The Gospel Challenge

Coffee Cup

2008-09-23T08:32:00.000-07:00

While working on a fishing boat in Alaska I had a coffee drinking coworker named Dave. Dave never washed his coffee cup. The cup had a thick, encrusted layer of coffee residue throughout the inside. Finally the cook, who was a neat freak (gotta like him), washed the cup when Dave wasn't looking. Consequently for the next month Dave complained about tasting soap in his coffee!

Jesus writes about the Pharisee's in Matthew 23:26, "You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup and the dish, and then the outside will become clean, too." (NLT) Like Dave, we are uncomfortable washing some areas of our "cup." Sure we want to be like Jesus, but it can be a challenge to our pride to make a necessary change, and the needed repentance that goes along with it. Ask the Holy Spirit to search the inside of your cup. SWC

Children

2008-09-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

Last night was the first night of our 2008-2009 AWANA year. It's great to see so many children interested in learning about God! Jesus gives an interesting instruction to adults regarding children in Matthew 18:10:

Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father. (NLT)

It looks like children have an angelic advocate that speaks to the Father in their behalf! Are we upset, uptight, inconvenienced when children are in our way? Or are we demonstrating the love of Christ? SWC

Theology Blog

2008-09-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

For those interested, I'm journaling my thoughts on another blog at http://bible08.blogspot.com/. This will focus more on theology as I explore different topics in detail. It will have more of a "note" design to it rather than a "paragraph" design like this page.

If your looking for a good online Bible with multiple versions, check out this great resource:

http://bible.logos.com/

Light in the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-7)

2008-09-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

There are five Greek words in Matthew chapter 17 indicating light: Matthew 17:2 (shown, sun, white, light) and Matthew 17:5 (bright). This is a major theme in the New Testament, particularly in the book of John (John 1:5,John 3:19, John 8:12, John 12:35, John 12:46). What an amazing opportunity for Peter, James and John to to see Jesus in the brightness of his glory! We look forward to the same experience one day in heaven. Just remember that according to Jesus we can walk in his light TODAY by following his lead. SWC

John 8:12 (NLT)
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.

Jesus is King!

2008-05-02T09:32:00.000-07:00

The book of Matthew focuses on Jesus as King. Language, topics, Scripture quotations from the Old Testament all emphasize Jesus royalty. Keep this in mind as you read Matthew. In chapter two Matthew purposely presents us with a contrast of two kings. Herod is an earthly king, with an earthly, self centered focus. Herod will protect his position at all costs--and proves it by killing children! Jesus is a heavenly king, with a focus on bringing salvation to helpless people. Jesus will provide salvation for his subjects regardless of the cost--and proves this by dieing on the cross! Amazing! A ruler, a King who comes to serve! Let's be like our King. Scott

Mary

2008-05-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

Consider how frustrated Mary must have been trying to communicate the virgin birth to her betrothal Joseph. And guess what? He didn't believe her. The days between Joseph discovering her pregnancy and his angelic visitor were certainly trying for Mary. I imagine she had multiple conversations with God that went something like this, "Please make Joseph understand!" God brought her through her trouble and he will do the same for us!

Check out the new poll in the top right column on this page. Scott

Congratulations!

2008-04-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

Congratulations for reading through the gospels! Tomorrow we will go back to the top and start over with the book of Matthew. You might want to read through this time in a different translation. In a day or two I'll post a new survey to record your translation choice. If the translation you are going to read in is not on the current list, please send the translation name to me ASAP so I can add it to the survey--it's impossible to edit the survey after I post it. I'll be using the New King James Version this time around.

As you've noticed I will not post on every chapter. Please feel free to comment "off topic" if you wish. I will also be naming posts topically from now on. Have fun reading! Scott

John 11

2008-04-22T10:36:00.000-07:00

After waiting two days before heading out to Judea to see Lazarus, Jesus' disciples were concerned that it was too dangerous to travel there. Evidently when he initially decided to NOT go to Judea, the disciples were in agreement--however for a different reason. Jesus delayed because of God's timing. The disciples delayed to protect their lives! To answer their concerns Jesus said, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world." (John 11:9) Look at J. Vernon McGee's comment on this verse:

