I discovered in my hast, I made a mistake in the paragraph where I concluded the study, I meant "the next study will be Jesus' Ministry" Sorry about that! I saw that when I was posting it on my website. If you see more, please over look them, thanks.
Daily Focus
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
BIBLE STUDY CONCLUSION:
The Fruit of the Spirit
4/22/14
It's all about choices. . .
I found this online from the book of "Fruit of the Spirit Series, by Lara Velez, and I liked it. I am reading this book now. In my search for a study book I came across this book, but couldn't found a PDF for it, and guess what, couldn't found a book for "Fruit of the Spirit, by Glenn Pease," study. But, I chose this study! I really like this conclusion! In closing, I just wanted to remind you that Gods loves you and only wants the best for you. He created you to love you. He wants your life to be a living testimony of His grace, love, and mercy. He wants you to walk in VICTORY.
True growth can only develop when we choose to allow God to work in our hearts and help us become the flourishing fruit bearing trees He created us to be.
Habits that Promote Spiritual Growth
Develop an Active Prayer Life. This requires taking the time to talk to God every day. I do not mean with a list of wants either. We need to spend time with Him and include Him in our daily life. We studied that in last study, right.
Praise Him. This is a very important aspect of spiritual growth. We must cultivate a heart of thanksgiving. Praise and worship are also great tools in helping us to overcome trials, doubt, and heartache. We enter into His grates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise. Thanksgiving and praise are where He abides!
Read and Memorize the Word. To really know God and have a relationship with Him requires reading and studying His Word. Everything we need to know about Him, life, spiritual growth, and how to live here are in His Word. Read it. Study it. Memorize it. Make it a priority.
Obey. The Holy Spirit will not yell at us. It is a still small voice. This world is very loud. It is a LOT easier to "hear" the world, flesh, and sin. However, we all CAN hear the conviction of the Holy Spirit. We are His sheep and we hear His voice. When you get convicted, obey, repent, and turn from whatever it is. If we continue in our sin, it will be harder to turn later. Plus, eventually, the Lord will stop telling us. . . He will just let us do what we want.
It's all about choices. . .
Let me leave you with this:
If you love Me, you will obey My commands. – (John 14:15)
Read Galatians 5:22-25
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance; against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit."
Love……………Week 1
"Dear children let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth" (1 John 3:18).
Is your love unconditional? Or is your love most evident when everything goes your way? This type of fruit keeps on loving even when it's difficult to show affection to others. The capacity to love grows out of the agape love from the heavenly Father.
Joy…………Week 2
"For the joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10).
Can you have joy in the chaos? Or does your moodiness hover over everyone like a cloud? Not that anyone should be joyful about the hard times, but rather your joy comes from #1) God is with you through it and #2) God uses every trial to help you become stronger in the faith.
Peace…………..Week 3
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-8).
Is your inner person wrecked with anxiety and worry when everything falls apart? Or can you rest in God's peace? There is no peace for the wicked; however, for believers it is available every time you pray and leave your concerns with God.
Longsuffering: Forbearance………..Week 4
"Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience" (Colossians 1:11).
Can you be still and wait on God? Or are you tempted to always move ahead so you can stay in control? Forbearance is a fruit that will grow with your experience of being stretched in faith especially in times of trial. Forbearance is another word for patience; you don't have to pray for patience…it's there already!
Gentleness………..Week 5
"Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near" (Philippians 4:5).
Is your meek spirit felt around those who live or work with you? Or do they feel that you are a hard and legalistic person to deal with? A spirit of gentleness gives grace freely and consistently. Believers and unbelievers should feel at ease around you because of your presence of gentleness.
Goodness……………Week 6
"Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God" (3 John 11).
Are your conversations marked with genuine virtue and honor? Or is your conversation tainted with worldly language, immoral tendencies, or gossip? Goodness doesn't mean that you are perfect, but rather someone who sincerely reflects the integrity of God within. A believer who demonstrates the fruit of goodness has the tendency to believe the best about people.
Faithfulness……………Week 7
"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:2).
Does your reputation reflect dependability and steadfastness in the faith? Or do people expect you to be late, undependable, or to drop off the map on a project? Your faithfulness represents God's Spirit dwelling within. Those who cultivate the fruit of faithfulness are compelled to complete every good work for His glory.
Meeknes: Kindness………..Week 8
"And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful" (2 Timothy 2:24).
Do others sense your kindness in words and actions? Or are they more accustomed to your angry response? A gentle word, a soft answer, or a helping hand—all demonstrate the fruit of kindness in this culture of rudeness and selfishness.
Self-Control……………Week 9
"For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age" (Titus 2:11-12)
Do you control your appetites? Or do they control you? Believers can demonstrate of life of self-control and discipline in a world where every day is an opportunity for gluttony. You have the power through the Spirit to control your cravings.
This concludes our study on the "Fruit of the Spirit" I've enjoy every moment of this study. The study will be "Jesus' Ministry" In my research, there have been questions concerning a lot of things I've found in historical, concordance, commentary, and just written material, things that does not add up, but I truly believe in God's Word. I just was surprised that some writings are not speaking the same thing, and they claim to be Christian too. I will study it mostly of what the Bible has recorded, and then make sure the material I use is legit. The Bible said, "Do not add or take away from God's Word" Amen. God is good all the time, and, all the time, God is good! See you in the next study. As I have said before, please feel free to post your Bible study too; I will study it with you too. God bless you!
Prayer:
Father God, our desire is to obey You, and Your commandments. Help us to keep these truths always in our hearts, and before us as we walk this path, and walk in the Fruit of the Spirit. Help us to love all, even our enemies. As we minister to others, please help us to share in joy, because the joy of the Lord is our strength. Guide us in peace through-out the day. Help us not to be afraid of longsuffering, but approach it with understanding and acceptance. As a Christian, please help us to walk in gentleness toward everyone. Cause Your goodness and mercy to follow us all the days of our life. Today we will walk by faith, and not by sight. Help us to walk in a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. Bless us to be able to rule our spirit daily as we walk in the fruit of temperance, ruling over our flesh and our tongue, so we can be like Christ. This we pray in Jesus' name, amen.
4/22/14
It's all about choices. . .
I found this online from the book of "Fruit of the Spirit Series, by Lara Velez, and I liked it. I am reading this book now. In my search for a study book I came across this book, but couldn't found a PDF for it, and guess what, couldn't found a book for "Fruit of the Spirit, by Glenn Pease," study. But, I chose this study! I really like this conclusion! In closing, I just wanted to remind you that Gods loves you and only wants the best for you. He created you to love you. He wants your life to be a living testimony of His grace, love, and mercy. He wants you to walk in VICTORY.
True growth can only develop when we choose to allow God to work in our hearts and help us become the flourishing fruit bearing trees He created us to be.
Habits that Promote Spiritual Growth
Develop an Active Prayer Life. This requires taking the time to talk to God every day. I do not mean with a list of wants either. We need to spend time with Him and include Him in our daily life. We studied that in last study, right.
Praise Him. This is a very important aspect of spiritual growth. We must cultivate a heart of thanksgiving. Praise and worship are also great tools in helping us to overcome trials, doubt, and heartache. We enter into His grates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise. Thanksgiving and praise are where He abides!
Read and Memorize the Word. To really know God and have a relationship with Him requires reading and studying His Word. Everything we need to know about Him, life, spiritual growth, and how to live here are in His Word. Read it. Study it. Memorize it. Make it a priority.
Obey. The Holy Spirit will not yell at us. It is a still small voice. This world is very loud. It is a LOT easier to "hear" the world, flesh, and sin. However, we all CAN hear the conviction of the Holy Spirit. We are His sheep and we hear His voice. When you get convicted, obey, repent, and turn from whatever it is. If we continue in our sin, it will be harder to turn later. Plus, eventually, the Lord will stop telling us. . . He will just let us do what we want.
It's all about choices. . .
Let me leave you with this:
If you love Me, you will obey My commands. – (John 14:15)
Read Galatians 5:22-25
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance; against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit."
Love……………Week 1
"Dear children let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth" (1 John 3:18).
Is your love unconditional? Or is your love most evident when everything goes your way? This type of fruit keeps on loving even when it's difficult to show affection to others. The capacity to love grows out of the agape love from the heavenly Father.
Joy…………Week 2
"For the joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10).
Can you have joy in the chaos? Or does your moodiness hover over everyone like a cloud? Not that anyone should be joyful about the hard times, but rather your joy comes from #1) God is with you through it and #2) God uses every trial to help you become stronger in the faith.
Peace…………..Week 3
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-8).
Is your inner person wrecked with anxiety and worry when everything falls apart? Or can you rest in God's peace? There is no peace for the wicked; however, for believers it is available every time you pray and leave your concerns with God.
Longsuffering: Forbearance………..Week 4
"Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience" (Colossians 1:11).
Can you be still and wait on God? Or are you tempted to always move ahead so you can stay in control? Forbearance is a fruit that will grow with your experience of being stretched in faith especially in times of trial. Forbearance is another word for patience; you don't have to pray for patience…it's there already!
Gentleness………..Week 5
"Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near" (Philippians 4:5).
Is your meek spirit felt around those who live or work with you? Or do they feel that you are a hard and legalistic person to deal with? A spirit of gentleness gives grace freely and consistently. Believers and unbelievers should feel at ease around you because of your presence of gentleness.
Goodness……………Week 6
"Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God" (3 John 11).
Are your conversations marked with genuine virtue and honor? Or is your conversation tainted with worldly language, immoral tendencies, or gossip? Goodness doesn't mean that you are perfect, but rather someone who sincerely reflects the integrity of God within. A believer who demonstrates the fruit of goodness has the tendency to believe the best about people.
Faithfulness……………Week 7
"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:2).
Does your reputation reflect dependability and steadfastness in the faith? Or do people expect you to be late, undependable, or to drop off the map on a project? Your faithfulness represents God's Spirit dwelling within. Those who cultivate the fruit of faithfulness are compelled to complete every good work for His glory.
Meeknes: Kindness………..Week 8
"And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful" (2 Timothy 2:24).
