For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
Romans 12:3-8
Ministry
Laborers In The Harvest
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
“And I, behold, I have taken the Levites from among the children of Israel instead of all the firstborn that openeth the matrix among the children of Israel: therefore the Levites shall be Mine; because all the firstborn are Mine; for on the day that I smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt I hallowed unto Me all the firstborn in Israel, both man and beast: Mine shall they be: I am the LORD.”
Numbers 3:11-13
Then saith He unto His disciples,
“The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest.”
Matthew 9:37-38
And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.
Acts 9:19-20
To Fulfill Righteousness
Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad Him, saying, “I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me?” And Jesus answering said unto him,
“Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness.”
Then he suffered Him. Matthew 3:13-15
It was the ministry of John the Baptist to introduce the Messiah to the people of Judea and the area. He was preaching repentance and calling the people to be baptized, turning from their sin (Matthew 3:7-10).
Then, came Jesus, the One who would fulfill all righteousness, because He is the Righteous One. Since He was God in flesh, and as a Man He needed to show that He was complying with the laws of Judaism and of God, thus in presenting Himself as a candidate for baptism He was fulfilling righteousness and His call to ministry and was ministering to others as well. It was also the fulfilling of John’s ministry as a prophet of God.
Since Jesus presented Himself for baptism, then it behooves every one who turns from their sins in repentance and believes Jesus as their crucified, buried, and resurrected Lord and Savior to present themselves for baptism by immersion. Immersion showing the death, burial, and resurrection, and is a public testimony of one’s faith in Jesus Christ.
Will you repent of your sins today and believe Jesus died for your sins, was buried, and rose again?
All That Is Written
“For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in Me, ‘And He was reckoned among the transgressors:’ for the things concerning Me have an end.” Luke 22:37 (KJB)
Jesus’s life is about to take a turn that would put the world in a tizzy. He was about to fulfill the most difficult part of His work, calling, and ministry for the glory of His Father.
That difficult work was His death on the cross; but there was more to take place there than the human eyes can see. The hate, and unbelief of the religious mob would be brought to light. The hatred of the world toward what is holy and righteous would be revealed as well.
Jesus knew that His life, and ministry as He walked among His brethren, the Jewish people, was always questioned; there were many doubts, and much unbelief concerning who He was; and today after 2000 years, of who He is. He also knew, and was willing to fulfill Scripture.
The quotation He gives in Luke 22:37 is from the following passage from the prophet Isaiah:
“Therefore will I divide Him with the great, and He shall divide the spoil with the strong; because He hath poured out His soul unto death: and He was numbered with the transgressors; and He bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.” Isaiah 53:12
If in the life of Jesus as He walked among Adam’s race He was about the fulfilling of God’s word, the prophecies concerning Himself; shouldn’t His people of 2019 love the word, the prophecies, the law, and the poetry of Scripture as well? Most surely. We should also be looking for the fulfillment of all that has not yet been fulfilled, and living accordingly for His honor, power, and glory.
Of the last part of Jesus’s words in Luke 22:37 John Gill wrote:
“for the things concerning me have an end. The Syriac version renders it, “all of them”; or “the whole of it”, as the Ethiopic version; all that were concerning him; all the counsels, purposes, and decrees of God, relating to his sufferings and death; to the manner in which his death was brought about, by one of his disciples betraying him; to the several indignities he should be used with, by Herod, Pontius Pilate, the Jews, and Roman soldiers; and to his death itself; all which were by the determinate counsel, and foreknowledge of God, and now were about to have, and quickly had their fulfilling end; as also all his own covenant engagements and agreements he entered into with his Father, to bear the sins of many, to make his soul an offering for sin, to be numbered with transgressors, and pour out his soul unto death; and likewise all the types and shadows of the law, all sacrifices in general, and the daily sacrifice in particular, with the passover, brazen serpent, and other things, even the whole law, both moral and ceremonial, had their full and final accomplishment in him; together with all the prophecies of the Old Testament relating to this matter, particularly Gen_3:15.” John Gill’s EXPOSITION OF THE BIBLE
If you profess to be a Christian, and yet you are unbelieving toward the word of God, then you need to examine your heart and life to be sure you are in the faith.
Expressing the Love of Christ
An Expression Of Love
Romans 16:1-27
Love is a very powerful and important quality. It shows character, concern and caring. Love is one of the characteristics of God. It is a characteristic that is modeled in God’s people. Love is much more than simple emotion. It is an act, a decision, an expression.
Paul demonstrated much love. His commendations toward his brothers and sisters in Christ – fellow workers and ministers of the gospel – expresses much love and appreciation. Many of these people – Priscilla and Aquila for example – risked their very lives for Paul (vv. 3-4). Anyone should recognize the sacrifice which must have been made by them. How can you keep from loving someone who has given so much. Some of these people had the church meeting in their homes. Some were prisoners with Paul. Some were servants in noblemen’s households. All were loved by Paul.
It is also noted that there was some room for confrontational correction. Love warns, instructs, encourages, and corrects. Those who cause division by false teaching, working against the leadership, and the mission of the Church, or cause strife with the church leaders are to be avoided.
Coming near the end of the letter Paul speaks of those who had worked along side of him doing and preaching the word of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Then last, but not least, the apostle gives honor and glory to whom honor and glory is due and belongs. The One to whom honor and glory is due and belongs is, of course, God. We honor and glorify Him by hearing His Son Jesus and believing Him.
1. Love Is Expressed In The Family Of Faith (vv. 1-16).
*God is love (1 John 4:8b). That love is seen and expressed by the love of His people.
*Because there is so often conflict within the church does not mean we must be disagreeable with one another. Disagreements happen in the homes of Christians, but they stay together.
*Phebe was a sister, the one delivering the letter of Romans to the Christians of Rome, and most likely came to know Jesus through Paul’s ministry.
*Priscilla and Aquila – husband and wife – hazarded their own lives for Paul’s.
*Andronicus and Junia were fellow prisoners with Paul at one time or other. They too stood for Jesus Christ and the gospel. They too were messengers of the gospel.
*People who were servants of “Caesar’s household”, and the households of Aristobulus and Narcissus. These households were probably well-known, high society people. God has a way of placing His people in strategic locations. We are to serve God wherever He has placed us.
*We, as Christians, ought always greet one another with warm affection, the love of Christ.
2. Love Exposes Sources Of Division In The Family Of Faith (vv. 17-20).
*There are people in some churches, or even who seek out churches where they can cause division; by teaching false doctrines, by the error of Balaam, ie., causing others to fall, etc..
*The one who teaches the truth of God’s Word and the gospel, and who labors for God and the people of God, and the ministry is not the source of division. The ones who come in trying to bring in heresies, and division are truly the dividers
*Unwillingness to be taught, false teaching, hatred envy, going outside God’s guidelines causes division in the local Church. An unwillingness to cooperate with godly leadership; a malicious, slanderous spirit and tongue are sources of division. The loving leader will expose, and correct those who are trouble makers within the Church.
*Do that which is good in the local Church. Be wise toward evil, its way and its harm.
*Grace is the element that sets Christianity apart from world religions.
3. Love Honors The Faithful Servants Of The Lord (vv. 21-24).
*Paul now names those who have been faithful servants serving with him. Timothy for one, and we know from 1 Timothy 1:2 that Paul referred to him as, “My own son in the faith”. Timothy was discipled by the apostle to the Gentiles.
*The apostle desired the church of Rome to know about Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater who may have been brothers by physical birth, or at least brothers in the faith. They were admirers of the Roman Christians.
*Tertius was Paul’s secretary. He has penned down all the letters. He also sends a salute to Rome.
*Gaius is the homeowner where Paul is the guest. Gaius is a man of hospitality, and loves the Lord Jesus Christ, and His servants.
*Erastus was possibly the city treasurer of Corinth.
*Quartus was a brother in Christ who loved Paul, and was a devout supported of his ministry.
4. Love Honors And Lauds The God Of All Power, Glory, And Grace (vv. 25-27).
*Doxology are words of praise to the One and only who is worthy of worship and praise. He has revealed a great mystery. The mystery of the Old Testament is revealed in the New Testament. The Holy Spirit in Paul has given GOD’S PLAN OF SALVATION more clearly than we deserve.
