“Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for My sake shall find it. He that receiveth you receiveth Me, and he that receiveth Me receiveth Him that sent Me. He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.” ~Jesus (Matthew 10:34-42)
Peace
Work in the Kingdom of Heaven
“Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as ye go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence. And when ye come into an house, salute it. And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.” ~Jesus (Matthew 10:5-15)
Through the Bible in a Year – e100613
Peace… But No Peace
Jeremiah 6:10-19
purpose: To reveal what is happening when there is proposed peace, but evil is good, and good is evil; when the people of God despise the word of God, and there is no shame; and to show what will happen if there is no repentance.
1. THE WORD OF GOD BECOMES OFFENSIVE (v. 10).
2. TROUBLE IN THE HOMELAND, ABROAD, AT HOME AND AMONG SPIRITUAL LEADERS (vv. 11-13).
3. A FALSE MESSAGE IS PROCLAIMED FOR PEACE (v. 14).
4. THERE IS NO SHAME TOWARD WHAT GOD CALLS ABOMINATION (v. 15a).
5. THERE WILL BE A VISITATION FROM THE LORD (v. 15b).
6. WHAT GOD EXPECTS OF HIS PEOPLE DURING THIS TIME (v. 16a).
- A. Get into God’s ways He provides; first repent.
- B. Ask direction in the old time ways of living by faith.
- C. You will find rest and peace for your souls.
7. THE PEOPLE TAKE A CHOICE (vv. 16b-19).
- A. Evil comes on the people.
- B. There will be fruit from their thoughts.
1. Today, if you can think it (without any thought of consequences); do it.
2. Fruits of thoughts can be tragic indeed; not only for the “thinker”, but the victims of the thoughts.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Through the Bible in a Year 100613
Fear… Coming Up Short
Hebrews 4:1-3
1. PUT TO FLIGHT THOSE THINGS THAT HINDER YOUR FAITH AND FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT (v. 1).
2. THE PREACHED WORD WILL HAVE A POWERFUL AFFECT ON THOSE WHO WILL HEAR AND HEED IT (v. 2).
3. THERE IS REST, PEACE, FOR THOSE WHO BEAR THE FRUIT OF FAITH (v. 3).
-Tim A. Blankenship
Through the Bible in a Year – 092913
Justified… Hope of Eternal Life
Titus 3:1-7
1. THE JUSTIFIED ARE SUBJECTS OF THOSE IN LEADERSHIP (vv. 1-2).
2. JUSTIFICATION IS BY MERCY AND GRACE FROM GOD; NOT BY WORKS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS (vv. 3-5).
3. BEING JUSTIFIED, BY GOD’S PRONOUNCEMENT, WE HAVE HOPE OF ETERNAL LIFE (vv. 6-7)
-Tim A. Blankenship
W4CL – Peace
“For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace; and that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.” Ephesians 2:14-18 (KJV)
Many in our world are crying out for peace. Peace between Israel and Palestine, Syria, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, etc.. Ever since I was a child I can remember people calling for “Peace”. Not too many, however, really appreciate what “Peace” means.
Peace does not mean the absence of conflict. There can be conflict for the cause of peace. The greatest peace is realized when a man, woman, boy or girl receives the peace of God.
The thing Paul speaks of in the above verses, “…Broken down the middle wall of partition…” is speaking of the wall between Jew and Gentile; the law, and heathenism. By the death of Jesus Christ on the cross that wall has been broken down, and we are both reconciled to God.
If one does not believe in, trust in the death, burial and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ you are still at enmity with God. Your heart is far from Him, and you cannot know peace. With Christ Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior you will have the Holy Spirit and permanent access to the Father.
With this peace, even in the midst of the world’s greatest conflicts, you will be at peace. Peace of heart and soul. Peace of mind. Peace with God.
W4CL – Fruit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” Galations 5:22-26 (KJV)
Paul gave us examples of the works of the flesh in the verses preceding the above text. They are the evidence of ungodliness. Many of the works of the flesh have been seen in professing Christians; however they are the works of the flesh; and not of Christ.
The works of the flesh come from the heart and mind of unredeemed men and women. It can be the old left overs of one’s past life, and the Christian must put them to death. The Christian will produce the Fruit of the Spirit – the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
Notice the fruit – “Love, joy, peace” The three go together; you cannot separate peace from love or joy, nor joy from peace and love; nor love from joy and peace. The peace of God which passes all understanding (Romans 5:1-2; Philippians 4:7).
“Longsuffering” that is basically patience, enduring faith in God, forbearance with others.
“Gentleness” equals moral goodness, integrity. You are the same in your behavior when you are alone as you are when you are with people.
“Goodness” Upright in heart.
“Faith” having a conviction of the truth.
“Meekness” not too many people desire to be meek; however that is a fruit of the Spirit. Jesus said of the meek “They shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). Jesus is a good example of meekness. Knowing who He is, did not retaliate against those who hated Him; instead, He said, “Father, forgive them they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34).