There are twelve hours in the day, and you can’t change that. Because the Father has given the Son a work to do, nothing can stop Him. There is a great principle here. God has given to each man a lifework. You can’t extend that for one day any more than you can keep the sun from going down in the afternoon. But, thank God, you are absolutely invulnerable until your work is done. Nobody, not even Satan, can thwart God’s purpose in your life if you are following Him. To fail to follow Him is dangerous. (McGee)

Jesus went to Judea when the time was right. While we don't have Jesus' insight into perfect timing, we do have Scripture and the Spirit of God to give us direction. Are we listening? SWC

John 10

2008-04-17T12:52:00.000-07:00

My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. John 10:29 (ESV)

Isn't this verse awesome? We call it eternal security. Once saved, always saved. We can't jump out of his hand and no one can take us out! Romans 8:38-39 is also a great passage, "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." SWC

John 9

2008-04-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

As he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth. And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him. John 8:1-3 (ESV)

I watched a movie recently that was filmed in Seattle. I bet you can guess the local landmark that was highlighted multiple times in the film...the Space needle. The landmark draws our attention to the city.

God designs events and then uses these events in our lives to draw attention to Him. Some of these events are fun (A blind man receives his sight) and some are not so fun (A man who sees becomes blind). But either way it is a good habit for us to always ask, "What is God doing?" and, "How does He want me to respond?" We either join Him, like the blind man in John 9, or we resist Him like the Pharisees. SWC

John 8

2008-04-15T08:58:00.000-07:00

Look at the contrast in John chapter 8. SWC

Unbelievers:
Walk in darkness
Don't know where Jesus is from or where he is going
Don't know the Father
Will die in their sin
From below
Slave to sin
Father is the Devil
Not of God
Dishonor Jesus

Believers:
Have the light of life
Know Jesus
Know the Father
Abide in the word
Jesus' disciples
Know the truth
Set free
Is of God
Hears the words of God
Will never see death

John 7

2008-04-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

What's your motivation for ministry? For attending church service? What about Sunday school? How about church activities? Your glory or Christ's? Is it what you can get out of it or what you can give? Jesus told his listeners in John 7:18, "The one who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory; but the one who seeks the glory of him who sent him is true."

We get off track easily and before we know it we become the center and Jesus falls into second place or even last place. Check yourself out right now and make the very next thing you do an act that seeks to glorify Christ! SWC

John 6

2008-04-10T09:48:00.000-07:00

You gotta love the little boy who shared his lunch with Jesus. Five barely loaves and two fish would probably be enough food for two people. J. Vernon McGee writes, "Remember, these five barley loaves were not big commercial loaves of bread or family loaves. They were more like a hamburger bun. They were just big enough to put with the fish." So the boy gives up his lunch. It's doubtful that he has any idea of what Jesus has in mind. He gives to Jesus all that is available to him. I think the faith lesson is clear. We surrender our resources to Jesus knowing by faith that he will take care of the rest! SWC

John 5

2008-04-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

I'm falling apart. Bit by bit. Year by year. Today I go to the dentist at 11AM to turn a temporary filling into a permanent one. The reality is, that if I live long enough, I'll probably need to eventually replace this filling again. This is why I love the truth of the resurrection of the dead! This is the guarantee that one day our bodies will be permanently fixed. The power of our God is awesome! And the hope that he gives is beyond measure! SWC

Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. John 5:28-29 (ESV)

John 4

2008-04-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

Where do you worship God? At church? In your car? On a hike? In your closet? At lunch? On a city street? Alone? With a crowd? In another country? The truth is that believers worship in all these places and more. We worship whenever (and wherever) we direct our thoughts toward God.

God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." John 4:24 (ESV)

One memorable experience for me (there are others) was over ten years ago in the Kingdome (I know I just dated myself) with Promise Keepers. There is nothing quite like thousands of men singing together! What was one of your most memorable worship experiences? SWC

John 3

2008-04-04T15:40:00.000-07:00

"Look Daddy look!" I hear those words almost every day from one or more of my children. They want my attention. They want to feel important. Adults do the same thing, we are just a bit more subtle--usually. As believers our purpose is to draw attention, but not to ourselves. We are called to draw attention to God. Jesus tells Nicodemus in John 3:21, "But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God." Be sure to use the tools, abilities and resources given to you by God to draw attention to Him and not to yourself. SWC

John 2

2008-04-03T14:39:00.000-07:00

The word "believe" is the most important word in the book of John. This word appears 98 times. The next closest word count is 39 times in the book of Acts. The Greek word is pisteuo (πιστεύω) and means to think to be true, to be persuaded of, to credit, to place confidence in (Strong's Lexicon).

