God can only use us when we depend on him.
Satan defeated once and for all. The second resurrection of the lost. The judgement seat of Jesus Christ.
A great multitude in heaven, those saved by Christ during the great tribulation, sing Hallelujah at His return.
Kings of the earth, merchants on both land and sea all mourn over the destruction of Babylon.
A false church, a false priest, a false ruler, a false spirit, a false religion, a false kingdom, a false alliance, and a false promise. The personification of the antichrist.
The seventh bowl of God’s wrath is pour out onto the earth, especially over the city Babylon, representing mother of unholy worship.
The final bowls of God’s judgement and wrath are poured our over the earth, to mark the end of creation and sin. Even still the people did not repent.
Angels begin to pour the wrath of God over the earth. This marks the end of the earth. God’s final judgment is at hand.
Those who have endured by keeping God’s commandments and faith in Jesus Christ, have become conquerors.
Another great sign in Heaven, seven angels with seven plagues - the last for the earth.
A vision of two harvests. One for those who have endured the great tribulation in faith, and another for the wicked.
Christ redeems his kingdom, and 144,000 from the nation Israel. An angel proclaims the eternal gospel and calls those remaining to repent.
Jesus brings the remaining remnant of Israel, the 144,000 sealed in his name, through the great tribulation. Jesus Christ is faithful even during the worst times.
Four freedoms in Christ: salvation, power, kingdom, and authority. Three victories in Christ: his blood, our testimony & love. One response: rejoice!
The great dragon, Satan, our constant accuser, gets thrown out of heaven in a great war.
A vision of a cosmic battle between a child (Jesus Christ) and a great red dragon (Satan).
The seventh angel blows the 7th trumpet, announcing the kingdom of Jesus Christ is at hand.
Two witnesses for the Lord come, but are martyred by Satan. The world rejoices, but the Lord resurrects them in glory to Heaven.
Those that stand for nothing will fall for anything. We see the rest of mankind, who did not repent from the great tribulation, be tortured by the very demons they worship. Another great angel appears, from the presence of Christ in Heaven. McGee teaches this angel will announce the second coming of Christ, just as angels did at his first coming.
Is Christ number one in your life? Today we see the awesome consequence of those who do not repent. The star fallen from heaven, Satan, is given the key to the bottomless pit. Locusts invade the earth to torment those who are not sealed in Jesus Christ. Today we see that awesome consequence of salvation lost.
We see four of the seven trumpets being blown by God’s angels. God brings restrained judgment from heaven, as he begins to destroy the earth and its creation.
A heavenly pause begins, to “be still and know that I am God”. We see the prayers of all the saints in the form of incense before God on his altar. God responds to these prayers as judgment on the earth.
We see a picture of those who survived the great tribulation coming before the throne of God to worship.
A picture of Heaven is a picture of worship. It’s all about our Lord Jesus and Father God, not us. It’s the fulfillment of God’s covenant with man. We see a picture of total worship.
Angels are holding back the winds of God’s judgement on the earth, so that more of his remnant may be saved.
We see angles in charge of earth’s final destruction being held back, one last time, in order that more might be saved.
We see more of the Great Tribulation period, as the Lord Jesus opens the 4th, 5th and 6th seals of the scroll. The great day of wrath - God’s righteous justice - has come upon the earth.
The beginning of the great tribulation. Jesus Christ opens the first four seals of the scroll, and releases the four horsemen on the earth.
Jesus Christ is the only one worthy to open the scroll. We look into the future, as we see Jesus open the first of the seven seals. This sets loose a white horse and rider on the earth, representing the Antichrist.
Today we get a glimpse into Heaven. As John describes, it’s pure worship of Jesus Christ, the one who is worthy.
All creation is worshiping our Lord and God in heaven. He is holy and worthy of all glory, honor and power.
John is now taken up into Heaven. He sees all the glory of God, with every created thing represented.
In his last letter to the church in Laodicea, Christ sums up the gospel message for all of us. It’s like opening a door if you hear his voice. He comes in and sits down, with an abiding relationship.
Christ’s final letter to the church. The church in Laodicea was neither hot nor cold. It was lukewarm. It was not an effective church. Money, boasting, talking, popularity do not equal leadership or respect in Christ’s eyes.
The church at Laodicea thought they were rich, prosperous, and needing nothing. However, Christ told them they were spiritually bankrupt.
Words of today, like politics, are written by men. These words are not holy, and don’t give ultimate truth. Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Christ knows what we’re going through. His words are our salvation, and like an open door no one is able to shut.
Letters to Christ’s churches. To Pergamum, faithful but allowing false teaching. To Thyatira, works without discernment. To Sardis, dead works.
Jesus letter to the church of Pergamum, his 3rd church. They were holding fast in the name of Christ, but falling for false teachings.
Jesus encourages the church at Smyrna, and those who will suffer for his name. We have the Spirit to help us.
John sees Christ for who he is for the first time. His glory is immeasurable. No one can stand before him.
The revelation of Jesus Christ, in his glory. He is the past, present and future. He is life and death. Those who trust in him have nothing to fear.
God tell us that he will remember those who honor him, those who love him. They will be his treasured possessions. What a powerful message for us today.
Merry Christmas! God has given us the gift of himself, Jesus Christ, to bring eternal life, hope, joy and peace into our world. Let us not rob him, by giving back to him with insincere hearts. Let us walk in his way and give him worthy worship.
God’s message of repentance- return to me and I will return to you- means turn to Christ.
God warns the people that their worship and morality is not based on Him. God doesn’t want faithlessness in relationships of marriage, nor in worship. God says He is sending a messenger, John the Baptist, to prepare the way for the coming of Jesus Christ, who will defeat sin and death, allowing worship in righteousness.
How important it is to represent God to others. Through Malachi, God rebukes the Priests who were allowing unacceptable behavior and offerings.
Do you have religion, or do you have God? When we worship, we need to worship from our whole heart, not just with empty ceremony.
God answers the age old question, “how have you loved us, by letting us suffer so much?”
On the day of the LORD, Christ will punish evil and save the remnants of nations, that all may be worthy of holy worship.
The LORD will move mountains to save Jerusalem. He will move mountains as he saves us as well.
When Christ returns he will cut off all idolatry and false teachings. He will be the only source of truth, justice and peace on earth.
The proper response to God’s spirit of grace and mercy is our acknowledgment of the magnitude of our own sin. Weeping and mourning reflected the humility of heart being reconciled to God.
The LORD will reestablish his kingdom on earth. He will use Jerusalem to bring down all nations that oppose him.
God will bring salvation and truth back to the world using Jerusalem, as Christ reestablishes his kingdom.
Great study. The 3 false shepherds are judged. A new good shepherd comes, but is rejected by a flock “doomed” to its own slaughter. It’s an amazing OT prophecy of Christ. As Jesus is crucified, the ultimate rejection, the 2 covenants (shepherd’s staffs) are broken between God and the nations, and the nation Israel itself. Only by the blood of Christ can there be restoration. The doomed sheep pay 30 pieces of silver (slave’s wages) for the Good Shepherd’s work. The “doomed” flock then are left in the hands of a worthless shepherd. This worthless shepherd will eventually be subdued, a prophecy of Christ’s second coming.
So much to be thankful for on Thanksgiving. Jesus Christ is our cornerstone, our nail of support, and our eternal protection. It is he who will strengthen us, save us, and redeem us, because of his great love and compassion for us.
Ask God in prayer for what you need, with a sense of dependency. It is God who provides. God loves us so much, and is hot with anger at those who lead his people away from this relationship with him.
A prophecy of two kings, Alexander the Great and the coming of an even greater king, the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
What are you seeking? We all seek something. God says the only thing worth finding is Him.
And they shall be my people, and I will be their God, in faithfulness and in righteousness. What a wonderful way to live. A truly hopeful picture of God’s coming kingdom.
Are you right with God? God answers, it’s what’s in your heart that matters, not religious ceremonies.
The people ask about how they should worship. God answer that it’s the heart that matters.
Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts. Your faith can move mountains.
Zechariah’s 4th vision continues: a heavenly courtroom, where the defendant is pardoned and then glorified.
Zechariah’s 1st vision, a horseman and Jerusalem restored. His 2nd vision, 4 horns that tore down God’s people & 4 craftsmen to build them up again.
Consider your ways, your spiritual house. Is it your priority? In God’s eyes it must be for his presence in you.
Use what God gives you to work for him. He is with you, so you can look past your weakness to his strength.
How’s your spiritual house? Are you living to please God and glorify him? That is his will.
What is God’s will? So often we allow our priorities to replace God’s priorities, and call it “God’s will...”
Work out in the Word, speak in the Spirit, and be mercy minded. Jesus Christ will keep you and present you with great joy as blameless before his presence. A powerful message that encourages us to contend for the faith.
God warn us of taking our faith for granted. How terrible it is to loose your faith and your life be utterly worthless.
Generation 0: zero faith, only Godless platitudes. They Judge one another, like instinctive animals. Woe to them that forsake God’s word.
Rejecting God’s authority and passing God’s judgement is perverting the faith given to us by Christ.
Jude, half-brother of Jesus, begins a very personal letter encouraging us to “contend” for the faith.
The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you with his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.
God is jealous in his love for us that we would repent and be saved. He will judge and destroy sin in order to save those who have faith in him.
Why do the nations rage and the people plot in vain? They reject God’s presence and sovereignty.
Habakkuk waits for God’s answer. “I will take my stand at my watchpost, and lookout to see what he will say to me..” An amazing window into a conversation between God and man.
Habakkuk asks God why he would use man’s evil as part of his plan for mankind. Habakkuk seems to imply God is too holy and pure to use man’s wickedness for his purposes.
Why do bad things happen to good people? Habakkuk has a conversation with God about this very subject.
Habakkuk has a conversation with God, and asks the question, why are bad things happening to those you care about?
The final prophecy against Nineveh. Nahum describes the ultimate destruction for the city and it’s people. God’s sovereignty will judge the government’s of man.
People of nations tell themselves so many things based on man’s thinking and not God’s wisdom. Nineveh led itself astray, and was destroyed.
When the government of man opposes the government of God, God says He will oppose that government.
When God’s timing calls for restoration, will we be weak enough to be restored, or strong in our own ramparts?
No more will Judah be subject to the Assyrian rule. There is good news of peace on earth!
Nahum describes God’s power, authority, sovereignty and justice over all creation, including Nineveh.
Nahum begins by telling the people that God is jealous in his love for them, but he will punish sin because he is just.
The world is unfair, and affects all of us unfairly. Abide in Christ, not the world. Avoid the “Diotrephes Complex.”