“Temperance” means self-control. This begins with have a clear mind, clean heart, and life. One cannot have self-control if they have the works of the flesh. The works of the flesh are in control.
Walking in the Spirit gives the Christian freedom to walk with Jesus; free from condemnation, guilt, and fear. The fruit of the Spirit is what comes from the Christian who is trusting the Lord.
In Christ Jesus you do bear the fruit of the Spirit.
Words for Christian Living – Commendation
“But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.” 2 Corinthians 10:17-18 (KJV)
Most people are searching for commendation. Some are satisfied with self-commendation; others desire the commendation of others. Self-commendation is worthless; but then, so is the commendation of others for the purposes of eternity.
The word “Commendation” means… “Approval; Praise”. It speaks well of a person when others approve her/him. However, if someone with an evil heart speaks well of you… What does that say?
The commendation from God, our Lord, is the better commendation. Do not rest in peace with what others say of you. You can rest, and be in peace with what God says of you, commending you. You will not be commended by God with unrepented sin in your life. He will commend you when sin is dealt with, and you are in fellowship with Him through the cross of His Son Jesus Christ.
Evil; After the Flood
We live “After the flood”. Was that news to you? 🙂 We all know that. The flood did not eradicate evil; is what I am saying. It did however stop the progressive flow of evil that was going on and continuing in the days before. God would continue to have a people, a nation and a Deliverer and Saviour for His people and the world.
As we look at Scripture from my reading for today I read;
“And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech. And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there. And they said one to another, ‘Go to, let us make brick, and burn them throughly.’ And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter. And they said, ‘Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.’ And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. And the LORD said, ‘Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another’s speech.’ So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.” Genesis 11:1-9 (KJV)
In this passage of Scripture, and several years following the flood we see the people gathered together in one place; contrary to God’s command of “Multiplying and filling the earth”. This in effect was a rebellious act against the Creator; and if the people were not going to cover the earth, then God would do it by confusing their languages.
There is only one way for the people of earth to be one in God, Peace and Unity; and that is through Jesus Christ. It is not through building monuments of human effort such as statues, churches, mosque, temples, or skyscrapers, etc. Nor, is religion equal to the task. It is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus that will bring us together, keep us together for eternity.
Pray for peace. Yes! First pray for what God has given us guidance and command to pray for; and that is “the peace of Jerusalem” (Psalm 122:6).
-Tim A. Blankenship
What We Do In Troubled Times
Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil.
And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.”
1 Thessalonians 5:14-24 (KJV)
Since the time of the resurrection of Jesus and until today Christians have not been without troubles. Just like the rest of the world we have sickness, disease, financial setbacks, and ruin. “In the world you will have tribulation” Jesus said. He also said, “…Be of good cheer; for I have overcome the world.” I am so thankful for those words.
Many times I have asked myself the question, “What am I supposed to do in such a time as this?”. The answer is given in the above verses. In short we are to keep on doing what we are supposed to do; live by faith; trusting the outcome to our beloved Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
-T.A.
Reconciled By the Cross of Christ
Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: but now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace; and that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:11-22 (KJV)
The only hope of the world, and its people is the cross of Jesus Christ. It is the only means by which mankind can be or will be reconciled to God.
-T.A.
When We are Gathered as One
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, ‘Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.’ Again I say unto you, ‘That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:15-20 (KJV)
Only those who are in Christ can be one, as we join together in His Spirit and in His Word. That means we are walking with God, and are in agreement with Him. As individual Christians we may not always agree with one another, but we must agree with the Living and written Word He has sent us. When we agree with His Word, and practice it; in faith and forgiveness; then we will be at peace with Him and one another.
-T.A.
Councils, Sparrows and Enemies
Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; and ye shall be brought before governors and kings for My sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for My name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, ‘Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of Man be come.’ The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household? Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing, and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for My sake shall find it.” Matthew 10:16-39 (KJV)
Notice the three “Fear nots” in the text above. The word also of Whom we are to fear.
-T.A.
God’s Word Today 081312
For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; “Let not your prophets and your diviners, that be in the midst of you, deceive you, neither hearken to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed. For they prophesy falsely unto you in My name: I have not sent them,” saith the LORD. For thus saith the LORD, “That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform My good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,’ saith the LORD, ‘thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon Me, and ye shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart. And I will be found of you,’ saith the LORD: ‘and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you,’ saith the LORD; ‘and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.” Jeremiah 29:8-14 (KJV)
-T.A.
In the Rule, and Fall of the Kingdoms of Men
…In The Rule, And Fall Of The Kingdom’s Of Men
Daniel 2:24-49
purpose – To show the peril and fallacious thinking in putting confidence in the rule of man; and the wisdom in putting your confidence in God and the rule of God.