Many people initially believed in Jesus after watching the miracles he preformed, "Many believed in his name when they saw the signs that he was doing." (John 2:23) For most of his early disciples their belief was shallow and would soon fade when Jesus revealed the cost of genuine discipleship. Has my faith strengthened with time and trial? SWC

John 1

2008-04-02T11:57:00.000-07:00

What a wild ride of weather we've had over the past week here in the Seattle area! Rain, snow, wind, thunder, lightening, sun, hail, freezing temperatures. The hail at our house was the size of a small marble! What a wonderful creation we live in. I marvel when I think that our humble Savior who submitted himself to human authority, a frail body and eventually death, was the creator of the universe. When Nathanael came to realize who Jesus was, he responded appropriately, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” My response is the same, worship. SWC

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1 (ESV)

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 (ESV)

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life. 1 John 1:1 (ESV)

Luke 10

2008-03-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

In my Bible software program (Logos) I have the ability to automatically highlight the text based on predetermined criteria. For example all all verb imperatives (commands) are always highlighted green. In Luke 10:1-24 Jesus sends out his disciples to do ministry. Look at the imperatives (commands) in English... Pray,Go (x 2), Carry, Say (x 3), Remain, Eat, Heal, Know, Rejoice (x2). While I could comment on each of these commands, let's just look at the first two (pray & go).

And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves." Luke 10:3-2 (ESV)

What catches my attention is that Jesus first commands them to pray for laborers, and then he commands them to go as laborers. In other words THEY become the ANSWER to their own prayer. Perhaps God is calling us to follow up our prayer with action! SWC

Luke 9

2008-03-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

What do you do everyday? Get up, Shower, eat, brush teeth, fix bed, dress, drive, read and et cetera. When Jesus challenged his disciples to, "take up his cross," he adds the word, "daily." This should be a part of our regular routine, like breathing. The challenge with this is that breathing is easy and helps to keep us alive. The one who carries a cross does so to death. SWC

For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? Luke 9:25 (ESV)

Luke 8

2008-03-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

Mary--A few posts back I asked, "How many Mary's are there in the New Testament?" Since Mary Magdalene's name appears here in Luke8:2 I'd thought I'd answer the question. Mary was a very popular name during the first century and if you are like me it can become confusing which Mary the New Testament is referring to. Below is a list with some limited details and Scripture references.

(1) Mary the Mother of Jesus
Luke 1:26-27

(2) Mary Magdalene
Jesus cast seven demons out of her
Followed Jesus
At the Cross
Witnessed the resurrection
Luke 8:2

(3) Mary of Bethany
Sister of Martha and Lazarus
John 11:28-33

(4) Mary the mother of John Mark
Believers met in her home
Acts 12:12

(5) Mary of Rome
Romans 16:6

(6) Mary the Mother of James and Joseph*
Matthew 27:56

*This Mary is know by several names, but context point to the same woman
Also known as, "the other Mary" (Matthew 27:61)
Also known as, "Mary the mother of Joses" (Mark 15:40-47)
Also known as, "Mary the mother of James" (Luke 24:10)
Also known as, "Mary the wife of Clopas" (John 19:25)

Luke 7

2008-03-13T11:20:00.000-07:00

There is a myth in weight loss called, "Spot reduction." The myth goes something like this, "I can reduce fat in a specific area on my body by focusing exercise on it--like abs or triceps. The biological truth however is that weight loss happens evenly throughout our entire body regardless of what muscles are focused on.

There was a myth among the people of Jesus day, "We should stay away from sinners." Jesus had a different idea. He made sure that he brushed shoulders with people who needed mercy and grace--sinners. He never followed their behavior or became negatively influenced by them, but allowed sinners a chance at forgiveness. Who are we rubbing shoulders with today? SWC

Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little." Luke 7:44-47 (ESV)

Luke 6

2008-03-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

Luke chapter six contains an abbreviated version of the Sermon on the Mount. In the beatitudes Luke records four blessings and four woes.