*God alone is the One of power to set us firmly in the security of the gospel. He alone is worthy of our faith. Faith alone calls us to obedience to the commands of God, because faith believes and trusts that God is over all; He is sovereign.
*“To Him be glory through our Lord Jesus Christ for ever. A-men.”
-by Tim A. Blankenship
The Gifted Believer
Every Believer Gifted
Romans 12:3-8
God has placed each believer in the church to serve Him and other believers. He has not done so, and left us without desires and gifts which enable us to serve.
These gifts are not given for any to boast superiority over another, as has so often been the case with the mystical gifts; such as healing, tongues, miracles; which were reserved for the apostles, as an evidence of their call and appointment by God. These gifts of the Spirit to which we are speaking of in this study are given for the Church to have balanced ministry. No one spiritual gift is of any greater importance than the other.
Since God is the Giver of these “Grace gifts”, there is really no way any one believer has the right to think more “Highly [of himself], than he ought to thing” (v. 3). We are each responsible for the use of the gift(s) God has given us. They are, however, to be used in conjunction with other’s gifts; not separate from them. When believers use their gifts without the balance of the other gifts you have unbalanced churches.
Churches cannot operate properly if everyone is a “Lone Ranger”. Where there is unity of purpose, yet understanding of diversity; with the proper use of spiritual gifts God gives a balanced healthy, growing church.
The gifts Paul mentions in Romans and the ones which are practical for everyday Christian living for today –
1. Prophecy – This is the “Speaking forth” of the Word of God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That is its greatest meaning. In the Old Testament even, the prophet was a “Forth-teller” more than a forteller of the future. This gift is abused by taking on oneself more than God has spoken.
2. Ministry or Serving – This is a ministry given most of the time for deacons, for the deacons of the early church were servants and serving the widows of the church; but it includes being a servant where ever the servant sees the need. One with the servants heart is usually always looking for an opportunity to serve others. Often can become selfish and not letting others help out.
3. Teaching – This is teaching which goes beyond just a Sunday School teacher, but does include it. The one with this gift enjoys the study of God’s Word just as much or even more than presenting it to others, and is able to present it clearly and understandably to others. Can become full of his/her own knowledge, and become distant from others.
4. Exhortation – This gift is the gift that is able to show others in a step by step approach ways of correcting wrongs done, or encouragement in right things done, and to do right things. If not cautious can become a “Know it all” even correcting when others don’t want to hear it, nor need to hear it.
5. Giving – Most of the time people with this gift are usually gifted in making money too, and strongly desires to use their wealth for the glory of the Lord, and the growth of His kingdom. They are also concerned greatly with how God’s money is used or spent. If the heart is not right can become selfish with the wealth, begin to hoard it and not share it with others or give it to the Lord’s work.
6. Ruler or Leader – The ones with this gift is able to give direction for a group of people and set an example for others to follow. If not controlled by the Spirit of the Lord can become like a dictator rather than a leader pushing.
7. Mercy – The people with this gift are very kind, non-judgmental, always willing to accept others on their word and testimony, and they can be very gullible, and weak in the discipline department concerning sin.
-Tim A. Blankenship
God is no Respecter of Persons
“Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: but in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him. The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (He is Lord of all:) that word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him. And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed Him openly; not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with Him after He rose from the dead. And He commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. To Him give all the prophets witness, that through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins.” Acts 10:34-43 (KJV)
This chapter begins by telling us of a man named Cornelius, a centurion of the “Italian band” (v. 1), a devout man who feared God, but did not know the Savior. God does marvelous things to get His Chosen to Himself.
The verses we look at today are the words of Peter which he spoke after leaving Simon the tanners house, going to the house of Cornelius in Caesarea, and now he shares the gospel of Jesus Christ with the household, from the Old Testament – it was the only Testament they had at the time. Something we must not forget.
Note Peter’s words given by the Spirit of God;
- He exalts the Father and the Christ above all things or anyone;
- Peter tells us of the work and ministry ob Jesus Christ;
- Peter declares the work of salvation which Jesus performed
- His work of the cross;
- His burial;
- and His resurrection.
It was the Spirit of God who caused all the Old Testament prophets to speak of the Christ, and it is the Spirit of God who leads us to Him for the remission [forgiveness] of sins.
Many of Cornelius’s household were born again that day. They also who believed were baptized in the name of the Lord.
As Christians we need not look too far to see the work of God. We need only look into our own lives, and see Him at work. We can look into our families, our community, our State, our Nation and the world to see the Spirit of God is moving, working. It is only the blind who cannot see.
Ministry Led By the Holy Spirit
“But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:4 (KJV)
In chapter six there was some contention over the neglect of some of the Grecians because their widows were not being cared for; at least the way the families thought they ought to be.
The Church in Jerusalem was growing. People were being delivered from sin and condemnation. The apostles were loaded with many responsibilities, thus the accusations of neglect.
The apostles were chosen by the Spirit of God to be preachers of the gospel; so in that they would, and should give themselves to the ministry of prayer, and the preaching of the word. O that the preachers of God’s word today would get that burden; for if we are not in the word of God and prayer we will be powerless, and find ourselves struggling with emptiness of heart and soul, wondering about if we are doing what we are called to do or not.
It is not that the apostles, or the preacher today would be neglecting their duties of service, and ministry; they are rather giving themselves to the greater responsibility of calling people to Christ, and His work in and through them.
With every Christian gifted by the Spirit of God to serve one another, the Church is blessed and it grows as God blesses and leads. See Romans 12:3-15; 1 Corinthians 12.
The Church chose seven men. The most remembered one is Stephen. These seven men were full of the Spirit of God, they did the work they were chosen to do, and the apostles were able to do the work they were called and chosen to do, and the Church was blessed…
“…Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.” Acts 6:6-7
You will note also, that, many priests of the Hebrews became believers as well. Is God good, great, marvelous or what? He is. He is indeed.
In Order… That You Might Know the Certainty…
It is not a rare thing; but Doctors in successful practices do not often leave their work to enter something else; such as to be a writer; a historian, in this case. Some have and do. When one leaves their medical practice to be a minister of Jesus Christ and His gospel that is a calling on them.
Luke was such a man; such a doctor. Luke is the Bible’s only Gentile author. He is thorough in his writing and record. He records what is known to be true. His history recorded is of the life and ministry of Jesus the Christ.
For a few days we will be looking at the historical account of Jesus Christ through the record of Luke. First let us hear what he says concerning his purpose for this record.
“Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word; it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, that thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.” Luke 1:1-4 (KJV)
There were some writings that had came out that were absolutely false; and he set out to correct them with a true account. Let me assure you that he is not speaking of, or writing about the three other Gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark and John.
He was also set on the testimony of “eyewitnesses”, and he was very set on being truthful about the matter of Jesus Christ, our Lord, our Saviour, and the returning King. To “Theophilus” he wanted him to know “the certainty of those things” – the truth of it all concerning Jesus’s life – His birth, His life, His ministry, miracles, power, and His death, burial and resurrection.
The book of Acts is also a historical book written by Doctor Luke, and he addresses Theophilus in that writing as well.
My friend; Jesus is the Christ; Son of God and God the Son. Be sure you know and trust Him today.
The Case Against God’s People
Jeremiah, the weeping prophet. Known for that because of his mourning for the sins of the people of Judah, and Jerusalem. He sees the failings of the priesthood, of which he was part. The weaknesses, the hypocrisies, and often blatant lies and deceptions; not only among the priests but among those who called themselves prophets of God.
God could speak with Jeremiah. Jeremiah heard, and many times responded to what God said. Hear what God says to Jeremiah near the beginning of his ministry;
“Moreover the word of the LORD came to me, saying, ‘Go and cry in the ears of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the LORD; I remember thee, the kindness of thy youth, the love of thine espousals, when thou wentest after Me in the wilderness, in a land that was not sown. Israel was holiness unto the LORD, and the firstfruits of His increase: all that devour him shall offend; evil shall come upon them, saith the LORD.'” Jeremiah 2:1-3 (KJV)
God begins in the first message by confirming them in their first belief. They had followed, at least through Abraham, had been obedient in the wilderness, and had grown in love with the LORD. There was kindness, fondness, love in their hearts for the LORD, realizing that He alone was responsible for their having a land, a promise. They had been chosen from the place of God’s amazing grace and mercy. They were undeserving. They were unworthy. They were sinners among the other sinners of the earth. There was nothing special about them, thus in there early days they loved the LORD.