“The reason we have democracy is because we don’t have righteous-rule monarchy. We need some kind of checks and balances, which is why our government is established as it is.” Dr. David Jeremiah THE HANDWRITING ON THE WALL pg. 62.
The following is a quote from Professor Alexander Tyler which he wrote concerning the fall of the Athenian republic which fell over a thousand years ago. He said,
“A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves money from the public treasure. From that moment on the majority always votes for the candidates promising the most money from the public treasury, with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy followed by a dictatorship. The average age of the world’s great civilizations has been two hundred years. These nations have progressed through the following sequence: from bondage to spiritual faith to great courage, from courage to liberty, from liberty to abundance, from abundance to selfishness, from selfishness to complacency, from complacency to apathy, from apathy to dependency, from dependency back to bondage.” IBID. pg. 62.
One of the things we can see from the dream of Nebuchadnezzar and its interpretation is that man’s kingdoms are not eternal, they will fall; and that those who believe God and live for Him are promised a future eternal kingdom. God’s King will overthrow the kingdoms of this world. Now, for those who are “inhabiters of this world”, ie., those who love this world; they will be angry at our King, however, their anger will go to naught.
INTRODUCTORY OUTLINE –
I. DANIEL WAS A MAN WITH A HEART FOR OTHERS, AND A HEART FOR GOD (vv. 24-30).
II. DANIEL WAS THE REVEALER GOD CHOSE TO REVEAL THE SECRETS OF THE KING’S MIND (vv. 31-35).
III. DANIEL WAS GIVEN THE SECRET OF THE DREAMS INTERPRETATION (vv. 36-45).
IV. DANIEL WAS THOUGHTFUL OF HIS FRIENDS AND WAS REWARDED (vv. 46-49).
During the rule and fall of the kingdom’s of men we must follow the heart of our Savior and Lord. It was also the heart of Daniel.
I. AS CHRISTIANS WE HAVE THE ANSWER FOR MANKIND’S PROBLEMS; WE MUST BE LOVING TOWARD OTHERS (vv. 24-30).
The answer to governments who rule, and don’t rule well is Jesus Christ. The answer for an empty bank account, is to trust the Lord. These answers may not put food on the table or money in the bank, but it is the answer to peace of mind and heart. Jesus saving the soul of troubled people changes the minds and hearts of government, eventually, Jesus will rule and reign on the earth. Peace of mind, and especially “peace with God” is the greatest thing in this world to possess.
Do we sincerely believe that Jesus is the means of mankind’s salvation? Do we sincerely believe that He [Jesus Christ] died on a cross, was buried, and three days later came out of that grave alive? Christian, if you sincerely believe that then we need to be sharing that message. Daniel had the answer for the king, but when he received the answer his immediate response wasn’t to run in declaring, “I have the interpretation. I know the dream and its interpretation.” His immediate response was for the lives of the “wise men”. We live under the governments of men; which at any time could turn on its people and declare anything unlawful, and with a mad ruler could declare “Christians are unfit to live. We declare it just and legal to kill anyone who calls themselves ‘Christian’”. Let’s pray that doesn’t happen; but it could.
“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” Acts 4:12 (KJV)
When Arioch hears of Daniel’s revelation he immediately tells the king, “I have found a man…”. It seems as though he is trying to assume at least part of the responsiblity for discovering the secret. I guess we all want some approval for what we do.
As Daniel we to should not take credit for what God has done. We must give Him the glory for the answer for our hearts problems, and fears, and declare along with Daniel, “There is a God in heaven…”, and this is as opposed to statues, cash, bank accounts, health care, investments, bonds, any material possession; even family; which are temporary. There is a God in heaven who has made all things, holds them together, and saves His prized creation from the death brought on by our sin.
We cannot avoid the issue of the “Latter days”. What days is Daniel speaking of. It seems that those latter days which the Old Testament speaks of is those days which referr to the coming of Jesus Christ; and beginning with His first coming where He died for our sins and rose from the dead, until the time He returns and sets up His kingdom upon earth; ruling and reigning from Jerusalem. We are in those latter days. If people don’t know Jesus Christ trusting Him for their eternity and life, then, they will be part of those who are crushed by the “stone cut out without hands”.
II. WHEN UNGODLY RULERS SEE THE GREAT IMAGE, CHRISTIANS SEE THE GREAT MOUNTAIN (vv. 31-45).
“For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.” Habakkuk 2:14 (KJV)
When Nebuchadnezzar had dreamed of this great image, which may be the inspiration for the design of the image he erects in his own honor in chapter three; we find that Daniel sees these things as “Beasts” in chapter seven when he begins to dream of these things. We will cover this more when we get to chapter seven, however, the beasts which Daniel sees are devouring beasts, and that is how governments of men behave. Not only do they devour people, but they devour people’s goods and gold. Ruling men often see their empires as “great images” to pattern others by; God sees them as devouring beasts.