Do others sense your kindness in words and actions? Or are they more accustomed to your angry response? A gentle word, a soft answer, or a helping hand—all demonstrate the fruit of kindness in this culture of rudeness and selfishness.
Self-Control……………Week 9
"For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age" (Titus 2:11-12)
Do you control your appetites? Or do they control you? Believers can demonstrate of life of self-control and discipline in a world where every day is an opportunity for gluttony. You have the power through the Spirit to control your cravings.
This concludes our study on the "Fruit of the Spirit" I've enjoy every moment of this study. The study will be "Jesus' Ministry" In my research, there have been questions concerning a lot of things I've found in historical, concordance, commentary, and just written material, things that does not add up, but I truly believe in God's Word. I just was surprised that some writings are not speaking the same thing, and they claim to be Christian too. I will study it mostly of what the Bible has recorded, and then make sure the material I use is legit. The Bible said, "Do not add or take away from God's Word" Amen. God is good all the time, and, all the time, God is good! See you in the next study. As I have said before, please feel free to post your Bible study too; I will study it with you too. God bless you!
Prayer:
Father God, our desire is to obey You, and Your commandments. Help us to keep these truths always in our hearts, and before us as we walk this path, and walk in the Fruit of the Spirit. Help us to love all, even our enemies. As we minister to others, please help us to share in joy, because the joy of the Lord is our strength. Guide us in peace through-out the day. Help us not to be afraid of longsuffering, but approach it with understanding and acceptance. As a Christian, please help us to walk in gentleness toward everyone. Cause Your goodness and mercy to follow us all the days of our life. Today we will walk by faith, and not by sight. Help us to walk in a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. Bless us to be able to rule our spirit daily as we walk in the fruit of temperance, ruling over our flesh and our tongue, so we can be like Christ. This we pray in Jesus' name, amen.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
HE IS RISEN!
He is Risen:
AWESOME!
Matthew 27:63-66
Matthew 27:63-66
King James Version (KJV)
63 Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.
64 Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first.
65 Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can.
66 So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.
Matthew 28:11-15
King James Version (KJV)
11 Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
12 And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
13 Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.
14 And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
15 So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
Acts 1: 2-11
King James Version (KJV)
1 The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,
2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:
3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.
5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
AWESOME!
Matthew 27:63-66
Matthew 27:63-66
King James Version (KJV)
63 Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.
64 Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first.
65 Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can.
66 So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.
Matthew 28:11-15
King James Version (KJV)
11 Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
12 And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
13 Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.
14 And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
15 So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
Acts 1: 2-11
King James Version (KJV)
1 The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,
2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:
3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.
5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
THE SEVEN LAST SAYING OF JESUS (FATHER, INTO THY HAND I COMMEND MY SPIRIT)
7. Jesus cried out in a loud voice,
"Father, into your hands I commend my spirit."
Gospel of Luke 23:46
Beginning Prayer:
Father God, as this Word goes forth, please send it straight to our hearts, so we will never forget what You did by sending Your Son Jesus to die for our sin. Bless these Words to fall on good grounds, so that all would bring forth good fruit in their season. Thank You for the opportunity to share Your Word about our Savior Jesus Christ. Thank You that I know that He live, In Jesus' Name, we pray, Amen!
Subject: Jesus' Last Words
Scripture: "Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last." (NIV)
Word of Interest: Praise
Praise, mostly of God, is a frequent theme in the psalms, the Hebrew title of which is "Praises." Yet praise is a theme that pervades the whole of Scripture. Genesis 1 is indirect praise; direct praise is found in hymns scattered throughout the books of Exodus, 2 Samuel, Isaiah, Daniel, Ephesians, and Revelation. Words that are often used as synonyms or in parallel with "praise, " and some help point to its meaning, are "bless, " "exalt, " "extol, " "glorify, " "magnify, " "thank, " and "confess." To praise God is to call attention to his glory.
A vocation of praise. Praising God is a God-appointed calling. Indeed, God has formed for himself a people "that they may proclaim my [God's] praise" ( Isa 43:21 ; cf. Jer 13:11 ). God's actions, such as Israel's restoration from the exile, are to result in God's "righteousness and praise spring [ing] up before all nations" ( Isa 61:11 ). God has also predestined the church "to the praise of his [God's] glorious grace" ( Eph 1:6 ; cf. Matt 5:16 ; Eph 1:14 ; Php 1:11 ; 1 Peter 2:9 ). The future vocation of the redeemed in glory is to sing praise to God and the Lamb ( Rev 4:11 ; 5:12-14 ; 7:12 ). Doxologies are fitting because they capture what God intends for people ( Psalm 33:1 ; 147:1 ).
In the light of this calling to praise God, the oft-declared intention, "I will praise you, O God, " and the exhortations for others to praise God take on additional meaning. In giving oneself to praise the worshiper declares his or her total alignment with God's purposes. The environment of those gathering for worship, judged by such admonitions, was one of lavish praise to God. Since God is holy and fully good, God is not to be faulted, as some do, for requiring praise of himself. Praise is fitting for what is the highest good, God himself. Praise is both a duty and a delight ( Psalm 63:3-8 ).
Reasons for Praising God. In addition to being the fulfillment of a calling, praise is prompted by other considerations, chief of which is the unique nature of God ( 1 Chron 29:10-13 ). One genre of the psalms, the hymns, is characterized by an initial summons, such as "Praise the Lord, " which is followed by a declaration of praise, introduced by the word "for, " which lists the grounds for offering praise, often God's majesty and mercy. The shortest psalm ( 117 ), a hymn, offers a double reason for praise: God's merciful kindness (loyal love) is great, and his truth endures forever. Other hymns point out that God is good ( Ezra 3:10-11 ; Psalm 100:5 ; 135:3 ), or that his ordinances are just ( Psalm 119:164 ), that he remembers his covenant ( Psalm 105:7-8 ), that his love is enduring (Ps. 136), or that he is incomparable ( Psalm 71:19 ). A basic understanding in the hymns, if not in all the psalms, is captured in the theme "The Lord reigns." God's kingship is pronounced both in his majestic power displayed through the creation of the world ( Psalm 29 , 104 ) and in his royal rule, often as deliverer, over his people ( Psalm 47 , 68 , 98 , 114 ). As king, God is judge, warrior, and shepherd. Often too, praise is to the name of God ( Psalm 138:2 ; 145:2 ; Isa 25:1 ). That name, Yahweh, conveys the notion that God is present to act in salvation ( Exod 6:1-8 ).
The biblical examples of praise to God, apart from citing his attributes and role, point to God's favors, usually those on a large scale in behalf of Israel. A hymn in the Isaiah collection exhorts, "Sing praise to the Lord for his glorious achievement" ( Isa 12:5 ; nab ). Exhortations to praise are sometimes followed by a catalogue of God's actions in Israel's behalf ( Neh 9:5 ; Psalm 68:4-14 ). God's most spectacular action involves the incarnation of Jesus, an event heralded in praises by angels in the heavens and shepherds returning to their fields: "Glory to God in the highest" ( Luke 2:14 Luke 2:20 ). Praise is the legitimate response to God's self-revelation. Personal experiences of God's deliverance and favor also elicit praise ( Psalm 34 ; 102:18 ; 107 ; cf. Dan 2:20-23 ; Rom 7:25 ; the healed paralytic, Luke 5:25 ; Zechariah, Luke 1:68 ; the response at Nain, Luke 7:16 ; and Jesus himself, Matt 11:25 ).
An intimate relationship of a person or a people with God is sufficient reason for praise. A psalmist, captivated by the reality of God's choice of Jacob, exhorts, "Sing praise" ( Psalm 135 ; cf. Rev 19:5 ).
Expressions of Praise. The believing community is both a fitting and frequently mentioned context for praise. The author of Hebrews quotes the psalter: "In the midst of the assembly I will praise you" ( Heb 2:12 ). The audience is enlarged beyond the worshiping community when the worshiper announces, "I will praise you [in the sense of confessing], O Lord, among the nations" ( Psalm 57:9 ), and more enlarged still, "In the presence of angels ["gods" NIV] I will sing my praise" ( Psalm 138:1 ; nab ). While privately spoken praise to God is fitting and right, it is virtually intrinsic to the notion of praise that it be publicly expressed. Indeed, David appointed Levites to ensure the public praise of Israel ( 1 Chron 16:4 ; 1 Chronicles 23:4 1 Chronicles 23:30 ).
The Scriptures offer a language of praise and so are instructive on how expressions of praise might be formulated. Nehemiah leads in praise by saying, "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the Lord" ( Neh 9:5-6a ). The chorister Asaph followed David's cue: "Sing praise to him; tell of his wonderful Acts" ( 1 Chron 16:9 ). Persons intent on cultivating spirituality are often helped, at least initially, by repeating and personalizing such lyrics of praise.
Praise to God in Israel took the form of artfully composed lyrics. A significant number of psalms are identified in their headings as "A Psalm, " a technical term meaning "a song of praise." Israel's expressions of praise to God could include shouts ( Psalm 98:4 ), the plying of musical instruments ( 1 Chron 25:3 ; 2 Chron 7:6 ; Psalm 144:9 ; 150:1-5 ), making melody ( Psalm 146:2 ), and dancing ( Psalm 149:3 ). A public expression at Jesus' entry into Jerusalem took the form of devotees waving palm branches ( Matt 21:1-11 ). Praise for Israel consisted, in part, of the spoken word, "Open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise" ( Psalm 51:15 ) behind which, however, was a total person committed to praise: "I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart" ( Psalm 9:1 ). Such praise is not tainted with bitterness or in other ways qualified but is from someone who is thoroughly thankful.
The Bible speaks also of persons praising or commending others ( Gen 12:15 ; 49:8 ; Proverbs 31:28 Proverbs 31:30 ; 2 Cor 8:18 ). However, it counsels, even warns, about the giving and receiving of praise lest it be for the wrong reasons or be misconstrued ( Psalm 49:18 ; Prov 12:8 ; Proverbs 27:2 Proverbs 27:21 ; John 5:44 ).
