“But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also. Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again. And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? For sinners also love those that love them. And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? For sinners also do even the same. And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? For sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for He is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.” ~Jesus (Luke 6:27-36)
Luke
Blessing on the Poor, the Hungry, the Sorrowful, and the Persecuted for Jesus’s Name Sake
“Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh. Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of Man’s sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. But woe unto you that are rich! For ye have received your consolation. Woe unto you that are full! For ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! For ye shall mourn and weep. Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! For so did their fathers to the false prophets.” ~Jesus (Luke 6:20-26)
Jesus Does Good on the Sabbath Day
“And the scribes and Pharisees watched Him, whether He would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against Him. But He knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, ‘Rise up, and stand forth in the midst.’ And he arose and stood forth. Then said Jesus unto them, ‘I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? To save life, or to destroy it? And looking round about upon them all, He said unto the man, ‘Stretch forth thy hand.’ And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other. And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus.” ~Jesus doing good anyway (Luke 6:6-11)
Jesus and Labor on the Sabbath
“And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that He went through the corn fields; and His disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, ‘Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days?’ And Jesus answering them said, ‘Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him; how he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?’ And He said unto them, that ‘The Son of Man is Lord also of the sabbath.’” ~Jesus addressing the Pharisees concerning the sabbath (Luke 6:1-5)
Sinners – Not the Righteous are Called to Repentance
“And after these things He went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and He said unto him, “Follow Me.” And he left all, rose up, and followed Him. And Levi made Him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them. But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against His disciples, saying, ‘Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?’ And Jesus answering said unto them, “They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” And they said unto Him, ‘Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink?’ And He said unto them, “Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.” And He spake also a parable unto them; “No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, ‘The old is better.'” ~Jesus dealing with the scribes and Pharisees (Luke 5:27-39)
Elijah, Elisha and Jesus
“Ye will surely say unto Me this proverb, ‘Physician, heal thyself. Whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in Thy country.'” And He said, “Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; but unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.” ~Jesus (Luke 4:23-27)
Jesus is the Fulfillment of Scripture
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” …‘This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.'” ~Jesus (Luke 4:18-21)
Jesus Encounters the Devil
“And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days He did eat nothing: and when they were ended, He afterward hungered. And the devil said unto Him, ‘If Thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread.’ And Jesus answered him, saying, ‘It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’ And the devil, taking Him up into an high mountain, shewed unto Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said unto Him, ‘All this power will I give Thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it. If Thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be Thine.’ And Jesus answered and said unto him, ‘Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve.’ And he brought Him to Jerusalem, and set Him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto Him, ‘If Thou be the Son of God, cast Thyself down from hence: for it is written, ‘He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee:and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.’ And Jesus answering said unto him, ‘It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.’ And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from Him for a season.” ~Jesus as He dealt with Satan (Luke 4:1-13)
Gethsemane
It has been some time since I posted anything. I received this today by email from Bible Gateway, and thought I would share it with you. It is from a sermon preached by Charles H. Spurgeon February 08, 1863.
Gethsemane
‘And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.’ Luke 22:44
Suggested Further Reading: Mark 14:32–42
Behold the Saviour’s unutterable woe. The emotions of that dolorous night are expressed by several words in Scripture. John describes him as saying four days before his passion, ‘Now is my soul troubled;’ as he marked the gathering clouds he hardly knew where to turn himself, and cried out ‘What shall I say?’ Matthew writes of him, ‘he began to be sorrowful and very heavy.’ Upon the word ademonein translated ‘very heavy,’ Goodwin remarks that there was a distraction in the Saviour’s agony since the root of the word signifies ‘separated from the people—men in distraction, being separated from mankind.’ What a thought, my brethren, that our blessed Lord should be driven to the very verge of distraction by the intensity of his anguish. Matthew represents the Saviour himself as saying ‘My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death.’ Here the word perilupos means encompassed, encircled, overwhelmed with grief. ‘He was plunged head and ears in sorrow and had no breathing-hole,’ is the strong expression of Goodwin. Mark records that he began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy. In this case thambeisthai, with the prefix ek, shows extremity of amazement, like that of Moses when he did exceedingly fear and quake. Luke uses the strong language of my text—‘being in an agony.’ These expressions are quite sufficient to show that the grief of the Saviour was of the most extraordinary character, well justifying the prophetic exclamation ‘Behold and see if there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow which is done unto me.’
For meditation: The instruments we associate with the shedding of Christ’s blood were wielded by men—the scourge, crown of thorns, nails and spear (John 19:1–2,18,34). The fact that he sweat ‘great drops of blood’ in Gethsemane before any man could lay a finger on him gives us an important glimpse behind the scenes—his life was not taken from him by men; it was given by him for men (John 10:17–18).
Sermon no. 493
8 February (1863)
Day 72 – The Son of Man and The Scriptures
In reading the gospels, especially Matthew, one cannot help but notice the importance the writers place on showing that the Scriptures are fulfilled. One cannot help but notice, also how much Jesus Himself refers to the Scriptures, the prophets, and in Luke 24 Jesus even mentions the Psalms. I am going to post a few of those verses concerning the Scriptures today, pray you will look them up and read the context of their writings.
This first excerpt of Scripture is from the story of the rich man and Lazarus,
“Abraham saith unto him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.’ And he said unto him, ‘If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.'” Luke 16:29-31 (KJV)
The next quite obviously is of Jesus’s coming crucifixion,
“Then He took unto Him the twelve, and said unto them, ‘Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of Man shall be accomplished. For He shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on: and they shall scourge Him, and put Him to death: and the third day He shall rise again.” Luke 18:31-33
The next excerpt is as Jesus appears to the two on the road to Emmaus and explains the Scripture to them;
“Then He said unto them, ‘O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?’ And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:25-27
The final one in Luke is when Jesus has appeared to all the disciples together in one place, and it is here that He mentions the Psalms;
“And He said unto them, ‘These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning Me. Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them, ‘Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” Luke 24:44-49
We need to ask ourselves, “Do I put enough relevance upon Scripture?” After all the Scriptures are they which testify of Jesus.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Day 71 – Son of Man
As we looked at the gospel of Matthew we saw Jesus as the King. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords at which every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord… In the gospel of Mark Jesus is a servant to men. In the gospel of Luke He is the Son of man.
Matthew had a genealogy of kings. Mark has no genealogy. Luke has a genealogy of man showing Jesus is human, yet the God/Man. Someone put it this way, “The Son of God became the Son of man; that the sons of men, might become the sons of God”.
My reading today was Mark 15 – 16 and Luke 1 – 12.
In the genealogy of Jesus we find in the beginning of it these words,
“And Jesus Himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli…” Luke 3:23 (KJV)
That same genealogy ends with,
“Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.” 3:38
Matthew’s genealogy begins with Abraham, and goes through Joseph and Mary, through David. Luke’s account begins with Jesus and goes backwards all the way to Adam.
My reading this morning took me a little longer than it has, due to the length of the chapters in Luke. Great reading.
Let me leave you with these words from Jesus, the Son of Man,
“Also I say unto you, ‘Whosoever shall confess Me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: but he that denieth Me before men shall be denied before the angels of God. And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of Man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven.” Luke 12:8-10
-Tim A. Blankenship
Observations From Luke – 032111
When I was a boy I spent many days and hours digging for treasure. I had all kinds of holes dug in the ground around our house, in the pastures, the cedar glades, or wherever there was a place I thought that there could be treasure. I did this probably when I was 8 – 10 years of age.
All the time I had a treasure I didn’t see, and that was my family, my parents and siblings, aunts and uncles, cousins. Later on I received a treasure that I have to this day, and will have it through all eternity, and that treasure is the treasure of Jesus Christ in my heart, my life, my inner most being; eternal life with God and Him who died for me. That is the greatest treasure.