Rulers often see their kingdoms brightly arrayed, and glorious; and Daniel was respectful. Nebuchadnezzar was a proud man, and “pride goes before destruction”. How long will it take for wicked rulers to realize that their kingdoms cannot defeat the power and authority of God? Only until Jesus comes again and defeats wicked men’s hearts will they continue on their slippery slope to destruction.
You will notice in the interpretation of the dream that the metals become less and less precious; less and less valuable. The most valuable being gold down to the feet which are “iron mixed with clay”. The kingdoms become more and more inferior. John Calvin in his commentary of Daniel writing of the kings following writes,
“We see then that his kingdom is not called inferior through having less splendour or opulence in human estimation, but because the general condition of the world was worse under the second monarchy, as men’s vices and corruptions increase more and more.” John Calvin Commentary pg. 173 Daniel 2:39
If this be the case and I believe that it is then, how far have we slid since then? Kings and kingdoms seem even more set on setting themselves over all men and over all the earth and over God’s Word and will.
In the dream Nebuchadnezzar saw an image with a head of gold; arms and chest of silver; belly and thighs of brass [bronze]; legs of iron; and feet of iron mixed with clay. These are representative of five nations which succeed one from the other, having great power, but deteriorating in moral strength and character. The head of gold is representative of Babylon and Nebuchadnezzar; the arms and chest of silver represent the Medo-Persian empire; the belly and thighs of brass represent Greece; the legs of iron represent Rome; and the feet of iron and clay represent the future new world order.
It is a wonderful and gracious thing to have the assurance, that all the kingdoms of this world are under the authoritative hand of Almighty God. The world and her “rulers” may see an “great and awesome” image, but in the eyes of the Almighty they are devouring beasts. Sounds like Jesus’s description of the “thief”,
“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 (KJV)
The Psalmist tells us where we are not to put our trust; and that is in the princes of this world; including the “prince of darkness”,
“Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help.” Psalms 146:3 (KJV)
There is no help in man or beasts. Our help and our hope is in the Lord God Almighty.
III. THERE IS REWARD AWAITING THE FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN IN THE KINGDOM OF JESUS CHRIST (vv. 46-49).
Jesus said, “Great is your reward in heaven” when referring to the blessed who are persecuted in Matthew 5:12. There are other places He mentions reward; having “their own reward”, or not receiving “reward” because it was already received. (See Matthew 5:46; 6:1-18; 10:41-42; 16:27). God will always honor faithfulness to Himself and His Word. He has promised rewards to the faitful. The greatest reward is not escaping hell, death, punishment; not walking on “streets of gold” or through “gates of pearl”, or living in a “mansion” in heaven; the greatest reward will be beholding the face of our Lord who bled, died, was buried, and rose again that we might be saved.
There is nothing wrong with expecting reward for faithfulness in ministry. It is wrong if that is the only reason, or the main reason for doing the ministry. The main reason for serving the Lord in ministry is loving Him, and giving the opportunity to others to love Him. Remember we can only love Him, because He first loved us;
“We love Him, because He first loved us” 1 John 4:19.
Loving Him can stand alone; even with no other reward; because we cannot love Him, except we first realize His great love for us in dying on the cross for our sin, being buried, then rising again from the grave paying the debt that was ours to pay.
God loves you and me enough to send the very best; His Son. He loves you so much to save us as we are; He loves us too much to leave us the way we are.
There is fear and dread in the rule of the kings and kingdom’s of men. However, there is peace in knowing that God rules in the political, economical, social, and national affairs of kings. The King of all kings reigns supremely.
application –
i. Christians love others through Christ Jesus, and stand for their rights and their lives.
ii. Christians are committed to the King of kings, and will loyally serve the kings of earth, in Christ.
iii. Christians serve the Lord; the King of kings; because of love for Him, and are expecting the rewards He has promised.
iv. Christians, by faith, know and believe that all things are in the hands of the Almighty God.
-Tim A. Blankenship
When a Peace Partner is not a Peace Partner
That is when there are the conditions placed that Abbas does toward Benjamin Netanyahu.
When it comes to peace with Israel, how can you compromise on the promise of God? God’s promises to Israel concerning the land in particular.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Peace Treaty with Israel Dead???
An article in Israel Today quotes a new Egyptian presidential candidate as saying,
To that I say all nations will one day be at peace with Israel, and Jesus Christ will be King.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Day 55 – The Unsocial Prophet
“The preacher who does not mix with people will never make much of a preacher;” at least that has been said or thought by many. One thing needs to be understood by many preachers of the 21st century; if a preacher has been called by God to preach the Word of God, then we just do not make our lives, or build our lives around social activities, nor what the people may expect of us. The preacher is God’s preacher, not man’s smooth talking, easy listening, socially active, friend to everybody servant.