Unquestionably the Book of the Psalms is centerpiece for any discussion about praise. In it the believer's vocation to praise is wonderfully modeled, so that even laments (one-third of all the psalms) contain elements of praise. As a book of praises, the psalms build to a remarkable crescendo of praise (Pss. 145-150), in which all creatures are summoned to incessant praise of God, as are the stars and planets in the heavens, and even the angels.
Words of Encouragement:
Here Jesus closes with the words of Psalm 31:5, speaking to the Father. We see his complete trust in the Father. Jesus entered death in the same way he lived each day of his life, offering up his life as the perfect sacrifice and placing himself in God's hands.
Like a trusting child, he turns to the Father and takes the next step. He has bound himself by love, to both God and the human race. Soon he will begin his long-term ministry by demonstrating the fact that human beings survive physical death. Then he will continue to draw to himself, and thus to heaven, everyone he can ... for as long as it takes ... until whosoever will has come.
The seventh word of Jesus is from the Gospel of Luke, and is directed to the Father in heaven, just before He dies. Jesus recalls Psalm 31:5 - "Into thy hands I commend my spirit; thou hast redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God." Luke repeatedly pleads Jesus' innocence: with Pilate (Luke 23:4, 14-15, 22), through Dismas (by legend), the criminal (Luke 23:41), and immediately after His death with the centurion" "Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, "Certainly this man was innocent" (Luke 23:47).
Jesus was obedient to His Father to the end, and his final word before his death on the Cross was a prayer to His Father.
Jesus fulfilled His mission: "They are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as an expiation by his blood, to be received by faith" (Romans 3:24-25). The relationship of Jesus to the Father is revealed in the Gospel of John, for He remarked, "The Father and I are one" (10:30), and again, at the Last Supper: "Do you not believe I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father who dwells in me is doing his works" (14:10). And He can return: "I came from the Father and have come into the world; again, I am leaving the world and going to the Father" (16:28). Jesus practiced what He preached: "Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13).
Questions for Reflection:
1. Have you put your life and, indeed, your life beyond this life, in God's hands?
2. How do you experience God's salvation through Christ in your life today?
Song:
With each passing day I am certain
That I need my life in Your hands
This world that I cling to is never enough
To bring me the joy that You can
Words always fail in my trouble
And my hands seem to lead me a stray
But Your sweet forgiveness is waiting for me
It's the' reason for hope
It's the reason I'm free
Take me oh Lord in Thy hands
Make me a part of Your plans
Take me oh Lord in Thy hands
So that I may find my rest
In Your strength, in Your mercy
In Your love
Please set my eyes on Your glory
And help keep my hope on the cross
Never let me stray too far from Your reach
Never let Your word be lost
We call you the King of all kings
Mighty Lord and Prince of Peace
But more than all other names I call you Jesus
The name that I cried and You came to save me
Take me oh Lord in thy hands
Make me apart of your plans
Take me oh Lord in thy hands
So that I may find my rest
In your strength, In your mercy
In your love
With all of my voice I cry Jesus
Please forgive this heart I held from You
I'm weary from wasting my life on myself
Take it and make it brand new
Take me oh Lord in thy hands
Make me apart of your plans
Take me oh Lord in thy hands
So I may find my rest
In your strength, In your mercy
In your love
"Father, into your hands I commend my spirit."
Gospel of Luke 23:46
Beginning Prayer:
Father God, as this Word goes forth, please send it straight to our hearts, so we will never forget what You did by sending Your Son Jesus to die for our sin. Bless these Words to fall on good grounds, so that all would bring forth good fruit in their season. Thank You for the opportunity to share Your Word about our Savior Jesus Christ. Thank You that I know that He live, In Jesus' Name, we pray, Amen!
Subject: Jesus' Last Words
Scripture: "Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last." (NIV)
Word of Interest: Praise
Praise, mostly of God, is a frequent theme in the psalms, the Hebrew title of which is "Praises." Yet praise is a theme that pervades the whole of Scripture. Genesis 1 is indirect praise; direct praise is found in hymns scattered throughout the books of Exodus, 2 Samuel, Isaiah, Daniel, Ephesians, and Revelation. Words that are often used as synonyms or in parallel with "praise, " and some help point to its meaning, are "bless, " "exalt, " "extol, " "glorify, " "magnify, " "thank, " and "confess." To praise God is to call attention to his glory.
A vocation of praise. Praising God is a God-appointed calling. Indeed, God has formed for himself a people "that they may proclaim my [God's] praise" ( Isa 43:21 ; cf. Jer 13:11 ). God's actions, such as Israel's restoration from the exile, are to result in God's "righteousness and praise spring [ing] up before all nations" ( Isa 61:11 ). God has also predestined the church "to the praise of his [God's] glorious grace" ( Eph 1:6 ; cf. Matt 5:16 ; Eph 1:14 ; Php 1:11 ; 1 Peter 2:9 ). The future vocation of the redeemed in glory is to sing praise to God and the Lamb ( Rev 4:11 ; 5:12-14 ; 7:12 ). Doxologies are fitting because they capture what God intends for people ( Psalm 33:1 ; 147:1 ).
In the light of this calling to praise God, the oft-declared intention, "I will praise you, O God, " and the exhortations for others to praise God take on additional meaning. In giving oneself to praise the worshiper declares his or her total alignment with God's purposes. The environment of those gathering for worship, judged by such admonitions, was one of lavish praise to God. Since God is holy and fully good, God is not to be faulted, as some do, for requiring praise of himself. Praise is fitting for what is the highest good, God himself. Praise is both a duty and a delight ( Psalm 63:3-8 ).
Reasons for Praising God. In addition to being the fulfillment of a calling, praise is prompted by other considerations, chief of which is the unique nature of God ( 1 Chron 29:10-13 ). One genre of the psalms, the hymns, is characterized by an initial summons, such as "Praise the Lord, " which is followed by a declaration of praise, introduced by the word "for, " which lists the grounds for offering praise, often God's majesty and mercy. The shortest psalm ( 117 ), a hymn, offers a double reason for praise: God's merciful kindness (loyal love) is great, and his truth endures forever. Other hymns point out that God is good ( Ezra 3:10-11 ; Psalm 100:5 ; 135:3 ), or that his ordinances are just ( Psalm 119:164 ), that he remembers his covenant ( Psalm 105:7-8 ), that his love is enduring (Ps. 136), or that he is incomparable ( Psalm 71:19 ). A basic understanding in the hymns, if not in all the psalms, is captured in the theme "The Lord reigns." God's kingship is pronounced both in his majestic power displayed through the creation of the world ( Psalm 29 , 104 ) and in his royal rule, often as deliverer, over his people ( Psalm 47 , 68 , 98 , 114 ). As king, God is judge, warrior, and shepherd. Often too, praise is to the name of God ( Psalm 138:2 ; 145:2 ; Isa 25:1 ). That name, Yahweh, conveys the notion that God is present to act in salvation ( Exod 6:1-8 ).
The biblical examples of praise to God, apart from citing his attributes and role, point to God's favors, usually those on a large scale in behalf of Israel. A hymn in the Isaiah collection exhorts, "Sing praise to the Lord for his glorious achievement" ( Isa 12:5 ; nab ). Exhortations to praise are sometimes followed by a catalogue of God's actions in Israel's behalf ( Neh 9:5 ; Psalm 68:4-14 ). God's most spectacular action involves the incarnation of Jesus, an event heralded in praises by angels in the heavens and shepherds returning to their fields: "Glory to God in the highest" ( Luke 2:14 Luke 2:20 ). Praise is the legitimate response to God's self-revelation. Personal experiences of God's deliverance and favor also elicit praise ( Psalm 34 ; 102:18 ; 107 ; cf. Dan 2:20-23 ; Rom 7:25 ; the healed paralytic, Luke 5:25 ; Zechariah, Luke 1:68 ; the response at Nain, Luke 7:16 ; and Jesus himself, Matt 11:25 ).
An intimate relationship of a person or a people with God is sufficient reason for praise. A psalmist, captivated by the reality of God's choice of Jacob, exhorts, "Sing praise" ( Psalm 135 ; cf. Rev 19:5 ).
Expressions of Praise. The believing community is both a fitting and frequently mentioned context for praise. The author of Hebrews quotes the psalter: "In the midst of the assembly I will praise you" ( Heb 2:12 ). The audience is enlarged beyond the worshiping community when the worshiper announces, "I will praise you [in the sense of confessing], O Lord, among the nations" ( Psalm 57:9 ), and more enlarged still, "In the presence of angels ["gods" NIV] I will sing my praise" ( Psalm 138:1 ; nab ). While privately spoken praise to God is fitting and right, it is virtually intrinsic to the notion of praise that it be publicly expressed. Indeed, David appointed Levites to ensure the public praise of Israel ( 1 Chron 16:4 ; 1 Chronicles 23:4 1 Chronicles 23:30 ).
The Scriptures offer a language of praise and so are instructive on how expressions of praise might be formulated. Nehemiah leads in praise by saying, "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the Lord" ( Neh 9:5-6a ). The chorister Asaph followed David's cue: "Sing praise to him; tell of his wonderful Acts" ( 1 Chron 16:9 ). Persons intent on cultivating spirituality are often helped, at least initially, by repeating and personalizing such lyrics of praise.
Praise to God in Israel took the form of artfully composed lyrics. A significant number of psalms are identified in their headings as "A Psalm, " a technical term meaning "a song of praise." Israel's expressions of praise to God could include shouts ( Psalm 98:4 ), the plying of musical instruments ( 1 Chron 25:3 ; 2 Chron 7:6 ; Psalm 144:9 ; 150:1-5 ), making melody ( Psalm 146:2 ), and dancing ( Psalm 149:3 ). A public expression at Jesus' entry into Jerusalem took the form of devotees waving palm branches ( Matt 21:1-11 ). Praise for Israel consisted, in part, of the spoken word, "Open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise" ( Psalm 51:15 ) behind which, however, was a total person committed to praise: "I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart" ( Psalm 9:1 ). Such praise is not tainted with bitterness or in other ways qualified but is from someone who is thoroughly thankful.