Despite the fact of their departure the LORD reminds them of His promise, “All that devour him will offend; disaster will come upon them,’ says the LORD”. No one can expect God’s blessing who lifts their hand against the people, the nation, whom God ordained to give us the Scriptures, ordinances, and laws. Yet there is room for His judgment. Pray for Jerusalem – Israel.
As Christians we must remember our “First love”. That love we had for Jesus when we first believed. The things of the world around us have a power which can lure us away from loving Him. God commended five of the early churches of the Revelation, but would only condemn two of them because they had departed from Him.
If you truly know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then, there was a time when you walked with Him, you loved Him, cherished Him, and it did not bother you that there were times He seemed distant, but you trusted His Word when He said, “I will never leave you, nor forsake you.”
Something has happened in the past few days, weeks, months, or years that have caused you to get away from Him, His Word, from praying, and cherishing His abiding presence. You have become more consumed with sports, entertainment, comforts, leisure, conveniences, and even family activities, than with your walk with Him. It is time to return to Him, before the judgment of your sin comes on you.
He puts His protecting hand on all who have trusted Him. You can believe He will keep you, protect you, and anyone who raises an evil hand against you will suffer by His hand. Be assured God loves you with an everlasting love. Enjoy it, revel in it, rejoice in it, and He will be glorified.
-by Tim A. Blankenship
Words for Christian Living – A Strong Heart
“Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:1-2 (KJV)
There are many people walking around in this world who have been told by their physicians that they have weak or failing hearts. Some of us have had different types of surgery for their heart from stentz placed in arteries of their heart to what is called “Open heart” surgery. The “Strong heart” of which I title this does not refer to the physical heart, but to the inner individual.
“…We faint not” has much to do with having “A Strong Heart”. The man or woman of God; every Christian; must be committed to being faithful to God and His Word. That is what Paul the apostle is speaking of. From the time we become a follower of Jesus Christ we “Renounce the hidden things of dishonesty”; these are the sins of our past. We have repented, and our lives are changed.
It is a mark of the Christian, too, that we not use tricks, or deceit when it comes to the word of God. One of the things that angers me is the way I see many a Christian leader using emotion to entice “worship”; then people walk away thinking they have been in the presence of God; they go out the doors of the Church or the stadium, and their lives are left unchanged. Nothing wrong with emotion if it is not manipulated by deceit and the mishandling of God’s Word. Be careful Christian that you do not let wrong handling of the word of God lead you astray.
The truth will be all the commendation one needs. Know the truth. Keep your heart for God strong.
Back in a few days
I will be gone to our Association’s Youth Camp during the coming week. I will get going once again in the final studies of Elijah and his ministry as the Lord wills, guides and protects.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Elijah and Elisha
Sometimes these two men can be confused; at least they used to be to me. Elijah was the prophet who confronted Ahab, and the culture of the time; and the departure from the LORD God for man made idols; human imagination run amok.
Elisha is a young man when Elijah is called by GOD to anoint him “in thy room” (1 Kings 19:16). He was still in his father’s home, because he was plowing with the oxen when Elijah came to him (vv. 19-21).
I ask myself what the reason is for GOD calling another prophet to take Elijah’s place. Is GOD angry with Elijah, thus getting another? Is the ministry of Elijah coming to an end? Maybe soon? If we read ahead we find that Elijah would confront Ahab another time; concerning Naboth’s vineyard. We will look at that sometime later.
The LORD wants to put to rest Elijah’s assumption that he is the only true prophet of God. The LORD tells him,
“Yet I have left Me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him.” 1 Kings 19:18 (KJV)
Elijah obeyed and went as the LORD commanded him. He finds Elisha plowing with twelve yoke of oxen. That seems to be a plenty of ox power, and more than necessary; but that is what we are told. It probably means that there were twelve teams of oxen plowing – a yoke containing two – and with a man leading each yoke; and Elisha taking up the rearward. The mantle of Elijah is mentioned in Scripture at least five times; the first in 19:13; the second in verse 19; then the other three in 2 Kings chapter two.
The mantle seems to be used as a token or symbol of the power of God upon Elijah. With it Elijah covers his face when he hears the still small voice, he cast it upon Elisha, he smote the waters of the Jordan River (2 Kings 2:8), Elisha receives it as Elijah is taken away (2 Kings 2:13-14); and then Elisha divides the Jordan using it as well. More on that will come later in future study.
When Elisha passes by Elijah; Elijah cast his mantle upon him. Now Elisha left his oxen, asked Elijah to go and tell his parents he was leaving, then he would follow him. He would be Elijah’s student as a prophet; being prepared to take Elijah’s place in ministry of the Word of God.
“And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, ‘Let me, I pray thee, kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow thee.’ And he said unto him, ‘Go back again: for what have I done to thee?’ And he returned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen, and slew them, and boiled their flesh with the instruments of the oxen, and gave unto the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went after Elijah, and ministered unto him.” 1 Kings 19:20-21 (KJV)
Elijah’s telling Elisha to “Go back…” was telling him to do as Elisha had requested, but to not reject his calling. Elisha goes and tells his parents of his calling in life, and they have a celebration, by the killing of Elisha’s yoke of oxen, and having a feast. In his training as a prophet he was a servant unto Elijah.
Elijah was a faithful prophet of God. Though he was weak in some points the LORD still used him. In human weakness GOD is strong. In our weaknesses God is glorified.
Be strong in the LORD and the power of His might.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Observations From Numbers – 021611
Reading from Numbers 22-24.
The reading today deals with the prophetic work of one of the prophets of the Old Testament. This is a prophet who was in the “ministry” for a profit. He was in it to make all he could.
The Moabite people were fearful of this massive group of people who were traveling across their part of the wilderness. The king of Moab, Balak, calls for Balaam the prophet of whom we speak. The comment of Scripture says,
“And Moab was sore afraid of the people, because they were many: and Moab was distressed because of the children of Israel.” 22:3
Let’s first examine who the people called the Moabites are; just to keep it in mind. Moab was one of the sons of Lot by the eldest daughter (Genesis 19:37). So by this we can see a kinship between these two people – Moab and Israel. Of course, many years have passed, more than four hundred at least.
Balak calls for the prophet Balaam, and seeks him so that he may curse Israel. Israel is a nation blessed by GOD. Called out of Egypt by GOD. Led by GOD. A questions should enter our minds upon reading this, “How can a prophet of GOD even consider taking Moab up on this thought. They have promised him great reward.
The prophet is blind to the ways of God. God tells Balaam, after he has already turned down Balak’s first request to come, and he sends a second group of messengers,
“And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, ‘If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do.'” 22:20
Here is Balaam’s fault. If you will note what God says; Balaam is to not go with the men unless they come to call him; yet Balaam arises and goes to them. He is eager to go and curse Israel, yet says, “All that the LORD speaketh, that I must do.” 23:26.
In the process of all this we find that his eyes are not open as he says in 24:3, but that they are set on deception, and the receiving of blessing for himself and funds for his pocket. His ride has more spiritual perception than Balaam does (22:22-35).
By the end of chapter 24 we see Balaam speaking prophetic words of blessing upon Israel. Yet, be warned Balaam is still a prophet of the worst sort. We are warned of his work and “ministry” in the New Testament:
“Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbad the madness of the prophet.” 2 Peter 2:15-16″Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.” Jude v. 11
“But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.” Revelation 2:14
Later on in the daily readings we will see that the prophet finally succeeded in gaining what he wanted, yet failed GOD and His people greatly.
Remember to read Numbers 22 – 24 for today’s reading.
-Tim A. Blankenship
The Glory…I Have Given Them
The love God has for us is really beyond human understanding, but we are to know that He loves us with an everlasting love. He has shown His love by sending us His Son Jesus to die for our sins. We have fallen short of the glory of God. We have sinned. Yet, it is God; who is holy, righteous, and undefiled who paid the sin debt that was our’s alone.