We receive God’s love and truth (Christ) in faith and humility. It brings God pure joy as we share God’s love and truth towards one another in faith and humility.
Don’t be deceived. God’s love must work together with God’s truth in us, for us to be effective in him.
To deny the truth of God’s word is to deny the knowledge of Jesus Christ. To deny Christ is to deny his power of salvation.
God- because of his love, has mercy on us in our sin, gives us a gospel gift of grace that saves us, and allows us to be forgiven and to have his peace, his presence in our lives. Christ is the person of God, his word and his truth, given to a world of sin and deception. God’s truth is now for each one of us, to dwell in all believers. Christ commands us to love one another as God has loved us. This love must work together with God’s truth, otherwise it’s is not really God’s love at work.
Tell Jesus returns, man doesn’t see God for who he really is, in his glory. Till Jesus returns, man doesn’t see himself for who he really is. Till God is revealed in his true glory, we don’t see God in his awesome sovereignty. Likewise man doesn’t see himself in his repulsive nature, dead in sin. However, we have a God of hope, steadfast love and forgiveness.
“When I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD will be a light to me.” Such comforting words, in such morally corrupt times. Nothing, not even death itself can separate us from the steadfastness of God.
Look to God, not to our culture for your wisdom. Don’t ever take the position that God doesn’t hear you. Pray, he will hear you. Don’t let your faith be based on your own impatience. What for what God will do for you, not what you will do for yourself.
God answers the age old question of what do I need to do, how do I need to live? God condemns injustice, deception, and violence. A powerful message for us today.
What do you have to do to be saved? God says, nothing. It’s not about what we can do. It’s about what he can do for us. The gift of his son, as sacrifice for our sins. It’s Jesus Christ plus nothing else.
God has judged Israel’s sin. The nation is guilty, but God will provide a savior for the whole world, Jesus Christ. Now God gives the nation the opportunity to speak. Micah recalls the prophet Balaam being saved from God’s wrath by his donkey, much like this generation will be saved by Christ.
The prophecy of Jesus birth, his first coming, bringing good news, and the prophecy of his second coming, bringing peace on earth.
The Lord Jesus will one day return and reestablish his kingdom on earth. Tremendous hope for all generations that put their faith in him.
No justice, no peace for unjust judges, prophets for profit and crooked rulers. They themselves will receive judgement and justice, without the peace from the presence of God.
Judgement coming against unjust judges, rulers and leaders. The unjust don’t know God’s justice, and don’t know God’s peace.
Micah calls out those who have oppressed and caused wickedness to permeate the land. They have actually become like an enemy to the people. Micah delivers the dark and harsh news that disaster and judgement is coming upon the land.
Micah call out more corrupt cities. The nations honor and glory will one day be hiding for its life in a cave. The decisions of men will play out its full impact. Psalm 3:27, do good while you can.
Micah call out to a nation, city by city, that has reached the point of no return in sin. God’s judgement will be upon them.
Our faith in Jesus Christ overcomes this world. Three testimonies of Christ - by water baptism of Christ, God spoke from Heaven to acknowledge Christ, by his blood sacrificed for our sins, by his Spirit of truth that witnesses in our hearts.
Our commandment from God: we need to love one another as he first loved us. If we can’t love one another, his love is not in us.
Children of God have been reborn into a new life in righteousness out of an old life of sin.
Abiding in Christ means putting his righteousness into practice. Everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him.
We review the powerful first two chapters of 1 John. AAA- The Attributes of Christ (Life, Light, Love), The Anointing of Christ (His Holy One, Holy Spirit), The Abiding Relationship in Christ (with Christ, with God, with Holy Spirit). SSS- The attributes of this world- Sin, Sorrow, Suffering. Christ prayed not to be saved from the cross, but to be saved out of the hour of the cross. Let us likewise walk in Christ’s attributes and be Christ-like in prayer, as we live in a world of sin, sorrow and suffering.
What a powerful promise - an abiding relationship. Faith in Jesus is all you need. He is God’s eternal life, truth and never ending love. Through Jesus, we are anointed by his Holy Spirit with all we need. We have God living in us because of Jesus - AND - our spirit dwells with God also, as we abide in him. What an amazing relationship we have with our Heavenly Father through Jesus Holy Spirit in us - An Abiding Relationship.
Warning about the spirit of the antichrist. Christians have the Holy Spirit, of God the Father and Jesus Christ the son.
Do not love the world. Do not let anything come between you and your ability to love God and love one another.
The mark of one who “knows” Jesus Christ is one who keeps his commandments - To love one another, Doing good as did.
Jesus is the light of the world. Without his truth, man walks in total darkness. Jesus call us to have fellowship with one another, love for one another, as we walk in his light.
John begins with a description of Jesus in terms of his divine nature. He is life, he is light, and he is love. He allows us to have fellowship with God the Father through him. We complete God’s love as we have fellowship with one another in love. Fellowship with God through Christ brings joy as we center our hearts on him.
A lesson of repentance, reconciliation, forgiveness, salvation, and most important- love.
We see a powerful lesson in being reconciled to God, as Jonah gives God’s word to the Ninevehites, and they humbly repented from their evil ways.
Jonah is swallowed by the great fish. An Old Testament story of repentance, resurrection and salvation.
Jonah is confronted with his own rejection of God’s request for compassion on Nineveh. He is thrown overboard, and now he prays for God’s compassion.
God asks Jonah to “arise and go” - to share is word, his presence and compassion with those in Nineveh. It was an uncomfortable request. Instead Jonah ran the other way.
God despises a prideful heart. He declares to the prideful people of Edom that he will destroy their wealth, relationships, wisdom, and all symbols of strength.
Be “diligent” - your new middle name! Be diligent, focused and persistent to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
The example of Balaam, a prophet for a profit. Be careful, we are slaves to whatever in the world overcomes us.
What do we give our attention to? What makes us happy or secure? Is it the presence or absence of Jesus Christ in our lives?
The power principles of God. Grace and peace from God are multiplied by knowledge of God through Jesus Christ.
The harvest of sin will be God’s judgement on “generation obvious” - health, wealth and self...
Amos speaks and proclaims God’s visions to “generation obvious” who place their faith in health, wealth and self. When Amaziah insults him, Amos replies in humility.
What are you looking for, signs, miracles? The modern day atheists still looking for the obvious- health, wealth, and self, while denying God’s power to change their lives.
God will judge the altars of atheism whether for the northern kingdom or for our nations today.
God is sovereign. Everything happens for a reason. God warns the nation Israel not to trust their own wisdom, but his warning that a disaster is coming upon them because of their own sin.
God judges the pride of the Northern kingdom of Israel. A powerful message for us today.
God chooses a humble shepherd boy from a small country town of Tekoa to go to the northern kingdom and speak out. It’s a vivid picture that God can use any of us for his great purposes.
Whether you speak, serve or suffer - do good in in Spirit. Be humble in Christ, not anxious in yourself. Worry in yourself is a form of pride. Stand your ground in him.
Let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.
Whether you speak, serve or suffer, do good in the Spirit. Live in the Spirit, the way God does.
God call us to be good and then do good. No matter what, whether you suffer or not, live in the Spirit, not by the flesh.
The example of “doing good” is Christ. Doing good is to bless others, to bring others to God.
God call us to be good and then to do good. Doing good starts with our personal relationships.
Live today as exiles to this world. As Christ has overcome this world, we too have overcome this world. Live free to do good!
Growing up spiritually means more than just believing, it’s all about being changed, becoming a holy & royal priesthood, a holy nation.
Time to grow up spiritually, so stay in the Word of God. God calls us to be a holy priesthood to praise His name.
Every trial or crisis we may face, whether really small to a world wide pandemic, God tells us He is in control. The most precious thing we have is our faith in Jesus Christ.
Various trials will come, but we don’t live in anxiety, depression and fear - the FAD diet... We have joy in our faith Christ because these trials cause our faith, our dependency on Christ, to be stronger. A cord of three is not easily broken.
We are born again into a living hope. Our hope begins and ends with Jesus Christ. We need to live like we have already died with him.
God is sovereign over all time and events, even your very soul. He knows who are his, and we are saved only by Jesus Christ.
The return of Jesus Christ is referred to as “the day of the Lord”, and “in that day”. It is a final time of restoring the heavens, the earth and everyone who trusts God. Only in God can we find ultimate hope, mercy, love and forgiveness. Only in God can we find everlasting life. It’s faith in Him, with repentant hearts, that we find our strength and salvation. Only through Him, will we find justice and peace.
Joel refers to the Holy Spirit being poured out to us and for us. This passage quoted by Peter at Pentecost, when early Christians found themselves speaking in tongues and not knowing why. Our salvation depends solely on Jesus Christ and the gift of His Holy Spirit.
No matter how much disaster we may face, God will hear our prayers and answer. He is always acting to restore us, to make things new again.
Even in the presence of the worst disaster, the greatest tribulation then world will ever see, God still calls us to repent and trust Him for our salvation.
A vivid picture of the earth before the return of the Lord Jesus, “the Day of the Lord”. No light, no food, no water, and no life.
Joel describes the condition on earth leading up to the day of the Lord. We see the absence of God’s presence and blessings. Only sorry and despair are left. The only advice to man is to “cry out to the Lord”. As with us today, only God’s presence in our lives can turn disaster into victory.
Joel describes a devastation beyond anything anyone had ever seen. The total absence of God and his blessings.
What do you do when disaster comes? The book of Joel reminds us that it’s not about, “oh woe is me”, but “how great is he”.
It’s all God’s timing. Be steadfast in prayer - it’s the most important thing you can do.
Your relationship with God means everything to Him. Prayer should mean everything to us.
Looking at God’s word is meant to change you. You are meant to put His word into action.
Temptation is from the world, not from God. God only gives good and perfect gifts. Our heart, desires and actions lead us either to a birth in sin or as new creations in God.
FAITH - Trials and tests are inevitable. Our focus needs to be forward, with an active attitude. It’s all about his holiness, his humility and his harvest.
Are you facing trials in life? The book of James is for you. It all starts with faith, the root of your salvation and the foundation of your every action.
Consider it joy when you have various trials to face. Testing your faith produces steadfastness- you become more like God as you lean on him.
Despite the lack of love for God, God still loves us as a parent loves wayward children. Realize it or not, our Heavenly Father loves beyond our understanding. Turn to the Father’s love, and always trust him.
A nation reaps what it sows. God warns the northern kingdom that it is destined to reap the judgement of death because of it’s sin. Their hearts were false - they had reject God. What a timely warning for us today. We still need God just as much today.
God’s answer to the modern day prosperity message. It’s not at all about our prosperity, it’s about our heart for God’s presence.
