"Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." ~ Matthew 5:48
Also in Leviticus 19:1-2
Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Speak to all the congregation of the sons of Israel and say to them, 'You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.'"
In Deuteronomy 18:13
"You shall be blameless before the LORD your God."
We are called to be perfect and blameless. How are we to do this?
Jesus gave instructions and examples in Chapter 5 and will continue to do so in the next two chapters as He continues with this sermon from a mountain.
The only way we can be perfect and blameless before God is through the blood of Jesus. We still need to try to live perfectly.
My life is far from perfect. The list of things done that shouldn't be and the things left undone that should be, is long. God has been working in my heart to let go of the heaping of judgements on myself when I fall short of living perfectly.
The most important thing is the working toward living blamelessly before God because of our love for Him and our love for His children, all those He created.
Mother Teresa is often held up as an example of someone who embodies much of what was covered in this chapter.
She was humble and full of compassion and cared for so many. She requested that some of her writings be burned for fear people would glorify her and take attention off of Jesus. She struggled with feeling disconnected from Jesus but continued to fulfill His calling on her life in such a way that watching her you would not know.
I think Mother Ter4esa would have been the first to tell you that she was not perfect, but it is also clear that she strove to live the way Jesus wants us to live. Humbly loving and caring for others.
Friday, September 21, 2012
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Matthew 5:33-47
33-36. "Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, 'You shall not make false vows, but shall fulfill your vows to the LORD'. But I say to you, make no oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is the footstool of His feet, or by Jerusalem, for it is THE CITY OF THE GREAT KING. Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black."
Don't make promises or swear on anything. We have no true control or ownership of anything, so how can we swear or make promises by them?
37. "But let your statement be, 'Yes, yes' or 'No, no'; anything beyond these is of evil."
This is one of my favorite verses. Let your yes be yes and your no be no!
38-45. "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous."
Don't repay evil for evil. If someone does something rude or unfair to you treat them with love, treat them the way you would like to be treated.
46-47. "For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?
It is easy to be kind and pray for people who are kind to you. God loves every one of us. He created each one of us. It breaks His heart when any turn away from Him. Jesus tells us to share the love God gives us not only with those who are showing us love but to all people. Take captive your thoughts. If you find yourself even thinking unkindly of another, stop those thoughts and pray for them in love. Try to avoid prayers requesting they be changed to someone more likable or kind. Instead pray for their hearts to be open and they be drawn closer to God so that they might feel His love for them in all its fulness.
Don't make promises or swear on anything. We have no true control or ownership of anything, so how can we swear or make promises by them?
37. "But let your statement be, 'Yes, yes' or 'No, no'; anything beyond these is of evil."
This is one of my favorite verses. Let your yes be yes and your no be no!
38-45. "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous."
Don't repay evil for evil. If someone does something rude or unfair to you treat them with love, treat them the way you would like to be treated.
46-47. "For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?
It is easy to be kind and pray for people who are kind to you. God loves every one of us. He created each one of us. It breaks His heart when any turn away from Him. Jesus tells us to share the love God gives us not only with those who are showing us love but to all people. Take captive your thoughts. If you find yourself even thinking unkindly of another, stop those thoughts and pray for them in love. Try to avoid prayers requesting they be changed to someone more likable or kind. Instead pray for their hearts to be open and they be drawn closer to God so that they might feel His love for them in all its fulness.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Matthew 5:27-32
27-28. "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery'; but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
Again, we are held to a higher standard. Whether we act out in a sinful manner or just think about it, it is still wrong and we need Jesus to help us. God has given us the desire to do what is right. Hang onto that desire and ask Him for the strength to do it.
29-30. "If your right eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. If your right hand makes you stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to go into hell."
If there is something in your life turning you away from God and toward sin, throw it away. Turn away from it and reach out for Jesus.
31-32. "It was said, 'Whoever sends his wife away, let him give her a certificate of divorce'; but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for the reason of unchastity, makes her commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery."
Think about your actions and how they will affect others. Don't cause others to turn away from God. There can be a ripple effect; do you want your actions or words to cause a chain reaction of turning people away from God or drawing them near to Him?
Again, we are held to a higher standard. Whether we act out in a sinful manner or just think about it, it is still wrong and we need Jesus to help us. God has given us the desire to do what is right. Hang onto that desire and ask Him for the strength to do it.