Jesus, as He was nearing the end of His earthly ministry as a man, prayed for all those who would follow Him. It is that prayer in which we have been looking at. In that prayer He has prayed for our keeping in the Father’s hands, the last time we saw He prayed that we all would be one, and that through us “the world might believe that Thou [the Father] hast sent Me”.
“And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:22-23 (KJV).
In the book of Romans, written by the apostle Paul, inspired by the Spirit of God; we find these words, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23 (KJV). We, ie., the human race, was made for God’s glory. When Adam chose to disobey the law of God he fell short of that glory, thus, all the race of Adam has fallen short of that glory.
Jesus alone, as the God-Man fulfilled that glory. It was the glory He had when He came down to earth. It was the glory He sustained as He walked among us. It was the glory given to Him by the Father. He gives those who believe Him, and follow Him that same glory.
As we walk with Him we glorify Him, we are made “perfect in one”, and due to that, the world around us can know that the Father has sent the Son, and that He loves us, just as the Father has loved Him.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Jesus – Servant Of Freedom Seekers
Mark 5:1-43
“And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit. And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country. Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding. And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them. And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea. And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done. And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine. And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts.” Mark 5:1-17 (KJV)
SEEKING FOR FREEDOM FROM A DEMONIC POWER AND PRESENCE. (Mark 5:1-17). If you look at the state of this man he is in a miserable condition. If you want to know what Satan can do for you just take a look at this man and you will see. He will leave you naked, hungry, poor, desolate, isolated, cold, deserted, lonely, and hopeless. Is that the kind of life you want? Is that the kind of life you want for a family member? Is that the kind of life you want for a neighbor? I would think not.
We live in a period of time where even some Christians are doubtful of demonic existence. If we are to believe God and His Word, then we have no contrary opinion on the matter. We believe it or we do not believe God or His Word. There are some who want to equate this to what could be called “epilepsy”, “lunacy”, or “frenzy”. How does one who does not believe in demonic influence explain “broken chains” and “cords”, and that no one could control him.
You will notice that the demon who is speaking to Jesus knows who Jesus is. He calls Jesus, “Son of the most high God”. It seems to me that it is the man who comes out, and seeking Jesus. It was not just “coincidence” which brought Jesus to this side of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus said in chapter 4, “Let us go to the other side”, and there was this man waiting there to be freed from this terrible bondage.
It seems this place is made up of Gentiles, because no Jewish people would be raising swine, and they have very little concern that a man has been freed from the bondage of a demon, and he is now in his “right mind”. They were more concerned with the 2000 pigs that perished than they were for the man. If we are not careful we can get so worldly minded we are of no heavenly good. Jesus cares for the man, not material possessions.
J. C. Ryle points out these things about the situation:
‘The possession of a man’s body by the devil, was a real and true thing in the time of our Lord’s earthly ministry.
What an awfully cruel, powerful, and malicious being Satan is.
How complete is our Lord’s power and authority over the devil.”
As born again people – born from above and into the kingdom of God – we have no need to fear demons, hell or the devil. He is a mighty foe, and he does seek to steal, kill and destroy anything of God’s he can get his hands on. The apostle John tells us, “Greater is He who is in you, than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).
“And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.” Mark 5:18-20 (KJV)
A FREED PEOPLE SEEK TO TELL OTHERS HOW TO BE FREE. (Mark 5:18-20). This man who had been possessed by a “Legion” of demons is now free and He desires to go with Jesus as He is leaving. Jesus knows the best position for one to be in. He tells the man to go to his home, and to tell his family and friends “how great things the Lord has done for you”.
It would only take a moment. He had been enslaved by demons and many tried to control him with chains, and various types of bonds, but none would do. Finally, he meets Jesus and is freed by the mere words of Jesus. I cannot begin to think I could know how this man felt to have a clear mind, to be free from the invisible chains which drove him to such “insanity”, and “gross behavior”. In any case it is similar to the freedom we all experience when we first trust Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We were bound by chains of sin and darkness, and condemned to an eternity without Christ to the fires of Hell, and when we met Jesus He set us free, and gave us eternal life in His presence.
We have much to tell our friends and family. Let us do it with such excitement and enthusiasm as our friend in the tombs did. We have been freed by Jesus, just as the man in the tombs was, let us be as free to share our testimony with our friends and loved ones. They need to know.
“And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea. And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live. And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him. And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague. And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.” Mark 5:21-34 (KJV)
A WOMAN SEEKS FOR FREEDOM FROM HER TWELVE YEAR PHYSICAL AFFLICTION. (Mark 5:21-34). It so happens that Jesus and His disciples have gone back to the West side of the Sea of Galilee now and there is a multitude waiting for them there. Jairus, a “ruler of the synagogue” has approached Jesus concerning his “deathly ill” daughter. As Jesus is walking through the crowd there is a woman who has been ill for twelve years with an “issue of blood”. She has spent much of her money for “Physicians” to try and find out what is wrong with her, but to no avail. She sees her only hope as being Jesus as he is in the crowd. Her faith says, “If I may but touch the hem of His garment I will be healed”.
When she touches Jesus’ garment she “felt in her body that she was healed of that plague”. Only thing Jesus realized there had been some “Power” go out from Himself, and He turned to see who had “touched Him”. Was He angry? No! It seems to me that He was very much impressed with this woman of “Faith”. Jesus asked, “Who touched my clothes?” Well! My goodness many said and we would do the same. Lord, You are in a crowd of people, of course someone touched You. It was a purposeful touch, not a accidental touch one might get while walking in a crowd of people. It would be like being in a large mall and you have someone come up and purposefully grab your shirttail or coattail and you turn to see who it is and it is a friend. I doubt the touch was as vigorous as that, but it would have a little similarity to it.
Can you imagine being afflicted with a plague such as this woman has endured for twelve years. Can you imagine her desperation to find a cure, healing, help in any fashion. This could not have been good for her health. It is really kind of a marvel that she has not died.
Jesus commends her for her “Faith”. “Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague. Mark 5:34 (KJV)”. Then, Jesus goes on with the man [Jairus] who came for Him concerning His daughter.
Do we have the faith of this woman. Willing to risk it all knowing that Jesus is our only hope for healing, health, life and eternal life. Put your faith in Jesus, He will see you through it all.
“While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further? As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe. And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James. And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly. And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying. And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise. And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment. And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.” Mark 5:35-43 (KJV)
THE DAUGHTER DIES, BUT DO NOT BE AFRAID – JESUS RAISES HER TO LIFE AGAIN. (Mark 5:35-43). Certainly, as we look at this event, of this “ruler of the synagogue” and his daughter we can learn at least two things. First of all sin, illness, disease, death, and sorrow does not play favorites with age, and secondly, they do not play favorites with religious or political stature. This child was twelve years of age. The same period of time as that of the woman who was healed of her affliction. It is bound to happen to any of us. Death, disease, sickness, and plague hits us all, and it is to us all that the Scripture says,
“And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” Hebrews 9:27 (KJV)
The only sad part about this event is that this young lady of twelve years would one day die again, and this time it was without Jesus raising her again. It is sure that one day we will die, and our age or social stature will have no way of prevention in it.
It is evident that this “ruler” had respect for Jesus. Note the words of his servant, “Why troublest thou the Master any further?” This “Ruler” had evidently been teaching about Jesus or this man knew who Jesus was too. It is amazing what people will do to find healing – even in our day. People who have the means have been known to look the world over for a cure for cancer, or any other long, drawn out illness. What if you do not have the “Means”? What do you do then? You can find rest, peace, security in Jesus.
The life of this young lady is not over yet, as long as Jesus can see her. The real faith is seen in the girls father. Despite the possibility of suffering ridicule from his peers in the “Ministry” he seeks out Jesus. He risks his religious reputation to find Jesus to heal his daughter.
What is the life of a lost loved one worth? That is a question we must ask ourselves and ask it every day.