The Bible speaks also of persons praising or commending others ( Gen 12:15 ; 49:8 ; Proverbs 31:28 Proverbs 31:30 ; 2 Cor 8:18 ). However, it counsels, even warns, about the giving and receiving of praise lest it be for the wrong reasons or be misconstrued ( Psalm 49:18 ; Prov 12:8 ; Proverbs 27:2 Proverbs 27:21 ; John 5:44 ).
Unquestionably the Book of the Psalms is centerpiece for any discussion about praise. In it the believer's vocation to praise is wonderfully modeled, so that even laments (one-third of all the psalms) contain elements of praise. As a book of praises, the psalms build to a remarkable crescendo of praise (Pss. 145-150), in which all creatures are summoned to incessant praise of God, as are the stars and planets in the heavens, and even the angels.
Words of Encouragement:
Here Jesus closes with the words of Psalm 31:5, speaking to the Father. We see his complete trust in the Father. Jesus entered death in the same way he lived each day of his life, offering up his life as the perfect sacrifice and placing himself in God's hands.
Like a trusting child, he turns to the Father and takes the next step. He has bound himself by love, to both God and the human race. Soon he will begin his long-term ministry by demonstrating the fact that human beings survive physical death. Then he will continue to draw to himself, and thus to heaven, everyone he can ... for as long as it takes ... until whosoever will has come.
The seventh word of Jesus is from the Gospel of Luke, and is directed to the Father in heaven, just before He dies. Jesus recalls Psalm 31:5 - "Into thy hands I commend my spirit; thou hast redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God." Luke repeatedly pleads Jesus' innocence: with Pilate (Luke 23:4, 14-15, 22), through Dismas (by legend), the criminal (Luke 23:41), and immediately after His death with the centurion" "Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, "Certainly this man was innocent" (Luke 23:47).
Jesus was obedient to His Father to the end, and his final word before his death on the Cross was a prayer to His Father.
Jesus fulfilled His mission: "They are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as an expiation by his blood, to be received by faith" (Romans 3:24-25). The relationship of Jesus to the Father is revealed in the Gospel of John, for He remarked, "The Father and I are one" (10:30), and again, at the Last Supper: "Do you not believe I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father who dwells in me is doing his works" (14:10). And He can return: "I came from the Father and have come into the world; again, I am leaving the world and going to the Father" (16:28). Jesus practiced what He preached: "Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13).
Questions for Reflection:
1. Have you put your life and, indeed, your life beyond this life, in God's hands?
2. How do you experience God's salvation through Christ in your life today?
Song:
With each passing day I am certain
That I need my life in Your hands
This world that I cling to is never enough
To bring me the joy that You can
Words always fail in my trouble
And my hands seem to lead me a stray
But Your sweet forgiveness is waiting for me
It's the' reason for hope
It's the reason I'm free
Take me oh Lord in Thy hands
Make me a part of Your plans
Take me oh Lord in Thy hands
So that I may find my rest
In Your strength, in Your mercy
In Your love
Please set my eyes on Your glory
And help keep my hope on the cross
Never let me stray too far from Your reach
Never let Your word be lost
We call you the King of all kings
Mighty Lord and Prince of Peace
But more than all other names I call you Jesus
The name that I cried and You came to save me
Take me oh Lord in thy hands
Make me apart of your plans
Take me oh Lord in thy hands
So that I may find my rest
In your strength, In your mercy
In your love
With all of my voice I cry Jesus
Please forgive this heart I held from You
I'm weary from wasting my life on myself
Take it and make it brand new
Take me oh Lord in thy hands
Make me apart of your plans
Take me oh Lord in thy hands
So I may find my rest
In your strength, In your mercy
In your love
Ending Prayer:
Gracious Lord, even as you once entrusted your spirit into the hands of the Father, so I give my life to you. I trust you, and you alone to be my Savior. I submit to your sovereignty over my life, and seek to live for your glory alone. Here I am, Lord, available to you, both now and in the future. How good it is to know, dear Lord, that the cross was not the end for you. As you entrusted your spirit into the Father's hands, you did so in anticipation of what was to come. So we reflect upon your death, not in despair, but in hope. With Good Friday behind us, Easter Sunday is on the horizon. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me! Dear Lord Jesus, though my memory isn't what it used to be, I join King David today in giving you praise today for who you are, and all the good gifts you lavish on us in the gospel. I praise you that irrespective of changes in my brain chemistry, you'll never forget me. This is my great hope and centering peace. But while they are fresh on my heart, here are a few things for which I am especially grateful as this day begins. I praise you for forgiving all my sins—past, present, and future—sins of thought, word, and deed. How staggering a thought! I used to think you forgive only confessed sins, but now I realize I'm probably aware of only 4 percent of my sins. But your blood covers the other 96 percent as well. Praise the Lord, O my soul, for a perfect and complete forgiveness! I praise you for securing, and healing all my diseases—diseases in my body, heart, and mind. Though I wish you would completely heal me before you return, nonetheless, I have this sure hope: The healing I'm already receiving in the gospel will be brought to completion. Praise the Lord, O my soul, for present, ongoing, and a secured complete healing! I praise you for redeeming my life from all pits—the pit of eternal separation from God, the pits others throw me into, the pits I naively fall into, and the pits I foolishly dig for myself! You've bought and brought me out of all pits into your embrace by taking the ultimate "pit" of God's judgment for us on the cross. Praise the Lord, O my soul, for an all-pit redemption! I praise you for crowning me with your love and compassion. You've taken away all my guilt and you've borne all my shame. My conscience is no longer under the law and condemnation, but under grace and your rejoicing . Praise the Lord, O my soul, for a coronation of mercy and grace! I praise you for satisfying my desires with good things. Lord, I praise you for the smile of my grandson, the kiss of my wife, the taste of dark chocolate, the rainbow you painted on the side of a trout, the recent encouragement from a friend, and the sounds of great music, to name a few. Praise the Lord, O my soul, for a God who takes my desires seriously and satisfies them in countless ways! Lord Jesus, may the unsearchable, innumerable, and inexhaustible riches of the gospel renew me today with youth-like energy, that I may soar like an eagle and live to the praise of your glorious grace! I pray in your holy and loving name, Amen.
The SEVEN LASTING SAYING ( I THIRST)
5. "I thirst."
Gospel of John 19:28
Beginning Prayer:
Father God, as this Word goes forth, please send it straight to our hearts, so we will never forget what You did by sending Your Son Jesus to die for our sin. Bless these Words to fall on good grounds, so that all would bring forth good fruit in their season. Thank You for the opportunity to share Your Word about our Savior Jesus Christ. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
Subject: Jesus is Thirsty
Scripture: John 19:28 "Jesus knew that everything was now finished, and to fulfill the Scriptures he said, "I am thirsty."(NLT)
Word of Interest: Living Water
Jesus uses the phrase "living water" in two instances in the Bible. The first instance is found in John chapter 4. Jesus was tired and sat at a well while His disciples went into town to buy food. A Samaritan woman came to draw water and Jesus asked her for a drink. The Samaritan woman was quite shocked because Jesus was a Jew and Jews simply hated the Samaritans. Of course, she had no idea who Jesus was, and asked Him how He could ask her for water since He was a Jew.
Jesus ignored the question and went right to the point, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water" (John 4:10). Notice that He does not say that He is the living water, but that He would give living water to her, and when she received it, she would never thirst again. Of course, that does not tell us what the living water is! For that, we must go to another passage of Scripture. In this case, Jesus is in the Temple surrounded by a throng of worshippers. He suddenly cried out, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scriptures said, 'From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.' But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified" (John 7:37-39) emphasis added).
Here Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as the living water. External influence of the Spirit had always been given in the conversion and sanctification of the Old Testament saints and prophets, but the gift of the Spirit who would indwell believers had not yet been received (Acts 10:44-45). So, though many people say that Jesus is the living water, Jesus Himself intended the phrase to mean the Holy Spirit who dwells in believers and seals them for salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14). It is the ministry of the Spirit, flowing out of a heart redeemed by God, that blesses believers and through them, brings life and light to the world.
Words of Encouragement:
Jesus refused the initial drink of vinegar, gall and myrrh (Matthew 27:34 and Mark 15:23) offered to alleviate his suffering. But here, several hours later, we see Jesus fulfilling the messianic prophecy found in Psalm 69:21.
Time passes slowly. His spring of living water runs dry. He reaches the end of his strength. This is the moment the Tempter has been waiting for: through the voices of cynical men, Satan tries again, as he did in the wilderness: "If you are the Christ, prove it! Save yourself and impress the people."
The fifth word of Jesus is His only human expression of His physical suffering. Jesus is now in shock. The wounds inflicted upon him in the scourging, the crowning with thorns, and the nailing upon the cross are now taking their toll, especially after losing blood on the three-hour walk through the city of Jerusalem to Golgotha on the Way of the Cross. Systematic studies of the Shroud of Turin, as reported by Gerald O'Collins in Interpreting Jesus, indicate the passion of Jesus was far worse than one can imagine. The Shroud has been exhaustively studied by every possible scientific maneuver, and the scientific burden of proof is now on those who do not accept the Shroud as the burial cloth of Jesus.
"He himself bore our sins in his body upon the cross,
so that, free from sin, we might live for righteousness.
By his wounds you have been healed."
I Peter 2:24.
Questions for Reflection:
1. How do you respond to Jesus' statement "I am thirsty"?
2. What does this statement "I am thirsty" suggest to you about Jesus?
3. What does this statement "I am thirsty" suggest about yourself?
Song:
My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God;
my soul is thirsting for you.
My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God;
my soul is thirsting.
1. God, you are my God whom I seek;
for you my flesh pines and my soul thirsts
like the earth, parched,
lifeless and without water.
2. Thus have I gazed toward you in the sanctuary
to see your power and your glory,
for your kindness is a greater good than life;
my lips shall glorify you.
3. Thus will I bless you while I live;
lifting up my hands, I will call upon your name.
As with the riches of a banquet shall my soul be satisfied,
and with exultant lips my mouth shall praise you.
4. You are my help,
and in the shadow of your wings I shout for joy.
My soul clings fast to you;
your right hand upholds me.