29-30. "If your right eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. If your right hand makes you stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to go into hell."
If there is something in your life turning you away from God and toward sin, throw it away. Turn away from it and reach out for Jesus.
31-32. "It was said, 'Whoever sends his wife away, let him give her a certificate of divorce'; but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for the reason of unchastity, makes her commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery."
Think about your actions and how they will affect others. Don't cause others to turn away from God. There can be a ripple effect; do you want your actions or words to cause a chain reaction of turning people away from God or drawing them near to Him?
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Matthew 5:21-26
21-22. "You have heard that the ancients were told, 'You shall not commit murder' and 'Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.' But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, 'You good for nothing,' shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, 'You fool,' shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell."
We are held accountable to a higher level. Sin is sin and it separates us from God. The degree of our wrongdoing does not separate us from Him a little bit or more than others. Only the blood of Jesus can save us and make us acceptable to God.
23-24. "Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come present your offering."
If you are holding onto sin, deal with it. Don't just go on with your day to day life letting it fester inside you.
25-26. "Make friends quickly with your opponent at law while you are with him on the way, so that your opponent may not hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you be thrown into prison. Truly I say to you, you will not come out of there until you have paid up the last cent."
Look at things from others' point of view. Don't cling so hard to thinking your are right that you can't see your contribution to a bad situation. In telling the secrets of others or airing out arguments in public, your faults will be exposed and you will be put to shame.
"Do not go out hastily to argue your case; otherwise, what will you do in the end, when your neighbor humiliates you? Argue your case with your neighbor, and do not reveal the secret of another, or he who hears it will reproach you, and the evil report about you will not pass away."
~ Proverbs 25:8-10
We are held accountable to a higher level. Sin is sin and it separates us from God. The degree of our wrongdoing does not separate us from Him a little bit or more than others. Only the blood of Jesus can save us and make us acceptable to God.
23-24. "Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come present your offering."
If you are holding onto sin, deal with it. Don't just go on with your day to day life letting it fester inside you.
25-26. "Make friends quickly with your opponent at law while you are with him on the way, so that your opponent may not hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you be thrown into prison. Truly I say to you, you will not come out of there until you have paid up the last cent."
Look at things from others' point of view. Don't cling so hard to thinking your are right that you can't see your contribution to a bad situation. In telling the secrets of others or airing out arguments in public, your faults will be exposed and you will be put to shame.
"Do not go out hastily to argue your case; otherwise, what will you do in the end, when your neighbor humiliates you? Argue your case with your neighbor, and do not reveal the secret of another, or he who hears it will reproach you, and the evil report about you will not pass away."
~ Proverbs 25:8-10
Monday, September 17, 2012
Matthew 20
"For I say to you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven."
How are we to be more righteous than others?
Jesus gives us an example in Luke.
"The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, the sinner!'" ~ Luke 18:11-13
Practice humility. Righteousness is being acceptable to God.
How can we be acceptable to God?
We are to keep all of His commandments.
How do I keep to every rule? That would be living in a state of perfection, wouldn't it?
We can try all we like to be perfect and we should try to live in a manner acceptable to God. Never forgetting to ask Him for His strength to do so and always remembering the only way to be perfect and acceptable to God is through accepting God's gift of salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus.
"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;" ~ Romans 3:23-24
How are we to be more righteous than others?
Jesus gives us an example in Luke.
"The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, the sinner!'" ~ Luke 18:11-13
Practice humility. Righteousness is being acceptable to God.
How can we be acceptable to God?
We are to keep all of His commandments.
How do I keep to every rule? That would be living in a state of perfection, wouldn't it?
We can try all we like to be perfect and we should try to live in a manner acceptable to God. Never forgetting to ask Him for His strength to do so and always remembering the only way to be perfect and acceptable to God is through accepting God's gift of salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus.
"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;" ~ Romans 3:23-24
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Matthew 19
"Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
Moses was given by God the commandments by which God's people should live by. The ten commandments in Exodus 20 and then the book of Deuteronomy is full of instructions on what is right and what is wrong.
When Jesus says that we will be called least in heaven if we put off even the smallest part but will be called great if we keep and teach them we are being given an impossible task. We are being asked to live perfectly.
A little later Jesus talks about John the Baptist being the greatest and best man He know but the least in heaven will be greater than John the Baptist.