The girl had died, but Jesus says to Jairus, “Be not afraid, only believe”. Jesus is laughed to scorn by those who are there to “Mourn” the death of the child. They are most likely paid mourners who have come for this purpose of mourning the dead for the family. Jesus says that she is only asleep. Cannot be a funeral if she is only asleep. Jesus “Puts them all out”, and then He takes those who will believe with Him. He “Put them all out” sounds as though He used a little force to do it. “Get out! Get out!” Can you see it? And people are always saying Jesus was always without anger. Not so. He is angry with the wicked, and everyday according to the Psalmist (Psalm 7:11).
-Tim A. Blankenship
The Heavenly Vision
The Heavenly Vision
Acts 26:19-20
The reading of verses 13 – 18 would be a good thing for the study of this passage of Scripture.
Now I think it would be good to see what the writer of the Proverbs says about “vision”.
“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” Proverbs 29:18 (KJV).
“Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; But happy is he who keeps the law.” Proverbs 29:18 (NKJV).
It would appear that by looking at the NKJV rendering of the verse that there might be a problem of interpretation and comparison between Paul’s heavenly vision and this revelation but it would not need to be a problem.
Where there is revelation there is hope, and people will follow the revelation of God when they believe it. Every one needs vision for guidance, and worth-while-ness.
To have Revelation/Vision is a necessity for having a moral and decent society. The vision Paul has is a life changing vision. It first changes the heart and mind of Saul when he met Jesus.
The true Revelation/Vision is from God. Paul’s vision was of Jesus Himself. When there is no Revelation/Vision from God; people will live without power or authority, and find themselves without direction. They will not recognize their true enemy; and they will blame others for their own faults, problems, and sins.
THE PURPOSE OF THE REVELATION/VISION (v. 16). The highest aim or purpose of the Revelation/Vision is to glorify the Father. The purpose of the Revelation/Vision for Saul was to be called to minister for the cause of Jesus Christ, and to glorify Him. The minister is a servant to all –
“For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 (KJV).
The minister of Jesus Christ has no life of his own, but has given it up to the Lord. Called to be a witness in two ways; 1) To be a faithful witness in the things that are seen:
* The death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ;
* The power of the gospel to change lives
and 2) To be a faithful witness through the revelations Jesus would reveal (John 14:21):
* Paul’s teachings of the pure gospel came by the revelation of Jesus: “For I neither received it of men, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ” (Galations 1:12).
* He has more writings in the New Testament than any othe penman – possibly 14;
* We are to bear witness in these two ways;
1. Preaching the gospel and showing forth a changed life;
2. By teaching the revelation of Jesus in all areas of life.
The Scriptures are complete. Within them we have all the revelation of Jesus Christ and how He wants us to live that God has given us. We are to learn it and seek His will for our lives.
THE PROMISE OF THE REVELATION/VISION (v. 17). God never calls anyone to serve Him without Purpose, nor without Promise. His promises in Revelation/Vision encourages, strengthens, and gives us perseverance. God’s promises are the Christian’s hope of the future – eternity with God in glory – His glory. It was God’s promise that motivated Abraham to leave his homeland without knowing where he was going:
“By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.” Hebrews 11:8 (KJV)
He only knew that he was going with God. He did not know the place on earth. He has promised to deliver from enemies of the gospel. There will still be persecution, but the persecutor will not prevail. Many a persecutor, like Saul of Tarsus, fell under the power and authority of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
THE POWER OF THE REVELATION/VISION (v. 18). The power of the revelation/vision is the power of a changed life. There is no religion that can change a life for eternity. There are many good ministries which stress self-reformation, and cleaning up your act, but they basically give not power to maintain the life which one ought to live. Usually if there are any lasting changes the organization gets the credit and the glory, and none goes to the One who created us, and all thing.
Jesus said, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you; and you shall be witnesses unto Me; both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the utter most parts of the world.” (Acts 1:8) He said in Matthew, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth” Matthew 28:18 (KJV). We find also that Jesus said to Peter, “Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 16:17 (KJV). Peter was only able to know the true identity of Jesus because it was by revelation from God the Father.
The Revelation/Vision of the person of Jesus Christ, when accepted, believed, practiced has the power to change the life of that individual. Jesus Christ has the power to forgive, remove, cleanse, from all sin. He has the power to open eyes that they might see the work of God in the world. He has the power to turn a life of darkness to a life in the Light.
In some cases – many cases – people love darkness rather than light:
“For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” John 3:20 (KJV)
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.” Ephesians 2:1-3 (KJV)
If you are in that darkness you can come out by the power of the blood of Jesus Christ, shed on Calvary’s cross for you. The only cleansing and forgiveness is in the Light of Jesus Christ.
In Christ Jesus there is also a wonderful inheritance:
“And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” Romans 8:17 (KJV)
“And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.” Hebrews 9:15 (KJV)
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:3-5 (KJV)
This is an eternal inheritance which has been provided us by the Lord Jesus Christ by His death, burial and resurrection.
THE PERSON OF THE REVELATION/VISION (vv. 13-15). As Saul/Paul is riding a horse toward Damascus, and for the purpose of taking captive many Christians, and putting them to death; he meets the One whom he is really persecuting.
Saul had seen the Christian message of Jesus Christ as a great and vile threat to his own religion. That was the Jewish religion he had grown up in, and this Jesus was a rabble rouser, a trouble maker, a deceiver, and they could not have this man upsetting the purity of Judaism.
Saul does, however, find out that he is not persecuting the people who are calling themselves followers of Jesus; but he is actually persecuting Jesus Himself. He is alive. Now Saul knows it, and falls on his face before Him, and calls Him “Lord”.
It was upon his meeting Jesus, the Revelation of Jesus Christ to Saul of Tarsus, that he realized the conviction, the torment of soul, the troubled heart and thoughts; his kicking against the pricks (vv. 14; 9:5) finally hit home in his life.
Is there a troubled area of your life where you just can’t find peace? Maybe it’s your whole life, and you just can’t find peace with yourself, your spouse, your family, or with God. That maybe your pricks from the Spirit of God and He is calling you to Him.
There is only one true Revelation of God to man (other than creation), and that is His Son Jesus Christ. He came to earth as a man; to die for the sins of mankind, carry our sins away in burial taking all guilt and shame, and then, He rose agains bodily from the grave. The bodily resurrection is proof of His revelation of God to man. It is the divine work of God. It is not of the flesh, but the Spirit of God.
Salvation is through the Son of the Living God, and His name is Jesus.
THE PERCOLATION OF THE REVELATION/VISION (vv. 19-20). Percolation is a filtering process by which to arrive at a desired effect or goal. The Christian with the Revelation/Vision is the instrument of God to reach a lost world. Disobedience to this vision will do these five things:
* Cause guilt for neglecting those who you leave untold;
* Cause ineffective ministry and ministries;
* There will be a lack of prayer;
* There will be a lack of time with and/or for God;
* The individual will be in a backsliden condition, slipping ever farther away from God’s loving, protecting hands.
* …This is not an exhausted list.
Obedience to the heavenly vision will give us five things:
* Peace of heart and mind;
* Joy in an of ministry;
* A life of prayer and drawing near to God;
* Takes every opportunity for God;
* Has a growing Christian testimony;
* …This list is not exhausted.
Our Christian lives, lived in the presence of others, will be the only vision of heaven they may ever see.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Jesus – Ministry
The Gospel of Mark has for a theme, “I came not to be ministered [served]; unto, but to minister and give My life a ransom for many” and that is what Jesus did all of His three years of ministry. Jesus defines service, by His life, and work.
Mark 1:21-45
VV. 21 – 34 — PROOFS AND EVIDENCE OF THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF OUR LORD.
In these verses we find religious leaders who are amazed and the people who are amazed by the teachings of Jesus. He did not teach theories, and philosophy. He taught the teachings and Word of God like He knew it. He was the One who had spoken the world into existence, and hung the stars and planets in place and gave them order in their revolutions. No one can speak the Word of God with authority except they have received it from God and His Son.
We see the uselessness of intellectual knowledge in religion. The demons cry out to Jesus in recognition of who He is. Jesus commands their silence. Someone so holy can not be rightly announced by what is unholy. Satan, the enemy of God and man – especially saved men and women – know who Jesus is, but they are not redeemed. The demons “Believe and tremble” (James 2:19), so when a man or woman say they believe in God, they are doing no more than the demons. It does not mean they have been redeemed by the life blood of Jesus Christ. You would not ever find a more “religious” lot than the demon lot condemned to Hell. Knowledge of who Jesus Christ does not save. Without trusting Jesus as Savior and Lord of one’s life you stand condemned.