God calls on the northern kingdom to repent. When we reject his presence, we choose sin. Sin will always be judged.
God accuses the northern kingdom Israel of being destroyed as a people for lack of knowledge of God. God’s word needs to be central in our lives.
God explains through Hosea why the generation in the northern kingdom is being rejected. What a powerful message for us to hear today!
A great lesson in forgiveness. A great prophecy for the Northern Kingdom. A great warning to the unfaithful. ⭐️
The Lord will show Israel mercy after a time of spiritual discipline. Hosea must purchase his wife back out of slavery for a second period of unfaithfulness. This displays God’s faithfulness to us, though none are deserving.
Hosea prophesied that God will punish and discipline the nation Israel, like an unfaithful bride, so that her heart will change.
God calls Hosea to marry, start a family, but warns him that his bride, his marriage will be unfaithful. He will represent God’s love for the nation Israel. What amazing insight we have into God’s heart for his people.
As Jesus Christ loved us, we should love him back. We do this by our verbal praise, sharing our possessions, and doing good works. We also do this by being obedient to our leaders in God’s word, and prayerful for others. The benediction ends with a call to maturity in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, being accomplished through Jesus Christ.
Living a life of love. This is what it looks like. It’s all based on Jesus Christ - a person for all and God for all. He is your helper through anything. What can man do to you? Jesus sacrificed for us. We need to sacrifice for him, with our praise, possessions and performance.
We can be encouraged because of Jesus Christ, we have a kingdom that cannot be shaken. We need to be thankful to God for such a precious gift. We also should be encouraged as how we love one another. Jesus Christ is our helper. We have nothing to fear. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today and forever.
We have encouragement to endure - in Christ, in adoption as God’s children, and in a new kingdom, the living city of the living God! Those who are with Christ are there with him now in festal gathering. Wow what a picture of encouragement for us to endure. ⭐️
When suffering comes, God encourages us to endure as he disciplines us for our own good, so that we may see his righteousness.
Sufffering for the Gospel, for the Lord Jesus is suffering for God’s purpose and plan. It honors his name above our lives. No matter what, we have an incomparable hope in him that overcomes this world.
A look at the faith of Joshua, Rahab and Gideon. God shows how uniquely he can use each on of us, if we look past ourselves and look to him.
Abraham’s life was spent in obedience to God. Worship leads to obedience. Abraham and Sarah were always seeking a heavenly home. They had plenty of problems, and dealt with them with faith.
Enoch and Noah. Do you want to draw near to God? Then believe, by faith, that he exists, that he is real and sovereign over your life. Walk with God. Without your faith it is impossible to please God. His words, his will needs to be sovereign over your life. Also put those words into action, as Noah did, when he built the ark. It was for the saving of his own household. Likewise we, should also put God‘s word to work in our own lives in reverent fear.
Faith is you assurance of your hope in Christ. Faith is not a feeling. Faith is a confidence and conviction in God. It’s God’s will and creation that you may trust in, not yourself or anything in this world.
An invitation to approach God - through Christ - in faith, hope, and love. Jesus is our “new and living way” to God. The only way for salvation is by his sacrifice for our sins. Encourage one another to live and good works. Endure all, for you have a better possession- an abiding possession.
The Holy Spirit bears witness to us that we have a gift in Jesus Christ that saves us from our sins, one time for all. Let us now draw near to God with pure hearts and confidence in our salvation. Let us hold fast to this hope, and never let go of it. Let us encourage on another in faith till The Day of Christ’s return.
Jesus is our salvation, our high priest, who is alive in God’s presence interceding on our behalf. Praise God! What a comfort.
The blood of Christ purifies our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. Worship leads to service and service to worship. Let us strive to enter God’s rest (4:11) to receive our eternal inheritance (see 12:9)
In Christ we have a better ministry, a better covenant, and a better promise. He died for you, and now is alive for you. Likewise, you died with him, and now you are alive to walk with him - in new life by grace.
Jesus Christ is our high priest forever, the mature message of the gospel. He is a better priest, with a better promise, a better covenant, and a better temple. He is alive for us that we can be alive in him. His work on the cross is done. His work in your heart, in life day by day has only just begun...
Jesus is a high priest who lives forever. He always lives to save us to the uttermost, and to intervene for us. He is living and active for us forever.
The Gospel message calls us to grow in maturity in Christ, our new High Priest - by the power of his indestructible life!
The Gospel message begins with our salvation in faith in Jesus Christ. The Gospel message also gives us hope in Him as we continue to live our lives. God promises this gift to all, as we devote ourselves to Him.
Let us strive to grow in our faith in Christ, from basic teachings, to maturity in Christ. As we mature, we have hope and confidence of our inheritance.
Jesus Christ is our high priest before God. He can represent us because he is both perfect in righteousness and knows our humanity.
Through Jesus Christ we have a high priest in Heaven who has been tempted and suffered in every way, but never sinned. Because of this, our high priest can sympathize in every way with us. Because of this, we have confidence in his strength and help as we go through our trials, temptations, hardships, and struggles.
The danger of hardening our hearts. If you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts like the Exodus generation. When Moses brought the people out of Egypt, they didn’t trust God, and their hearts were hardened. Also, our generation, when we hear the good news of Jesus Christ, if our hearts are hardened, we are prevented from trusting him and entering his rest and inheritance that he has promised us.
Exhort one another everyday. Build one another up daily. Share your faith in Christ with one another - it’s so important, to keep our hearts centered on him!
Jesus is superior to Moses. Moses was a servant in God’s house. Jesus built God’s house. By his death on the cross for us, we become God’s house- the body of Christ - the Messiah!
As we remember Jesus during times of taking communion, we remember eating the bread and drinking the wine as representation of Jesus body and blood shed for us. At the same time Jesus likewise became flesh and blood, like us, in order that he could share in our humanity. In this way Jesus could share in all of our sufferings, our temptations, our struggles, and even our death. For this reason Jesus alone is able to fully understand our human condition, and help us with any need, even to the point of death, so that we can share in his eternal life.
Everything exists because of Jesus Christ. He created all things, and all things exist because of him. He is the foundation of our sanctification. Our sanctification occurred on the cross, with him. Because he took part in our flesh and blood, we take part in his flesh and blood through his sacrifice on the cross. Through Jesus we are now children of God, and his brothers in Christ.
The evidence for your salvation is Jesus Christ’s death in the cross. His sacrifice for the world to witness is the foundation of salvation.
From Genesis to Revelation, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, from the beginning of time to the end of time - Jesus Christ is supreme.
Jesus Christ personifies God’s glory, nature, and power. He humbled himself, sacrificed himself on the cross to purify us from sin. He is now at the right hand of God.
From the beginning of all time to our “last days” now, everything starts and ends with Jesus Christ. He is the beginning and the end of all authority, and the final word of God to man.
Daniel’s vision interpreted- continued. The rise of Antiochus IV, a little horn, much like the future little horn, Anti-Christ to come.
The angel continues to interpret Daniel’s vision. It is a prophecy of the future for Daniel, and of fulfilled world history for us.
Daniel’s vision of s man. A lesson about the spiritual battle raging. A lesson about prayer. Daniel prayed continuously, centered in heart & humility, and was changed. This models the effect of praying on the battle - for our souls today.
The angel Gabriel brings an answer to Daniel explaining after 70 years of captivity, an additional 70 weeks (70x7=490 years) are required to fulfill God’s plan to fully restore His kingdom. We see this pointing to the coming of Jesus Christ, sin destroyed, and God’s kingdom fully restored.
Daniel’s Prayer. He studies God’s word. He prays for God’s will to be done, not his own. He prays for God’s mercy because of who God is, not because of his condition.
Daniel’s dream. The little horn from the final kingdom is destroyed with a word from God’s throne. The Son Of Man is presented with God, Jesus Christ in His glory.
Daniel and the Lions’ Den. One one the most famous chapters in the Bible. A story of jealousy, pride, power, flattery, trickery, politics, faith in God, and the power of God.
Daniel interprets the handwriting on the wall, and Belshazzar’s rule comes to an end. Babylon falls to the Medes & Persians. A powerful lesson, God condemns those who reject him, who turn their back on his word, the truth. God condemns those who reject his word.
Foolish king Belshazzar’s rule is coming to an end, as he defiles the Holy vessels taken from God’s temple in Jerusalem. He literally sees the handwriting on the wall!
God humbles Nebuchadnezzar, and makes him live like an animal for 7 years till he acknowledges God and renounces his own pride. What a powerful lesson for us today.
Nebuchadnezzar’s second dream. Daniel gives a troubling interpretation, God is in control, and will change Nebuchadnezzar’s mighty status from the world’s first great ruler to something else, as lowly and humble as possible.
God’s presence protects Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego from the flames of the fiery furnace. In the same way today, God promises his presence for us as we deal with our own tribulations.
Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image was for all people to worship. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were put in a position to either acknowledge God or not. In many ways, we face similar choices today.
Daniel recounts and then interprets King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. He displays God’s power and authority not only of our lives, but over the future. God is so in control!
Daniel interprets king Nebuchadnezzar‘s dream. We see a picture of a great statue. The head is made of gold, the chest and arms is made of silver, the waist and thighs are made of bronze, and the legs are made of iron, with feet and toes made of iron and clay. It is a great statue that corresponds to four kingdoms. The four kingdoms are the Babylonian empire, the Persian empire, the Greek empire, and the Roman empire. This is a prophecy of world history. But all these kingdoms will be shattered by a new kingdom not from human hands, but from the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.
We see Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar‘s dream. We see the wisdom of man versus the wisdom of God on display. We see a prophecy much of which has been fulfilled, but much of which is still yet to be fulfilled. A great statue or image with the head of gold, a chest and arms of silver, a waste and thighs the bronze, legs of iron, and feet of iron in Calais. Please correspond to the empires in world history. The feet of iron and Clay correspond to today the empires of today. We see a picture of God sovereignty. We also see an image of a stone that strikes the feet and brings down this great statue. This is a reference to Jesus Christ who will reestablish his kingdom on earth greater than all earthly kingdoms.
King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. God reveals Nebuchadnezzar’s dream to Daniel. We see Daniels prudence, his humility, and discretion on display we see Daniel’s faith on display. We see Daniel’s prayer life on display.
Daniel stands up to peer pressure and insists on eating food blessed by God. At the end of the 10 day test, Daniel and his friends appeared better in health than all the rest. At the end of the three years of learning at the Kings Court, Daniel and his friends appeared superior to everyone in all knowledge and understanding. By holding on to God‘s instructions in commands, Daniel is now able to bless all those around him. In a similar fashion, we also need to hold on to God‘s commands, no matter where we are. We need to strive to grow in God‘s word, as our very food, so that we can grow strong in wisdom in every way, and likewise, bless those around us as well.