"Truly I say to you, among those born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist! Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he." ~ Matthew 11:11
Moses was given by God the commandments by which God's people should live by. The ten commandments in Exodus 20 and then the book of Deuteronomy is full of instructions on what is right and what is wrong.
When Jesus says that we will be called least in heaven if we put off even the smallest part but will be called great if we keep and teach them we are being given an impossible task. We are being asked to live perfectly.
A little later Jesus talks about John the Baptist being the greatest and best man He know but the least in heaven will be greater than John the Baptist.
"Truly I say to you, among those born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist! Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he." ~ Matthew 11:11
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Matthew 5:17-18
17. "Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did
not come to abolish but to fulfill."
The law, ever letter and stroke of it. What law is this referring to?
The Greek word for law used here is νόμος nomos (no'-mos) which means law (surprise) but Strong's indicates that it specially refers to the law of Moses.
However, Jesus refers to the Law and the Prophets again a little later.
"In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets." - Matthew 7:12
Is this what Jesus is talking about when He is talking about not abolishing but fulfilling the Law. If so, it sounds easy ... but it's not.
Running through my mind are examples of things I have said or done that I would not want said or done to me. Also running through my mind are things I have not said or done that I would like to have said or done to me.
18. "For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished."
In Matthew chapter 24 it seems that Jesus addresses when "all is accomplished" and that will be when He returns after the time of tribulation.
The law, ever letter and stroke of it. What law is this referring to?
The Greek word for law used here is νόμος nomos (no'-mos) which means law (surprise) but Strong's indicates that it specially refers to the law of Moses.
However, Jesus refers to the Law and the Prophets again a little later.
"In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets." - Matthew 7:12
Is this what Jesus is talking about when He is talking about not abolishing but fulfilling the Law. If so, it sounds easy ... but it's not.
Running through my mind are examples of things I have said or done that I would not want said or done to me. Also running through my mind are things I have not said or done that I would like to have said or done to me.
18. "For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished."
In Matthew chapter 24 it seems that Jesus addresses when "all is accomplished" and that will be when He returns after the time of tribulation.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Matthew 5:17-20
"Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say to you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven."
Jesus did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. We are to follow the law until everything is accomplished. If we do not and tell others they don't have to we'll be least in the kingdom of heaven.
QUESTION: When is "everything accomplished" and what is "the Law and the Prophets"?
IMPACT: A couple days ago when reading Matthew 5:12 I commented that I didn't "have any desire for anything extra in heaven." Now I read about being the least in heaven and I don't exactly want that either.
The statement "least in the kingdom of heaven" gives me an image of going to family dinner and knowing they all love me and accept me because I am part of them but I also feeling clearly that they aren't happy with how I'm acting. So I'm there and they love me, but they don't necessarily like me.
That would be an awful feeling. I wouldn't want to experience it here and I certainly wouldn't want to feel that with my heavenly Father or my brother Christ Jesus.
It's a little hard for me to imagine anyone treated that way in heaven. My image of the triune God is one and all being so loving.
Tomorrow I'll change gears from what pops into my mind and back to doing a little research.
Jesus did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. We are to follow the law until everything is accomplished. If we do not and tell others they don't have to we'll be least in the kingdom of heaven.
QUESTION: When is "everything accomplished" and what is "the Law and the Prophets"?
IMPACT: A couple days ago when reading Matthew 5:12 I commented that I didn't "have any desire for anything extra in heaven." Now I read about being the least in heaven and I don't exactly want that either.
The statement "least in the kingdom of heaven" gives me an image of going to family dinner and knowing they all love me and accept me because I am part of them but I also feeling clearly that they aren't happy with how I'm acting. So I'm there and they love me, but they don't necessarily like me.
That would be an awful feeling. I wouldn't want to experience it here and I certainly wouldn't want to feel that with my heavenly Father or my brother Christ Jesus.
It's a little hard for me to imagine anyone treated that way in heaven. My image of the triune God is one and all being so loving.
Tomorrow I'll change gears from what pops into my mind and back to doing a little research.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Matthew 5:16
16. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
Letting my light shine so others will see my good works and glorify God ... to me this means, in short, to live in such a way that if someone said something bad about me, no one would believe it.
Peter put is so clearly in 1 Peter 2:12 ...
"Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world." - 1 Peter 2:12 NLT
Letting my light shine so others will see my good works and glorify God ... to me this means, in short, to live in such a way that if someone said something bad about me, no one would believe it.
Peter put is so clearly in 1 Peter 2:12 ...
"Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world." - 1 Peter 2:12 NLT
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Matthew 5:15
15. "nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house."
I have hermit-like tendencies. Many times I start to close myself off in my house, doing my own thing. The past few years everything seems so overwhelming and I want to stop all outside engagements or activities so I can focus on catching up with what needs doing in my own home and family. I don't though, because despite feeling overwhelmed, I still feel God's love and light in my life and I can feel Him calling me not to hide it away behind my closed doors, keeping it to myself.
Hiding a lit candle under a basket seems absurd. How much more absurd to try hiding the light of Jesus' love in my own home, however unintentional.
"For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people."
This fills me with hope. I still complain and argue and am criticized. My life is not completely clean and innocent. I make mistakes frequently. I truly feel Him working in me. I have felt that desire to do what is pleasing to Him. I need to trust more fully that He is also providing me the power to accomplish what is pleasing to Him.
I have hermit-like tendencies. Many times I start to close myself off in my house, doing my own thing. The past few years everything seems so overwhelming and I want to stop all outside engagements or activities so I can focus on catching up with what needs doing in my own home and family. I don't though, because despite feeling overwhelmed, I still feel God's love and light in my life and I can feel Him calling me not to hide it away behind my closed doors, keeping it to myself.
Hiding a lit candle under a basket seems absurd. How much more absurd to try hiding the light of Jesus' love in my own home, however unintentional.
"For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people."
This fills me with hope. I still complain and argue and am criticized. My life is not completely clean and innocent. I make mistakes frequently. I truly feel Him working in me. I have felt that desire to do what is pleasing to Him. I need to trust more fully that He is also providing me the power to accomplish what is pleasing to Him.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Matthew 5:13-14
Salt and light for God's glory. We are to be a shining example to others of God's grace and love. The way we live our lives should be done in such a manner that regardless of our circumstances people think, "What's different about them? How do I get that?"
13. "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men."
I don't want to be tasteless and thrown out.
14. "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden;"
I want to be like that first gleam of dawn shining ever brighter from Proverbs 4:18.
The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. -Proverbs 4:18 NLT
The light I want shining is the light of Jesus Christ spoken of in John 8:2.
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life."
When I was a child I was told, "You're not afraid of the dark, you're afraid of what you can't see in the dark." While it was supposed to be a joke and was perhaps less than comforting at the time it has stuck with me through my entire life and it has always been true. As a child in bed in a dark room alone imaging what might be there that I can't see and now as an adult thinking of spiritual darkness and what lurks there ... as well as being alone in a dark house or car, still scared of what I can't see that might be there.
Thank you Jesus for being there and letting me know that as long as I follow you I have light and the darkness cannot touch me.
13. "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men."
I don't want to be tasteless and thrown out.
14. "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden;"
I want to be like that first gleam of dawn shining ever brighter from Proverbs 4:18.
The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. -Proverbs 4:18 NLT
The light I want shining is the light of Jesus Christ spoken of in John 8:2.
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life."
When I was a child I was told, "You're not afraid of the dark, you're afraid of what you can't see in the dark." While it was supposed to be a joke and was perhaps less than comforting at the time it has stuck with me through my entire life and it has always been true. As a child in bed in a dark room alone imaging what might be there that I can't see and now as an adult thinking of spiritual darkness and what lurks there ... as well as being alone in a dark house or car, still scared of what I can't see that might be there.
Thank you Jesus for being there and letting me know that as long as I follow you I have light and the darkness cannot touch me.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Matthew 5:11-12
11. Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.
Taunted, persecuted, lied to in every way because of a belief in Jesus Christ and who He is. If ever it happens to you, remember that you will be supremely blest because of it. Lay it at the feet of Jesus, give it all to Him, because He has no problem handling it so you don't have to take it on yourself.
12. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Cheerfully jump for joy thinking about how huge your gain will be in heaven, like those inspired speakers of God's truth before you.
I always have the same reaction when I read about rewards or crowns to be received in heaven. I don't think I'm going to arrive to a whole bunch of accolades about hot great I am for what I did here on earth. I'm definitely not great! More than that though, I don't feel any desire for anything extra in heaven, I just want to be there. I can't imagine anything better than simply being in His presence and feeling full acceptance. I just can't grasp the idea that any rewards could make that experience better.