Jesus said in Luke 12:34;
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
Now there is not a thing wrong with desiring treasure. You will notice though that the verse does not say “Where your heart is, there will your treasure be also”, and that is what many of us probably think. That is not what Jesus says though.
We already have a treasure. Defining our treasure is a key to being at peace; recognizing our treasure.
I knew a couple several years ago who built a new house; they gave a great testimony of loving Jesus Christ, being great givers, and being church people. For a while after building their house they became somewhat frightened or nervous about leaving their home at night. They were worried that someone might break into their house, and either steal some of their new things or vandalize the house. In their hearts, at least for awhile their treasure was in that new house; and they were not at all at peace.
Where is your treasure? If it is truly in Christ Jesus, then you will be at peace, and fear nothing.
“Where your treasure is there will your heart be also.”
-Tim A. Blankenship
Observations From Luke – 032011
There are a lot of comments of Jesus’s coming as a babe in a manger, living as a man without sin, and that He came to be an example to us of how we should live. Some say he came to perform many and mighty miracles. He did do those things, but they were not why He came.
Looking at what Luke writes in chapter nine,
“And it came to pass, when the time was come that He should be received up, He stedfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, and sent messengers before His face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for Him. And they did not receive Him, because His face was as though He would go to Jerusalem.” Luke 9:51-53 (KJV)
We can know why Jesus came by what He says in the gospel of John, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son…” He came because He loved us and was willing to go to Jerusalem, and die on a cruel, rugged, Roman cross for the sins of mankind, as the Lamb of God.
As we look at the above Scripture we see stated that, “When the time was come that He should be received up…” He had a determination to go to Jerusalem. From very early in His ministry He knew He must be about what He came to do, and that was His Father’s business (Luke 2:49). Jerusalem and the cross was the Father’s business.
Would to God we would obey the Father’s will, and did His business as Jesus our Lord has done. He now sits honored and glorified at the Father’s right hand.
Follow Jesus, believe Him and be delivered from sin, its condemnation and death; and live eternally in the presence of God.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Observations From Luke – 031911
The Observations today will be short but needful; maybe I should say, a needful reminder.
Prayer and communion with God is needful for today’s Christian. Some may believe that prayer and communion with God is the same, but let me show you what I believe to be a difference. I believe you can pray without communion with God; but maybe then, that would not be prayer. However, I don’t believe you can have communion with God without prayer. Communion is having an intimate relationship with the Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
There is a world of prayer going on that is not directed to the God who created all things; the Father of Jesus Christ; therefore are not in communion with God.
Meanwhile, back to the topic of prayer. Jesus prayed. He spent nights in prayer,
“And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.” Luke 6:12 (KJV)
Jesus had just healed a man whose hand was withered, and on the sabbath day. There were scribes and Pharisees who were angry, even mad (v. 11), because of this “heinous” act of healing. In the days following Jesus went to pray. That doesn’t mean that He never prayed before this, but that He went away for a time to pray.
I want to confess to you that I do not pray as oft, in this way, that I should. My praying is mostly when I am listening to God speak as I read His Word, and as I go about through each day. There are times we need to spend great amounts of time in prayer with God.
Just as Jesus went to a mountain to pray. To a specific place – a mountain – so too do you and I need to have a time and place to pray unto God who created all things. I want to be specific about that. God, YHWH [YaHWeH], or Jehovah is the God of creation, of heaven, of Jesus Christ. He has a Son, and His name is Jesus. Praying to anyone else is fruitless speaking to oneself.
Spend time with GOD in prayer. With our world seeing the chaos, catastrophic events, mass death and destruction happening we need to pray as we have never prayed before. We need to pray that many of the people who are survivors of these cataclysmic events will trust in the LORD with all their hearts, believe in Jesus Christ and receive eternal life in Him. We need to pray for encouragement of those who are aiding these people; and the searchers who are looking for those still trapped beneath all the rubble. Than cannot be an easy, or non troubling task. Most of all we need to pray for the coming of Christ to put an end to the reign of Satan on earth.
Join me in prayer.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Observations From Luke – 031811
The gospel of Matthew deals with Jesus as King; the gospel of Mark shows Him as servant; in the gospel of Luke we see Him as a man, but more than a man, the God-Man; Son of God and Son of Man.
Someone once said, “The Son of God became the Son of Man, that the sons of men might become the sons of God.” O, the grace, mercy, love and power of God; how marvelous He truly is.
Looking at the genealogies of Matthew and then, of Luke we see a difference in the way they are reported. Matthew begins with Jesus Christ Himself and ends with Joseph. Luke begins the Joseph and goes backward to God Himself. Joseph is declared by Luke to be “son of Heli” who is believed to be Joseph’s father in law, thus being Mary’s genealogy.
There are some, who would tell us that the reports of the two gospel accounts, being so different means they are opposed to one another, thus contradict. There is another alternative to that. God never contradicts, this is God’s Word. It is correct, God is correct. Matthew gives us the genealogy of Joseph, and Luke gives us the genealogy of Mary.
Who is John the Baptist?
“And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: whose fan is in His hand, and He will throughly purge His floor, and will gather the wheat into His garner; but the chaff He will burn with fire unquenchable. And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.” Luke 3:15-18 (KJV)
He was the promised son of elderly parents, Zacharias, and Elisabeth. They had been unable to have children for all the years they had been married, and then, one day while Zacharias is ministering within the temple an angel comes to him and tells him that he and Elisabeth will have a son. They are to name him John. He is to be the messenger of the Messiah, preparing the way before Him.
The Baptist gives glory to the Christ of God, and takes none for himself. He is a man who lived in the wilderness, dressed in camel’s hair, and ate honey and locusts (Matthew 3:4). He preached the message of repentance, calling the people to be rid of sin in their hearts and lives, the Christ is coming.
Many were seeing the Baptist as though he might be that Christ. He, however, tells them that he is not worthy to loose the latchet of His shoes. That One is “mightier than I”. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. John the Baptist points the people to the Messiah/Christ of Israel; who is the Savior of the world.
That One, the Messiah has come to die for the sins of the world. He is set to come again, to rid the world of sin. He will come.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Lift Up Your Head…
Jesus said, …for your redemption draweth nigh (Luke 21:28).
I don’t think I have kept it much of a secret, nor have I intended to. The thing I have not kept secret is that – Jesus Christ is coming again, and it is soon.
Joel Rosenberg, author of “The Last Jihad” and “The Ezekiel Option” as well as other novels has a blog where he keeps his readers informed of world events; especially those concerning Israel. In one of his latest post he writes of articles from the New York Times and Wall Street Journal.
The article from the New York Times tells of the work being done on ruins of ancient Babylon and info concerning the rebuilding of Babylon. The Article from the Wall Street Journal is concerning a massive gas well that has been discovered off the coast of Israel in the Mediterranean Sea”.
You may read Joel Rosenberg’s blog by clicking this link.
Hope this finds you ready for our Lord’s return; or that you get ready “today is the day of salvation”
-Tim A. Blankenship
Just A Thought 04/16/09
Jesus, And The NRA
There is quite a bit of talk about firearms and whether we should regulate them, or even ban them. I got to thinking about how would Jesus respond to the idea of firearms, and it came to mind that the weapon of Jesus’s day was the sword.
At one point in the ministry of Jesus He gave commandment for His disciples to get a sword;
” Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.” Luke 22:36 (KJV)
We have Christian and non-Christian alike arguing against having handguns, or arguing for having them. In the United States of America it is the right of every American; except for former prison inmates; to keep and bear arms. The Second amendment of the USA states:
Second Amendment –
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
People die in the USA every day probably by some kind of gun shot accident, intentional murder, or manslaughter; and many who see these things think the answer is taking away our right to “keep and bear arms”.
I was reading another blog the other day, by a brother in Christ who was proposing further gun restrictions due to murders, street battles and such. He quoted the old adage, “Guns don’t kill people; people kill people”. Only he added his addendum on it by saying “Guns kill people”, or something like that.