Daniel taken captive into Babylon as a young teenager, and takes a strong stand for God. Talking about peer pressure- Daniel was up against a lot. A powerful lesson right from the start about doing what’s right in God’s eyes versus the eyes of others.
An amazing story of forgiveness. They serve it runs away from his master, but then except Jesus Christ as his Savior through Paul’s ministry. Paul directs the servant to return back to his master for forgiveness. Paul writes a letter to Philemon his master, who has also received Jesus Christ through Paul’s ministry. What are the odds of this happening? Yet through the grace of Jesus Christ we see a powerful example of how relationships can be transformed, healed, and refreshed.
Paul’s closing remarks to Titus. Paul tells Titus to remind everyone to be ready for every good work. This is what he would tell us today also. Be ready for every good work. We can impact more people through good works then clever words, or self-centered wisdom. Our job is to do good for others, in the name of Jesus Christ. Our faith does not call us to do nothing, but to be active in living out the word of God.
Paul gives Titus instructions on living a Godly life. This is for us too. It all starts with the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. The Gospel is our past, present and future.
Paul gives Titus a very important charge. Paul gives Titus his primary goal, and that is to stay in the word of God. How important it is to keep the word of God as the foundation of your life. Paul is instructing Titus to stay on the island of Crete, to take care of the church there, and to appoint elders there. These elders we’re supposed to be examples of good and up right leaders, who could be examples to others of godly living. Godly living starts with the word of God. How important it is that we keep the word of God as our daily priority.
Paul is leaving the young pastor Titus on the Greek island of Crete. He is there to oversee the young churches on the island. These people had a lot in common with the Greek culture in Greek mythology. Titus‘s job was to appoint people to be elders, oversee years, good stewards of God’s word. Titus is called to oversee the church, and set an example of godly living. Godliness comes from the word of God. It’s so important that the word of God produce godly living in us.
Ezekiel‘s final vision. Ezekiel gives a vision of a new temple, a vision of new worship within the temple, and a vision of a restoration of the land. All of the things that were broken are now restored. The temple of Jerusalem, God‘s temple, God’s house that has been destroyed over and over again, now has been restored in this version. All the worship that was not right, the sacrifices that were carried out with wrong hearts, are now restored as proper worship. The land of Israel that was desolate due to the sin that came upon the land has now been restored back due to the presence of God. There are literal descriptions of the temple as well as symbolic descriptions of God‘s presence with his people. Ezekiel concludes on a very hopeful tone, that God will eventually reside with us in his holiness.
Ezekiel prophecies against an unnamed ruler called Gog. This ruler will have a lot of other nations with him to invade the land of Israel. But God says he will be controlling this invasion, and that he will draw them to Israel with hooks in their jars. In other words, God is using all these other nations for his purposes just like he used the Babylonians to invade Israel before. God says he will be bringing these nations to attack Israel in order that he might vindicate his holy name. He will defeat all of these nations so that all nations will know that he is God. These chapters end with a very hopeful note that God then will restore his grace on the land of Israel and will restore the land of Israel. He says that he will not hide his face anymore from them, and he will pour out his Spirit on the house of Israel.
God tells Ezekiel to prophesy against Gog A future ruler who lived in the land of Magog, possibly representing modern-day Russia, and the chief prince of Meshach and Tubal possibly representing modern-day Turkey. God says he will be using these people to muster great armies that will come from the north south east and west against the nation Israel. He will defeat these great armies so that all nations will know that he is God. We see another example of God using nations to do his will. His will is the vindicate his name, so that all people will know he is God.
Our lesson comes today from one of the most famous chapters in the Bible, The valley of dry bones. It’s a lesson from a graveyard. Israel was spiritually dead. Israel was physically dead. There was no hope. People were just dried up. People were cut off. It’s a picture of many Christian lives today whether you’re spiritually dead or whether you’re physically dead, God is sovereign. God uses the faith of one person, Ezekiel, to prophesy to the bones gods word. And God raises the dead. God restores the breath of life to the nation Israel. The purpose is to reunite the nation Israel with one another and also with a God who loves them and wants to live with them. The chapter begins in a surreal picture of death, but ends with a picture of comforting hope. You may also think you are spiritually dead or your life is broken, dried up, without hope, or cut off. But God shows what his words can do. He shows he is sovereign over the most hopeless situations we may have.
Ezekiel gives a prophecy against the bad shepherds of Israel. These Shepherd’s have not taken care of the sheep. God will bring the shepherds down. And we see a contrast to the good shepherd, Jesus Christ, who will one day restore his sheep. God promises a new hope for Israel a new king, a new Israel, with a new heart, and a new spirit. God promises a covenant of peace. This is a metaphor for the new covenant relationship that we will have in the gospel message. The nations around Israel will be brought down as well, so that they will know that God is sovereign. God even promises the land itself will be restored from all the people claiming authority over his holy land. God says he will do this first and foremost to restore his holy name and his holiness over this land.
The example of the watchmen. The example of the bad watchmen, like a false prophet. The example of God’s watchmen today when we don’t warn the wicked. God uses his word and his watchmen to war in the wicked. God takes no pleasure in seeing people die, even the wicked, but he must judge sin. God is a just God, the wicked and the righteous will be judged. The fugitive from Jerusalem comes to vindicate Ezekiel‘s prophecy that Jerusalem had fallen. The land will be judged as well, and will be made a wasteland. God calls out even the people who talk about the warning. Many people just talk about it and don’t do anything about it. Many people are worshiping without any reverence at all.
We get a very sobering look into the experience of death, as Ezekiel prophecies against the great Egyptian Pharaoh. As great as Egypt was, as great a ruler as Pharaoh was, everyone who rejects God ends up the same way. Everyone ends up dead together. The great, the meek, the rich, the poor, all end up dead together. It’s a sobering look at the final commonality of those who reject God.
Ezekiel now gives a prophecy against Egypt. Egypt was the oldest kingdom. It had so much knowledge, power, and history behind it. Pharaoh was very prideful. As with the other kingdoms, God judges their pride, and uses Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon to conquer this kingdom. The purpose for this was to show the people God is in control. It is a sober reminder for us when we get wrapped up in personal pride.
Have you ever wondered how bad pride is? We see it in these chapters today. Pride brings down the city of Tyre, a great and powerful merchant city. Also, a prophecy against the prince of Tyre. Through Ezekiel‘s prophecy, God likens the pride of king of Tyre to that of the pride of Satan. Both are brought down because of their pride. A powerful lesson for us today.
Now God directs Ezekiel to turn and prophesy against surrounding nations. Against Ammon, against Moab, against Edom, against Philistia. God also directs Ezekiel to prophesy against the city of Tyre
The parable of two wicked sisters, Oholah and Oholibah. The parable of the boiling pot. Ezekiel’s wife dies, and God uses this as an opportunity to show the people how many will not even get a chance to mourn their dead when the destruction of Jerusalem comes.
Ezekiel warns the people that judgment is coming. That the time is near. That Jerusalem will be destroyed and will not recover until someone comes whom judgment belongs. This is a prophecy towards Jesus Christ, the only one who can ultimately save Jerusalem. Ezekiel calls out those who have caused this city to be referred to as the “Bloody City”. The princes, the prophets, and the priests. No one could stand in the breach between man and God. No one, ultimately except Jesus Christ.
A lament for the princes of Israel. Israel’s continuing rebellion. The Lord will restore Israel.
Our study finds Ezekiel continuing to give parables to his fellow captives in Babylon. The parable of Jerusalem as a useless vine was in chapter 15. The parable of the Lord’s faithless bride is in chapter 16. The parable of two eagles and a vine, chapter 17. The parables of souls who sin shall die, chapter 18. in all these parables we see God‘s nature. He says that he takes no pleasure in having to judge anyone, or see the ultimate death of anyone. A final plea to turn and live, meaning repent for your salvation.
Ezekiel condemns the idolatrous elders. Jerusalem will not be spared because it is so corrupt. The parable of Jerusalem as a useless vine. The parable of Jerusalem as the Lord’s faithless bride.
God uses the prophet Ezekiel to show the captives of Israel who are in Babylon what is going on back home in Jerusalem. Another wave of captivity is ahead for the people. King Zedekiah is going to be captive. There is fear and famine back in Jerusalem. God is telling these captives that things are going to get worse for them not better. This is God trying to show people that he is sovereign. We see God trying to give people every opportunity for their hearts to be turned towards him. Ezekiel also calls out the false prophets, men and women, who are preventing the people from hearing and understanding his words. These are strong messages for us today. We need to keep our hearts, our minds, and our ears on God’s word, not ours.
Ezekiel’s second major vision continues. The glory of the Lord leaves the temple. Judgment occurs on the wicked counselors. The Lord gives Israel a new heart and spirit. Ezekiel returns from his vision to tell those in captivity in Babylon that back in Jerusalem the total captivity, judgment, and destruction is near completion. Unfortunately, they are not going back home to Israel soon. The false prophets are wrong.
Ezekiel has a second vision of the glory of God. He is taken up between heaven and earth, and sees Jerusalem and all the abominations being carried out there. He sees God rendering judgment on the wickedness and evil practices going on. We see angels carrying out God‘s judgment. This is a powerful message to us today. We cannot take our own actions for granted. This is a powerful reminder for us today that a holy God will judge those who reject him.
Ezekiel tells the people that the time has come for God to judge Jerusalem. This is the final time, for the final judgment, for all the sin. The punishment will fit the crimes. All of this must occur so that the people will come to know that the Lord is God. Also, Ezekiel has a second powerful vision of the glory of God with him in Jerusalem.
God tells Ezekiel to prophesy against the land of Israel. God‘s judgment will be on the people. They shall die by the sword, by famine, and by pestilence. Even more, God will judge and destroy every altar, and every place of false worship. Even down to every last leafy tree, God will destroy places where false worship was conducted. What a powerful image of the requirement of God‘s judgment on every sinful act and deed, especially worshiping false teachers and false idols.
God commands Ezekiel to stage the siege of Jerusalem, to symbolize what happens. Ezekiel had to lay on his side 390 days to represent the number of years of punishment for the nation of Israel. Then Ezekiel had to lay on his right side for 40 days to symbolize each year of the siege of Jerusalem. He had to eat food cooked over cow dung to represent how bad the food was for the people. Then the Lord required him to cut his hair to represent the people. A third of the hair was burnt to represent those consumed by the famine. A third was struck with the sword, to represent those who perished by the invading armies. And 1/3 of Ezekiel’s hair was scattered in the wind to represent the scattering of the nation of Israel. Powerful visual reminders of what happens when God‘s presence is not with us.