Poor = future kingdom (Rich now = no future reward)
Hungry = future satisfaction (Full now = future hunger)
Weep = future laughing (Laugh now = future mourning)
Persecuted = future joy & reward in heaven (Loved now = implied future sorrow and loss of heaven)

As I was changing in the locker room last night I watched a few minutes of the news. There were a number of local stories about injustice, one after another. In each story criminal behavior hurt innocent people. I thought to myself, "How long?" Jesus gives the answer: SWC

Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven. Luke 6:23 (ESV)

Luke 5

2008-03-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

Sin is missing the mark. In Luke chapter five the Greek word for sin (ἁμαρτία) is used seven times (Luke 5:8, 20, 21, 23, 24, 30, 32). Peter misses the mark, the Paralytic misses the mark, Levi misses the mark. You and I miss the mark too.

I love the story where Jesus heals the Paralytic. Before he heals his physical problem Jesus heals his spiritual problem, "Man, your sins are forgiven." We have lots of physical challenges in life like financial difficulties and broken bodies. Let's make a spiritual commitment to take care of our sin first. SWC

Luke 4

2008-03-11T08:36:00.000-07:00

Three times in this chapter Jesus is connected to the power of the Holy Spirit.

Luke 4:1 "Full of the Holy Spirit"
Luke 4:14 "In the power of the Spirit"
Luke 4:18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me"

Christians are permanently indwelled by the Holy Spirit. However the level of filling, or control, of the Spirit on our lives is dependent on our willingness to surrender and follow. It is also connected to the amount of sin on our hearts. Am I in control or is God? I'm betting that God can do a better job then I can. SWC

Luke 3

2008-03-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

I wonder if John the Baptist really liked to eat locusts? I never tried. Don't think I want to either. Part of John's message was to, "Bear fruits in keeping with repentance." When I pick out fruit at the store I'm really selective. I look, touch, smell, squeeze. I want the best. God wants our fruit to be the best. Genuine repentance bears the best looking fruit. In other words our actions reflect the heart.

When our fruit becomes bruised we need to approach God in prayer. SWC

Luke 2

2008-03-05T07:45:00.000-08:00

Death. I'm getting closer. It seemed so far away when I was in grade school. I remember one of my high school teachers musing about what life would be like for us in the year 2000. That was 1983 and now it's 2008! I like what Simeon says as he reflects on his mortality, "Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace." (Luke 2:22) Simeon was ready! He knew and believed in Jesus. Death for a believer can be met with peace.

If you have time check out this extremely popular video clip from a recent Oprah show. The theme? Death. SWC Professor Randy Pausch's Last Lecture

Luke 1

2008-03-04T09:48:00.000-08:00

The mission of John the Baptist was to prepare the people for Jesus. At least two of John's disciples, Andrew and his brother Simon Peter, would eventually become disciples of Christ. John prepared the foundation of their spiritual life--on this Jesus built. For what ministry is God preparing you for? Your faith is stronger, your worship sweeter, your ministry toolbox bigger, your skills refined. Some of us are going to Nicaragua this summer as we seek to carry out the ministry that we have been prepared for. Perhaps God has prepared you for this too? SWC

he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared. Luke 1:17 (ESV)

Mark 16

2008-02-28T09:34:00.000-08:00

How many Marys are there in the New Testament? Let me know your guess. Or better yet your research. Two are listed in Mark chapter 16. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James(not Jesus' half-brother) & Salome. They were on their way to preform a difficult task: to anoint Jesus' body with spices. Spices were poured over a dead body to counteract the oder of decay and as a symbolic expression of loving devotion. They never got the chance! Instead they saw an angel who told them the exciting news of the resurrection. They were then issued the command that we are still called to carry out, "Go, tell." SWC

Mark 15

2008-02-26T10:17:00.000-08:00

Bound
Questioned
Accused
Scourged
Purple Cloak
Crown of Thorns
Strike
Spitting
Mocked
Stripped
Crucified
Derided
Wagging Heads
Mocked
Reviled SWC

Mark 14

2008-02-22T10:25:00.000-08:00

And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept. Mark 14:72 (ESV)

All of us would like to think that in Peter's place we would NOT have denied our Lord. But in a way we do every time we fail to share our faith. We all rationalize that we are waiting for the perfect time. But that elusive "perfect time" rarely shows itself. Peter did one thing right when he denied Jesus...he broke down and wept. SWC

Mark 13

2008-02-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried to stay up all night? It's hard. We'll, it's easy at first, but then suddenly at around four in the morning our bodies take a physical and mental dive. To stay awake beyond that is a difficult task. In Mark chapter 13 Jesus challenges his disciples to, "Stay awake" so that they are ready when he returns. This a difficult task. It takes a disciplined spiritual life to stay on top of our game. It easy to drift. It's easy to fall asleep at the wheel.