Murders and hatred come from the heart. Jesus told us that. If you take away guns there will still be murders. There were people murdered in Jesus’s day by the sword, by stones and stoning. Maybe we should ban kitchen knives, and stones.
The answer is changing the hearts of men. Jesus said,
“But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.” Matthew 15:18-20 (KJV)
I still don’t know that Jesus would be an advocate of the NRA [National Rifle Association] the guard and protector of the Second Amendment of the USA; but I do know that He would advocate us presenting the Gospel of His death, burial and resurrection; because there is the power to change hearts and lives.
Jesus also said,
“Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.” Matthew 26:52 (KJV)
-Tim A. Blankenship
G. Campbell Morgan – Golgotha
The following are excerpts from his sermon “The Darkness of Golgotha” which I used in a message a few years ago, in a message I titled “The Darkness of the Cross”; dealing with those three hours Jesus and the world spent in darkness during the crucifixion. Matthew 27:45-46; Mark 15:33-34; Luke 23:44-46
“From the very beginning of the shining of that Light, focused in history by the Incarnation, the one supreme purpose of the enemy was to….put it out. And in these three hours of darkness we are brought face to face with the time when all the force of evil was brought to bear on the soul of the Son of God, and all the unutterable intent and purpose of evil wrapped Him about in darkness that is beyond our comprehension.” .
“…He died, not of a broken heart, not of human brutality, not of murder by human hands; but by His own volition He yielded up the Ghost, and His spirit, commended to God passed to God. The death that saves was not that physical dissolution, but the infinite spiritual mystery of the three hours and the darkness, which being passed, He Himself did say, ‘It is finished’”.
“That does not answer the inquiry as to what happened. I have no answer for that. Only this I know, that in that hour of darkness He passed into the place of the ultimate wrestling of evil in actual experience. There is light as I hear the final word, ‘Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit’ (Luke 23:46), for the word is a word which declares that whatever the transaction was, it was accomplished; that whatever the dying indicated, it was done.”
“Someone may say to me, ‘Cannot God forgive out of pure love?’ I shall answer, ‘If He can, I cannot.’ If He could forgive me for the wrongs of which I am conscious, and that have left behind them their stain and pollution – If He could forgive my sins by simply saying, ‘Never mind them’, then I cannot so forgive myself. My conscience cries for a cleansing that is more than a sentiment of pity. Somehow, somewhere, in order that I may have forgiveness, there must be tragedy, something mightier than devilish sin.”
“I do not know what happened in the darkness, but this I know, that as I have come to the cross and received the suggestions of the material unveiling, I have found my heart, my spirit, my life brought into a realm of healing spices, to the consciousness of the forgiveness of sins. And there is no other gospel of forgiveness.”
These excerpts are taken from a sermon preached by G. Campbell Morgan, titled THE DARKNESS OF GOLGOTHA.
Have a great Resurrection Sunday. Remember as Christians we really celebrate His Resurrection every week of the year.
T.A.
The Rest Of His Ministry
Luke 21:34-36; 4:18-19
Purpose – To proclaim the purpose of the second coming of Jesus, why Jesus stopped with, “to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord…”.
In this message I want us to remember the words of Jesus when He appeared in the synagogue, read from Isaiah 61:1 & 2, but stopped short from finishing the text. Where there were probably many Jewish people expecting a king to come, deliver them from Rome, and set them free; they were not expecting a healer, Lord and Savior.
The proclamation of Isaiah states;
“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.” Isaiah 61:1-3 (KJV)
You can see by these verses that Jesus never read the whole statement. Was there an error in His reading by stopping short? He stopped at the phrase, “To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord” and never continued with, and the day of vengeance of our God…” and the following words of promise. So what do we do with this seeming conflict? Realize there is no conflict, but rather a prophetic word of urgency.
It is as though Jesus was saying, “I am here now to do these things. When I come again the other, that not yet done, will be done.”
THE MINISTRY OF JESUS AT HIS FIRST COMING (Luke 4:18-19). We are told by Scripture that Jesus came to do the will of God. He said, “Know you not that I must be about My Father’s business” and He also said, “I am come to seek and to save the lost.” His purpose was not to heal the sick, raise the dead; that was His ministry, but not His purpose for becoming man.
He did not come to be served, but to serve, He said, “and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). We are told that near the end of His ministry on earth He had His “face was as though He would go to Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51). As you read the gospels Jesus spent His life doing what would please the Father, and accomplish His will, and glory.
In Jesus’s work and ministry He declared this is the time for salvation, “…The acceptable year of the LORD”. The apostle Paul wrote, “…now is the day of salvation”(2 Corinthians 6:2).
JESUS WARNS OF A TIME OF SPIRITUAL LAXNESS, DARKNESS, AND WORRIES OF LIFE (v. 34; 1 Timothy 4:1-4). Can we as people get caught up in our everyday business, life, life pursuits, ballgames, vacations, etc., and not give a care about our spiritual well being?
YES! We can. It is often so easy to get engulfed, overwhelmed and busied by life that spending time with God, living for Him by Biblical living, and sharing the gospel is never on our mind. There may be more to Jesus’s words than just those things though. The word “surfeiting” expresses along with the word “overcharged” over doing the food and drink; making gluttons and drunkards of one’s self. The party atmosphere is not the best atmosphere. It may be fun, and it may be exciting, but what happens after it is over? If there is overeating, gluttonous eating, then there may be sickness, pain, misery. If the over indulgence is with drink, and it is alcoholic then there won’t be a whole lot of difference.
Jesus is warning of spiritual darkness that can creep in silently, and take hold of your life, when you least expect it. I wonder if the apostle Paul did not have Jesus’s words here in mind when he wrote,
“But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4-5 (KJV)
Jesus would not want His followers to be in darkness. He gives us a warning to stay alert at all times, no matter how good or bad the economy, or our health may be. Jesus also warned of the times being similar to the time of Noah (Matthew 24:37-39). People simply going about their daily lives, with thier problems, business, and life in particular, as though everything would go on as it is.
THE WHOLE EARTH ENSNARED; NO ONE LEFT UNTOUCHED BY THIS EVIL (v. 35; Revelation 3:10; 11:10; 13:8 ). This verse reminds me of these three verses in the Revelation of our Lord which say, “(Them, They, or All)that dwell upon the earth”, and Jesus is giving all plenty of warning of a time coming on earth where the “whole earth” will be ensnared in unrighteous, debauchery, loose living, drunkenness, and gluttonous acts.
“Because thou hast kept the word of My patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.” Revelation 3:10 (KJV)
“And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.” Revelation 11:10 (KJV)
“And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” Revelation 13:8 (KJV)
Let it be understood that we are all visitors on this earth; meaning by that that we are all only here for a short time. Some of us have realized that there is another and better place “far away” for which we can go when we are prepared. We make our home here, see it as only temporary, and live our lives for the One who has sent His Son to redeem us from all our sin.
It seems very real to me, that Jesus is telling all who heard Him speak the words, and all who would read these words in years to come, that only those whose hearts are dwelling on earth, making this a permanent home, are the one’s who will be ensnared. Trapped by the lies of a deceptive leader who would lead all who follow him to destruction, and eternity in the fire.
BEFORE IT COMES BE SURE YOU ARE COUNTED WORTHY TO ESCAPE THESE THINGS AND STAND BEFORE THE SON OF MAN (v. 36). Jesus’s words “Watch… and pray always”, and then, “…that ye may be accounted worthy of to escape all these things…” implies what I have said above. There is a way of escaping the traps of what is coming on this world, and that is that we “May be accounted worthy of escape”.
How is one counted worthy of escape? Is it with good labors? Good works? The right ritual worship? The right baptism? NO! It is nothing according to the flesh of men that makes one worthy to stand in the presence of the Son of Man, and accounted by Him fully worthy. This is the work of God alone.