God calls Ezekiel. Ezekiel’s commission: God prepares Ezekiel with- the Spirit if God, the Word Of God, the Mission Of God, and the Attitude Of God. God instructs Ezekiel to keep his heart centered on “all my words”. And to make sure he gives the word of God to people. Where did they hear it or not, or believe it or not, Ezekiel‘s job is to share this word with people. He is like a watchman in charge of protecting people, by giving them the word of God. What an amazing lesson for us today.
Ezekiel has a grand vision of the glory of God. God’s mighty majesty is too hard for us to understand.
Join us as we begin with an incredible vision of God while Ezekiel was among the nation of Israel, being taken captive by the Babylonians.
Paul’s final concluding remarks to Timothy. An amazing eternal focus as Paul awaits his execution. His total focus of his life was that of an offering to the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!
Paul’s last reminders to Timothy before his death. Stay in the word. Preach the word. Fulfill your ministry. Look ahead towards the Day of the Lord. What an amazing attitude of looking forward.
Paul warns Timothy not to take sin for granted. Paul encourages Timothy to stay in the word. To keep reading the word of God. That’s how his faith will grow. Through the word of God we get our faith and our salvation. Paul uses the example of Jannes and Jambres, two Egyptian magicians, who tried to oppose the power of God. Likewise, if we try to rely on our own skill and power, we are just as silly as these two magicians.
Paul Warren’s Timothy not to have miss placed love. Those who love themselves rather than loving God will not have a pure heart. They will not have a whole heart for God. They will be self-centered rather than God centered. They will be world centered rather than God centered. When you love yourself more than God or when your heart is centered on yourself and not centered on God, all kinds of problems occur. People become greedy for money, proud, arrogant. The ability to live a godly life depends on following God‘s word, and having an aim to please him, with faith, patience love and steadfastness. Paul appeals to Timothy that no matter what happens, not to let anything interfere with his faith.
Paul continues his picture of godly living. Jesus Christ cannot deny himself, for he is the truth. Paul calls Timothy to be a teacher, who works to handle the word of truth in the right way. God’s word is a firm foundation. Paul charges Timothy to be like a vessel, a drinking cup. The cup may not be fancy, just made out of clay, but it is clean for good use.
Paul encourages Timothy to be strong in God’s grace. To be a good soldier that shares in the spiritual battle of love against a sinful world to deliver the gospel message. To be like an athlete in training for godly living. To be like a farmer who is entrusted with caring for the crops and planning the seeds so that there will be a good harvest of food. Remember Jesus Christ that died for all whether they believe in him or not, he is faithful.
Ever felt emotionally defeated? These words are for you. Paul reminds young Timothy that God gives us a spirit of power, love and self-control. Faith is not based on our feelings, it’s trust in what Jesus Christ has already done for us, to give us eternal life. Faith is not a feeling. It’s Jesus and nothing else.
2 Timothy is Paul’s last letter. He has been in prison for a second time, and likely waiting to be executed. We see a personal touch of Paul saying goodbye. In this last letter. We look into Paul’s last words of encouragement and advice to Timothy. Paul is thankful for the gospel message, and faith. He urges Timothy to fan into flame this gift of faith in the Gospel message from Jesus Christ. A tremendous opening letter, and words of encouragement that we can use today.
Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the fake. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called.
Paul gives Timothy advice on how people are to get along in the church. This is really important advice. We all need help in how we relate to others. We all need help to understand how important encouragement is in every relationship. We need to understand how important a pure heart is in guiding our encounters with every relationship. Paul also addresses the very important issue of caring for widows.
Paul gives Timothy advice about pursuing godly living. Holding on to the gospel message of Christ is so important, and so sensual. Paul gives an analogy to training for godly living in comparison to training to exercise or physical training. Like an athlete training for a match, training for godly living is useful but also useful in the life yet to come.
Paul instructs Timothy about godly living. For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made whole by the word of God and prayer.
Paul gives Timothy more qualifications for deacons. Paul stresses the importance of humility and for keeping a Christ centered heart. The gospel message is a message that is intended to change lives. We should hold on and live out the gospel message with a good conscience. The church is actually God’s household, and the church is not just the physical building but all Christians connected in the body of Christ. The mystery of the gospel message is the mystery of godliness.
Paul gives Timothy instructions for the qualifications of elders and deacons. We see the importance of godly living. We see the importance of not being quarrelsome. We see the importance of a gentle nature. We see the importance of avoiding pride. We see the importance of living a peaceful, quiet, and godly life. This type of living is dignified in every way. It is a call of the gospel message to living a changed life.
Paul reaffirms to Timothy that there is only one true God and one true mediator between God and man, and that is Jesus Christ. It’s only through Jesus that anyone can be saved. Paul urges men and women to live holy, humble lives praying always with humble living, Always in modesty. Paul reaffirms the unique roles of men and women, but in both cases men and women should learn to have holy humility. Paul encourages them to continue in faith love and holiness, with self-control.
Timothy’s charge is to fight the good fight. The aim of this charge is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith. It’s all about the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul urges Timothy to live a godly life, in the sight of God our Savior. Living a godly life allows all people to see the gospel and be saved through knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Timothy‘s charge from Paul. Fight the good fight. The aim of this charge is love, a pure heart, good conscience, and sincere faith. Timothy’s charge is the same charge for us today. We are appointed to God’s service, to his ministry - the gospel message of Jesus Christ. The good fight is the work of Jesus Christ, to save sinners by letting them see the gift of God. God’s gift is the gospel message of Jesus Christ.
Being in charge. We get to see Paul giving advice to Timothy about being in charge. In a way, we are all in charge. We are all in charge of the gospel message. We are all stewards of the gospel. Paul reminds us that our stewardship, of being in charge of God’s word, requires above all love, a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.
Paul writes a very personal letter to Timothy. Timothy is taking over a church in Ephesus. He is a young preacher there. Paul starts off his letter by letting Timothy know that all his leader ship advice is coming from the one who is ultimately in charge, it is God who is in control. Everything starts with God who saves us, and Jesus Christ who has come to deliver us.
Jeremiah weeps and laments over Jerusalem. We see a picture of the human suffering when the foundations of society fall. We see dimensions of the nature of God. We see God’s encouragement in the circumstance of the human condition. We see God’s patience and willingness to forgive, when our hearts turn back to Him.
Jerusalem has been totally destroyed. Jeremiah is weeping for the city, and cries out in mourning. We see verses that try to answer the question, why do bad things happen? Doesn’t anyone care? We see the answer in that God is holy and righteous. God has to judge wickedness because he is a just judge. It is our sin that separates us from God.
Jerusalem has been destroyed. The Babylonians have burned the city, and taken the women children and men into captivity back in Babylon. Jerusalem, once a mighty city, is now desolate. Jeremiah mourns for the people in the city. This is a picture of what happened to a people when they took their relationship with God for granted.
Our last study in Jeremiah. God‘s prophecy against all the other major cities and regions around Jerusalem. God warns the remnant not to go to these other places, because they will be destroyed also. God wants the people to stay in the land so he can protect them. But in the end, they end up running away to Egypt hoping to find safety there. However, in the end Babylon will conquer Egypt and the people again will find themselves in captivity. A strong message for us today, that we can only find safety with God‘s protection no matter where we are or how bad it is.
The remnant of Israel is now all alone. People are scared, hungry, and looking for safety. The remnant is now planning to flee to Egypt. Jeremiah is warning the people not to go. Jeremiah gives the people prophecy against all the lands they plan to run to. God is telling them they cannot run from his judgment. In the end he also promises that some of them will survive, that he will not bring in total end to the nation. This remnant he will use to replant the nation. It is an encouragement for us to day to know that no matter how bad things get, God wants us to know that trusting him is far more valuable than plans we might make for our own safety. We need to learn to depend on God not on ourselves.
Jerusalem has fallen. Jeremiah gets let out of prison. The people come, once again, asking Jeremiah what to do. Jeremiah tells the people that God has directed them to stay in the land, and let him protect them. But the people don’t trust God’s word once again. The people end up leaving the land of Israel, and heading to Egypt. They think that by going to Egypt they will find safety. It’s so ironic that the nation heads right back to the land where they were originally enslaved. Isn’t it much like today, where people don’t trust God‘s word, God’s purposes, or gods plans? People would rather turn back to their own wisdom rather than living by faith. God then tells them, through Jeremiah, that he will allow the Babylonians to invade Egypt and the people will again be enslaved to the Babylonians, just as they had feared. The people are going to learn that they will not escape God‘s wrath or judgment for their sin.
Jerusalem falls. King Zedekiah fails to heed God’s warning and eventually is captured. God’s judgement is real. So often we don’t want to believe God must and will judge us.
How do you feel when sometimes you don’t have the right answer? Jeremiah was in jail, walking in faith, but not understanding. He prays to God, and God answers him. However it’s often not clear, but God wants us all to trust him. Sometimes from our human perspective we can’t understand God‘s plan. But God directly answers Jeremiah saying with a rhetorical question, “Is anything too hard for me?” We can be reassured sometimes as we walk in faith we don’t have all the answers, but we know we have a God who loves us. And also, we have a God in which nothing is impossible or too hard for him. Things are not out of control even if they seem so. We have a God who has a perfect plan for us even in the midst of trouble.
Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, is outside the city gates of Jerusalem. This city is going to fall, and be burned. In the darkest time for the nation Israel, the fall of Jerusalem, God gives a promise of a new covenant. This is the only reference in the Old Testament of the new covenant promise. God expresses his love to the nation as an everlasting love and continued faithfulness. This is the character of God for us. How encouraging it is to be loved so much!
God promises to give us hope even in the darkest times. It’s the presence of God that gives us hope. When we seek God, with all our hearts, God promises that we will find him. This same promise that Jeremiah gives to the people is with us today. If we seek God with all our hearts we will find him.
All alone Jeremiah continues to prophesy God‘s word. He gives all God‘s word to all the people. He doesn’t hold back. He doesn’t try to filter God’s word. He gives all of God’s word out to do the work of what God‘s Word was intended to do. God‘s word shows he is sovereign over all people, and all nations. God rebukes the politicians, the officials, the religious rulers, The people, and especially the false prophets..
Jeremiah warns us about dealing with the poor. He warns against having eyes and hearts only for dishonest gain, practicing oppression and violence. Despite God’s harsh judgment on the nation, Jeremiah tells of a Righteous Branch, a reference to Jesus Christ, that will come and eventually one day be a righteous king. Jeremiah also gives a parable of good figs and bad figs. Those who are in exile, in Babylon, who have good hearts are referred to as good figs. These are people that God will one day bring back to the nation of Israel, and he will give them a heart to know him, to know him with their whole heart. How important it is for us to know God with our whole hearts.