Taunted, persecuted, lied to in every way because of a belief in Jesus Christ and who He is. If ever it happens to you, remember that you will be supremely blest because of it. Lay it at the feet of Jesus, give it all to Him, because He has no problem handling it so you don't have to take it on yourself.
12. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Cheerfully jump for joy thinking about how huge your gain will be in heaven, like those inspired speakers of God's truth before you.
I always have the same reaction when I read about rewards or crowns to be received in heaven. I don't think I'm going to arrive to a whole bunch of accolades about hot great I am for what I did here on earth. I'm definitely not great! More than that though, I don't feel any desire for anything extra in heaven, I just want to be there. I can't imagine anything better than simply being in His presence and feeling full acceptance. I just can't grasp the idea that any rewards could make that experience better.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Matthew 5:9-10
9. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
If the peacemakers will be called the children of God, as children of God shouldn't we be peacemakers?
10. Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
The persecution or suffering for Christ that we might experience here in the Americas is not comparable to what may be experienced in other parts of the world, but it does still happen here.
The word persecution is διώκω dioko (dē-ō'-kō) which means to pursue. Described as both being made to flee or drive away and to seek after eagerly.
The word for kingdom is βασιλεία basileia (bä-sē-lā'-ä) which means royalty. Described in Easton's as referring to the reign of the Messiah when used in the New Testament.
So, what does it mean "the kingdom of heaven shall be theirs"? I still don't know.
If the peacemakers will be called the children of God, as children of God shouldn't we be peacemakers?
10. Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
The persecution or suffering for Christ that we might experience here in the Americas is not comparable to what may be experienced in other parts of the world, but it does still happen here.
The word persecution is διώκω dioko (dē-ō'-kō) which means to pursue. Described as both being made to flee or drive away and to seek after eagerly.
The word for kingdom is βασιλεία basileia (bä-sē-lā'-ä) which means royalty. Described in Easton's as referring to the reign of the Messiah when used in the New Testament.
So, what does it mean "the kingdom of heaven shall be theirs"? I still don't know.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Matthew 5:7-8
7. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
I need mercy. The number of mistakes I make on any given day ... I am so glad that our Lord Jesus Christ has an unending supply of mercy.
I must remember that and extend mercy to others. Even if I feel hurt or rejected or wronged in any way. I must remember that I repeatedly fall short and relinquish my self-righteousness in favor of reaching out for the righteousness of Christ.
8. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
The word for heart is καρδία kardia (kär-dē'-ä) which means, literally, the heart. It also means the thoughts and feelings or mind in a figurative sense.
Easton's Bible Dictionary describes it as the center of spiritual life: the soul or mind as the fountain of our thoughts, passions, desires, purposes, etc.
I will continue to struggle with keeping my thoughts, words, actions, etc. pure because I really want to see the face of God.
I need mercy. The number of mistakes I make on any given day ... I am so glad that our Lord Jesus Christ has an unending supply of mercy.
I must remember that and extend mercy to others. Even if I feel hurt or rejected or wronged in any way. I must remember that I repeatedly fall short and relinquish my self-righteousness in favor of reaching out for the righteousness of Christ.
8. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
The word for heart is καρδία kardia (kär-dē'-ä) which means, literally, the heart. It also means the thoughts and feelings or mind in a figurative sense.
Easton's Bible Dictionary describes it as the center of spiritual life: the soul or mind as the fountain of our thoughts, passions, desires, purposes, etc.
I will continue to struggle with keeping my thoughts, words, actions, etc. pure because I really want to see the face of God.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Matthew 5:6
6. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
The word for righteousness is δικαιοσύνη dikaiosynē (dē-kī-o-sü'-nā) which means equity of character or justification. Easton's Bible Dictionary explains it as the state of being as we ought to be, the condition acceptable to God.
How encouraging to know that those who hunger and thirst for being or acting in a way acceptable to God will one day reach that goal.
I realize that this condition is made possible only through the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. There is nothing more I can do to make myself acceptable to God.
Loving Him makes me want to be a better example of someone who follows Christ. I never want to act in a manner that would turn people away from Him.
Lord, help me to be a light for you in this world.