The Word of God tells us plainly:
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:8-10 (KJV)
“But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:4-7 (KJV)
No one can be accounted worthy to stand fully righteous and worthy, except by the cross of Jesus Christ; that is His death, His burial and His bodily resurrection from the dead. He the perfect, sinless, Son of God gave Himself, a sacrifice, that those who would trust in Him might be saved. Through His sacrifice we are accounted as worthy. Accounted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass.
The reason for our need to “Watch… and pray” is so that it does not come on us suddenly and we are caught unaware of His taking us out. This is our means of discerning the times and the seasons of men. We, as Christians, ought always be looking for the appearing of our Savior, and listening for His shout.
AT THE APPEARING OF JESUS; HIS JUDGMENT; AND FOLLOWING (Isaiah 61:2-3ff). When Jesus stood in the synagogue and read from Isaiah 61, and stopped reading at the verse ending with “…the acceptable year of the LORD”, and closed the book He was saying that time had come, the rest would come later. His first coming was not as the religious leaders had expected, and they refused to accept Jesus because of that they tried to kill Him, then, by throwing Him over a cliff (Luke 4:28-30).
When you continue reading in Isaiah 61 you find;
“To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.” Isaiah 61:1-3 (KJV)
“The day of vengeance of our God”, and Jesus never came in His incarnation to bring the wrath and judgment of God on sin. He came to be the instrument of receiving the wrath and judgment of God for sin. He took the wrath that was ours upon Himself, that mankind might have a path, a bridge, a “narrow way” before the very throne, and the very face of God.
If you will take note of verse 3 above, when He comes again to earth, it will be to comfort those who mourn, giving them “beauty for ashes,… oil of joy for mourning,… garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness…” His coming again will be to establish the kingdom on earth, and to restore Israel, fulfilling all His promises to them.
Watch and pray that you may be accounted worthy to escape the wrath that is coming upon all who dwell upon the earth.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Scripture, Jesus, And The Christian
Purpose: As Jesus came to do the Father’s will, fulfilling Scriptures, so too are those who follow Him fulfilling Scripures.
OUTLINE of Luke 4:14-21
I. JESUS RETURNS TO GALILEE IN THE POWER OF THE SPIRIT AND TEACHES (v. 14-15).
II. JESUS IS FAITHFUL TO ATTEND THE PLACE OF WORSHIP (v. 16).
III. JESUS PARTICIPATED IN KEEPING THE SCRIPTURES AS CENTRAL TO WORSHIP (v. 17).
IV. JESUS READ THE SCRIPTURES AND APPLIED THEM TO HIMSELF (vv. 18-19).
V. JESUS THE FULFILLMENT OF SCRIPTURE (vv. 20-21; Revelation 19:10).
THE CHRISTIAN’S TIME OF TESTING EQUIPS US TO WALK IN THE SPIRIT OF JESUS (vv. 14-15). Following the baptism of Jesus by John, Jesus was led by the Spirit of God into the wilderness for testing. Testing is not just to show us, what we have, but to strengthen us for the journey ahead.
The testing which Jesus endured, survived, and defeated the temptations of the enemy were needed by Him, to strengthen Him for the journey which lay ahead; all the way to the cross. Let’s remember that Luke’s gospel is written concerning the “God-Man” Jesus Christ. Luke shows the humanity of Jesus more than the other gospel writers. As Luke emphasizes His humanity he does not degrade, lessen, or violate the Deity of Christ (as written by John); the Royalty of Christ (as written by Matthew), nor the Servanthood of Christ (as written of by Mark). The four gospels nowhere, and at no place ever contradict one another; they rather complement one another; giving us the fuller story of Jesus Christ.
Jesus stood up in the synagogue to read the portion of Isaiah. It is noted in Nehemiah that when the Scriptures were read, “…All the people stood up” (Nehemiah 8:5). This was done in reverence to God’s Word. Jesus, and it may be that all who would read Scripture in the synagogue or Temple were to stand.
With the test Jesus passed He was strengthened to face the temptations of the people. Some wanted Him to be their king, and even came at least once to force Him to be their king (John 6:15). Surely, this was a temptation for Him; however He would not take a shortcut, nor detour around the destination that was to the cross.
The Christian’s walk in the Spirit of Christ is not one filled with popularity, nor easy shortcuts which can often turn out to be sad mistakes, and even sin. Christians walking in the Spirit follow the path of the cross. “Take up the cross and follow Me…” (Mark 8:34, 10:21; Matthew 16:24; Luke 9:23; 14:27) Jesus said, and is still calling those who follow Him to die to self, and the world. There is no walking in the Spirit of Jesus without the cross of the follower.
THE CHRISTIAN’S WALK IN THE SPIRIT OF JESUS WILL BE FAITHFUL TO SUPPORT THE WORSHIP OF THEIR LOCAL CHURCH (v. 16) “I am part of the invisible church.” Have you ever heard such a comment or something similar, and usually added to it is this comment; “I am not a part of any church, I attend all churches, as God leads”. What they mean is that they are “Church hoppers”. These types of people go from church to church, and more times than not are a source of contempt, and discontent, first in themselves and then to others.
We see Jesus attending synagogue when He was not in Jerusalem to attend the Temple meetings. He attended the synagogue of His home town of Nazareth.
Becoming a member of a local church; and this is coming from a Baptist point of view, and I believe a Scriptural one; requires first of all that you be born again, having called on the name of Jesus Christ for salvation, and having been baptized by the Spirit into Christ. Secondly, that you confess your faith to a local church, requesting water baptism showing the baptism of the Spirit which you have already received – baptism being by immersion (that is putting under the water)- testifying of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Scripture knows nothing of an “Invisible church”. The letters which the apostle Paul wrote were written to local congregations. For example, Romans was written to the Christians at Rome. The Corinthian letters were written to Christians in Corinth. The Thessalonian letters were written to the Christians in Thessalonica. The Letters to the Seven Churches which were given by Jesus were to local churches.
Why does the Spirit filled Christian need to be in a local congregation. First of all because Jesus is. Secondly, for their spiritual well being; encouragement, solidarity, strength, faithfulness, systematic learning, worship, fellowship, ministry, discipleship, and reaching the lost to bring them in. Third, a local congregation of God’s people bonding together in Christ can more affectively reach the community in which that local church meats. I am sure there are more.
THE CHRISTIAN’S WALK IN THE SPIRIT OF JESUS WILL INCLUDE DEDICATION TO THE PROMINENCE OF THE WORD OF GOD (v. 17). In recent years it seems that the priority or prominence within the church has become gaining attendance, rather than placing priority, prominence, and authority to the Word of God. The Christian who is walking in the Spirit of Jesus Christ wants, desires, for the Word of God to grow in prominence within their hearts and lives.
Where should the Bible/Scripture fit into the local church? Where should it fit into any church which professes to be Christian? The Word of God should always be front and center. By front and center I mean that the Word of God is of the utmost priority and prominence, because it is Scripture which lifts up and glorifies Jesus and the Father. It is Scripture which works by the Spirit to make alive those who are “dead in trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). It is Scripture by which a “…young man cleanse[s] his way…” (Psalm 119:9), by which all can cleanse their way. The Scriptures, quickened by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, is “a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path” (Psalm 119:105). In Baptist and some prostestant churches there is some symbolism seen in the way the worship area is designed. When you enter the “sanctuary” you see the pulpit (as the place where the Word of God is proclaimed) up front, and in the center of the stage or platform, with the organ and piano to the right and left. Many times the pews or chairs are angled toward the pulpit giving note to the priority of preaching the Scriptures.
Jesus stood showing priority, prominence and respect for reading the Word of God.
Prominence of Scripture must be done more than in a local congregation. It must be lived out in the hearts and lives of Christians who worship in the local church. The priority of Scripture must be seen in your life by your devotion to the reading, meditating upon what you have read, hearing what you have read – hearing God in what you have read, then taking it and applying it to your life, giving full priority and prominence to it within your life.