Rantings of a mad preacher? Maybe. My reading today was from Jeremiah 11 – 24, and I guess I noticed some things that got a fire burning. Jeremiah is one of my favorite Prophets of the Old Testament to read, study, and I have rarely preached from the book.
In my title I call it “The Unsocial Prophet” for a couple of reasons. Jeremiah was a man called by God from a family of priest to be a prophet to the nation of Judah; during the days when Josiah was king, then his son Jehoiakim, and finally the king Zedekiah when Jerusalem was carried away captive by Babylon.
Why I call him “The Unsocial Prophet”. One of the things God says to Jeremiah is “Do not pray for this people”.
“For thus saith the LORD, ‘Enter not into the house of mourning, neither go to lament nor bemoan them: for I have taken away My peace from this people,’ saith the LORD, ‘even lovingkindness and mercies.'” Jeremiah 16:5 (KJV)
The people of Judah have refused to listen to the Word of the LORD through the prophets He has sent; they have violated the land in not giving them their sabbath rests every seven years, they have violated the weekly sabbaths by continuing to do business, conducting deals and selling as on the other six days, and they have brought idols into their worship, and continue to act in worship to Jehovah/YHWH.
The prophet is sad concerning the plight of his people (9:1), however, his sadness is because they have forsaken the LORD. He knows that God’s plan for them is the best plan for them. He is even attacked and hated by his own family, and people. Another reason I call him “The Unsocial Prophet” is;
“Thou shalt not also go into the house of feasting, to sit with them to eat and to drink. For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; ‘Behold, I will cause to cease out of this place in your eyes, and in your days, the voice of mirth, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride.'” 16:8
The prophet is to be an influence to the people; not letting the people influence him. He is to be led by the Spirit of God, His Word, and not the social activities of the day.
Let me give a clear Biblical definition of a “Prophet”. The prophet of God is a preacher, an expositor of God’s Word. He is first and foremost a student of Scripture; a man of prayer; an obedient servant of God. He proclaims what God declares to Him, and then proclaims it to the people. That in itself can make him an enemy to the people. Who is going to invite a guy like this to their parties, or even to preach their funerals, or invite him to mourn with them? In the last verse above we see that God tells Jeremiah that joy and gladness will cease.
Men and women are so deceived today. Even professing Christians live as though any belief is okay as long as you believe something; have faith in something; as though “faith” is all you need. There is only one way to approach God according to His Word, but the heart of men have devised alternative ways which lead to death and destruction. These are other gods, false gods, which lead to death.
God spoke to Jeremiah saying,
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” 17:9
You can continue believing as you believe, contrary to God and His Word, and you will receive the just judgment of God. “According to the fruit of his [your] doings” you will receive all that you have coming to you.
Many of the people of Anathoth hated Jeremiah because of his preaching. They plotted against him to do him harm, but God’s hand of protection was on him (1:19);
“Then said they, ‘Come, and let us devise devices against Jeremiah; for the law shall not perish from the priest, nor counsel from the wise, nor the word from the prophet. Come, and let us smite him with the tongue, and let us not give heed to any of his words.'” 18:18
Jeremiah even says that the problem of Judah is due to the smooth talking false prophets who had the hearts of the people;
“Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts concerning the prophets; ‘Behold, I will feed them with wormwood, and make them drink the water of gall: for from the prophets of Jerusalem is profaneness gone forth into all the land.'” 23:15
Pastors and preachers of today need to hear the Word of the Lord. Stand and preach the word, not the desires of the hearts of the people. It is not a popular opinion that matters to the preacher of God, but rather a saved, cleansed, pure live that will glorify God. God is the center of the preacher’s preaching. Are you afraid of being called “unsociable”? Would it not be better to be deemed “unsociable” by the masses than to be deemed an unholy, false preacher by God? And receive the judgment that comes from God for such activities?
Most of this post today seems somewhat negative, but I pray instructive, correcting, and guiding to many who read it. There is hope and encouragement within what I read today. Hear the encouragement of God’s Word –
“Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In His days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is His name whereby He shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” 23:5-6
“For I will set mine eyes upon them for good, and I will bring them again to this land: and I will build them, and not pull them down; and I will plant them, and not pluck them up. And I will give them an heart to know Me, that I am the LORD: and they shall be My people, and I will be their God: for they shall return unto Me with their whole heart.” 24:6-7
The hope for Judah and Israel is THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS; and that is none other than the Messiah who was to come, and give His life a ransom for many, and then return one day and establish His eternal kingdom. The people of Judah will return to the LORD with their whole heart. Because of Jesus their is hope for all have a “wicked heart”, and that is all of us. “There is none righteous, no not one” (Romans 3:10) “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). However Christ died for our sins. Trust Him, and believe.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Day 44 – Thoughts from Psalms; Jerusalem
The city of Jerusalem on the East shore of the Mediterranean Sea is a city which is the source of much conflict; yet its name means, “city of peace” or “teaching peace”. Yet Jerusalem has no peace. It is a source of much conflict because there are three religions which want to claim it as their own city. Of course, the Jewish people claim it, they have since David claimed the city, after he conquered the Jebusites, and it was called then, “the city of David”.