Ending Prayer:
O Lord, once again I thank you for what you suffered on the cross. Besides extraordinary pain, you also experienced extreme thirst. All of this was part and parcel of your taking on our humanity so that you might take away our sin. Dear Lord, in your words "I am thirsty" I hear the cry of my own heart. I too am thirsty, Lord, not for physical drink. I don't need sour wine. Rather, I need the new wine of your kingdom to flood my soul. I need to be refreshed by your living water. I yearn for your Spirit to fill me once again. I am thirsty, Lord, for you. Amen.
Gospel of John 19:28
Beginning Prayer:
Father God, as this Word goes forth, please send it straight to our hearts, so we will never forget what You did by sending Your Son Jesus to die for our sin. Bless these Words to fall on good grounds, so that all would bring forth good fruit in their season. Thank You for the opportunity to share Your Word about our Savior Jesus Christ. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
Subject: Jesus is Thirsty
Scripture: John 19:28 "Jesus knew that everything was now finished, and to fulfill the Scriptures he said, "I am thirsty."(NLT)
Word of Interest: Living Water
Jesus uses the phrase "living water" in two instances in the Bible. The first instance is found in John chapter 4. Jesus was tired and sat at a well while His disciples went into town to buy food. A Samaritan woman came to draw water and Jesus asked her for a drink. The Samaritan woman was quite shocked because Jesus was a Jew and Jews simply hated the Samaritans. Of course, she had no idea who Jesus was, and asked Him how He could ask her for water since He was a Jew.
Jesus ignored the question and went right to the point, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water" (John 4:10). Notice that He does not say that He is the living water, but that He would give living water to her, and when she received it, she would never thirst again. Of course, that does not tell us what the living water is! For that, we must go to another passage of Scripture. In this case, Jesus is in the Temple surrounded by a throng of worshippers. He suddenly cried out, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scriptures said, 'From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.' But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified" (John 7:37-39) emphasis added).
Here Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as the living water. External influence of the Spirit had always been given in the conversion and sanctification of the Old Testament saints and prophets, but the gift of the Spirit who would indwell believers had not yet been received (Acts 10:44-45). So, though many people say that Jesus is the living water, Jesus Himself intended the phrase to mean the Holy Spirit who dwells in believers and seals them for salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14). It is the ministry of the Spirit, flowing out of a heart redeemed by God, that blesses believers and through them, brings life and light to the world.
Words of Encouragement:
Jesus refused the initial drink of vinegar, gall and myrrh (Matthew 27:34 and Mark 15:23) offered to alleviate his suffering. But here, several hours later, we see Jesus fulfilling the messianic prophecy found in Psalm 69:21.
Time passes slowly. His spring of living water runs dry. He reaches the end of his strength. This is the moment the Tempter has been waiting for: through the voices of cynical men, Satan tries again, as he did in the wilderness: "If you are the Christ, prove it! Save yourself and impress the people."
The fifth word of Jesus is His only human expression of His physical suffering. Jesus is now in shock. The wounds inflicted upon him in the scourging, the crowning with thorns, and the nailing upon the cross are now taking their toll, especially after losing blood on the three-hour walk through the city of Jerusalem to Golgotha on the Way of the Cross. Systematic studies of the Shroud of Turin, as reported by Gerald O'Collins in Interpreting Jesus, indicate the passion of Jesus was far worse than one can imagine. The Shroud has been exhaustively studied by every possible scientific maneuver, and the scientific burden of proof is now on those who do not accept the Shroud as the burial cloth of Jesus.
"He himself bore our sins in his body upon the cross,
so that, free from sin, we might live for righteousness.
By his wounds you have been healed."
I Peter 2:24.
Questions for Reflection:
1. How do you respond to Jesus' statement "I am thirsty"?
2. What does this statement "I am thirsty" suggest to you about Jesus?
3. What does this statement "I am thirsty" suggest about yourself?
Song:
My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God;
my soul is thirsting for you.
My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God;
my soul is thirsting.
1. God, you are my God whom I seek;
for you my flesh pines and my soul thirsts
like the earth, parched,
lifeless and without water.
2. Thus have I gazed toward you in the sanctuary
to see your power and your glory,
for your kindness is a greater good than life;
my lips shall glorify you.
3. Thus will I bless you while I live;
lifting up my hands, I will call upon your name.
As with the riches of a banquet shall my soul be satisfied,
and with exultant lips my mouth shall praise you.
4. You are my help,
and in the shadow of your wings I shout for joy.
My soul clings fast to you;
your right hand upholds me.
Ending Prayer:
O Lord, once again I thank you for what you suffered on the cross. Besides extraordinary pain, you also experienced extreme thirst. All of this was part and parcel of your taking on our humanity so that you might take away our sin. Dear Lord, in your words "I am thirsty" I hear the cry of my own heart. I too am thirsty, Lord, not for physical drink. I don't need sour wine. Rather, I need the new wine of your kingdom to flood my soul. I need to be refreshed by your living water. I yearn for your Spirit to fill me once again. I am thirsty, Lord, for you. Amen.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
THE SEVEN LAST SAYING OF JESUS (IT IS FINISHED)
It is Finished!
6. When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished;" and he bowed his head and handed over the spirit.
Gospel of John 19:30
Beginning Prayer:
Father God, as this Word goes forth, please send it straight to our hearts, so we will never forget what You did by sending Your Son Jesus to die for our sin. Bless these Words to fall on good grounds, so that all would bring forth good fruit in their season. Thank You for the opportunity to share Your Word about our Savior Jesus Christ. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
Subject: It Is Finished
Scripture: "... he said, "It is finished!" (NLT)
Word of Interest: Completion
the act or process of completing or finishing something: the state of being complete or finished; accomplish, fulfillment, and conclusion.
Words of Encouragement:
Jesus knew he was suffering the crucifixion for a purpose. Earlier he had said in John 10:18 of his life, "No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father." (NIV) These three words were packed with meaning, for what was finished here was not only Christ's earthly life, not only his suffering and dying, not only the payment for sin and the redemption of the world—but the very reason and purpose he came to earth was finished. His final act of obedience was complete. The Scriptures had been fulfilled.
He has defeated the Tempter again. Despite the agony, he has rejected temptation and cared for those around him. His temporary duty on earth is complete. He has shown the way God wants us to live. He has demonstrated the fact that faith and hope and love cannot be destroyed by anything men can say or do.
John recalls the sacrifice of the Passover Lamb in Exodus 12 in this passage. Hyssop is a small plant that was used to sprinkle the blood of the Passover Lamb on the doorposts of the Hebrews. John's Gospel related that it was the Day of Preparation, the day before the actual Passover (Pesach in Hebrew, Pascha in Greek and Latin), that Jesus was sentenced to death (19:14) and sacrificed on the Cross (19:31). He died at the ninth hour (three o'clock in the afternoon), about the same time as the Passover lambs were slaughtered in the Temple. Christ became the Paschal or Passover Lamb, as noted by St. Paul: "For Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed" (I Corinthians 5:7). The innocent Lamb was slain for our sins, so that we might be forgiven. It is now a fait accomplit. The sixth word is Jesus' recognition that his suffering is over and his task is completed. Jesus is obedient to the Father and gives his love for mankind by redeeming us with His death on the Cross. What is the darkest day of mankind becomes the brightest day for mankind. And the Gospels as a group captured this paradox. The Synoptic Gospels narrated the horror of the event - the agony in the garden, the abandonment by his Apostles, the trail before the Sanhedrin, the intense mockery and torture heaped upon Jesus, his suffering all alone, the darkness over the land, and his death, starkly portrayed by both Matthew (27:47-51) and Mark (15:33-38).
In contrast, the passion of Jesus in the Gospel of John expresses his Kingship and proves to be His triumphant road to glory. John presents Jesus as directing the action the entire way. The phrase It is finished� carries a sense of accomplishment. In John, there is no trial before the Sanhedrin, and gone are the repeated mockeries and scourging. But rather, Jesus is introduced at the Roman trial as Behold your King!� (John 19:14). Jesus is not stumbling or falling as in the Synoptic Gospels, but the way of the Cross is presented with majesty and dignity, for Jesus went out bearing his own Cross� (John 19:17).
And in John, the inscription at the head of the cross is pointedly written Jesus of Nazareth, The King of the Jews� (John 19:19). The inscription INRI at the top of the cross is the Latin Iesus Nazarenus, Rex Iudaeorum. The loved ones of Jesus are with Him, and He decisively gives his Mother Mary to the disciple who loved him.
When Jesus died, He "handed over" the Spirit. Jesus remained in control to the end, and it is He who handed over his Spirit. One should not miss the double entendre here, for this may also be interpreted as His death brought forth the Holy Spirit.
The Gospel of John gradually reveals the Holy Spirit. Jesus mentions living water in John 4:10-11 when he meets the Samaritan woman at the well, and during the Feast of Tabernacles refers to living water as the Holy Spirit in 7:37-39. At the Last Supper, Christ announces he would ask the Father to send "another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth" (14:16-17). The word Advocate is also translated as Comforter, Helper, Paraclete, or Counselor. "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you" (14:26). The symbolism of water for the Holy Spirit becomes more evident in John 19:34: "But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and immediately there came out blood and water." The piercing of his side fulfills the prophecy in Zechariah 12:10: "They will look on me whom they have pierced." The piercing of Jesus' side prefigures the Sacraments of Eucharist (blood) and Baptism (water), as well as the beginning of the Church.
Questions for Reflection:
1. Do you live as if Jesus finished the work of salvation?
2. Do you have confidence that God will finish that which he has begun in you?
Song:
There's a line that is drawn through the ages
On that line stands an old rugged cross
On that cross, a battle is raging
To gain a man's soul or it's loss
On one side, march the forces of evil
All the demons, all the devils of hell
On the other, the angels of glory
And they meet on Golgotha's hill
The earth shakes with the force of the conflict
And the sun refuses to shine
For there hangs God's son, in the balance
And then through the darkness he cries
It is finished, the battle is over
It is finished, there'll be no more war
It is finished, the end of the conflict
It is finished and Jesus is Lord
Yet in my heart, the battle was still raging
Not all prisoners of war had come home
These were battlefields of my own making
I didn't know that the war had been won
Oh, but then I heard the king of the ages
Had fought all the battles for me
And that victory was mine for the claiming
And now praise his name, I am free.