THE CHRISTIAN’S WALK IN THE SPIRIT OF JESUS WILL SHOW FORTH JESUS AND BE A PART IN THE FULFILLING OF SCRIPTURE (vv. 18-21). As Jesus read the prophecy of Isaiah, He knew this spoke of Himself, and called on those who could hear Him to receive it, and believe it. Jesus was quoting from Isaiah 61:1-2a, cutting it off before, “And the day of vengeance of our God…”.
Jesus came to these of whom He gives notice. To preach good tidings to the poor; the heal the broken hearted; to proclaim liberty to the captives; opening the prison to those who are bound. Jesus came the first time to save us, to give us hope; and to assure us that there is a day coming when all evil will be dealt an eternal blow, which was initially dealt with on the cross a few years later.
Jesus’s presence with them in the synagogue, at Nazareth was not by accident, but was a clear declaration that Jesus is the God-Man who would do all these things. With the commission given us by Jesus we are gifted to go and be a light, the salt, and the living word among those who have not heard.
In our obedience to Jesus Christ we fulfill the Scriptures in our own hearts and in the lives of others. It would be more correct to say that God fulfills Scripture in our obedience to Jesus and His Word.
As Jesus stood to fulfill the reading of the Scriptures, He then sat down, as though to say, “It will be and is as good as done”. That day all the answers to mankinds ills had made His appearance. He still calls for people to follow Him. The Scriptures tell us that Jesus is setting down at the Father’s right hand (Hebrews 1:3, 13; 8:1; 10:12; 12:2; 1 Peter 3:22).
-Tim A. Blankenship
People, And The Incarnation Of Christ
Luke 2:25-38; Matthew 2:1-12, 16-18
PURPOSE – In looking at the six people/personalities we see in this message the question should arise, “Which personality do I fit?”, and lead us to a close walk with our personal Lord, Savior, and God.
OUTLINE –
I. HEROD – AN EXAMPLE OF “ROYALTY” WHO HATED KING JESUS (v. Matthew 2:16-18).
II. THE WISE MEN [MAGI] – AN EXAMPLE OF THOSE WHO SEEK HIM FROM FAR AWAY (Matthew 2:1-12).
III. SHEPHERDS – AN EXAMPLE OF THE LOWLY WHO ARE CALLED TO WORSHIP HIM (Luke 2:8-9).
IV. PRIESTS AND SCRIBES – AN EXAMPLE OF THE RELIGIOUS, INDIFFFERENT CROWD (Matthew 2:4).
V. ANNA – THOSE FAITHFUL IN PRAYER DESPITE THE TIMES AND TRIBULATIONS THEY EXPERIENCE (Luke 2:36-38).
VI. SIMEON – THOSE WHO ARE FAITHFUL IN EXPECTATION OF THE LORD’S COMING (Luke 2:25-35).
In looking at this list there are more we could include probably, but some, such as the “Inn keeper” who had no room, we have no details of him. Joseph and Mary we have already looked at in the last message. We could also think about the soldiers who murdered all the infant males in Bethlehem at the orders of king Herod. You can tell by those I have mentioned here that there are more than we often think about. The six listed above are the ones I want us to consider in this message.
HEROD – AN EXAMPLE OF “ROYALTY” WHO HATED KING JESUS (v. Matthew 2:16-18). Herod was a jealous king. One of whom has recorded history of being jealous of his sons and having them slaughtered so he could keep his “throne”.
When he hears from the “Magi” that there is a “King of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2) he calls for an urgent and diligent search where this King would be born. He calls for the Priests and scribes. They inform Herod that it is in Bethlehem, quoting Micah 5:2.
Herod asks the “wise men” to let him know when this child is found so that “I may worship Him to” (Matthew 2:8). In his heart he was still that jealous envious “king” who wanted no one to take his throne. Herod was actually a puppet king of Rome, and he wanted nothing to do with the worship of a “King of the Jews” he was the king of the Jews. His intent was to destroy Him, and it mattered not what the cost.
THE WISE MEN [MAGI] – AN EXAMPLE OF THOSE WHO SEEK HIM FROM FAR AWAY (Matthew 2:1-12). These men who came, with no number mentioned as to how many there were, were Gentiles from some land away from Israel. We are not told where they are from. This is, however, evidence that God is sending His Son to and for the salvation of the whole world.
The following is from the MACARTHUR STUDY BIBLE;
“wise men from the East. The number of wise men is not given. The traditional notion that there were 3 stems from the number of gifts they brought. These were not kings, but Magi, magicians or astrologers–possibly Zoroastrian wise men from Persia whose knowledge of Hebrew Scriptures could be traced back to the time of Daniel (cf. Dan. 5:11).”
From THE MACARTHUR STUDY BIBLE, note on Matthew 2:1, p. 1394, NKJV.
It almost appears in reading these verses that the “wise men” were the only ones interested in the star. Not everyone is an star gazer, but God used this “Star” or whatever it was to capture the attention of three Gentile men, and they came and worshipped the King (Matthew 2:11).
Some one has said, “Wise men still seek Him”, and of that it is sure. Though God may not in our day be using a star to guide men to Himself; He still uses circumstances, at times, and in some cultures He uses dreams that will cause the recipient of the dream to search out a messenger of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. God uses other people that may cause someone in another culture and another religion to search for the Jesus of the Bible.
Some may wonder well, “What do you do with that verse that says, ‘no one seeks for God’? and my answer to that is, They would not had God not been drawing them to Himself.
The “wise men” followed the direction of the Hebrew Scripture and they have been forever remembered by our Lord and God. Those same Hebrew Scriptures are in the Christian Bible.
SHEPHERDS – AN EXAMPLE OF THE LOWLY WHO ARE CALLED TO WORSHIP HIM (Luke 2:8-9). The shepherds of Israel, the lowliest of society were the first to be notified of the birth of Jesus; and they were notified by the angels of heaven. Oh, what glory, joy and rejoicing they brought to the lowly that night.
Shepherds were told where to find the “Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the world” (John 1:29). He was to be found in the manger where He lay. Is there any better place to find a new born Lamb than in a manger?
In the world when a king is going to make an appearance the papers, the news stations make it clear and plain that the king is going to come, but invitations to see the king, visit with the king, dine with the king only go to the elite, and politically, and financially powerful ones. This Kings appearace was revealed to the lowly of society.
In this we see that God cares for the people of all social levels; and I would add that if God tilts the scales in any favor it would probably be toward the lowly.
Are you hurting from financial troubles, loss of your job, illness, major health problems, disease, troubled marriage, divorce, death of a loved one? Then, this message is for you. More importantly; Jesus is calling you to Himself.
PRIESTS AND SCRIBES – AN EXAMPLE OF THE RELIGIOUS, INDIFFFERENT CROWD (Matthew 2:4). Here were the people, the men, who would have been the most familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures. They were the religious ones. They would have known the Scriptures which foretold the coming of their long awaited Messiah/King. It just seems that they were unmoved by this request from the Magi. They seem as though they don’t even care.
There are many religious leaders who are engulfed in their business of ministry. They are “Professional” at what they do. They are always dressed in the proper attire (Please note this is not a slam against dressing decently and proper), speak professionally in their words, have their religion wrapped up in liturgy, lithargic learning that usually has nothing to do with Biblical understanding, but cultural, societal, and ecumenical unity. While all they time paying no attention to the signs of the times in which we live that loudly proclaim that the Savior is near.
ANNA – THOSE FAITHFUL IN PRAYER DESPITE THE TIMES AND TRIBULATIONS THEY EXPERIENCE (Luke 2:36-38). Anna was a young woman when she became a widow after being married for only 7 years. She spent her time in the temple praying. She had been a widow for 84 years, and had spent day and night in the temple praying.