Jerusalem was called Jebus when David conquered it.
“And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, which is Jebus; where the Jebusites were, the inhabitants of the land. And the inhabitants of Jebus said to David, ‘Thou shalt not come hither.’ Nevertheless David took the castle of Zion, which is the city of David.” 1 Chronicles 11:4-5 (KJV)
And David changed the name to Jerusalem.
My reading for today was Psalm 122 through Psalm 135. The city of Jerusalem is named six times in these 14 Psalms. It is named three times in Psalm 122; verses 2, 3, and 6.
What is it that makes one historic city, in a historic country, and of very little real estate such a “hotspot”? One thing is that it is the place one of the most well known men of history was born near the city, died there, was buried there, and He arose bodily from the grave in which He was buried. Another thing in its history is that the temple of Solomon was at Jerusalem. Solomon’s time as king of Israel was known as a time of peace, prosperity, and glory for the Jewish people; as well as the glory of Solomon’s temple. There has never been another like it. There is another religion which holds Jerusalem to be a sacred place and that is the Muslim religion.
Jerusalem was held for years by Islamic people; and the Christian religion of Catholicism thought it good to start a war over the city, to conquer it and return it to “Christian” ownership.
Enough of my “history” lesson.
The psalmist prays for the peace of Jerusalem,
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces. For my brethren and companions’ sakes, I will now say, ‘Peace be within thee.’ Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek thy good.” Psalm 122:6-9 (KJV)
I believe we could put this to practice in our day. Christian; we need to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, because when Jerusalem is at peace our Lord, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, will be on the throne ruling in this world. The world leaders of today are trying to bring peace to Jerusalem, and the world by doing everything, except what God in His word says we are to do.
Can we apply this verse to the church today? Only in praying for our churches. David was not asking for prayer for the church, but for Jerusalem, the city,
Notice what he says of those who will pray for the peace of Jerusalem, the city of peace. First, “They shall prosper that love thee” When we pray for the peace of Jerusalem I believe we are praying for the coming of the Lord Jesus. He is the Prince of peace. There will be no peace on earth until the Prince of peace comes in all His glory.
Before He comes, however, you need to know the “peace of God” that only Jesus can give. When He comes it will be too late. To know about Him, His life, death, burial and bodily resurrection today; and to reject Him opens your mind to all forms of deception for the days ahead.
Secondly, when we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, we are praying for peace in individual lives to prosper.
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and experience peace, today. (See Romans 5:1; Philippians 4:7)
-Tim A. Blankenship
Jerusalem and Prayer
The City of Jerusalem of the land of Israel is a hot topic. It causes many people to get furious over it, because it seems to be; in their minds; there religions city. Israel claims it, Catholicism claims it in the name of Christianity, and Islam claims it in the name of Mohammed. Thus there is much struggle over the city.
Scripture calls it the “City of David” (2 Samuel 5:7; 6:10; 1 Kings 2:10; and several other references in 1 Kings), and “City of God” (Psalm 46:4; 48:1, 8; 87:3). David was the King of Israel, who had the heart of God.
David wrote,
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.” Psalm 122:6 (KJV)
There are many events; some of them very catastrophic which happen in and around Jerusalem today. Many arguing and fighting for a Palestinian State. I do not see a Palestinian State mentioned in Scripture; the main purpose of the “Palestinian people”, by many of their own people is to destroy Israel. So Jerusalem does need our prayer.
When the Psalmist writes this he is not asking us to pray for the peace of the “Church”, or Islam, but the peace of the City of David and of God. It seems there has always been a struggle between the holy and the unholy, good and evil over this city.
Someone has said something like this, “As goes Jerusalem; so goes the world.” When we pray for the peace of Jerusalem and her people Israel we pray for the peace of the world too.
Jerusalem is the place where our Lord Jesus walked and where He died on the cross and was burried and from which He rose again to life. It is also the place to which one day, and I believe soon, will return and make things right in this world (Zechariah 14). There will be peace in Jerusalem through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
-Tim A. Blankenship
Ordered Steps
It is usually not an excepted thing to have your “steps” ordered by someone else. However, it is the preferred thing for those who are made the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21). If a man or woman joins the military their steps are ordered, or they suffer consequences for their dereliction of duty or insubordination. If we are followers of God through His Son Jesus Christ we too are soldiers of the cross of Jesus.
The Psalmist writes much in Psalm 119. It is in fact the longest Psalm of the 150 which are given us in the Psalms. It is 176 verses, and practically every verse has something to do with the Word of God. I think there are three of those 176 which have no reference to God’s Word. Now those references uses words such as “Commandments”, “Law”, “Statutes”, “Judgments”, “Word”, “Precepts” and “Testimonies”, being sure to cover every work of the Word of the LORD. If you will look closely at the Psalm it is a prayer.