Ending Prayer:
How can I ever find words to express my gratitude to you, dear Lord Jesus? You did it. You finished that for which you had been sent, faithful in life, faithful in death. You accomplished that which no other person could do, taking the sin of the world upon your sinless shoulders . . . taking my sin so that I might receive your forgiveness and new life.
All praise be to you, gracious Lord, for finishing the work of salvation. All praise be to you, dear Jesus, for saving me! Alleluia! Amen.
6. When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished;" and he bowed his head and handed over the spirit.
Gospel of John 19:30
Beginning Prayer:
Father God, as this Word goes forth, please send it straight to our hearts, so we will never forget what You did by sending Your Son Jesus to die for our sin. Bless these Words to fall on good grounds, so that all would bring forth good fruit in their season. Thank You for the opportunity to share Your Word about our Savior Jesus Christ. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
Subject: It Is Finished
Scripture: "... he said, "It is finished!" (NLT)
Word of Interest: Completion
the act or process of completing or finishing something: the state of being complete or finished; accomplish, fulfillment, and conclusion.
Words of Encouragement:
Jesus knew he was suffering the crucifixion for a purpose. Earlier he had said in John 10:18 of his life, "No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father." (NIV) These three words were packed with meaning, for what was finished here was not only Christ's earthly life, not only his suffering and dying, not only the payment for sin and the redemption of the world—but the very reason and purpose he came to earth was finished. His final act of obedience was complete. The Scriptures had been fulfilled.
He has defeated the Tempter again. Despite the agony, he has rejected temptation and cared for those around him. His temporary duty on earth is complete. He has shown the way God wants us to live. He has demonstrated the fact that faith and hope and love cannot be destroyed by anything men can say or do.
John recalls the sacrifice of the Passover Lamb in Exodus 12 in this passage. Hyssop is a small plant that was used to sprinkle the blood of the Passover Lamb on the doorposts of the Hebrews. John's Gospel related that it was the Day of Preparation, the day before the actual Passover (Pesach in Hebrew, Pascha in Greek and Latin), that Jesus was sentenced to death (19:14) and sacrificed on the Cross (19:31). He died at the ninth hour (three o'clock in the afternoon), about the same time as the Passover lambs were slaughtered in the Temple. Christ became the Paschal or Passover Lamb, as noted by St. Paul: "For Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed" (I Corinthians 5:7). The innocent Lamb was slain for our sins, so that we might be forgiven. It is now a fait accomplit. The sixth word is Jesus' recognition that his suffering is over and his task is completed. Jesus is obedient to the Father and gives his love for mankind by redeeming us with His death on the Cross. What is the darkest day of mankind becomes the brightest day for mankind. And the Gospels as a group captured this paradox. The Synoptic Gospels narrated the horror of the event - the agony in the garden, the abandonment by his Apostles, the trail before the Sanhedrin, the intense mockery and torture heaped upon Jesus, his suffering all alone, the darkness over the land, and his death, starkly portrayed by both Matthew (27:47-51) and Mark (15:33-38).
In contrast, the passion of Jesus in the Gospel of John expresses his Kingship and proves to be His triumphant road to glory. John presents Jesus as directing the action the entire way. The phrase It is finished� carries a sense of accomplishment. In John, there is no trial before the Sanhedrin, and gone are the repeated mockeries and scourging. But rather, Jesus is introduced at the Roman trial as Behold your King!� (John 19:14). Jesus is not stumbling or falling as in the Synoptic Gospels, but the way of the Cross is presented with majesty and dignity, for Jesus went out bearing his own Cross� (John 19:17).
And in John, the inscription at the head of the cross is pointedly written Jesus of Nazareth, The King of the Jews� (John 19:19). The inscription INRI at the top of the cross is the Latin Iesus Nazarenus, Rex Iudaeorum. The loved ones of Jesus are with Him, and He decisively gives his Mother Mary to the disciple who loved him.
When Jesus died, He "handed over" the Spirit. Jesus remained in control to the end, and it is He who handed over his Spirit. One should not miss the double entendre here, for this may also be interpreted as His death brought forth the Holy Spirit.
The Gospel of John gradually reveals the Holy Spirit. Jesus mentions living water in John 4:10-11 when he meets the Samaritan woman at the well, and during the Feast of Tabernacles refers to living water as the Holy Spirit in 7:37-39. At the Last Supper, Christ announces he would ask the Father to send "another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth" (14:16-17). The word Advocate is also translated as Comforter, Helper, Paraclete, or Counselor. "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you" (14:26). The symbolism of water for the Holy Spirit becomes more evident in John 19:34: "But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and immediately there came out blood and water." The piercing of his side fulfills the prophecy in Zechariah 12:10: "They will look on me whom they have pierced." The piercing of Jesus' side prefigures the Sacraments of Eucharist (blood) and Baptism (water), as well as the beginning of the Church.
Questions for Reflection:
1. Do you live as if Jesus finished the work of salvation?
2. Do you have confidence that God will finish that which he has begun in you?
Song:
There's a line that is drawn through the ages
On that line stands an old rugged cross
On that cross, a battle is raging
To gain a man's soul or it's loss
On one side, march the forces of evil
All the demons, all the devils of hell
On the other, the angels of glory
And they meet on Golgotha's hill
The earth shakes with the force of the conflict
And the sun refuses to shine
For there hangs God's son, in the balance
And then through the darkness he cries
It is finished, the battle is over
It is finished, there'll be no more war
It is finished, the end of the conflict
It is finished and Jesus is Lord
Yet in my heart, the battle was still raging
Not all prisoners of war had come home
These were battlefields of my own making
I didn't know that the war had been won
Oh, but then I heard the king of the ages
Had fought all the battles for me
And that victory was mine for the claiming
And now praise his name, I am free.
Ending Prayer:
How can I ever find words to express my gratitude to you, dear Lord Jesus? You did it. You finished that for which you had been sent, faithful in life, faithful in death. You accomplished that which no other person could do, taking the sin of the world upon your sinless shoulders . . . taking my sin so that I might receive your forgiveness and new life.
All praise be to you, gracious Lord, for finishing the work of salvation. All praise be to you, dear Jesus, for saving me! Alleluia! Amen.
THE SEVEN LAST SAYING (IT IS FINISHED!)
So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. – John 19:30
"It is finished" Jesus said this right before HE died. What does it mean? Well lets take a look.
Finished is from the Greek word tetelestai which is from the perfect indicative passive tense word telos. It means, to end; to bring to completion; to bring to a conclusion; to complete; to accomplish; to fulfill.
Now that we know what finished means, let us look at what HE finished! There is a few things that HE finished.
First: JESUS finished the work that HIS Father sent HIM to do! When HE said "It is finished" HE was saying that "The work YOU sent ME to do is done!" The moment HE shouted it to the universe, HE was saying that HE faithfully did as GOD HIS FATHER sent HIM to do! HE proclaimed it to the whole world to know! John 17:4 – I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do.
"It Is Finished!"
Second: Tetelestai (Finished) is what the high priest would say over the lamb without spot and blemish. They would go and sacrifice a lamb without spot and blemish every year to cover up the sons. JESUS is both the Lamb and High Priest! So when HE said "It is finished" HE was saying that the perfect blood was shed for all sins. The ultimate Sacrifice had finally been made! _Hebrews 9:12 – Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption._
"It Is Finished!"
Third: JESUS paid our debt! The debt of sin! HE also set us free! Free from what? Sin, sickness, pain, lack, poverty, addictions, ext. Let us take a look at some scriptures for this!
Broke the chains:
Psalm 107:15-16:
15) Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men! 16) For He has broken the gates of bronze, And cut the bars of iron in two.
Healing:
Isaiah 53:4-5:
4)Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. 5) But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.
1 Peter 2:24
who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.
Psalm 103:3
Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,
Prosperity:
Philippians 4:19
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Proverbs 28:25
He who is of a proud heart stirs up strife, But he who trusts in the Lord will be prospered.
Proverbs 13:11-13
11) Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, But he who gathers by labor will increase. 12)Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life. 13) He who despises the word will be destroyed, But he who fears the commandment will be rewarded.
Jeremiah 33:9
Then it shall be to Me a name of joy, a praise, and an honor before all nations of the earth, who shall hear all the good that I do to them; they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and all the prosperity that I provide for it.'
Freedom From Fear:
2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Romans 8:15
For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father."
Psalm 34:4
I sought the Lord, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.
HE gave it all to us freely:
Matthew 10:8b Freely you have received, freely give.
"It is Finished"
Fourth: JESUS compleated the Old Covenant and started the New one. We are no longer under the Old Covenant, we are under the New one.
"It is finished"
So it is finished!!!! You are healed! You are delivered! You are rich! You are set free! JEUS did it all for you!! Now receive it and live it!!!! Show others that they can be free too!!
JESUS IS AWESOME!!!!!!!
IT IS FINISHED!!!!!!!!!!!!
"It is finished" Jesus said this right before HE died. What does it mean? Well lets take a look.
Finished is from the Greek word tetelestai which is from the perfect indicative passive tense word telos. It means, to end; to bring to completion; to bring to a conclusion; to complete; to accomplish; to fulfill.
Now that we know what finished means, let us look at what HE finished! There is a few things that HE finished.
First: JESUS finished the work that HIS Father sent HIM to do! When HE said "It is finished" HE was saying that "The work YOU sent ME to do is done!" The moment HE shouted it to the universe, HE was saying that HE faithfully did as GOD HIS FATHER sent HIM to do! HE proclaimed it to the whole world to know! John 17:4 – I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do.
"It Is Finished!"
Second: Tetelestai (Finished) is what the high priest would say over the lamb without spot and blemish. They would go and sacrifice a lamb without spot and blemish every year to cover up the sons. JESUS is both the Lamb and High Priest! So when HE said "It is finished" HE was saying that the perfect blood was shed for all sins. The ultimate Sacrifice had finally been made! _Hebrews 9:12 – Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption._
"It Is Finished!"