Am I living moment by moment in a way that will honor God when he returns? SWC

Mark 12

2008-02-20T08:36:00.000-08:00

And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on." Mark 12:41-44 (ESV)

The text states that Jesus watched people as they put their offering into the box. I'm pretty certain that Jesus watches our giving too. The amount (based on our means), the quality and the condition of our heart. Am I giving my best in these areas? SWC

Mark 11

2008-02-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

This morning when I arrived at church, there was a news crew (NWCN) in the parking lot covering our local election. They stayed until about 7:30AM to cover the opening of the polls. When Jesus entered Jerusalem there was a group of people waiting to receive him as King. The bigger story was going to be at the end of the week when some of the same group would agree to his crucifixion. And then, the resurrection! One day soon Jesus will return and that will be news worth covering! SWC

And many spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields. And those who went before and those who followed were shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!” Mark 11:8-10 (ESV)

Mark 10

2008-02-15T08:47:00.000-08:00

And they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. And they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. Mark 10:32 (ESV)

This verse seemed a bit strange to me so I looked it up in a couple of commentaries. Evidently it was traditional for a Rabbi to walk in front of his disciple. As they followed him, we are given an inside look into their thoughts. Some are amazed and others are afraid, or perhaps all of them are a little of both. They are obviously amazed by his teaching and miracles. But why are they afraid? Probably two reasons. First, this is the third time that he predicts his death so they are concerned for him and for their future. And second, they are probably a little bit afraid of his power. What they had seen him do was awesome! And this is the power of God that works for us! SWC

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 (ESV)

Mark 9

2008-02-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

Are your white clothes white, or are they a shade darker than they used to be? I bleach and bleach and bleach (reducing the life expectancy of my clothes by tenfold) and they still are not quite right. When Peter, James and John saw Jesus in his glory at the Transfiguration, they noticed that his clothes were whiter than any on earth.

And his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. Mark 9:3 (ESV)

Often we make fun of Peter for desiring to build tents for Jesus, Moses and Elijah, but I think that this passion resulted from Peter's excitement over this experience. How awesome it will be when we see Jesus face to face! PS

Mark 8

2008-02-08T10:37:00.000-08:00

Following my dental appointment yesterday I went to WinCO and turned in two coupons that were given to me for a FREE gallon of milk and a FREE loaf of bread. It's kind of cool to get something for free and I'm thankful for the family who passed the coupons on to me!

When Jesus fed the four thousand as recorded in Mark chapter eight, I noticed that there is no mention of anyone, except Jesus, being thankful. The same goes for the parallel account of this story in Matthew. Now I assume that some were probably thankful for the food, the Gospels just don't mention it. Then again I know how ungrateful people can be--I have a mirror :). Let's be thankful today for the things, no matter how big or small, that people do for us. And then tell them, "Thank you." You can tell God too. SWC

Mark 7

2008-02-07T07:38:00.000-08:00

I'm going to the dentist today (Thursday) to get my teeth cleaned. The Dental Hygienist will probably not be happy with my lack of flossing--I can only make up so much in the last two days.

The Pharisees didn't like the hand washing habits of Jesus' disciples. It had nothing to do with personal hygiene, nor was there a commandment from the Law. It was a tradition they liked to follow. It made them feel... holy, but they were far from it. Holiness begins in the heart, then outward service and actions that honor God follow. SWC

This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. Mark 7:6-7 (ESV)

Mark 6

2008-02-06T09:36:00.000-08:00

Mark chapter six also focuses on faith...