I want us to look at one verse which is the request of the Psalmist,
“Order my steps in Thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.” Psalm 119:133 (KJV)
It is a shame that professing Christians are ignorant of God’s Word. Sometimes it amazes me how ignorant some preachers are concerning the Word of God. I do not mean to belittle or be derogatory with them, or toward them, but come on men; what do we preach? Our ignorance of Scripture is a personal detriment; as well as great harm to those we lead. There is no shame in ignorance, just in choosing to remain ignorant. That is stupidity.
The Psalmist; probably David; asks God to direct his steps. Our steps; ordered by the LORD will lead us into holiness, righteousness and joy and peace. The Psalmist also asks the LORD “…and let not any iniquity have dominion over me”. Those who are in Christ Jesus are possessed by the Spirit of Christ – the Holy Spirit – and are directed by that Spirit every moment of every day. We may not always listen and heed, but let us pray that our “Accounts will be short” with the LORD. As with the whole of Psalm 119, let it be also with this verse; our prayer.
The following is the commentary of Charles H. Spurgeon on this verse,
“Order my steps in thy word.” This is one of the Lord’s customary mercies to his chosen, – ‘“He keepeth the feet of his saints.” By his grace he enables us to put our feet step by step in the very place which his word ordains. This prayer seeks a very choice favour, namely, that every distinct act, every step, might be arranged and governed by the will of God. This does not stop short of perfect holiness, neither will the believer’s desires be satisfied with anything beneath that blessed consummation. “And let not any iniquity have dominion over me.” This is the negative side of the blessing. We ask to do all that is right, and to fall under the power of nothing that is wrong. God is our sovereign, and we would have every thought in subjection to his sway. Believers have no choice, darling sins to which they would be willing to bow. They pant for perfect liberty from the power of evil, and being conscious that they cannot obtain it of themselves, they cry unto God for it.
From The Treasury of David – e-Sword
Holiness, righteousness, peace and joy is only found by those who are in the faith of Jesus the Christ, Son of the Living God.
-Tim A. Blankenship
B F & M – Peace and War
Voicing our opinions and convictions are some things we Baptists are known for. Every Christian has an opinion about anything, and sometimes everything. There are some pretty heavy and hard debates over some things as well. I believe that we can disagree without being disagreeable. Or, you might even say, Without going to war over it.
As Christians we should never desire war. Whether it is in a foreign land or within our own; war should be avoided when, and if it is possible to maintain freedom, and preserve life.
It is my opinion and I believe also one of Scripture that the passive approach to war is futile to our existence. When we are faced with extinction by an invader in our homes it would be right to protect our family. There are not too many USA citizens who would disagree. The same is true when our Nation is attacked. Rather than being defensive there must be an offensive attack.
As with the war in Iraq, we are supposed to be there in an offensive war, due to the attacks of September 11, 2001. I realize many do not see it that way, and that is okay. Saddam Hussein was a threat to the people of Iraq, the United States of America, and to the world. He needed to be dealt with. God does not frown on us defending our lives and our liberty; and/or the lives and liberty of others.
Here is our Statement of Faith on the subject of “Peace and War”:
“XVI. Peace and War
It is the duty of Christians to seek peace with all men on principles of righteousness. In accordance with the spirit and teachings of Christ they should do all in their power to put an end to war.
The true remedy for the war spirit is the gospel of our Lord. The supreme need of the world is the acceptance of His teachings in all the affairs of men and nations, and the practical application of His law of love. Christian people throughout the world should pray for the reign of the Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 2:4; Matthew 5:9,38-48; 6:33; 26:52; Luke 22:36,38; Romans 12:18-19; 13:1-7; 14:19; Hebrews 12:14; James 4:1-2.”
Some time ago I was listening to a News interview of a former Muslim terrorist. He was asked, how terrorist are convinced to stop being terrorists?. His answer was enlightening and encouraging. He said, “Most cease being terrorists because of Christianity”. He is actually saying that these former terrorist, including himself, stop being terrorists because they had trusted Jesus Christ as Savior.
If we desire peace rather than war with those who are terrorists; those who are threatening to destroy America; those who hate our freedom, our faith, our culture, and really our God; then, we must pray for God’s intervention in their hearts. Only a changed heart for Christ Jesus will convince them to cease and desist from their terror on the world.
We must pray for peace. We must pray for the Prince of Peace, who is our Lord and Savior, to come and give peace in the world. He is the only true source of peace on earth.
Come quickly Lord Jesus.
-T.A.