Third: JESUS paid our debt! The debt of sin! HE also set us free! Free from what? Sin, sickness, pain, lack, poverty, addictions, ext. Let us take a look at some scriptures for this!
Broke the chains:
Psalm 107:15-16:
15) Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men! 16) For He has broken the gates of bronze, And cut the bars of iron in two.
Healing:
Isaiah 53:4-5:
4)Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. 5) But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.
1 Peter 2:24
who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.
Psalm 103:3
Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,
Prosperity:
Philippians 4:19
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Proverbs 28:25
He who is of a proud heart stirs up strife, But he who trusts in the Lord will be prospered.
Proverbs 13:11-13
11) Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, But he who gathers by labor will increase. 12)Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life. 13) He who despises the word will be destroyed, But he who fears the commandment will be rewarded.
Jeremiah 33:9
Then it shall be to Me a name of joy, a praise, and an honor before all nations of the earth, who shall hear all the good that I do to them; they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and all the prosperity that I provide for it.'
Freedom From Fear:
2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Romans 8:15
For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father."
Psalm 34:4
I sought the Lord, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.
HE gave it all to us freely:
Matthew 10:8b Freely you have received, freely give.
"It is Finished"
Fourth: JESUS compleated the Old Covenant and started the New one. We are no longer under the Old Covenant, we are under the New one.
"It is finished"
So it is finished!!!! You are healed! You are delivered! You are rich! You are set free! JEUS did it all for you!! Now receive it and live it!!!! Show others that they can be free too!!
JESUS IS AWESOME!!!!!!!
IT IS FINISHED!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Teenfaith777
Thursday, April 17, 2014
THE SEVEN LAST SAYING (JESUS CRY OUT TO THE FATHER)
4. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34
Beginning Prayer:
Father God, as this Word goes forth, please send it straight to our hearts, so we will never forget what You did by sending Your Son Jesus to die for our sin. Bless these Words to fall on good grounds, so that all would bring forth good fruit in their season. Thank You for the opportunity to share Your Word about our Savior Jesus Christ. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
Subject: Jesus Cry out to the Father
Scriptures:
Matthew 27:46 "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
Mark 15:34 "And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
Word of Interest: Abandon
1. to leave completely and finally; forsake utterly; desert: to abandon one's farm; to abandon a child; to abandon a sinking ship.
2. to give up; discontinue; withdraw from: to abandon a research project; to abandon hopes for a stage career.
3. to give up the control of: to abandon a city to an enemy army.
4. to yield (oneself) without restraint or moderation; give (oneself) over to natural impulses, usually without self-control: to abandon oneself to grief.
5. Law. to cast away, leave, or desert, as property or a child.
Words of Encouragement:
In the darkest hours of his suffering, Jesus cried out the opening words of Psalm 22. And although much has been suggested regarding the meaning of this phrase, it was quite apparent the agony Christ felt as he expressed separation from God. Here we see the Father turning way from the Son as Jesus bore the full weight of our sin. Thank You Jesus! But physical torment takes its toll. He suddenly discovers that he cannot hear the still, small voice; he has lost his two-way communication with God. His lifeline is not working, so he must face the narrow gate of death alone.
This was the only expression of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. Both Gospels related that it was in the ninth hour, after 3 hours of darkness, that Jesus cried out this fourth word. The ninth hour was three o'clock in Judea. After the fourth Word, Mark related with a horrible sense of finality, "And Jesus uttered a loud cry, and breathed his last" (Mark 15:37).
One is struck by the anguished tone of this expression in contrast to the first three words of Jesus. This cry is from the painful heart of the human Jesus who must feel deserted by His Father and the Holy Spirit, not to mention his earthly companions the Apostles. As if to emphasize his loneliness, Mark even has his loved ones "looking from afar," not close to him as in the Gospel of John. Jesus feels separated from his Father. He is now all alone, and he must face death by himself.
But is not this exactly what happens to all of us when we die? We too are all alone at the time of death! Jesus completely lives the human experience as we do, and by doing so, frees us from the clutches of sin.
His fourth Word is the opening line of Psalm 22, and thus his cry from the Cross recalls the cry of Israel, and of all innocent persons who suffer. Psalm 22 of David makes a striking prophecy of the crucifixion of the Messiah at a time when crucifixion was not known to exist: "They have pierced my hands and my feet, they have numbered all my bones" (22:16-17). The Psalm continues: "They divide my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots" (22:18).
There can not be a more dreadful moment in the history of man as this moment. Jesus who came to save us is crucified, and He realizes the horror of what is happening and what He now is enduring. He is about to be engulfed in the raging sea of sin. Evil triumphs, as Jesus admits: "But this is your hour" (Luke 22:53). But it is only for a moment. The burden of all the sins of humanity for a moment overwhelm the humanity of our Savior.
But does this not have to happen? Does this not have to occur if Jesus is to save us? It is in defeat of his humanity that the Divine plan of His Father will be completed. It is by His death that we are redeemed. "For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and the human race, Christ Jesus, himself human, who gave himself as ransom for all" (I Timothy 2:5-6).
Questions for Reflection:
1. Have you taken time to consider that Jesus was abandoned by the Father so that you might not be?
2. What does this "word" from the cross mean to you?
Song:
To everyone who's lost someone they love
Long before it was their time
You feel like the days you had were not enough
when you said goodbye
And to all of the people with burdens and pains
Keeping you back from your life
You believe that there's nothing and there is no one
Who can make it right
Chorus
There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus
For the marriage that's struggling just to hang on
They lost all of their faith and love
They've done all they can to make it right again
Still it's not enough
For the ones who can't break the addictions and chains
You try to give up but you come back again
Just remember that you're not alone in your shame
And your suffering
Chorus
When your lonely (when you're lonely)
And it feels like the whole world is falling on you
You just reach out, you just cry out to Jesus
Cry to Jesus
To the widow who suffers from being alone
Wiping the tears from her eyes
For the children around the world without a home
Say a prayer tonight
Chorus
Ending Prayer:
O Lord Jesus, though I will never fully grasp the wonder and horror of your abandonment by the Father, every time I read this "word," I am overwhelmed with gratitude. How can I ever thank you for what you suffered for me? What can I do but to offer myself to you in gratitude and praise? Thank you, dear Lord, for what you suffered. Thank you for taking my place. Thank you for being forsaken by the Father so that I might never be. In Jesus' Mighty name, Amen.
Beginning Prayer:
Father God, as this Word goes forth, please send it straight to our hearts, so we will never forget what You did by sending Your Son Jesus to die for our sin. Bless these Words to fall on good grounds, so that all would bring forth good fruit in their season. Thank You for the opportunity to share Your Word about our Savior Jesus Christ. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
Subject: Jesus Cry out to the Father
Scriptures:
Matthew 27:46 "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
Mark 15:34 "And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
Word of Interest: Abandon
1. to leave completely and finally; forsake utterly; desert: to abandon one's farm; to abandon a child; to abandon a sinking ship.
2. to give up; discontinue; withdraw from: to abandon a research project; to abandon hopes for a stage career.
3. to give up the control of: to abandon a city to an enemy army.
4. to yield (oneself) without restraint or moderation; give (oneself) over to natural impulses, usually without self-control: to abandon oneself to grief.
5. Law. to cast away, leave, or desert, as property or a child.
Words of Encouragement:
In the darkest hours of his suffering, Jesus cried out the opening words of Psalm 22. And although much has been suggested regarding the meaning of this phrase, it was quite apparent the agony Christ felt as he expressed separation from God. Here we see the Father turning way from the Son as Jesus bore the full weight of our sin. Thank You Jesus! But physical torment takes its toll. He suddenly discovers that he cannot hear the still, small voice; he has lost his two-way communication with God. His lifeline is not working, so he must face the narrow gate of death alone.
This was the only expression of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. Both Gospels related that it was in the ninth hour, after 3 hours of darkness, that Jesus cried out this fourth word. The ninth hour was three o'clock in Judea. After the fourth Word, Mark related with a horrible sense of finality, "And Jesus uttered a loud cry, and breathed his last" (Mark 15:37).
One is struck by the anguished tone of this expression in contrast to the first three words of Jesus. This cry is from the painful heart of the human Jesus who must feel deserted by His Father and the Holy Spirit, not to mention his earthly companions the Apostles. As if to emphasize his loneliness, Mark even has his loved ones "looking from afar," not close to him as in the Gospel of John. Jesus feels separated from his Father. He is now all alone, and he must face death by himself.
But is not this exactly what happens to all of us when we die? We too are all alone at the time of death! Jesus completely lives the human experience as we do, and by doing so, frees us from the clutches of sin.
His fourth Word is the opening line of Psalm 22, and thus his cry from the Cross recalls the cry of Israel, and of all innocent persons who suffer. Psalm 22 of David makes a striking prophecy of the crucifixion of the Messiah at a time when crucifixion was not known to exist: "They have pierced my hands and my feet, they have numbered all my bones" (22:16-17). The Psalm continues: "They divide my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots" (22:18).
There can not be a more dreadful moment in the history of man as this moment. Jesus who came to save us is crucified, and He realizes the horror of what is happening and what He now is enduring. He is about to be engulfed in the raging sea of sin. Evil triumphs, as Jesus admits: "But this is your hour" (Luke 22:53). But it is only for a moment. The burden of all the sins of humanity for a moment overwhelm the humanity of our Savior.
But does this not have to happen? Does this not have to occur if Jesus is to save us? It is in defeat of his humanity that the Divine plan of His Father will be completed. It is by His death that we are redeemed. "For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and the human race, Christ Jesus, himself human, who gave himself as ransom for all" (I Timothy 2:5-6).