Lack of Faith in Nazareth (Mark 6:1-6)
Faith needed by Apostles as they are sent out (Mark 6:7-13)
Faith demonstrated by John the Baptist (Mark 6:14-29)
Faith to feed five thousand (Mark 6:30-44)
Faith to walk on water (Mark 6:45-52)
Faith to heal the sick (Mark 6:53-56)

Jesus shows us what faith is when he sends out the Apostles and commands them to take nothing except a staff, sandals and one tunic. No money. No bread. No bag. No extra clothes. Am I trusting in God or am I trusting in stuff? SWC

Mark 1-5

2008-02-05T10:51:00.000-08:00

For me one word sums up Mark chapters 1-5. Faith. Jesus trusted God as he healed the sick, cast out demons and stood up against the unrighteousness of the religious leaders. Every move he made he made in God. He asks us to live the same way. I need to increase my trust in God and step out in faith expecting Him to make a way! SWC

When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Mark 2:5 (ESV)

He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith? " Mark 4:39-40 (ESV)

And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.” Mark 5:34 (ESV)

Matthew 28

2008-01-31T09:11:00.000-08:00

Reading the resurrection account reminds me of one of my favorite songs, The Easter Song by Annie Herring from 2nd Chapter of Acts. I think that this is one of the most powerful songs ever written. Some of the lyrics come straight out of Matthew 28! Check out the following link to see an interview with the three artists from the band and a live performance of the song...SWC

The Easter Song-Second Chapter of Acts

The Easter Song by Anne Herring
Here the bells ringing
They're singing that you can be born again
Here the bells ringing
They're singing Christ is risen from the dead
The angel up on the tombstone
Said He has risen, just as He said
Quickly now, go tell his disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world,
He has risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah

Hear the bells ringing
They're singing that you can be healed right now
Hear the bells ringing,
They're singing Christ, He will reveal it now
The angels, they all surround us
And they are ministering Jesus' power
Quickly now, reach out and receive it
For this could be your glorious hour

Joy to the world,
He has risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah, hallelujah

The angel up on the tombstone
Said he has risen, just as he said
Quickly now, go tell his disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world,
He has risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
Hallelujah

Matthew 27

2008-01-30T10:18:00.000-08:00

When I reflect on the man (Simon of Cyrene--North Africa) who carried the cross (actually the crossbeam) for Jesus, I think, "what an honor." I wonder what he thought? At the time he was probably worried about what the Roman soldiers might do to him.

In the book of Mark we are also given the names of Simon's two sons, Alexander and Rufus (Mark 15:21). The name Rufus again appears in Romans 16:13 as the apostle Paul sends his greetings to Rome. Tradition holds that this family became believers and were well known in the early church. There is good reason to believe that this tradition is true. Otherwise it would have been unlikely that the gospel writers would have mentioned these names. Looking back, I'm sure that Simon was honored to carry the cross. We also have the honor to carry a cross... SWC

Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24 (ESV)

Matthew 26

2008-01-29T10:19:00.000-08:00

Following the passover meal, Jesus and his disciple sang a hymn (ESV). Most likely they would have sung Psalm 113. This Psalm was traditionally sang at this time. It is a Psalm of praise. We continue this same tradition today when we sing a song of praise following the Lord's Table--sometimes the Doxology. Let's keep this in mind the next time we celebrate communion! SWC

Praise the Lord! Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord! Psalm 113:1 (ESV)

Matthew 24 & 25

2008-01-26T12:06:00.000-08:00

Both of these chapters focus on future events. Since we don't know the time of Christ's return, the charge is to be found in a "ready" condition. Here's a synopsis of how to live...SWC

Endure until the end (Matthew 24:13)
Don't follow a false Christ (Matthew 24:23)
Stay awake (Matthew 24:43)
Be ready (Matthew 24:44)
Be a faithful and wise servant (Matthew 24:45)
Use our talents (Matthew 25:21)
Feed and cloth the hungry (Matthew 25:35)
Receive strangers (Matthew 25:35)
Visit the sick and imprisoned (Matthew 25:36)

Matthew 23

2008-01-24T12:50:00.000-08:00

Can you imagine working so hard to pick a small gnat out of your soup but missing the camel! I think I'd notice. What Jesus wants us to notice is that we spend too much time on the motions (the little gnats) and miss the matters of the heart (the camel). Things like justice, mercy and faithfulness are aspects of character and not just actions. We miss doing these things because they take time, effort and emotional sacrifice. SWC

Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel! Matthew 23:23-24 (ESV)

Matthew 22

2008-01-24T12:34:00.000-08:00

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 22:37-40 (ESV)

Heart - core of our being
Soul - emotion
Mind - intellect
Strength - ability (Mark 12:30)