We are not told why her young husband had died, and it is not necessary for us to know. What we know is about Anna and her faithfulness to the Lord. Her prayers must have been somewhat similar to that of Zachariah, which was partly for the coming of a deliverer for the nation of Israel, and they may have been seeking for the whole world as well.
After spending all those years praying for the appearing of this child, this Son of God, she recognizes Him, and gives thanks to God; and “spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (v. 38).
These things surrounding the birth of our Lord shout loudly to all who will hear, and to those who refuse to hear, that Jesus is God’s Christ, God’s Son, and is the only means of salvation in the world.
SIMEON – THOSE WHO ARE FAITHFUL IN EXPECTATION OF THE LORD’S COMING (Luke 2:25-35). Simeon is an interesting character, and is often overlooked, even more is said of him than Anna.
We need to remember that this prophecy, along with the words of and about Anna took place on the eighth day after our Lord’s birth. There was ceremony, circumcision, and worship conducted at the temple on this wonderful day.
Simeon was a man to whom the Lord had revealed that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Christ (v. 26). He was a man getting up into years. We are told that he was a just and devout man. He was a man who feared God, and had been declared by God to be just, ie. made right with God. Just as Anna is faithful in prayer, so is Simeon faithful in expectations of the Lord’s coming to deliver His people.
Simeon speaks to Joseph and Mary and all those present. Let’s see what things he spoke:
1. “let me depart in peace”;
2. Mine eyes have seen Thy salvation;
3. Prepared before the face of all people;
4. A light to the Gentiles;
5. The glory of the people of Israel.
The things he spoke to Mary and Joseph:
1. The child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel;
2. A sign which shall be spoken against, as a sword shall pierce your soul
3. That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
This “sign” that is spoken against is evidently the cross on which he would die. That was the piercing of her soul, and at this cross the hearts of many are revealed. It was the wicked and vileness of men’s hearts that nailed Him on that cross. Yet, on that cross the atonement for sins was given through the precious, sinless, blood of the Lamb of God.
As Simeon was faithful to carry on the work of the Lord in his life we too are called to be faithful unto the coming of our Lord for His Bride and later in His glory.
Simeon loved the appearing of our Lord. The professing Christian who has a larger desire to make more money, acquire more things, see more family, etc, than desiring the return of the Lord should be looking at their hearts true condition. One evidence of the true Christian experience is expectation of our Lord’s return.
Have a heart like the “Wise men” who seek Him, and worship Him; like the shepherds who saw and heard the call and worshipped Him; and a heart like that of Anna who continued in fasting and prayer night and day until that day she could bless Jesus, and be a blessing; and finally have a heart like Simeon who long awaited the coming of the King of the Jews, their Messiah, Deliverer, and Savior. Our Lord Jesus is coming returning soon for the Church; and later in all His glory, and the whole world will see Him.
Call on His name for salvation, before it is forever too late.
-Tim A. Blankenship
A Wonderful, Joyous Birth
Luke 2:1-20
Purpose: To see and understand the impact of personal salvation come down to mankind and the world through the birth of Jesus Christ.
OUTLINE FOR LUKE 2:1-20 –
I. THESE EVENTS WERE IN THE HANDS OF OUR SOVEREIGN GOD (vv. 1-5; Micah 5:2).
II. THE BIRTH OF JESUS WAS IN THE RIGHT TIME, RIGHT PLACE AND INVOLVED THE RIGHT PEOPLE (vv. 6-7; Galations 4:4).
III. THROUGH THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST THE LOWLY ARE EXALTED, AND THE HAUGHTY MADE LOW (vv. 8-16; 1:52).
IV. THE BIRTH OF JESUS IS SPREAD AROUND BROADLY, AND BY THE LOWLY (vv. 17-18),
V. THE JOY OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST (vv. 19-20).
There are many times we do not understand why things happen or are happening as they do. One of those times could be the present day events in the United States and the world; economically, politically, religiously, medically, or in our families. Though things seem to be messed up, and wickedness seems out of control we, as Christians, can rest assured that God has it all in His hands, and is working it all out for our good and His glory. There is no better example of that than the times before the birth of Jesus, the birth of Jesus, and up until now.
God has the good of the world in His hands and heart. We can trust Him. The world should trust Him. He has provided salvation for all who will believe Him, and trust their eternal lives to His care and love. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him would not perish, but would have everlasting life.” (John 3:16).
Let us never think that the people previous to the birth of Jesus believed they had it all figured out; they didn’t. They did however trust that the Lord was working, and accomplishing His purposes and will. We have seen men like Zachariah hearing the message of God from the angel Gabriel concerning the birth of John, and his reception of that message, along with Elisabeth his wife. Then, we have seen the virgin Mary hearing the message of the birth of her Son, and without a human father; yet she believed. Even during that 430 years of darkness God was working, moving in the hearts of men, but in silence; waiting for that right time, place, and for the right people to fulfill His Word.
WE CAN TRUST THAT THE EVENTS ARE IN THE HANDS OF OUR SOVEREIGN GOD (vv. 1-5). None of us like taxes or to take part in census taking. Both of these may have been the purpose of Caesar’s decree; but the real decree came from God Himself, to fulfill His Word that His Son would be born in Bethlehem, the city of David’s heritage (1 Samuel 16:1-4ff). The Old Testament passage for that is,
“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” Micah 5:2 (KJV)
We must understand that while God created us with what has been called “Free will”, that this does not thwart the will of God, nor hinder His will in any way, but works with His sovereignty fulfilling His will.
If the god the Open Theists believe in is what we have, then we are all without hope. The god of the Open Theists does not know the future any better than you or I; does not direct the affairs of mankind; has no control over what happens tomorrow.
Look at these events with Joseph and Mary. They receive a decree from the ruler of Rome to go to the place of their heritage, which is Bethlehem, and the child that is within the womb of Mary is that Son of Promise who is to be born in Bethlehem, fulfilling the Scriptures. Only God who reigns on high could accomplish such a thing. As Mary was told by Gabriel, “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” 1:37 (KJV)
ONLY A SOVEREIGN GOD COULD HAVE HIS SON BORN IN THE RIGHT PLACE, AT THE RIGHT TIME, AND TO THE RIGHT PEOPLE (vv. 6-7). Paul the apostle wrote,
“But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law…” Galations 4:4 (KJV)
The right place, of course, was the city of David’s heritage and birth; the right time was when there was darkness in the earth, so that the Light might be more clearly seen, heard and received; the right people was a young couple who were awaiting the coming of their Messiah (Though we are not told this specifically, it does seem quite likely, and they received this gift by grace.) And they were faithful to serving the Lord.
I have no idea what the likelihood is of these things all just happening without divine direction, but I am sure the numbers would be astronomical. I do not understand why some people find it so hard to believe that it takes the hands of the Devine to direct the affairs of the Devine, and the birth of His Son is certainly a Devine work.
You can try and explain some things only so many ways, but the obvious, until it becomes so very foolish to make circles around the obvious. In doing so you miss the obvious.
It was the right time and place for the time of our Lord’s life and death. His crucifixion some 33 years later, and in His own country, by the words of His own people, and by the hands of Gentiles, could not have happened any other time.
It is fascinating to think that the Ark of the covenant had been taken away at least 430 years before the birth of Jesus. The Ark represented the presence of God, and His glory; now the presence and glory of God came into their midst in Person. It was the right time, in the right place with the right woman, that the glory of God was revealed to fallen mankind, hated, despised, and laid on the cross by the people who so needed Him.
BY THE SOEREIGN HAND OF GOD, THROUGH THE BIRTH OF HIS SON THE LOWLY ARE EXALTED AND THE HAUGHTY MADE LOW(vv. 8-16; 1:52). Shepherds were the most lowly and despised of Jewish people; yet these were the first to be notified of the birth of their King and Lord.