The word for righteousness is δικαιοσύνη dikaiosynē (dē-kī-o-sü'-nā) which means equity of character or justification. Easton's Bible Dictionary explains it as the state of being as we ought to be, the condition acceptable to God.
How encouraging to know that those who hunger and thirst for being or acting in a way acceptable to God will one day reach that goal.
I realize that this condition is made possible only through the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. There is nothing more I can do to make myself acceptable to God.
Loving Him makes me want to be a better example of someone who follows Christ. I never want to act in a manner that would turn people away from Him.
Lord, help me to be a light for you in this world.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Matthew 5:4-5
4. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
The word for comforted is παρακαλέω parakaleo (pä-rä-kä-le'-ō) which means to call near. Comforting indeed is the thought that when I am grieving, Jesus is there calling me near to Him.
5. Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.
The word for gentle is πραΰς prays (prä-ü's) which means mild. I do not understand what it means to inherit the earth. How do I attain a mild disposition? The words meek, humble and gentle are easier for me to identify with.
Somehow meek and mild bring with them a negative feeling ... However, I am thinking of a mild and meek attitude toward God in accepting that there are things that happen in my life that I will not like, want or understand but still I will wholly rely on God rather than my own strength to get me through this life.
My spirit is now rejoicing in the knowledge that I don't have to do it on my own.
The word for comforted is παρακαλέω parakaleo (pä-rä-kä-le'-ō) which means to call near. Comforting indeed is the thought that when I am grieving, Jesus is there calling me near to Him.
5. Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.
The word for gentle is πραΰς prays (prä-ü's) which means mild. I do not understand what it means to inherit the earth. How do I attain a mild disposition? The words meek, humble and gentle are easier for me to identify with.
Somehow meek and mild bring with them a negative feeling ... However, I am thinking of a mild and meek attitude toward God in accepting that there are things that happen in my life that I will not like, want or understand but still I will wholly rely on God rather than my own strength to get me through this life.
My spirit is now rejoicing in the knowledge that I don't have to do it on my own.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Matthew 4:23-5:3
4:23-25. Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people. The news about Him spread throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all who were ill, those suffering with various diseases and pains, demoniacs, epileptics, paralytics; and He healed them. Large crowds followed Him from Galilee and the Decapolis and Jerusalem and Judea and from beyond the Jordan.
After going about Galilee teaching and preaching and healing not only were the disciples He chose following Him but crowds of people.
5:1-2. When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying,
Jesus walked away from the crowds to a more secluded place, followed by His chosen disciples. Once settled He began to teach them.
5:3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
The word for blessed here (and through verse 11) is μακάριος makarios (mä-kä'-rē-os) which means supremely blest. Not just called fortunate or spoken well of but supremely blest.
Who are the poor in spirit? What does it mean to be poor in spirit? Does this refer to people who struggle with sadness or depression?
The word for spirit here is πνεῦμα pneuma (pnyü'-mä) which is the rational soul or mental disposition.
I do not understand clearly what it means that "theirs is the kingdom of heaven". Does it simply mean the gates of heaven will be open to them or that they will catch glimpses of heaven while still here on earth?
After going about Galilee teaching and preaching and healing not only were the disciples He chose following Him but crowds of people.
5:1-2. When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying,
Jesus walked away from the crowds to a more secluded place, followed by His chosen disciples. Once settled He began to teach them.
5:3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
The word for blessed here (and through verse 11) is μακάριος makarios (mä-kä'-rē-os) which means supremely blest. Not just called fortunate or spoken well of but supremely blest.
Who are the poor in spirit? What does it mean to be poor in spirit? Does this refer to people who struggle with sadness or depression?
The word for spirit here is πνεῦμα pneuma (pnyü'-mä) which is the rational soul or mental disposition.
I do not understand clearly what it means that "theirs is the kingdom of heaven". Does it simply mean the gates of heaven will be open to them or that they will catch glimpses of heaven while still here on earth?
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Matthew 4
1-3. Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry. And the tempter cam and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread."
Jesus was led by the Spirit to be tempted. He was tempted after 40 days of fasting. Was He not tempted before that time? It makes sense that Diabolos would wait until Jesus was weak and tired before trying to lead Him astray.
4. But He answered and said, "It is written, 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.’”
When Jesus is quoting from Deuteronomy the meaning is clear and if you read the scripture in context it means the same.