Jesus commanded this “unclean spirit” to come out and he came out. This man who was possessed by this “demon” was brought to the right person. Have you ever asked yourself why a demon possessed man was at the synagogue in the first place. Could it be that the man still had some sense of the need of deliverance, and the providence of God put him there that very day for his deliverance and salvation? Could be.
The Lord provides complete and perfect cure when He heals Simon’s [Peter’s] mother in law. As soon as she is raised from her sickness she is in full health, and goes to serving the guests. Jesus has a heart for serving the people and giving them health. The most important health He provides and gives is spiritual/soul health. There is no better health than a healthy soul, and heart that is in tune with Jesus.
Jesus went about after these things and healed the sick and delivered captured souls. What a wonderful Servant/Savior we have.
VV. 35 – 39 — LOOK AT OUR LORD’S PRAYER LIFE.
To look at His prayer life is to get a perfect example of what a prayer life ought to be. First of all,
“His very perfection was a perfection kept through the exercise of prayer”. J. C. Ryle study of Mark’s Gospel
We ought to learn from that and realize that if we would pray we would become stronger against Satan and sin, and temptation. Secondly,
“To be prayerless is to be Christless, Godless, and in the high road to destruction”. J. C. Ryle study of Mark’s Gospel
It is by God’s Word that we can keep from sin through the power of prayer. The Word of God, hidden in our heart, and the commitment of prayer will strengthen us against sin.
The Lord came into this world to ultimately provide salvation for sinners by dying for mankind’s sin on the cross, being buried, and rising from the dead. He came to minister by preaching the truth of God. The Lord Jesus would have been the greatest preacher to ever live. He gave honor to the position of the preacher. It is sad that there are some who cause that honor to stink, and then it is no more honor. Our Lord was a preacher, and that gives it the highest honor possible, no matter what some may do.
VV. 40 – 45 — JESUS CARES FOR THE UNCLEAN.
The disease of leprosy was a dreaded, even feared disease. It would cause sores on the body, and the skin and flesh would rot on the body. The Old Testament condemns them as “unclean”. The person who had leprosy was not allowed to live with his or her family, they became “outcast”. Of course, family often cared for them, without getting near them; providing them food, and probably clothing and needed items. Here Jesus does something that was ceremonially forbidden. He touched the “Unclean”. Jesus was guilty. He was guilty of loving and giving His life. That is what He was guilty of.
As soon as Jesus touched the leper, and said, “I will; be thou clean”, the leprosy was gone and he was clean. The power of Jesus’ healing is wondrous, it is Almighty. It is great knowing that such a Man even cares for those who are “Unclean”. We were unclean by sin. We were as the leper. We were vile, desparate, and in need of healing, then Jesus came and He touched us, healed us and cleansed us. Notice, the leper came to Him. He was drawn by what he had heard. He was delivered by faith in the Lord, not by any work he had done. It was the Lord who touched him, and He was clean. He was healed. He was made whole. What a Savior. What a Great Physician.
When Jesus had healed and cleansed the leprous man, He told him to be silent about what had taken place in his life. Rather than being silent about it, though, he went and told every one he saw. Doing this crippled the ministry of Jesus to the people. There is a time for silence. Since the resurrection of Jesus we have been commanded to go and tell all that we have seen and heard of Jesus. The day of silence is over when it comes to talking about Jesus. There are still times we should remain silent. Jesus even told us not to cast our pearls before swine. Would that not be giving the gospel to those who do not want to hear it? Those who are imprisoned in self-righteousness? Those who are enamored in their own goodness, thinking God will have a scale and weigh their good deeds against their bad deeds, and the good will out weigh the bad? Those who are enjoying their wickedness are not ready for the truth of God’s Word, nor the gospel. These are the people who bask in their self righteousness.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Returning Remnant
The prophet has given a very solemn, and somewhat discouraging words. The ministry of the prophet of God is to speak the truth of God’s Word, no matter to whom they are speaking.
When one is called by God to proclaim the Word of God it is to God, and to God alone that we are held accountable. Isaiah knew this and he never withheld a word. He warned the laid back, at ease people of Zion that, though they had it made at that present time there was judgment coming from Assyria, the Chaldeans, the Babylonians; that they would be taken into captivity, and then he also let them know that God would lead some – a remnant – back to their blessed land.
This prophecy is given at least 100 years before it would take place. Isaiah would not live to see it happen. We know from the records of Ezra, Nehemiah, Jeremiah, Daniel that it did come to pass just as Isaiah had said.
As we journey through the Scriptures reading, meditating upon them, learning, we find that there are many times God is not pleased with Israel. They are divided into a Northern kingdom called Israel, Ephraim; and into a Southern kingdom called Judah, and this was an act of chastisement from God for their departure from the way of David, and overtaxing of the people. They were often afflicted by surrounding enemies, because they turned their back on God. Of all the kings named in the Northern kingdom there is not one of whom it is said, that he “did right in the eyes of the LORD”.
When God’s people turn their backs on God, His Word, His prophets and begin to hate and kill His prophets, and despise the way of God, then God will send judgment to chastise His people. With Israel (both Northern and Southern kingdoms) they would go into captivity, and Jeremiah the prophet says it would be for a period of seventy years (Jeremiah 25:11, 12; 29:10). After that seventy years are accomplished God would allow a “Remnant” to return to the land.
There are many who have given up on the nation of Israel today. Some say, “God is through with Israel as a nation”. One national ruler says, “We will destroy Israel”. At this time this man’s “kingdom” is in jeopardy due to charges of an unfair election process. The kingdoms of men fall. None of these things said by such rulers are so, nor will they come to pass. God has not given up on Israel. He still has a remnant who will one day call on the name of the One whom “they have pierced”, and call Him Lord, and the kingdom of David will be forever established with Jesus Christ as King.
Where the nation has trusted many times upon their captors, their “protectors” – such as those who are siding with Israel today; though their protection is like whitewash – they [Israel] will come to a place their hope and stay [trust] will be upon the LORD alone. Israel’s only protection is the LORD. Your protection; also mine is the LORD of hosts.
“And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty God. For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness. For the Lord GOD of hosts shall make a consumption, even determined, in the midst of all the land.” Isaiah 10:20-23 (KJV)
Paul the apostle writes of the promises and hope of Israel in Romans 9-11, and there he tells us, “All Israel shall be saved” (Romans 11:26). Let us all pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6), remembering that the only true and lasting peace will come when the Prince of Peace comes and sits on His throne in Jerusalem, and His name is Jesus.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Jesus, God-Man, Servant
The gospels have been identified as being written identifying Christ from four different perspectives. First, Matthew shows Jesus as the King of the Jews; Mark shows Him as a servant – there is no genealogy showing His heritage in birth; Luke shows him as man – in fact the God-man; and John shows Him as deity – fully God and fully man, and makes quite clear (to all who can see and understand) that He is Deity.
This picture is even seen in the book of Ezekiel 1:4-14, and verse 10 shows us the faces of the gospel. The lion would represent royalty – the King; the ox face would represent service – the Servant; the man’s face would represent the man – the God-man; and the eagle represents majesty/deity – the God who became flesh and dwelt among us. In the Revelation 4:7 the Apostle John even list them in the same order as the gospels are in.
“And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.” Revelation 4:7 (KJV)
Study of Mark 1:1-20:
VV. 1 – 8 — THE COMING OF THE ONE WHO CARES PROCLAIMED BY THE PROPHET.
The dignity of Jesus is full proclaimed by the messenger who was His fore runner preparing the way for Him – basically preparing the hearts of men to receive Him.
The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ was a fulfillment of prophecy – a fulfillment of Scripture.
The ministry of John the Baptist produced, for a time, a great effect upon the Jewish nation.
John’s doctrine of Christ was clear and characterized his own preaching – John knows that the one who is coming is mightier than he. The One coming will not baptize you with water, but with fire. He will change your life; cleanse you and make you whole.