Jeremiah is a profit all alone. Alone, in a nation that has rejected God, he has to continue to deliver a message condemning his own nation. He’s beaten, and he feels anguish for his people. Jeremiah delivers a message to condemn the nation, the southern kingdom of Judah, and Jerusalem. Jeremiah also gives a message of condemnation on the living kings of Israel. The bloodline of the house of David ends here. God says no more Kings will come from this lineage. Although Jesus Christ will come from the house of David through his father Joseph, his direct father will be from heaven.
The parable of the Potter and the Clay. We are just like a lump of clay in the Potter’s hands, in God’s hands. The potter can rework a lump of bad clay into something else, or the potter can work a lump of good clay into something beautiful and useful. We need to make sure we hear God’s voice, and allow God‘s hand to work in our lives to make us into something useful and purposeful for him. Jeremiah gives this warning to the nation of Israel, and indicates because of their evil they will be destroyed, just like a lump of bad clay.
Jeremiah is all alone. He prays for the forgiveness of his people, and puts himself, includes himself in this prayer also. He finds encouragement in the word of the Lord. He pours his heart out to the Lord. We are to pray like this. God says the heart is desperately sick. Our hearts are all desperately sick in need of the Lord, and trusting in ourselves is so bad. The Lord searches our hearts and tests our minds. Our hope is only in the Lord.
Jeremiah calls the nation to repent. God gives Jeremiah a parable of the loincloth. Israel is like a spoiled loincloth worthless because of man’s pride. Israel’s pride keeps them from turning back to God. God warns of punishment coming soon, by the sword, by famine, and by pestilence.
God is protecting his covenant with his people. God is protecting his righteousness. God uses Jeremiah to let Israel know how far away from his ways they are. Jeremiah calls the people to repent. However, Israel will not repent, and God is letting them know that judgment is coming soon. A powerful study of God using his authority to preserve his righteousness.
Jeremiah calls the people to amend their ways and deeds. God wants us to change our hearts, not feel good about ourselves. God wants us to change our ways, our words, our deeds. It’s not about a fancy church, or a fancy temple. It’s about changed hearts, hearts that worship the Lord.
God continues to call his people to repent and change their hearts. But they rejected him in their hearts, in their minds, with their eyes, and with their ears. They rejected him with all of their actions, and with the way they live their lives. They spoke falsehood about the Lord God. They said he will do nothing to us. It’s the same original sin as in the Garden of Eden. Man has been saying everything is OK I can live the way I want to from the beginning of creation. What a powerful message for us today.
Jeremiah delivers God’s message to his people. He encourages them to repent, and turn away from their sinful idolatry.
Have you ever felt like you had to give a message to someone that was really bad news? Isaiah had to deliver a message of God‘s punishment to the nation of Israel. He had to tell them that they had forsaken him. We see the tremendous nature of God‘s love as we see how much God the Father was grieving for people that he had to punish.
Can you imagine being all by yourself to get out the word of God? Can you imagine doing God’s word and being rejected by everyone who heard you? Can you imagine being completely isolated, while your whole nation is being invaded and taken into captivity? This was the lonely life of Jeremiah. Jeremiah’s success was not measured in man’s eyes. Jeremiah success was measured in gods eyes. The work Jeremiah, as our Christian work and walk, begins and ends always with the word of God.
100 years after Isaiah, Jeremiah comes on the scene. A tender hearted man, God uses him to deliver the harshest prophecy yet seen in the Bible, the destruction of Jerusalem and the nation of Israel. A profit rejected by his own people, Jeremiah pleads with the nation, but he is rejected by his own people and eventually ends up in a foreign land, the land of Egypt. He dies there, rejected by his own people, and historically it is told he was stoned there by his own people. Join us as we begin this fascinating look into a fascinating book of one of the most fascinating profits in the Old Testament.
Paul gives advice for practical living. Practical patience while waiting on the Lord. Be a worker not a dreamer. Abide in Christ in everything you do. The result of the gospel message is peace.
Paul asks the Thessalonians to pray for him. That he can spread the gospel message even more. The gospel message is the word of God, and that’s where faith comes from. The gospel message directs us to the love of God. The gospel message gives us the steadfastness of hope, that is, hope in Jesus Christ.
With a word, God created the earth. With a word our Lord Jesus will destroy the lawless one, the wicked, Satan himself. God has chosen those who believe in him to be saved, to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit. It’s our belief in the gospel message of Jesus Christ that allows us to be saved. It is the gospel message that allows us to stand firm in his word. It is the gospel message that allows us to live by the Spirit under grace. It is this gospel message that gives us faith, love, and steadfast, eternal hope.
Ever worry that the Lord Jesus has already come and you got left behind? This was some of the confusion and anxiety that the young Thessalonian church had. Paul explains the coming of the Lord Jesus for those who believe in him, and then the coming of the Lord Jesus again to punish those who do not.
Paul explains to the Thessalonians why they are experiencing troubles, trials and tribulations.
How would you feel like if you thought Jesus had already come and taken all the believers with him back to heaven? The Thessalonian people were thinking this way because times were very hard. They thought the Great Tribulation period was already upon them, and Jesus had already left them behind. Paul distinguishes concerns that the Thessalonians had about Jesus Christ’s coming again. Trials and hardships are there for us to learn from, and require us to depend on our hope in Him. The punishment of God, during the Great Tribulation, will be punishment for the wicked.
Part 2 Podcast- Paul’s encouragement to the Thessalonian church regarding the second coming of Jesus Christ.
How would you feel if you thought Jesus Christ had already returned and taken all the Christians to be with him? This is what the church in Thessalonica was thinking. Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonian church explains the second coming of Christ.
A summary of 1 Thessalonians - faith, love, hope. Being chosen in Christ. The word of God comes in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with full conviction of truth.
We become examples of Christ. We are entrusted. We become spiritual parents. We become worthy. The fulfillment of all love is Jesus Christ.
We become sanctified by the Holy Spirit. This is the will of God, your sanctification. Love one another. The Rapture, the coming of the Lord. The Great Tribulation, The day of the Lord. The breastplate of faith and love, and a helmet of hope of salvation. The 22 Commandments, of Christ. God calls us to be like Christ, To be sanctified, to be holy.
Paul discusses the Day of the Lord, the time of great tribulation. Paul encourages those who believe in Christ to put on the breastplate of faith and love, and a helmet of hope for salvation through Jesus Christ.
The will of God for you is your sanctification. God calls us to be holy. To do this, to accomplish this, he gives us his Holy Spirit. Sanctification by the Holy Spirit is how we live out our life in the gospel.
Paul talks about the life of a Christian. It is all about Jesus Christ. It is all about getting ready for the coming of Jesus Christ. We have the Holy Spirit to help us prepare. We have the Holy Spirit to help us become sanctified. Our sanctification is the will of God. Sanctification is that process of us getting ready to be in the presence of Jesus Christ when he returns.
Paul encourages The Thessalonian church in their faith and in their love for the Gospel. We see the difference of Gospel love versus human love. The Gospel message begins with the love of God for all of us, and ends with the love of Jesus Christ for all of us as he sacrificed himself on the cross. The Gospel love never fails.
How do we receive the Word of God? Paul reminds us that this word cannot be taken for granted. We should receive the word of God for what it is -the very word of God.
When we receive the gospel message, God entrusts us to become spiritual parents to others. With humility and gentleness, God calls us to serve one another. We also become worthy as we walk - living life- as examples of Christ.
Paul describes the impact that the word of God has on all who hear it. It comes with God’s power, the Holy Spirit and full conviction in truth. The word works those who hear it by producing faith. The word is love and creates love in all our labors. The word is steadfast in itself and give us steadfast and eternal hope. An awesome study.
Paul describes our relationship with God as Christians to the young church at Thessalonica. The gospel message bring us God’s Word, power and His Holy Spirit... What a beautiful act of love to us.
Paul’s first letter encouraging a church he just established. We get insight into Paul’s prayer life, as he describes his constant prayers for the Thessalonians. Paul prays for faith, love and hope for all Christians. Join us as we learn from Paul’s encouragement to this new church.
The conclusion of the prophetic book of Isaiah. God’s final plan for reestablishing His Kingdom on earth. A new heaven and a new earth is to be born. A final reminder to all the nations that only His presence will bring eternal joy, peace and life.
God’s answer to man’s prayer. Through Isaiah God tells us that He is in control. His promise to to draw all people, all nations to Himself. God is the answer to all man’s need.
More insight into Jesus Christ return to earth. Returning for righteous judgement in order to fulfill God’s ultimate vengeance on the sins of all nations. Isaiah recounts the steadfast love and mercy of God, which has never changed.
Isaiah gives a glimpse into the future coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and His presence upon the Earth once again. His presence will be like a light in our dark world, as we have never see. The hearts of many peoples and nations will change and receive Him in glory as well.
Awesome insight into religion from God’s perspective. Isaiah helps us understand how much God wants us to grow in Him.
God’s sovereignty over human history, human hearts and human life, even death itself. Amazing insight into God’s plan and the Gospel message prophecy is foretold 700 years before Christ was born.
God’s sovereignty over salvation and death. Death is but a calamity in God’s eyes. Amazing study of God’s perspective on our eternal life.
The Gospel message from the perspective of the Word Of God. A remarkable insight into the transforming power of God’s Word
Isaiah’s description of Jesus Christ’s time on the cross, and God’s heart for us as a result of this gift.
Isaiah describes how badly Christ suffered for us all, as he gave his life for our sins on the cross. He was unrecognizable - beyond the resemblance of the human. What an insight into Christ’s experience for our salvation.
Isaiah describes the faithful servant, Jesus Christ, who will complete the redemption of Israel and the whole world.
God warns Babylon again that judgement is coming to them. God again promises Israel again that they will be saved.
ACTS 26, 27, 28- A amazing study of Paul's shipwreck and experience on his journey to Rome. It gives insight on what it's like to be transformed by the gospel, preach the gospel message and be totally dedicated to the gospel. Paul's faith was totally dependent on God, not feelings.
The prophecy of king Cyrus. God calls his people to know that he is in control, that he made them, and that he will save them.
As a loving parent God tells Israel not to follow idols or put their faith in man made religion. This only leads to man’s own demise. Instead trust the One true God of all.
God is in control. Don’t fear anything! God challenges beliefs in idols. God’s choice is Jesus Christ for us, that we may have the way, the truth and the life in him.
An amazing look at our Lord. He is the God of all comfort. He is greatness is beyond comparison, yet he came to deliver good new to all nations- the debt of sin has been paid. He give strength to all. A great chapter of hope, strength, comfort and encouragement.