When the devil quotes Psalm 91 it is out of context and sounds like it has a completely different meaning than what it was intended to mean when read in its' entirety.
This gives me pause ... I want to make sure that when I quote scripture it is not simply taking a small piece out of context to make it fit my purposes. Scripture, the very breath of God should be read and remembered to honor His purposes ... never to simply support our purposes.
7-11. Jesus said to him, "On the other hand, it is written, ' You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and the3ir glory; and he said to Him, "All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me." Then Jesus said to him, Go, Satan! For it is written, ' You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.’” Then the devil left Him; and behold, angels came and began to minister to Him.
When Jesus says "Begone", Satan goes and then angels come and care for Jesus.
12-17. Now when Jesus heard that John had been taken into custody, He withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth, He cam and settled in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali. This was to fulfill what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet: “The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— The people who were sitting in darkness saw a great Light, And those who were sitting in the land and shadow of death, Upon them a Light dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
How long were the angels ministering to Jesus before He came out of the wilderness and heard the news about John being in jail?
18-22. Now as Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon who was called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fisherman. And He said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately they left their nets and followed Him. Going on from there He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and He called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.
As Jesus is preaching and bringing light into the darkness of the Gentiles he calls two sets of brothers away from their fishing boats. Simon Peter and Andrew and then James and John, the sons of Zebedee. How did Zebedee feel about his sons just walking out on the family business in the middle of the work day?
23-25. Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people. The news about Him spread throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all who were ill, those suffering with various diseases and pains, demoniacs, epileptics, paralytics; and He healed them. Large crowds followed Him from Galilee and the Decapolis and Jerusalem and Judea and from beyond the Jordan.
Jesus went about teaching and preaching and healing all kinds of sicknesses. Is it any wonder that people began to flock and follow Him, bringing their sick and lame with them? I would have gone. I'm sure once I got there and heard Him preach I would have been moved. I would have run after Him with Rebekah in my arms hoping for miracles of perfect health for her.
Jesus was led by the Spirit to be tempted. He was tempted after 40 days of fasting. Was He not tempted before that time? It makes sense that Diabolos would wait until Jesus was weak and tired before trying to lead Him astray.
4. But He answered and said, "It is written, 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.’”
When Jesus is quoting from Deuteronomy the meaning is clear and if you read the scripture in context it means the same.
5-6. Then the devil took Him into the holy city and had Him stand on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down; for it is written, 'He will command His angels concerning You’; and‘On their hands they will bear You up, So that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.’”
When the devil quotes Psalm 91 it is out of context and sounds like it has a completely different meaning than what it was intended to mean when read in its' entirety.
This gives me pause ... I want to make sure that when I quote scripture it is not simply taking a small piece out of context to make it fit my purposes. Scripture, the very breath of God should be read and remembered to honor His purposes ... never to simply support our purposes.
7-11. Jesus said to him, "On the other hand, it is written, ' You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and the3ir glory; and he said to Him, "All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me." Then Jesus said to him, Go, Satan! For it is written, ' You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.’” Then the devil left Him; and behold, angels came and began to minister to Him.
When Jesus says "Begone", Satan goes and then angels come and care for Jesus.
12-17. Now when Jesus heard that John had been taken into custody, He withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth, He cam and settled in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali. This was to fulfill what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet: “The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— The people who were sitting in darkness saw a great Light, And those who were sitting in the land and shadow of death, Upon them a Light dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
How long were the angels ministering to Jesus before He came out of the wilderness and heard the news about John being in jail?
18-22. Now as Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon who was called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fisherman. And He said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately they left their nets and followed Him. Going on from there He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and He called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.
As Jesus is preaching and bringing light into the darkness of the Gentiles he calls two sets of brothers away from their fishing boats. Simon Peter and Andrew and then James and John, the sons of Zebedee. How did Zebedee feel about his sons just walking out on the family business in the middle of the work day?
23-25. Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people. The news about Him spread throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all who were ill, those suffering with various diseases and pains, demoniacs, epileptics, paralytics; and He healed them. Large crowds followed Him from Galilee and the Decapolis and Jerusalem and Judea and from beyond the Jordan.
Jesus went about teaching and preaching and healing all kinds of sicknesses. Is it any wonder that people began to flock and follow Him, bringing their sick and lame with them? I would have gone. I'm sure once I got there and heard Him preach I would have been moved. I would have run after Him with Rebekah in my arms hoping for miracles of perfect health for her.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Matthew 3
1-6. Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." For this is the one referred by by Isaiah the prophet when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight!’”