Questions for Reflection:
1. Have you taken time to consider that Jesus was abandoned by the Father so that you might not be?
2. What does this "word" from the cross mean to you?
Song:
To everyone who's lost someone they love
Long before it was their time
You feel like the days you had were not enough
when you said goodbye
And to all of the people with burdens and pains
Keeping you back from your life
You believe that there's nothing and there is no one
Who can make it right
Chorus
There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus
For the marriage that's struggling just to hang on
They lost all of their faith and love
They've done all they can to make it right again
Still it's not enough
For the ones who can't break the addictions and chains
You try to give up but you come back again
Just remember that you're not alone in your shame
And your suffering
Chorus
When your lonely (when you're lonely)
And it feels like the whole world is falling on you
You just reach out, you just cry out to Jesus
Cry to Jesus
To the widow who suffers from being alone
Wiping the tears from her eyes
For the children around the world without a home
Say a prayer tonight
Chorus
Ending Prayer:
O Lord Jesus, though I will never fully grasp the wonder and horror of your abandonment by the Father, every time I read this "word," I am overwhelmed with gratitude. How can I ever thank you for what you suffered for me? What can I do but to offer myself to you in gratitude and praise? Thank you, dear Lord, for what you suffered. Thank you for taking my place. Thank you for being forsaken by the Father so that I might never be. In Jesus' Mighty name, Amen.
BIBLE STUDY WEEK # 9 (IN-CONTROL OR OUT OF CONTROL)
I was reading and went back and saw this.............
It is the fruit of self-control that tells a believer when they are getting out of balance, and letting the flesh be their guide rather than the Spirit of God.
If love can go bad because of lack of self-control, then so can all the other fruits. Joy out of
control can lead to extremes of wildness that are pagan. Peace and patience can be so extreme that it
leads to lethargy and indifference to a hurting world. Kindness can lead one to be so sugary sweet
that people gag on it, and avoid it as being superficial. You find this once in awhile in a waiter or waitress, who you know is going overboard in sweet talk, hoping for a greater tip.
The point is, everything good can become bad if it goes to excess. The Mississippi River is one
of the best assets of our nation, but when it overflows we have the worst floods in the nation, and it is a curse. It is a good thing out of control, and a good thing out of control is a bad thing. That is why
self-control is the key to keeping all of these fruits of the Spirit from going bad. They never rot and
go bad as long as they are linked to self-control. The movie Jurassic Park is based on this theme. It was an awesome world of great wonder until the control system was lost-then it became a nightmare. The Christian life can be a world of wondrous beauty, but then it can turn ugly if self-control is lost.
It is the fruit of self-control that tells a believer when they are getting out of balance, and letting the flesh be their guide rather than the Spirit of God.
If love can go bad because of lack of self-control, then so can all the other fruits. Joy out of
control can lead to extremes of wildness that are pagan. Peace and patience can be so extreme that it
leads to lethargy and indifference to a hurting world. Kindness can lead one to be so sugary sweet
that people gag on it, and avoid it as being superficial. You find this once in awhile in a waiter or waitress, who you know is going overboard in sweet talk, hoping for a greater tip.
The point is, everything good can become bad if it goes to excess. The Mississippi River is one
of the best assets of our nation, but when it overflows we have the worst floods in the nation, and it is a curse. It is a good thing out of control, and a good thing out of control is a bad thing. That is why
self-control is the key to keeping all of these fruits of the Spirit from going bad. They never rot and
go bad as long as they are linked to self-control. The movie Jurassic Park is based on this theme. It was an awesome world of great wonder until the control system was lost-then it became a nightmare. The Christian life can be a world of wondrous beauty, but then it can turn ugly if self-control is lost.
BIBLE STUDY WEEK # 9 (I CHOOSE TEMPERANCE)
I choose self-control.............
Extra: Temperance
Extra: Temperance
I choose Longsuffering. . . I am a spiritual being. . .After this body is dead, my spirit will soar. I refuse to let what will not, rule the eternal. I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy. I will be impassioned only by my faith. I will be influenced only by God. I will be taught only by Christ. I choose self-control.
Love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, temperance. To these I commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek his grace. And then, when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.
Read: Galatians 5:22-25
22 By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. (NRSV)
This weeks scripture is coming from the New Revised Standard Version.
BIBLE STUDY WEEK # 9 (BACK TO THE BASES)
Back to the Bases:
Let's go back to the beginning. . .
Self-Control
It means; restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires. It is self-discipline, self-restraint, willpower, level headedness.
Think about what we would be like if we lacked self-control. . .
We would be out of control.
Think about a car. When it hits speeds over 80mph, it does not take much to lose control of it. One wrong move from the driver. . .one slippery puddle… and that care can spin out of control and cause chaos and destruction to everything in its path. Amen.
We need to make sure that we are not only remaining within the boundaries that our loving Father created for us (do the speed limit), we need to remain in control of our vehicle (hearts, minds, choices…lives).
We choose.
Self-control is not easy to come by. However, it CAN be a regular part of our lives-IF we are willing to remain close in our relationship with our Lord and Savior, and allow our flesh to hurt a little…sometimes a lot.
You see, when we are walking WITH Him regularly, it is very hard to remain in sin. We get convicted and we feel ashamed. The key is to recognize the trigger points, and either eliminate them or be diligent in keeping them at bay.
Self-Control.
Out of Control.
What will you choice?
I love the part of choosing, we have a choice!
BIBLE STUDY WEEK # 9 (SHARING)
How do we live holy lives that are obedient to God?
Receive Christ as our Savior
Study God's Word to KNOW HIS ways.
Be teachable, Allow the Holy Spirit to teach us by listening for His still small voice.
Pray often
Trust His Word
Submit to God's will
Let go of sin and unhealthy things…
Understand that anything God asks us to give up is for our own good.
Forgive others
Forgive yourself.
Walk in the Spirit of knowing His Word and living it.
Resist the devil
Love others
Spend TIME with God
Praise His Holy Name.
Study! Study! Study!
Studying is a major key to obedient living. If we do not know God's Word, how can we obey His precepts??
Receive Christ as our Savior
Study God's Word to KNOW HIS ways.
Be teachable, Allow the Holy Spirit to teach us by listening for His still small voice.
Pray often
Trust His Word
Submit to God's will
Let go of sin and unhealthy things…
Understand that anything God asks us to give up is for our own good.
Forgive others
Forgive yourself.
Walk in the Spirit of knowing His Word and living it.
Resist the devil
Love others
Spend TIME with God
Praise His Holy Name.
Study! Study! Study!
Studying is a major key to obedient living. If we do not know God's Word, how can we obey His precepts??
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
BIBLE STUDY WEEK # 9 (ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS)
Reflection Questions: Self-control
1. Are you able to conflict with your own desires, or do you find yourself always agreeing with yourself?
I must say I do find myself agreeing with my flesh at times, and then I feel condemn. This is when I ask God to forgive me.
2. Do you consider the opinions of others in addition to your own judgments, or are you absolutely unified in your own views?
I like hearing others' view point, and opinions, it helped me to grow in the Lord! I am open to others' opinion until God say different.
3. Are you able to say 'no' to yourself? Are you able to say 'no' to others?
I am working on saying no to myself when it comes to shopping when I shouldn't; and other things too. God has delivered me from not being able to say no to others. I was a people pleaser!
4. Do you find yourself able to keep to your plans and decisions, or do accidents and chance form the norms of your decision-making?
I have learned to trust God enough to ask Him if this is His will for me. I have made too many mistakes in my own planning; decision making is important to me to let Him led me.
5. Is intentionality and purposefulness something you are actively pursuing in your life?
Let me just say, I am pursuing it every day. I try to have clear aim; and plan ahead of time most of the time in small things, but big decisions I let God led me. When I do that I do avoid some unwanted problems. I must say, I do need help in self-control in some areas.
BIBLE STUDY WEEK # 9 (DEEPER STUDY)
DEEPER STUDY:
For an even deeper study, look up the following words in your concordance, and study the Scripture reference;
Obedience:
Obedience is doing what an authority figure would have you to do. It is important to obey even when no one is watching, because this shows true character.
Submitted:
1. to give over or yield to the power or authority of another (often used reflexively).
2. to subject to some kind of treatment or influence.
3. to present for the approval, consideration, or decision of another or others: to submit a plan; to submit an application.
4. to state or urge with deference; suggest or propose (usually followed by a clause): I submit that full proof should be required.
Consecrated:
To make or declare sacred or holy; sanctify.
To dedicate one's life, time, etc. to a specific purpose.
To ordain a minister for service unto God
Christianity to sanctify bread and wine to be received as the body and blood of Christ.
BIBLE STUDY WEEK # 9 (HOW DO WE LIVE HOLY?)
How do we live holy lives that are obedient to God?
Receive Christ as our Savior
Study God's Word to KNOW HIS ways.
Be teachable, Allow the Holy Spirit to teach us by listening for His still small voice.
Pray often
Trust His Word
Submit to God's will
Let go of sin and unhealthy things…
Understand that anything God asks us to give up is for our own good.
Forgive others
Forgive yourself.
Walk in the Spirit of knowing His Word and living it.
Resist the devil
Love others
Spend TIME with God
Praise His Holy Name.
Study! Study! Study!
Studying is a major key to obedient living. If we do not know God's Word, how can we obey His precepts??
BIBLE STUDY WEEK # 9 (SCRIPTURE READING)
Scripture Reading:
1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win it. 25 Athletes exercise self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one. 26 So I do not run aimlessly, nor do I box as though beating the air; 27 but I punish my body and enslave it, so that after proclaiming to others I myself should not be disqualified.
2 Timothy 3:1-4
You must understand this, that in the last days distressing times will come. 2 For people will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 inhuman, implacable, slanderers, profligates, brutes, haters of good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,
2 Peter 1:5-8
For this very reason, you must make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with mutual[a] affection, and mutual[b] affection with love. 8 For if these things are yours and are increasing among you, they keep you from being ineffective and unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
These are Lara Velez's scripture for this week on Self-control:
2 Peter 1:5-7
Proverbs 16:17; 25:28
Titus 1:18; 2:11
1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 10:13
Romans 12:2
2 Timothy 1:7
Matthew 6:24, 33; 25:20-23; 26:41
Acts 5:29
1 Peter 1:14
Deuteronomy 8:20
Galatians 5:16-26
Psalm 112:1; 119:60, 112
Ephesians 5:11
Philippians 2:12
1 John 2:17
James 2:24
Luke 11:28
Mark 3:35
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