In other words, God gets it ALL! SWC

Matthew 21

2008-01-23T10:44:00.000-08:00

But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying out in the temple, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” they were indignant. Matthew 21:15 (ESV)

What a contrast! The children shouting with joy, the priests and scribes resentful. Throughout the book of Matthew I've noticed that children pop up on many occasions. In fact the various forms of the English word "child" is found 36 times in the ESV--more than any other NT book. Jesus liked children. He liked their innocence and joy. Perhaps I should become like a child. Sounds kinda Scriptural doesn't it? SWC

Matthew 20

2008-01-22T10:20:00.000-08:00

There are primarily two Greek words in the New Testament for "servant." Notice that Jesus uses both of them in Matthew 20:26-27.

But whoever would be great among you must be your servant (diako), and whoever would be first among you must be your slave (doulos). (ESV)

"Diako" refers to anyone who executes commands at someones direction. This could be a slave, a soldier, a wife, an employee, a friend and etc. "Doulos" refers to a slave who exists only to selflessly serve the will of a master. Jesus is calling us to function in both roles. In other words, we become Christ's (and consequently everyone else's) servant by choice. We're not coerced, but willingly choose to put ourselves under God's will and direction. What mission of service is Jesus asking me to complete today? SWC

Matthew 19

2008-01-22T09:27:00.000-08:00

I like Peter's boldness. He says what's on his mind. Sometimes it gets him in trouble, remember the rooster? And sometimes he gets kudos from it, like when he declared that Jesus was the Christ. In Matthew 19:27 following the departure of the young rich man Peter asks, "See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?" instead of getting rebuked this time, Jesus gives him an answer.

He will receive a hundredfold
He will inherit eternal life

I like thinking about heaven. This is the hope that encourages me daily as I work through the joys and challenges of living for Jesus. SWC

Matthew 18

2008-01-18T08:29:00.000-08:00

Next week is Sanctity of Human Life week (January 20-27, 2008). Check out Focus on the Family for some great resources. In our reading today from Matthew 18 Jesus covers the issue perfectly--doesn't he always? SWC

At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea, Matthew 18:1-6 (ESV)

Matthew 17

2008-01-17T06:55:00.000-08:00

In Matthew 14 Jesus chides his disciples for their lack of faith. This lack of faith is the reason they are unable to cast out a demon. The kind of faith we are to have is that of a mustard seed (Matthew 17:20). The mustard seed represents littleness that over time grows into something great. In other words mustard seed faith is persistent faith. Trusting God long term with our challenges and requests. SWC

Matthew 16

2008-01-16T06:42:00.000-08:00

One moment Peter was making a great statement of faith, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God," (Mt 16:16) and the next he was attempting to direct Jesus away from the cross, "This shall never happen to you!" (Mat 16:22). We tend to model the same thing. Dinesh D'Souza, author of, "What's So Great About Christianity" writes about this duplicity,

"There is religious truth. reserved for Sundays and the days of worship, and there is secular truth, which applies the rest of the time. This divided lifestyle is opposed to what the Bible teaches."

We need to be followers of Jesus 24-7! SWC

Matthew 13-15

2008-01-15T11:47:00.000-08:00

I've eaten a lot of weird things. The worst was raw sea-urchin eggs. Salty. Gooey. Sticky. Nasty. I couldn't keep them down! In Matthew 15 Jesus teaches us that it is NOT what we eat that makes us dirty, but what we say. For our words reflect our heart. Does our speech honor the creator and lift up those around us? Even in the most difficult of circumstances our correct words can be the light in a dark world. SWC

This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Matthew 15:8 (ESV)

It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person. Matthew 15:11 (ESV)

Matthew 12

2008-01-12T11:57:00.000-08:00

We had 13 guys bowling today at ACME Bowl near Southcenter Mall. The high score was my friend Pat with 180! When I bowl there is no hope of a score above 110--that's a guarantee. I stink!