VV. 9 – 20 — THE COMMITMENT AND AUTHENTICATION OF JESUS AND HIS MINISTRY.
Jesus, being totally committed to His Father’s direction and plan for His life shows the commitment by following the ordinance of the law, and identifying Himself with mankind in baptism. The Father confirmed Him by speaking from Heaven as an authentication of who He genuinely was/is.
Jesus was then placed under temptation without sinning to show Himself without sin to man, and as proof of His power to conquer sin and death.
The nature of our Lord’s preaching is similar to John’s in that He was calling sinners to repentance, and different in that He called for obedience to the gospel. Now; just what is the gospel? It is a word which means, “Good News”.
Jesus calls two men as He is walking on the sea shore – Simon and Andrew – and calls them to follow Him, and He will make them “Fishers of men”. They would no longer be fishing for fish, but they would be “fishing” for the souls of men. According to John’s Gospel chapter 1 and verses 40 – 42 Andrew is one who brought Simon [Peter] to Christ.
“One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.”John 1:40-42 (KJV)
That is an amazing thing for a brother to do. There is no contradiction here only further clarification. When you put the four gospels together you have a full story, not complete, but the story as the writers witnessed it.
These men were called to the office of a preacher. Not everyone considers the office a great one, but Jesus was a Preacher – a Preacher of preachers – if you will. Jesus was committed to the work which He came to do. In the beginning of His ministry it was to preach, and glorify His Father;
“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.”Luke 4:18-19 (KJV)
-Tim A. Blankenship
Descending The Mount
A few hours had been spent on the “Mount of Transfiguration” – the name for which the place has been called – and now they were descending. Having taken place with the glory of Jesus being revealed to Peter, James and John; and they seeing Moses and Elijah with Jesus in His glory.
When Moses and Elijah depart; in verse 8; we have the words: “…they saw no man, save Jesus only”. That implies clearly that the law and the prophets declare, reveal, and glorify the Lord Jesus. It goes along with what the apostle John wrote in the Revelation 19:10 “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” The law and the prophets cannot make man righteous before God; only Jesus can.
Now, we come to the descent from the mount of Jesus with His disciples:
“And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead. And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things. But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.” Matthew 17:9-13 (KJV)
What the three disciples had witnessed was not to be told until the resurrection of Jesus had taken place. It is almost certain that these three did not yet understand what He was even talking about – Resurrection – “Yeah! Sure!” Their thoughts were still on the idea of Jesus being their reigning King in a few days; and not crucifixion. God forbid that their King hang on a tree.
They are probably thinking of the prophet’s writing,
“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.” Malachi 4:5-6 (KJV)
Their thinking is needing to be set in order. They are thinking of a different day than what is going to happen. “The great and dreadful day of the LORD…” is when the Lord comes and pours His wrath out on an unbelieving and godless world. At this time God is going to pour His wrath out upon His Son for the atonement of the sins of mankind.
The disciples had partially discerned rightly concerning the prophecy of Scripture; however, it was not until Jesus gave the word, that they realized that John the Baptist was a fulfillment of the prophecy, but unrecognized by the religious leaders, and “royalty”, and they put John to death. John the Baptist came in the Spirit and power of Elijah. There is no idea of “reincarnation” given here. John the Baptist is John the Baptist, not reincarnated Elijah.
John Baptist came having the same type ministry of Elijah. A bold and fiery message of repentance; calling the people of God to prepare their hearts for the coming of the LORD.
Jesus also informed the three that the “Son of man” would suffer by the hands of those same people.
It would do the disciples of Jesus Christ in the world of 2009 to hear the message of God’s servants; preachers who preach the inerrant, infallible, literal, and living word of God; Sunday School teachers who present the word without favor or fear; Deacons who honor the word of God with their lives in witness, work and service. We dishonor our Lord when we fail to listen to God through His servants who proclaim the Word and “diminish not a word” of it.
Do we really understand the impact of the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the word proclaimed and taught without “shunning to declare the whole counsel of God”? Are we prepared, willing and able to give our lives for the preaching of the Word of God to a world who hates God? It is time to think about this and ponder it in our prayer life; and all of life.
When we are descending our “Mount” of joy, encouragement, let not forget that it is Jesus who remains with us.
-Tim A. Blankenship
The Preacher in Power With God
The Man in the Wilderness
“And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil. The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.” Matthew 11:7-19 (KJV)
Jesus makes a declaration about the prophet who showed the way to Himself. Jesus’s word is that John was a prophet who stood, and was not swayed by the tide of public, or popular opinion. The “Reed” spoken of by Jesus was native to the country, and was easily bent in every slight breeze. He would not bend to the winds of conformity of the flesh. He would not win any elections. He would not even allow his name to be submitted to any office.
John was not a man who would attend the social events of the season (v. 8). He was not out to win any popularity contest. The people would not have gone to the wilderness to seek the finely dressed. He dressed in “camel’s hair” very similar to Elijah’s apparel. Not the garment of a popular individual, or one seeking popularity.
A prophet of great esteem, that esteem was from the Lord, not men. To be esteemed “the greatest” by the King Himself is certainly the highest of honors. The esteem of man is useless in eternal matters. Because John was the herald of a new covenant, a better way, those in the new are counted greater. John is counted only as a friend of the Bridegroom. Those in the new covenant are the Bride of the Bridegroom.
The people to whom John preached, and to whom Jesus preached were mostly a people who committed a Dereliction of duty. They heard the voice, but the words were of none effect. The nation neglected to heed the message of the prophet (v. 12). Their opinions were on equal ground with the Word of God. Their attitude was, “We will have the kingdom in our own way”. They hated the prophet and this eventually showed up in their hatred for the King. It seems that the message of all the prophets were despised by the nation (v. 13). John’s message is on equal footing with that of Elijah, Isaiah, and Jeremiah to Malachi. His persecution was on equal footing as well. Here are some similarities. 1) John was fearless before Herod – Elijah was fearless before Jezebel’s prophets; 2) John was locked in prison – Jeremiah was put in a pit; 3) John lost his head – Isaiah was probably sawn in two. John preached against the adultery of Herod; as pointed out earlier (14:1-12).
John would have been the one “In the spirit and power of Elijah” if he would have been received (vv. 14-15; Luke 1:16-17). His ministry would have been to turn the hearts of the people back to God. This was accomplished in a small way. There is yet to come another “In the spirit and power of Elijah” who will accomplish his task (Revelation 11:1-14). The message of the prophet is one people must hear and take heed.
This generation of people was likened to spoiled, uncooperative children (vv. 16-17). Likened to children playing wedding game, then others come into the picture, and declare they want to play the funeral game instead. They want to mourn at a time for rejoicing. They want to rejoice at the wrong time and weep at the time of rejoicing. John’s message was one that the Messiah has come, and the people refused to hear it, tearing their garments in grief. When it was declared to them the time for mourning, then they were rejoicing. There is a whole lot of that in the world of 2008.
It seems the religious leaders had no desire for hearing the truth of God’s message from His prophet John. When they did not want to hear they set out to find fault. The prophet because of his “self-control”, lack of fleshly desires, sometimes loud, and “rude” preaching is accused of being demon possessed. Jesus, because He sits and dines with “tax collectors and sinners” is accused of gluttony and drunkenness. By these accusations they are only endeavoring to cover their own sins that have been exposed for what they really are.
Truth always bears fruit. Lies also bear fruit, but none worth having. Truth reveals the good, and exposes the bad. The children of complainers and accusers continue complaining, accusing lives – to eternal condemnation. The children of wisdom are drawn to the Savior. If Jesus and John were the way of these accusations, then, why are lives changed by faith in Jesus. The resurrected, changed life is evidence that the claims of Jesus and John are true and not the claims of the complainants.
-by Tim A. Blankenship
The Case Against God’s People
God Builds His Case
Jeremiah, the weeping prophet. Known for that because of his mourning for the sins of the people of Judah, and Jerusalem. He sees the failings of the priesthood, of which he was part. The weaknesses, the hypocrisies, and often blatant lies and deceptions; not only among the priests but among those who called themselves prophets of God.