Now John himself had a garment of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then Jerusalem was going out to him, and all Judea and all the district around the Jordan; and they were being baptized by him in the Jordan River, as they confessed their sins.
What is the timeline here? I feel like I'm reading an introduction to who John the Baptist is and then about one day in his life.
7-12. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, "You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance; and do not suppose that you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham for our father'; for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children to Abraham. The axe is already laid at the root of the trees; therefore every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clear His threshing floor; and He will gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire."
Was it just the first statement about vipers that John directed at the Pharisees and Sadducees or was he still talking to them through to the end of this little speech? It sounds like he was talking to people other than the religious leaders, like John made his first statement directly to the leaders and then turned to include everyone there in what he said next.
13-15. Then Jesus arrived from Galilee at the Jordan coming to John, to be baptized by him. But John tried to prevent Him, saying, "I have need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?" But Jesus answering said to him, "Permit it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he permitted Him.
When Jesus arrived were the Pharisees and Sadducees still there?
16-17. After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him, and behold, a voice out of the heavens said, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased."
Was everyone present able to see the heavens open and the Holy Spirit descend in the form of a dove? Were they all able to hear the voice proclaiming who Jesus is?
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Matthew 2
1-3. Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him." When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
All Jerusalem was worried with Herod or because of fear of Herod being worried?
4-23. Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet: "And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, Are by no means least among the leaders of Judah; For out of you shall come forth a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.” Then Herod secretly called the magi and determined from them the exact time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him." After hearing the king, they went their way; and the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way.
Now when they had gone, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up! Take the Child and His mother and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is going to search for the Child to destroy Him." So Joseph got up and took the Child and His mother while it was still night, and left for Egypt. He remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called My Son.”
Then when Herod saw that he had been tricked by the magi, he became very enraged, and sent and slew all the male children who were in Bethlehem and all its vicinity, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the magi. Then what had been spoken through Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: "A voice was heard in Ramah, Weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children;And she refused to be comforted, Because they were no more.”
But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, and said, "Get up, take the Child and His mother, and go into the land of Israel; for those who sought the Child's life are dead." So Joseph got up, took the Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Then after being warned by God in a dream, he left for the regions of Galilee, and cam and lived in a city called Nazareth. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophets: "He shall be called a Nazarene."
Dreams
Verse 12: The Magi were warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod. Did they all have the same or similar dreams?
Verse 13: An angel told Joseph in a dream to take Mary & Jesus to Egypt.
Verses 19-20: An angel told Joseph in a dream to take Mary & Jesus back to Israel.
Verse 22: Joseph was warned by God to go somewhere other than Judea.
This seems to answer my question from yesterday. Messages from God through dreams were not uncommon. I don't think everyone had them, just that they were not unheard of.
I find it interesting that the magi also received messages from God. I suppose God can send a message to anyone He chooses so I shouldn't be surprised.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Matthew 1
1-16. The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham: Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez was the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram. Ram was the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon. Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz was the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of David the king. David was the father of Solomon by Bathsheba who had been the wife of Uriah. Solomon was the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa. Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah. Uzziah was the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jeconiah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. After the deportation to Babylon: Jeconiah became the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel. Zerubbabel was the father of Abihud, Abihud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor. Azor was the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud. Eliud was the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob. Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom Jesus was born, who is called the Messiah.
It is interesting to me that Matthew chose to trace the lineage of Jesus Christ through his adopted father. Did Matthew know that Mark, Luke and John were also writing about the life of Jesus? Is Mary's lineage written somewhere?
17. So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; from David to the deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations.
I wonder what the significance is of the 14 generations mentioned?
18-25. Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly. But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child and shall bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which translated means, “God with us.” And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife, but kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus.
It was nice of Joseph to not want to cause embarrassment to Mary, finding herself with child before marriage.
Was it not uncommon to have angels speak to you in a dream? I guess the Lord must make it pretty clear that it's a message from Him.
How aware of the book of Isaiah was Joseph? If Joseph was familiar with Isaiah 7:14 I can see how that might help him believe that Mary was indeed a virgin.
Isaiah 7:14 "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel."
It seems to me that Joseph must have been a man of great character and great faith.
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