King Hezekiah gets gravely ill. God heals him, then Hezekiah’s heart gets more self-centered.
God will judge the nations and redeem his faithful from all nations. He is an international God of all.
God speaks to us today, through Isaiah to recenter our hearts on him. Return our hearts to his teaching. Repent & trust in his quietness & strength.
God’s promise to bring righteousness and judgement, but also to ultimately save Jerusalem. The lesson of dependency on God, rather than ourselves...
Judgement on Ephram - the Northern King of Israel, and Jerusalem- but promises of a new kingdom
Judgement on the whole earth, and the Kingdom Of God will swallow up death forever. What an awesome promise!
Oracles regarding Babylon and Jerusalem. More evidence of the sovereignty and involvement of God. His will be done, no nation will be exempt.
God’s oracle judgement for Moab, Damascus and the land of Cush- we see God is sovereign over every nation. What an amazing and awesome prophecy, that all nations will fulfill his will.
Jesus won’t judge by what the eyes see or witnesses say. He won’t need that, the superficial. He will judge our hearts, in complete righteousness. How comforting to have a just judge! Fear the LORD, not all the worldly issues.
Mutale’s segment to yesterday’s podcast. God’s judgement on Assyria and the remnant of Israel.
The famous prophecy of the future birth of Jesus Christ - for unto us a child is born... and the government will be on his shoulders....
The LORD warns against consulting those already dead in sin for solutions for one’s life.
Is the world closing in around you? It was for King Ahaz. The LORD gives him - and us - direct advice. It’s all about faith.
Ahaz, a bad king succeeds his dad, King Uzziah, a good king. The enemy smells Israel’s vulnerability, and the nation’s very survival is threatened. Join us as we the dramatic event of Isaiah begin to unfold.
God reveals himself to Isaiah. The Lord in all his glory calls Isaiah to proclaim his judgement. Join us for an amazing look into Christ’s magnificence and the atonement of sin.
Judgement on Judah and Jerusalem. When men and women fail to uphold God’s commands, society fails.
Join us as we begin what many call the 5th epistle. The Old Testament pointing to Jesus Christ, just like the New Testament. God begins with the sad reality that his children had forsaken him...
Final greetings and advice. Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
Walk in Christ, as you received the Gospel. Encouragement from Paul. How precious is this walk, and important not to loose our joy!
Everything centers around the supremacy and sovereignty of Jesus Christ. His gift of grace is out of His love for us. His grace is still active for those who trust in him, everyday, wherever we are.
Paul’s letter to the Colossians church - full of faith, hope and love for a Christ-centered heart.
The conclusion of the world’s most beautiful love song. The loving bridegroom, Jesus Christ, is coming back for His bride soon!
A beautiful description of the Lord Jesus’ love for us. How wonderful to be in His presence.
The bridegroom knocks at the door for the bride. Christ is knocking at the door of the hearts for all who will believe.
My beloved is mine and I am his. A beautiful picture of the love relationship we have in Christ.
Our Live story continues with the bride longing for the return of the bridegroom, just as the church longs for the return of Christ.
The love Jesus Christ has for his bride - the church - when he returns home. Such an exciting day that will be!
The love of Christ as the lilies of the field. More beautiful portrayals of Christ’s love for us. ⭐️
The love of the bride and bridegroom for one another is so pure and humble. It is a perfect picture of Christ’s love for his church and for us.
A bride’s confession of the live she has for the bridegroom. Love is not just skin deep. Love is so much more.
Join us as we learn the story of the poor wise man that saves the city... what an impact one person’s wisdom can make.
Atheism, humanism, socialism, communism, and all the other “isms” are just man-made systems of morality. All these man-centric, godless systems are vanity.
Trying to live a moral, “good life”, is still all vanity. It still gets you nowhere without God’s presence in your life.
Putting your faith in yourself. Putting your faith in the empty words of religion. All are vanity.
A time for everything. The task oriented life. Ashes to ashes / dust to dust. Evil under the sun.
Regarding the natural world, there is nothing new. Everything has a pattern, a cycle, a lifespan. Without God there is no purpose in the natural world - just repetitive life cycles.
Join us as we begin our study of Ecclesiastes, another book of wisdom written by King Solomon that explores the hopeless state of man without God.
Paul’s closing remarks to his beloved Philippian church. Join us as we share our final thoughts from studying this amazing book! The true power for Christian living is so beautifully illustrated here...
Joyful always. Worry about nothing. Pray about everything. Be thankful. Be humble. Be safe. Christ centered heart. Mind of Christ. Look forwards, not backwards.
What are you really hoping for? Paul describes our one true hope is in Christ Jesus - the only way, the only truth, and the only life!
Paul describes in a very personal way, how we should live out our lives following Christ.
Philippians 3:13-14 ESV [13] Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, [14] I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Got confidence? Whatever we choose to place our confidence- our faith - in, Paul says it all amounts to nothing, when compared to Jesus Christ.
The mind of Christ - a Christ centered heart - is the way, the truth and life of a Christian who desires to please God.
How is the mind of Christ displayed in our own lives? We work out our salvation- it’s an active journey as we depend on Him. We shine as lights in a dark world as we hold on to the word of life. Our lives can be like a drink offering- alongside Christ’s sacrificial offering for us- as we share in His humility for one another.
Paul’s beautiful description of the mind of Jesus Christ - often referred to as the hymn of Christ - humility.
The mind of Christ is total humility. What a beautiful example for Christian living today.
Never take the blessings of prayer or help from the Spirit of Jesus Christ in you for granted. They are the blessings you have in your daily walk in life!
Got troubles? Paul’s letter to his beloved church in Philippi is like a letter from home, filled with encouragement for each of us. No matter what, our Father will take care of us.
BONUS STUDY- Ever feel overwhelmed? Ever feel super excited to get a letter from home when you’re somewhere far away? Join us as we revisit Philippians 1:1-9 and compare it to Ephesians and Galatians...
Ever feel that God is letting you down? That life is too unfair, or the battles are too great? Paul encourages his beloved church that the Holy Spirit of God, the Lord Jesus is dwelling in us, and will never let us down - till He returns to dwell with us forever. What a beautiful promise.
Paul’s letter to his beloved church. We have blessings and encouragement in Christ for all who believe. Join us as we study this beautiful letter from our Father in Heaven to each one of us.
Intro remarks about Philippians as we prepare to begin a new study... Amazing and humbled to think about Paul’s missionary journeys. Also, reflections on our everyday mission fields...
Examples of wisdom from the animal kingdom. Also a beautiful picture of wisdom lived out in the example of the excellent wife - a woman who fears the LORD. Join us as we complete this wonderful book of God’s wisdom for us!
Are you as good as you think you are? The answer from Proverbs is no! There is so much we can’t explain, and so much deception. Join us as we seek God’s wisdom in a world of falsehoods.
What impact do the righteous have in society? Tremendous, as we see in this insightful study! Whether the world realizes it or not, society is impacted in so many ways by the virtue and integrity that comes from a Godly lifestyle.
What does God say about friendship? Join us as we learn about true friendship, along with warnings regarding the perils of insincerity.
Dealing with fools, lazy sluggards, or the wicked can be challenging. For many, it’s an everyday norm. God gives us wisdom to handle these often uncomfortable situations. Join us as we look at Christ-centered hearts with Christ-centered consciousness versus self-centered hearts with self-centered consciousness.
A word fitly spoken, like cold water to a thirsty soul, the word of God gives us the way, the truth, and the life. Join us as we learn God’s great lessons for us today...
Walking wisely in the word of God. The Field of the sluggard. Join us as we learn about God’s eternal wisdom
More practical examples and illustrations of keeping a Christ centered heart for everyday living. Join us as we study these powerful principles.
Does your Christ centered heart look for and see spiritual opportunities? Spiritual opportunities are everywhere, all around us. Join us as we look at examples of everyday life, and see how God’s wisdom applies.
The importance of truth. Join us as we discover the eternal truths of God in the Proverbs.
How important are your words and friendships? God say you matter so much, and your words matter so much too! Join us as we learn more if God’s wisdom as we travel through the Proverbs!
How important are your actions? Very important according to God’s wisdom. Your life matters, and your actions matter so much as well. Join us as we see God’s nature and wisdom for us, to grow us - to refine us in His holiness.
Join us as we walk along the path of God’s wisdom. His wisdom for our lives has stood since the world began, and likewise, will stand for all eternity.
How much do words matter? Words are extremely important. Today, we look at God’s wisdom and insight into the powerful impact our words have.
Join us as we study the wisdom of God. This Proverbs, God gives us everyday wisdom for everyday life. Through these lessons we also see the nature and character of God ever more closely.
The school of wisdom continues to instruct us. Join us as we continue to walk through the book of Proverbs. It’s like working everyday to earn our Godly PhD!
Join us as we study the wisdom of Christ, through the proverbs of King Solomon. Let His wisdom be a fountain of life to all those around you today!
What does it feel like to be a student at God’s university? How much effort do you give the pursuit of God’s wisdom?
How bad do you want to know God’s Word? How much do you seek his character and nature? His wisdom is the beginning of it all. Seek His wisdom starting with His love for you. He promises you will find Him if you do!
Does God hate? Yes, He hates the sin that causes us death. We can see more about God’s nature as we learn what He really hates.
How bad do you want to walk in God’s wisdom? It takes your whole heart. United in the body of Christ.
Are we searching for wisdom with all our hearts? A father’s instruction, whatever you do: “Get wisdom; get insight.”
Put on the armor of God- the Beth of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shoes of the gospel.
Through Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, God gives us examples in how to live a good Christian life.
Grace saves us. Grace transforms us. Grace propels us: gifts to use, time to grow, ability to grasp.
Paul continues to teach the church about Grace. Grace saves us, not by any works we do ourselves, but it is the gift of God. Next graced transforms us into the new body of Christ, which is his church. And also Grace propels us through life, with spiritual gifts given to us by Jesus, so that we may encourage one another in unity in the church.
Unity in the body of Christ. As believers we are all connected together in the church, which is the body of Christ. It is been called God’s greatest masterpiece of creation. Here Paul puts this spiritual nature into practice, as he illustrates what life in Christ looks like.
Paul prays for the Ephesian church, that they may know the marvelous gift that God has given them, his Holy Spirit to dwell in each one of those who believe. We too have this blessing, if we believe. This incredible blessing is based on the immeasurable love God has for us.
The amazing mystery of the gospel which allows you to be born again into Christ’s body - the church
In the Spirit. In the heavenly places. In Christ. Holy and blameless, in love. Every spiritual blessing. God gives everything to us, in abundance, up front, at the beginning. We are so immeasurably blessed!