God of My Righteousness
GOD Of My Righteousness
Psalm 4:1-8
1. The Psalmist pleads with God for help remembering past helps (v. 1).
2. The Psalmist confronts the “sons of men” concerning their unrighteous behaviors (vv. 2-5).
3. The Psalmist finds rest and peace in the safety of the LORD (vv. 6-8).
I. SPEAKING FIRST WITH GOD; THEN WITH MEN (v. 1)
“He who dares to face his Maker will not tremble before the sons of men.” C. H. Spurgeon from Treasury of David Psalm 4:1
II. THE CONFRONTATION OF THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE UNRIGHTEOUSNESS (vv. 2-5)
The unrighteous see little benefit to righteousness; and love vanity and “leasing” which is lying, empty fancies, vain conceits, wicked fabrications.
The unrighteous watch for the fall of the righteous.
Stop along the way and take pause, reflect on righteousness, and the GOD of righteousness.
“The godly are the chosen of God, and are, by distinguishing grace, set apart and separated from among men.” ditto
The cry for men to search their hearts, and believe in the righteous God; and the righteousness of His Son our Savior; the sacrifice of Calvary.
III. THE DWELLING PLACE OF REST AND SAFETY (vv. 6-8)
There are many who would see; rather than believe (Matthew 27:39-44).
Jesus said, “Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed (John 20:29b).
There is gladness and joy in the LORD; more than just when the crops come in.
With the LORD of our righteousness there is peace, safety and sleep (Ps. 127:1-2).
Summary –
i. When the sons of God are in the righteousness of God, then we can and will stand before the sons of men.
ii. There will be confrontation between righteousness and unrighteousness; between the sons of God and the sons of men.
iii. There is peace, safety and rest for the righteous through the Lord our righteousness.
-T.A.
Preached at Carr Lane Baptist Church 08/07/11 a.m. worship.
Evidence of a Dead Heart
“Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.” 1 Peter 2:1-3
It is a certain fact that all men are dying. There have been only two exceptions to this in Scripture, and those two were Enoch of Genesis 5:21-24; and Elijah of 2 Kings 2:9-11. Even Jesus Christ died; and He did that for you and me; taking all the sins of the world upon Himself, taking the wrath and judgment of the Father; and we by faith are justified through faith in Him.
Paul the apostle says that the evidence of a new heart is bearing fruit, or the evidence,
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law; and they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” Galations 5:22-26
It is a hard matter, but there are professing Christians who seek to do harm to their brethren, and that is malicious behavior. Desiring the harm of another is “malice”, and comes from an evil heart. Peter says that the Christian, follower of Jesus Christ is to lay these matters aside; and you could say “Put them off” entirely. He includes “Guile” which would be scheming deception to achieve your own way, and or lying to protect you own skin.
The Christian is to be real. Hypocrisy is found where ever there are people. The Christian might be hypocritical at times, but should not be a hypocrite. Being a hypocrite is one who dwells in that way; always pretending to be something they are not. It is the hypocrite who goes to church, speaks the theological language on Sunday, at Sunday worship; appearing holy, yet curses his fellow employees, employer and others the rest of the time. It is “Envy” which caused the religious rulers to crucify Jesus (Matthew 27:18). Envy is a form of jealousy which will do anything, even murder, to get what they want.
These things which control a life are not the fruits of the Christian. They are the Evidence of a Dead Heart.
The “Newborn babe” desires the word of God, and grows in it. The Christian is not perfect, nor sinless, yet we are growing into the image of Christ; if indeed we have “Tasted that the Lord is gracious”.
-T.A.
Observations From Luke – 032111
When I was a boy I spent many days and hours digging for treasure. I had all kinds of holes dug in the ground around our house, in the pastures, the cedar glades, or wherever there was a place I thought that there could be treasure. I did this probably when I was 8 – 10 years of age.
All the time I had a treasure I didn’t see, and that was my family, my parents and siblings, aunts and uncles, cousins. Later on I received a treasure that I have to this day, and will have it through all eternity, and that treasure is the treasure of Jesus Christ in my heart, my life, my inner most being; eternal life with God and Him who died for me. That is the greatest treasure.
Jesus said in Luke 12:34;
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
Now there is not a thing wrong with desiring treasure. You will notice though that the verse does not say “Where your heart is, there will your treasure be also”, and that is what many of us probably think. That is not what Jesus says though.
We already have a treasure. Defining our treasure is a key to being at peace; recognizing our treasure.
I knew a couple several years ago who built a new house; they gave a great testimony of loving Jesus Christ, being great givers, and being church people. For a while after building their house they became somewhat frightened or nervous about leaving their home at night. They were worried that someone might break into their house, and either steal some of their new things or vandalize the house. In their hearts, at least for awhile their treasure was in that new house; and they were not at all at peace.
Where is your treasure? If it is truly in Christ Jesus, then you will be at peace, and fear nothing.
“Where your treasure is there will your heart be also.”
-Tim A. Blankenship
The Fire and Hammer 