God could speak with Jeremiah. Jeremiah heard, and many times responded to what God said. Hear what God says to Jeremiah near the beginning of his ministry;
“Moreover the word of the LORD came to me, saying, ‘Go and cry in the hearing of Jerusalem, saying’, ‘Thus says the LORD: ‘I remember you, the kindness of your youth, the love of your betrothal, when you went after Me in the wilderness, in a land not sown. Israel was holiness to the LORD, the firstfruits of His increase. All that devour him will offend; disaster will come upon them,’ says the LORD.” Jeremiah 2:1-3 (NKJV).
God begins in the first message by confirming them in their first belief. They had followed, at least through Abraham, had been obedient in the wilderness, and had grown in love with the LORD. There was kindness, fondness, love in their hearts for the LORD, realizing that He alone was responsible for their having a land, a promise. They had been chosen from the place of God’s amazing grace and mercy. They were undeserving. They were unworthy. They were sinners among the other sinners of the earth. There was nothing special about them, thus in there early days they loved the LORD.
Despite the fact of their departure the LORD reminds them of His promise, “All that devour him will offend; disaster will come upon them,’ says the LORD”. No one can expect God’s blessing who lifts their hand against the people, the nation, whom God ordained to give us the Scriptures, ordinances, and laws. Yet there is room for His judgment. Pray for Jerusalem – Israel.
As Christians we must remember our “First love”. That love we had for Jesus when we first believed. The things of the world around us have a power which can lure us away from loving Him. God commended five of the early churches of the Revelation, but would only condemn two of them because they had departed from Him.
If you truly know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then, there was a time when you walked with Him, you loved Him, cherished Him, and it did not bother you that there were times He seemed distant, but you trusted His Word when He said, “I will never leave you, nor forsake you.”
Something has happened in the past few days, weeks, months, or years that have caused you to get away from Him, His Word, from praying, and cherishing His abiding presence. You have become more consumed with sports, entertainment, comforts, leisure, conveniences, and even family activities, than with your walk with Him. It is time to return to Him, before the judgment of your sin comes on you.
He puts His protecting hand on all who have trusted Him. You can believe He will keep you, protect you, and anyone who raises an evil hand against you will suffer by His hand. Be assured God loves you with an everlasting love. Enjoy it, revel in it, rejoice in it, and He will be glorified.
-by Tim A. Blankenship
Doing The Word of God
Knowing the Mission and Purpose of the King
“And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding His twelve disciples, He departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities. Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, And said unto Him, Art thou He that should come, or do we look for another? Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.” Matthew 11:1-6 (KJV)
In chapter ten Jesus has sent His disciples out to minister the Word of God and declare the message of the King. In the first verse of this chapter we find Jesus preaching and ministering alone. He has given commandment and sends the twelve out. In the first verse we are told, “He departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities. “Their cities” would be speaking of the cities of those He had just sent, of course.
John the Baptist, a prophet truly in the Old Testament sense, would know the message of the prophets. He knows, especially the ones of the coming Messiah. He, being a man, and a sinner like the rest of us would have had some preconceived notions concerning the Messiah; somewhat like his Jewish teachers. For instance he must have believed that the Messiah was going to come and free the nation of Israel from Roman rule. These preconceived notions would cause him to doubt. Preconceived notions of Scripture will cause doubt.
The Baptist has been imprisoned for his faithfulness to God’s call. He preached telling Herod he should not have his brothers wife (Matthew 4:12; 14:3-12). John’s notion was most likely that Jesus as the King of the Jews would set up His kingdom. His assumption was correct, however, his timing was millenniums away; ie., His earthly kingdom.
Since John was imprisoned he was unable to question Jesus personally and sends his disciples. He is showing faith by sending his disciples, and by seeking confirmation. An understanding of Jesus’s mission and ministry would end the doubt and the confusion for John.
To know our own mission and ministry for Christ will give us peace of mind. Every individual believer, every church needs a mission and purpose for being, and we find that in Jesus Christ, and His Word.
John’s question is one we could probably ask at times. “Art thou He that should come, or do we look for another?” Can we truly understand John’s dilemma? I think so. When he has been believing that he was preaching the way of the Messiah, then, he winds up in lock up, because he preached against Herod’s adultery, he is surely wondering, “Have I been preaching the right stuff? Is this man whom I have proclaimed really the One?” By his faith, he sends his disciples to ask Him. He did not send them to ask the religious leaders. He knew the answer he would get there. He believed Jesus would be the only one who would have the correct answer. He must have trusted, by what he had seen and heard, that Jesus was truthful, and that His word could be trusted. Jesus would not lie about His own identity. Sometimes doubt is a sign of growth, if you are really seeking the truth. Was this man, Jesus, the Messiah; the long awaited One by the Jews?
The question asked by John, which was born of doubt is answered by Jesus. To answer, Jesus had only to use the Old Testament Scripture. When Jesus gave them the words of Isaiah 29:18-19; 35:4-6; 61:1-2a John would be satisfied with the answer, and the doubt was resolved. Being a prophet he would have been very acquainted with these verses, which are prophecies of the Messiah. He would trust the Scriptures in the identity of Jesus, and the evidence that He gave as well. The evidence was what Scriptures said the Messiah would do, and Jesus was doing it.
The mission of Jesus was to help the afflicted. Those who were afflicted physically, economically and spiritually were aided and blessed by the touch of Jesus. The works He performed were evidence of who He is/was. We must keep in mind that the works we perform are a testimony of who we are. The power Christians have over man made religion is a living Savior who overcame the power of sin. Man made religion binds men to man made laws. Christians are not bound to law, but to the One who fulfilled the law, thus, able to live His life.
John knowing the Prophets and their prophecies recognized the mission of Jesus when it was told to him. Jesus’s ministry was to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). His ministry was one of offense. He touched the unclean and the defiled. He ministered to “Tax collectors and sinners”, and that offended the religious leaders. He rebuked the religious establishment and their self-righteousness.
The King’s mission was to die, that all who repent and believe could be saved. The ultimate goal of King Jesus was/is to fulfill all the Word of God.
-by Tim A. Blankenship
God Will Rise
God Will Rise
Can you imagine being born into a family of priests. Can you imagine even more, that after you have grown to be a man, that you receive a call from God to be His prophet. You are told that you will be a prophet to the people of God, that you will be a prophet to the nations. You are also told that you will speak whatever God puts in your mouth.
“The words of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah, of the priests who were in Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, to whom the word of the LORD came in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign. It came also in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah, king of Judah, until the end of the eleventh year of Zedekiah the son of Josiah, king of Judah, until the carrying away of Jerusalem captive in the fifth month” Jeremiah 1:1-3 (NKJV).
The name Jeremiah means, “Jah will rise” and “Jah” is short for “Jehovah”. That name is given to us in one of the Psalms. In Psalm 68:4 it is written, “Sing to God, sing praises to His name; Extol Him who rides on the clouds, by His name YAH [Jah], and rejoice before Him.” The use of the name Jeremiah and of JAH seems to be that even though the Nation has fallen into ill will with God, that He is raised, He is exalted, and He will be praised by His people.
Jeremiah’s prophetic ministry takes place during some of the roughest of times, especially for a prophet. The people were so secure in their beliefs, that they were living under falsehood. They were thinking that because the temple was present in Jerusalem, then they would never fall.
The task of a true prophet of God would have been quite difficult for Jeremiah, as he was also a priest, and being from a family of priests, that would mean confronting some of the sins and discrepancies of the priesthood. Because of this he would not be very popular. But then, no prophet is ever popular, or well thought of while they are living.
Jeremiah probably prophesied during the latter years of king Josiah’s rule in Judah. Josiah was a good king, who brought reform that could even be called a revival to the nation. It is said of king Josiah, “He did that which was right in the eyes of the LORD” 2 Chronicles 34:2; but it was only shortlived so it was only temporary reform, which grieved the heart of this prophet of God.
When the people only put on a temporary change, because it has been legislated, rather than having a personal relationship with God, and a change of heart, it should grieve the hearts of those who know God.
This heart for God from this prophet would bring much sorrow, pain, and persecution from his family, friends, and the people. There seems to be only one who is faithful to Jeremiah and the Lord throughout this prophecy, and his name is Baruch (Chapter 45). We are each called, as a child of God, to be faithful to God, and support all those who are also faithful to God in proclaiming His Word.
God will rise and be exalted.
The Fire and Hammer 