- God will protect us. 145. Praise the attributes of God the Father. 146. Praise the attributes of Jesus our Lord. 147. Praise the attributes of God over everything. 148. Creation will praise Him. 149. We will praise Him - sing a new song. 150. We will praise Him - description of active praise! Hallelujah!
- Deliver Me From My Sins. 141. Let My Prayers Be Like Incense. 142. Tell God Everything - Your Struggles and Your Sin. 143. I Am So Guilty - Let Me Hear You In the Morning!
- The Ark Coming Home! 133. Fellowship Is Like Worship. 134. The Pilgrims Arrive! 135. You Are What You Worship. 136. His Steadfast Love Endures Forever.
Psalms of coming home. Emotions of those making a powerful journey. From physical and spiritual slavery to freedom in the LORD. We walk with them, and gain insight into how precious the presence of God is in our lives.
- The Wicked Man, Judas. 110. A Priest Forever, Jesus. 111. The Beginning of Wisdom. 112. Blessed Is the Man Who Fears the Lord. 113. High Above All Nations.
- Don’t Forget His Benifits. 104. Everything Around You is a Miracle. 105. People Forgot Part 1. 106. People Forgot Part 2.
9 Psalms of praise. He is risen! He is righteous! He is unfailing in his love. He is faithful. He is worthy of all our praise!
- The Kingdom of Life. 86. Great is Your Steadfast Love. 87. A Picture of the Kingdom of Life. 88. The Kingdom of Death.
- God is My Strength and My Portion Forever. 74. Arise, O God, Defend Your Cause. 75. God Will Judge With Equity.
- Christ’s Suffering. 70. Help! 71. Grow Stronger With Age. 72. Looking Forward To Justice!
6 very personal psalms of David. These are very encouraging because they highlight the very personal relationship we have with God, because of His deep love for us. Let the whole world rejoice! Lead Me to the Rock! My Promise. My Walk. My Thirst. My Praise. Our Praise.
How do you feel in times of trouble? Afraid? Alone? Defeated? These are all real emotions David felt and faced. These Psalms encourage us in knowing our Father in Heaven lives us so much, and will never fail to protect us. He even knows every tear you may cry!
- My Evaluation - From Others. 40. My Evaluation- From God. 41. God’s Goals (Action Plan) For Me.
- Wicked Man, Steadfast God. 37. When Godless People Prosper. 38. Do Not Forsake Me, O LORD.
Got Thanksgiving? Got Joyful Praise? These two Psalms encourage us with more insight into the nature of God.
Got trouble(s)? This is a great Psalm of encouragement for you. David looks at his troubles past, present and future. We see God’s nature through his steadfast love for us in all times of trouble.
The heart of the sheep and the walk of the sheep. A unique look into David’s heart as he responds to the love of the Good Shepherd.
It’s been called one of, if not the greatest Psalms of all. Join us as we dive into the heart of Jesus as he was crucified for us. Not only does it share the Lord’s heart, it is a prophecy of the events that took place at the crucifixion. Powerful study.
A song of David that’s all about Jesus Christ. From before the beginning of time, becoming the manifestation of God, the Word of God, a savior in the flesh, praying for his salvation from his own death on the cross, God meeting him after his resurrection, as well as his anticipated triumphant return/ David provides an amazing look at our Lord and Savior.
Two great Psalms that looks at the very nature of God - His creation, commandments & likeness in Christ. Also a Royal Psalm. Great encouragement and insight into the nature and promises of God.
Looking ahead to the kingdom of Christ, David offers some of the strong encouragement of the promises we have as believers.
After looking at what to do in times of trouble, David’s psalm looks forward to a savior. Pointing towards the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ, this Psalm was quoted by both Peter and Paul. It continues to give encouragement for us today.
Continuing a deep look into David’s heart in times of trouble. Looking all around us and looking down at us from Heaven- whatever the vantage point, trouble is everywhere. In troubles, David consistently looks upward to God. Beautiful lessons for us today.
Got trouble? What do you do? Where do you turn? David had trouble big time. These two Psalms look trouble head on. Inspiring, uplifting, and reassuring, we see these Psalms are meant to protect us from life’s battles... every step of the way..
David looks all around at worldly problems and injustice. He looks forward to the only solution - the righteous King, who will bring justice once a for all.
A beautiful song of David. Points to the love of God, despite our insignificance, the gift of Jesus that results in our salvation. OT reference to the coming Gospel.
Three great songs of David: God is our comfort in times of trouble, God’s mercy for those who need Him, and God is our savior and honest judge.
We see foreshadowing of New Testament promises as David cries out for forgiveness from his sins, chapter 3. We see David’s restoration and peace in God’s abundance in chapter 4. A wonderful glimpse into God’s nature and love for us, for those that will trust in Him.
A beautiful beginning to studying the Psalms- a description of the Lord Jesus. His practices, purpose and permanence.
Join us as we begin to study the Psalms. Described as on if the greatest books of the Bible, we will seek a deeper knowledge of God’s nature.
Paul’s final thoughts to the Galatians. He reminds them of the Gospel message and to live by the Spirit. Stay true to the Gospel. To lean on your own self is to deny the gift of Christ on the cross. Accepting Christ results in you being a new creation.
Paul’s description of Christian life. Bearing one another’s burdens, bearing the fruit of the Spirit, walking by the Spirit fulfill Christ’s purpose for us. A beautiful picture of a Christ centered life.
A beautiful description of living the Christian life. It’s so practical and encouraging. Paul’s message to this young church is still powerful and life changing for us today!
Keeping in step with the Spirit. An awesome encouragement from Paul to the Galatians on how you live out the Christian life!
Paul’s advice to the young Christians in Galatia on how to live in freedom by the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Awesome advice for us today!
Once you accept the gospel, how then should you live? Paul begins to answer these questions, as our study of Galatians takes on a practical focus. A great reminder for us today, as we apply the gospel to our lives.
A study of Ephesians 1:18-20. God’s mighty power reigns over your life - in every way. His Gospel promises total forgiveness in Jesus Christ, that His Holy Spirit will live in us, and the SAME power that raised Christ from the dead with dwells in you. Need encouragement? This is it!
Paul emphasizes to the Galatians that we can’t conceive how far removed from God we are. Our nature is to trust ourselves. The world is against God, and always results in death. God is holy, and promised life. Who wants to be under the law?
Being saved by grace greater than anything else you can now do with your life! It outshines everything so much that going back to focusing on your wisdom is like a complete waste of time! That’s how far removed from God you are. That’s how great God is!
In a powerful letter to the Galatians, Paul continues to describe the gospel. Through Jesus Christ we not only have life, we have an inheritance as children of God. Through the Holy Spirit we have the same power in us that God raised Christ from the dead with. Powerful encouragement.
Paul continues to emphasize that we are saved through faith in Jesus Christ not by works. We don’t have to worry about being perfect under the law. Jesus Christ has overcome the law, and allowed us to be children of God. What an amazing gift.
We continue with Paul’s letter to the young Galatian church. He continues to unpack the powerful message of God’s grace - the gospel of Jesus Christ that triumphs over the Mosaic law and all works if man.
Paul’s powerful reminder of God‘s grace, God‘s gospel message to us that faith in Jesus Christ is all we need. This promise was made to Abraham in the old testament. Believing in the Lord Jesus frees us from the Old Testament law. It’s faith in Christ and nothing else.
Paul asks the Galatians to examine their hearts, questions we should ask ourselves even today. Are we relying on ourselves, our own works, or are we walking in faith - relying on Jesus Christ?
The gospel is all about God’s grace to us. The gift of Jesus Christ who died for us. How do we then live? The Galatians had the same question. Paul reminds us that we live by faith. Faith alone in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Nothing more. Nothing man can come up with can allow us to approach God. God’s grace allows us to live by faith.
We are justified by faith, not by works or deeds. Powerful advice from Paul to the Galatians. It’s all about depending on Jesus Christ, and not ourselves.
Paul meets the apostles. They see for themselves, they are preaching the same gospel message. Amazing drama as Christians of Jewish background accept Christians of non-Jews background as equal members of one faith. Paul’s letter to the Galatians reminds us that the Gospel message of Jesus Christ is all we need. It is a gift of freedom for everyone, everywhere, for all time,
A look at grace throughout the Bible. We read a lot of scripture, and let God’s word do the talking. Wow! Grace is our gift, directly from God to each of us. It’s personal, and it’s powerful. With grace, the world can never be the same.
A few thoughts on Galatians 1:3-5. What a powerful 3 verses! The whole Gospel is right here. Glory to God!
Paul’s opening letter to the Galatians states his authority from God. He summarizes the gospel in just a few sentences, and emphasizes how important it is to our salvation. If anyone changes the gospel in anyway they distort the message and the gift from God. What a powerful message for us all.
The Galatian church was in crisis. A lot of false teachers were present. Much like us today, the Galatians had a lot of uncertainties in their understanding of their salvation. Paul strongly addressed this by emphasizing the righteous shall live by faith.
The Shepherd knows the sheep, loves the sheep, and guides the sheep. We see the powerful message of love from verses: John 10:22-30; Romans 8:28-39; John 13:31-38; 15:9-17; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 Corinthians 13:8; 13:4-7; 13:13.
We examine the life of young King Josiah, and how he led Israel out of sin after they had lost the sacred scrolls God had given them through Moses. The Bible is God's word to us today. It is a gift to us from God, and should never be taken for granted. Be encouraged to keep your Bible - God's word - the active focus of your daily life!
A Christmas Special! We go through the incredible story of Jesus’ birth and look at the dramatic circumstances of the individuals that experienced God revealing himself on the earth from heaven. We also dig deeper as we try to learn about the nature of God as he enters the world in total humility, as a child. God chooses humble hearts to reveal himself to. Those who seek God with everything they have, and try to continually live in his presence through worship and prayer, will have hearts prepared to truly know God.
2 Thess 2:16-17 (don't let anything shake your faith- trust only the scriptures - only the scriptures) (just as all sin will be revealed - the lawless one will also be revealed) (the restrainer - God has authority over all evil, even today) (the strong delusion) (Jesus himself and God our Father - touch you directly) (chose you as the firstfruits - to be saved, to be sanctified, by the Spirit, by faith.. in Jesus - the truth) (comfort, hope, grace, comfort - so that you are affected - good works, speech) 2 Thess 3:16-17 (Pray) (Word of the Lord may spread and be honored) (everything centers around the word of God - the scriptures, the scriptures, the scriptures) (Don't be idle in your faith - don't waste your life) (Lord of peace, give you peace, Lord be with you) (peace is not the absence of persecution, but the presence of God)