We are not told how many shepherds there were, but just know that there was more than one because of the plural usage of “shepherds”. Whether there was two, or more makes little difference; the more the merrier I would say. That they were despised by many people only shows that God has in His mind to demonstrate His love to the lonely, the outcasts, and the helpless and hurting.
However many there was we see shepherds “In the field watching their flocks at night”. If it would have been Winter it does not seem likely that they would be in the field, but in their mangers, caves, keeping their sheep warm, and protected. At night they needed to good shepherds guarding the sheep from wolves, and thieves.
As they were guarding their sheep an great, awe-inspiring event happened, unlike anything which they had ever experienced. The angel of the Lord appeared to them, making an announcement of the birth of of the Savior, in the city of David. Along with the announcement came instructions on where to find him. There was also a “heavenly host” which joined with the angel, “praising God” and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
The shepherds heard the angels and found the manger where our Lord lay following His birth. They left the fields “with haste – in a hurry. Probably even to the point of leaving their flocks behind. The joy of seeing the new born King, Son of God was more weighty, personal, costly than the sheep in their folds. The long awaited King was born.
There is no mention of any king who was told. We know the history of Herod and his hatred for even his own sons, and killing them out of jealousy, and fear of their taking the throne from him. Herod was finally brought down. Those who know Jesus and follow Him are exalted.
THE SOVEREIGN BIRTH OF JESUS HAS BEEN SPREAD ABROAD BY THOSE WHO WERE WITNESSES OF HIS BIRTH (vv. 17-18). It does seem like an almost automatic response to tell of something you know that has happened which has excited you and others who were with you. We are not told who they told or how long they spent in telling, just that they scattered the news abroad.
This was such wonderful news that others “wondered” about it. The following is John Gill’s commentary on part of verse 18:
“…wondered at those things that were told them by the shepherds: for though they expected the Messiah, and that he would be born at Bethlehem, yet they did not imagine that he would be born of such mean parents, and appear in such mean circumstances, and in so contemptible a place; and that shepherds, and not the princes of Israel, should have the first notice of it; and yet the account which these shepherd, who were plain hearted men, and could never be thought to invent such a story, and spread it, and impose on men, without any interest in it, was very surprising; so that they knew not what to say to it, neither to deny, nor believe it; accordingly, the Persic version renders the whole thus, “and whoever heard, wondering, stuck at it”; hesitated about it, and yet astonished at the particulars of it; just as Christ’s hearers were in Luk 4:22 who wondered at his ministry, and the manner of it, and yet objected the meanness of his parentage and education.”
From the e-Sword Commentaries.
THE JOY OF THE SOVEREIGN BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST (vv. 19-20). Mary was enamored by the things she heard and seen concerning the events of her Son’s birth. Shepherds coming in from the fields, to see this new born child; a “star” shining over the stable where He lay (Matthew 2:1-2ff); and many other events which include the many fulfillments of the prophetic word of God.
The shepherds after going to see Jesus the new born King returned to their sheepfolds to shepherd their flocks, but with a whole new outlook on things. They were singing, rejoicing in all the things they had seen and heard. Though we are not told that they did; I kind believe the shepherds sat down and visited with Mary and Joseph, then Mary told her story, that of Zachariah and Elisabeth, her story of virgin conception, the virgin birth. Joseph probably told them of how he had about divorced Mary (secretly), except that an angel revealed to Him the unique specialty of this birth and child that would be born (Matthew 1:18-21ff).
Joy, peace, love, gentleness, patience, kindness, self-control, meekness and faith are fruits which follow those who are witnesses, empowered by the presence of this King (Galations 5:22-24). This King was born as Savior to take away our sins by paying the price that was ours to pay.
Without the birth of this King there would be no Savior, no salvation, no Peace or Joy. That is why the shepherds returned praising and glorifying God.
Anyone putting their faith and trust in Jesus the King will live and reign with Him forever. All sins forgiven; the price fully paid by the death of Jesus on the cross, carrying the guilt and shame of sin away in His burial, then His rising for our justification – being made right with God for all eternity, and living for Him, waiting for His return.
-Tim A. Blankenship
A Magnificent Surrender
PURPOSE: Since becoming a Christian is the most important thing to happen in one’s life there are many similarities to our lives with Mary, the mother of Jesus; We received a special call, and appearance from our God; We have been given a message to share with all people; We must be obedient to God if we are to be counted faithful; We have a right worship of God and His Son Jesus; and we worship with expectation of His soon coming and with patience we wait for Him.
OUTLINE FOR Luke 1:26-56:
I. A MAGNIFICENT APPEARANCE (vv. 26-28).
II. A MAGNIFICENT MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR ALL PEOPLE (vv. 29-37).
III. A MAGNIFICENT OBEDIENCE (v. 38).
IV. A MAGNIFICENT WORSHIP (vv. 39-55).
V. A MAGNIFICENT PATIENCE (v. 56).
There are probably many things in life which we see, hear, touch, taste, and smell that we could call “Magnificent”. However, when it comes to the eternal things truly only one thing, and person can be called “Magnificent”, and that is the appearance, message, obedience, worship, and patience of our Lord Jesus. He is truly MAGNIFICENT!
A MAGNIFICENT APPEARANCE (vv. 26-28). In the sixth month of Elisabeth’s pregnancy the angel Gabriel appears in Nazareth to a young virgin girl by the name of Mary. When we have no reason to doubt the Word of God we must believe that when God says she was a virgin, then she was indeed a virgin.
Gabriel is the one who had appeared to Elisabeth some months before, and now appears to Mary with the news that she will have a child. How must have Mary felt at the appearance of Gabriel? Shocked, unbelieving? Now remember this was a period of time when visions, spiritual experiences with angels was a rare thing. God had not spoken through prophet or angel for 400 years. How would Christians of today [2008] react if our Bibles were taken away, and there was no more revelation from God for so many years? I dare say that that would be a test that would certainly separate the confessors from the possessors. It seems to be the case in Jerusalem and Israel during the days of Zachariah, Elisabeth, and Mary as well.
With the appearance of the angel comes words of encouragement, words to be remembered by all. “Thou art highly favored”, “Blessed art thou among women”, and “the Lord is with thee” are words we can trust and believe and rest in.
It is God who sent Gabriel to Mary. He has a specific message for Mary, and that is that she will have a Son; not just any son of man; but He will be the Son of God, and Son of man. We will get to Mary’s question in the next point. Let me stress this at this point; Mary was not an “Unwed mother”. Note the instructions to Gabriel, “To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph…” Espousal was more than an engagement; at least as we know engagement here in the USA; it was a binding covenant made earlier, and could only be broken by a writing of divorce. There had, however, been no consummation of the marriage by sexual intercourse.
Truly this appearace by Gabriel to Mary was a Magnificent Appearance.
A MAGNIFICENT MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR ALL PEOPLE (vv. 29-37). Troubled as most of us would be the angel gives her words of comfort, and tells her she has been favored by God. It has been decreed by God through Gabriel that Mary is “Full of grace”, which means she is a receiver of grace, not a dispensor of grace. This same term is used in Ephesians 1:6 “he hath made us accepted in the beloved” (KJV); and is reference to all who are in Christ Jesus. Anyone who would use this to give Mary co-redeemtrix rights is Biblically incorrect.
This is the first, and last miracle virgin conception of God. Let me give you the MIRRIAM/WEBSTER DICTIONARY definition of the word “MIRACLE”:
“1. An extraordinary event manifesting a supernatural work of God; 2. An unusual event, thing or accomplishment: WONDER, MARVEL…“
Now, my definition of miracle is a little different than that:
A miracle is an act of God where He breaks through the laws of what is natural, to accomplish a greater purpose for His glory.