When Matthew writes about Jesus he's reminded of a passage from Isaiah that calls him the, "Hope of the Gentiles" (Matthew 12:21). This is what I need, hope. Not the hope of a better bowling game, but the guarantee of eternal life! SWC

Matthew 11

2008-01-11T06:33:00.001-08:00

But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to their playmates, "We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn." Matthew 11:16-17 (ESV)

The Seahawks are playing tomorrow (Saturday, January 12) at Green Bay. Imagine that throughout the entire game the Packer fans remain silent. Unlikely you say. Impossible. Not going to happen. And yet this was the crowd's response to Jesus when he came. God walking among them, and the vast majority were unresponsive. Let's make sure that we are responsive to the moving of God in our lives throughout the day. Look for Him working and join in! SWC

Matthew 10

2008-01-10T08:16:00.000-08:00

As Jesus sends out his twelve apostles I am most impressed by their reliance on God. The power to do miracles--comes from God. Food and lodging--provided by God. Justice against the inhospitable and the persecutors--delivered by God. Words to speak about Christ--given by God. Reward to the faithful--handed out by God. This is the faith that God is calling me to. Total reliance on Him every day to complete the impossible! SWC

Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. Matthew 10:37-39 (ESV)

Matthew 9

2008-01-09T08:50:00.000-08:00

What jumps out at me in chapter 9 is the need...

One Paralytic
One Tax Collector
One Dead Girl
One Sick Woman
One Dead Girl's Dad
Two Blind Men
One Demon Possessed Man

In addition add various disciples, the paralytics' friends, some nasty scribes and pharisees, the disciples of John, some flute playing funeral goers and a crowd or two. And notice what Jesus says...

'Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”' Matthew 9:37-38 (ESV)

This world needs help, and I have the cure... SWC

Matthew 7 & 8

2008-01-08T11:17:00.000-08:00

Notice Jesus' authority. His authority over religious rulers (Matthew 7:28-29), his authority over sickness (Matthew 8:1-17), his authority over life's incidentals (Matthew 8:18-22), his authority over the elements (Matthew 8:23-27) and his authority over demons (Matthew 8:28-34).

And then notice the contrast between the disciples reaction when they were in trouble, "Save us, Lord; we are perishing." and the centurion, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed." Panic and fear with the disciples and controlled confidence with the centurion. Both called out for help, but only the centurion honored God with his attitude. How do we react under pressure?

Matthew 5 & 6

2008-01-06T15:37:00.000-08:00

There's not much of anything that I can add to the Sermon on the Mount! I'm reminded of a song by Audio Adrenaline. The music video of this song is great and I've added the link below. The musical style may not be to everyones taste, but the message of humility found in chapter 5 is vital to our Christian walk. From the Beatitudes in verses 3-12 to the radical teachings of "turn the other cheek" and "love your enemy" found in verses 38-48. Who can I play second place to today? SWC

Get Down
Lavishly our lives are wasted
Humbleness is left untasted
You cant live your life to please yourself, yeah
Thats a tip from my mistakes
Exactly what it doesn't take
To win you've got to come in last place
To live your life you've got to lose it
And all the losers get a crown

Get Down Video Link

Matthew 4

2008-01-04T08:04:00.000-08:00

Jesus used Scripture to resist temptation. Time to add more Scripture to memory! The following link is to a MS Word file with a memory plan from The Navigators. SWC

Scripture Memory Plan (MS Word Doc)

Matthew 3

2008-01-03T08:29:00.000-08:00

Bear fruit in keeping with repentance. (ESV) Matthew 3

John's message is to repent. Repentance means, "to change your mind." This is an inward change of the heart toward personal sin. John challenges us to notice that genuine repentance is demonstrated by actions. SWC

Matthew 2

2008-01-02T09:23:00.000-08:00

What jumps out at me in chapter 2 is God's omniscience. He knows exactly when Jesus will die on the cross and so absolutely nothing (not even Herod's evil plan to kill children) will sidetrack God's path for Jesus. So too in my life. Until the time is right for me to depart, absolutely nothing can take me out! Think of it as divine body armor! Not that this is a license for reckless living, but encouragement to endure and serve while we discover and live God's perfect plan for our lives! SWC

Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him. (ESV) Matthew 2:13

Matthew 1

2008-01-02T08:54:00.000-08:00

Matthew traces the genealogy of Jesus through his step-father Joseph. Notice the inclusion of five women. This is definitely out of the ordinary for a Jewish genealogy. Matthew did this deliberately! All of these women can be considered at least slightly tainted. They all had bad reputations. Tamar and Rahab were prostitutes. Ruth was Moabite. Bathsheba was an adulteress. Even Mary’s reputation was somewhat suspect—Joseph was planning on divorcing her (Matthew 1:19). Isn’t grace awesome? SWC