God transcends the laws of nature that He has made, and can at any time, any place, and with or without anyone or anything perform what we would call “Miracle”. With Mary God would perform a first. “The virgin will conceive, have a son…” Isaiah 7:14 (HCSB) were the words of God through the prophet Isaiah to king Ahaz. Though the prophecy had a lesser fulfillment in Isaiah’s day, it was fully fulfilled in Mary’s conception of Jesus Christ. Though Isaiah would not know of whom God was speaking , futuristically, the LORD had one specific young woman for this task, ie. the task of giving birth to the Messiah, and her name was Mary.
With the medical technology we have today I really don’t understand why anyone would have a problem believing in a virgin’s conceiving a child. Though today’s virgin conceiving would be by “arificial insemination” or “invitro fertilization” it is still possible, yet the seed implanted would still be a human father, and not God. God also placed His seed in the womb of Mary without any means other than His Word.
The angel telling her she will have a Son, and also tells her His name. In the prophecy of Isaiah he calls Him “Immanuel” meaning “God with us”, and here “Jesus” means “The Lord is salvation”. Both names are for our Lord Jesus, and they fit Him. He would be the means of grace and mercy and salvation to all nations.
Notice these great things that are given to Jesus:
1. He will be called the Son of the Highest;
2. He will receive the throne of David;
3. He will reign over the house of Jacob;
4. His kingdom will have no end.
Mary, knowing that she was a virgin; asked Gabriel, “How can this be since I have not been with a man?” The answer to this came by the angel basically letting Mary know that this was a “God thing”. It did not require a man, but God had chosen her to be the vessel to bear His Son, give birth to His Son, and to teach Him godly living, and faith.
One thing which we must note right now is that God chose godly, expectant, faithful people to bear two of the most influential people ever born to man. We are told of Zachariah’s and Elisabeth’s “Righteousness”. We are also told that Mary was “full of grace” before God (Ephesians 1:6). The only righteousness that is worthwhile for us is God’s righteousness, and He gives that to us by GRACE.
News of Elisabeth’s pregnancy, and the approaching birth of her promised son was told to Mary. This may have helped confirm the angel’s message to her. It does confirm to Mary and all who will believe that there is nothing impossible with God.
A MAGNIFICENT OBEDIENCE (v. 38). Too many people fight, kick, and murmur and complain about the will of God. Then, when it is all over think, “Well! Why didn’t He call me and use me?” Is there any young lady, who is a virgin, be willing to do what Mary did? There are too many young people and adults who are too self-centered; who are looking out for themselves, and care nothing for living for God, and faith.
After the angel Gabriel tells Mary of her “Highly favored” situation with God Mary’s response is one of obedience. This is not evidence of her placement into a divine position as co-redeemtrix with Christ, or of her supposed immaculate conception. It is simply her willingness to be a tool for God’s purpose and His glory. It is nothing more than what any of us can do; and that is being a willing, obedient vessel for God’s glory.
We – Christians – are in fact doing just that when Christ becomes our Lord and Savior. The Seed of God is given to us, resurrecting our dead spirit, and empowering us with the Spirit of God. Consider John’s [the apostle] letter, writing;
“Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for His Seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” 1 John 3:9 (KJV)
The above verse, of course, addresses the practicing of sin in a habitual fashion, and as a way of life. The part I am dealing with is the “His Seed…” portion. It is God’s Seed that cannot sin. It is God’s Seed that gives the Christian life, and the heart to hate evil, and all sin.
It is just as much A MAGNIFICENT OBEDIENCE when any child of God hears the voice of God, and is moved to obey in faith believing all that God has said to do.
A MAGNIFICENT WORSHIP (vv. 39-55). Mary, now, having conceived in her womb the Son of God journeys to the home of Zachariah and Elisabeth and stays for three months. Mary probably stayed until the birth of John Baptist; because we are told, taking verse 24 and 26, that it was six months that Elisabeth was with child, Mary stayed three months (v. 56), so surely she stayed until the baby John was born; and could very well have been there when Zachariah’s tongue was loosed (v. 64).
Upon Mary’s arrival to the house of Elisabeth John leaps in his mother’s womb, and Elisabeth is filled with the Spirit. Songs of praise and adoration break out from both women.
“Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.”
The words are those of Elisabeth. She recognized the one who was carrying the Son of God within her, by the voice of His mother’s greeting. Elisabeth was giving blessing to Mary because she had been the willing, chosen vessel by God to carry the Son of God in her womb. Elisabeth’s initial thought was of her unworthiness to be in the presence of the mother of her Lord.
How could Elisabeth even know that Mary was bearing a child, little lone, that she was bearing a son, and not just any son, but the very Son of God? The work of the Spirit of God. The “Fruit of thy womb” of course was Jesus, and He is blessed, and He blesses all who come to Him. Elisabeth even recognizes that Mary has given the utmost of her life to our Lord, surrendered to Him, and is blessed because of who He is; and because of this God is about to fulfill His will in and through her.
Now take a look at Mary’s song:
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior,
because He has looked with favor
on the humble condition of His slave.
Surely, from now on all generations
will call me blessed,
because the Mighty One
has done great things for me,
and His name is holy.
His mercy is from generation to generation
on those who fear Him.
He has done a mighty deed with His arm;
He has scattered the proud
because of the thoughts of their hearts;
He has toppled the mighty from their thrones
and exalted the lowly.
He has satisfied the hungry with good things
and sent the rich away empty.
He has helped His servant Israel,
mindful of His mercy,
just as He spoke to our ancestors,
to Abraham and his descendants forever.
Luke 1:46-55 (HCSB)
Note that Mary does not congratulate herself, but gives glory to our Lord; to the greatness of the Lord. She rejoices in the fact that she has “found favor” with Him; and she refers to “God my Savior”, recognizing her need for God as Savior alone. With Elisabeth’s and Mary’s praise we have much to practice in praise, worship and adoration.
A MAGNIFICENT PATIENCE (v. 56). Wouldn’t it have been fascinating to be in that house those three months? Both the mother of John the Baptist, and the mother of Jesus the Christ going about household duties, chores, and since Elisabeth is the elder one, and having a baby probably needing some assistance from Mary.
For three months Mary is learning from her cousin the things that only women can learn from one another; what an elderly woman can teach to a younger; and they probably spent much time in worship of the MIGHTY ONE of Israel. For three months Elisabeth draws ever nearer to the day when she will give birth to John, Mary begins showing signs of pregnancy, and grows more and more expectant for her nearing day.
All mothers have, and show patience for that awaited day when the labor pains begin (though not looking forward to the pain, but the outcome), and they begin the birthing process. Expectancy, excitement, rejoicing are great words to use to express the heart of that mother when her child is born; but can you imagine the joy that was in the heart of Elisabeth as John is born, knowing that he will be the first prophet since Malachi, around 430 B.C.; and that he will be the herald for the Messiah who is to be born only six short months later. They are seeing the evidence of God’s message returning to His people who have been in darkness for so long; and this is without the Ark of the covenant.
“Patience is a virtue”, someone has said. Much is said of patience by the apostle Paul. As Mary needed and displayed patience while with Elisabeth the Christian today needs to be patient in living for Jesus Christ. The heart of the Christian is looking for the appearing, the coming of Jesus once again. Have you ever heard someone who professed to being a Christian say, “I don’t want Jesus to come back today!”? My question to that would be “Why not?” What is more important than the coming of Jesus? That is the heart of the truly born again believer.
I can almost guarantee that the most important thought in Mary’s life; when she received the announcement that she was going to carry and give birth to the Son of God; was not “What is Joseph, and my parents, and others going to say?” Her thought was most likely, “In nine months the Messiah will be born, and for these nine months God has given grace, to me, to bear His Son.” Nine months to display patience. Nine months to plan, prepare, and proclaim the coming of the Lord.
We do not know the day or the time of our Lord’s coming for His Church. We have been given an indefinite time to plan, prepare, and proclaim the coming of the Lord. We too can display A MAGNIFICENT PATIENCE. A Patience that is found only through the faith and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
-Tim A. Blankenship
The Fire and Hammer 