John 21:20-25
The Beloved Disciple and His Book
- v20 Then Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following, who also had leaned on His breast at the supper, and said, “Lord, who is the one who betrays You?”
- v21 Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, “But Lord, what about this man?”
- v22 Jesus said to him, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.”
This is the last line that Jesus said in the book of John and of the gospels. Don't compare yourself with others in ministry. Joyce Meyer puts it simply as Jesus saying "Mind your own business" politely. This is Jesus' last piece of advice.
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- v25 And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
John 17-20
John 20:19-23
The Apostles Commissioned
- v21-23 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
The Apostles Commissioned
- v21-23 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Psalm 139:7-10
Where can I go from Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I go up to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in the depths, You are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast.
i thank God that He is here with me even amidst the amount of school work, and He guides me to soar. and just as what A.B. Simpson said, "It comes so naturally, so spontaneously, so like a fountain, without consciousness, without effort, for true life is always easy, and overflowing."
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Sing, O barren
1 “Sing, O barren,
You who have not borne!
Break forth into singing, and cry aloud,
You who have not labored with child!
For more are the children of the desolate
Than the children of the married woman,” says the LORD.
Isaiah 54:1
Shout when you feel like you are under circumstances. Run when you feel tired. Sing when you feel dry. Worship when you feel God is far. Let not your heart be troubled when you are worried. We, children of God, will go by what the truth says. the barren can sing, the weak can shout, the tired can run, the poor can prosper, the troubled can be in peace.
You who have not borne!
Break forth into singing, and cry aloud,
You who have not labored with child!
For more are the children of the desolate
Than the children of the married woman,” says the LORD.
Isaiah 54:1
Shout when you feel like you are under circumstances. Run when you feel tired. Sing when you feel dry. Worship when you feel God is far. Let not your heart be troubled when you are worried. We, children of God, will go by what the truth says. the barren can sing, the weak can shout, the tired can run, the poor can prosper, the troubled can be in peace.
A Message for Raphael
What are you holding on to that's stopping you from flying, Raphael?
What's eating at you, Raphael, at this season in your life, that's stopping you from reaching the next dimension of what God has for you?
Tonight, my purpose in coming, is to say to you, Raphael, "Let it go."
Release everything that's holding you back from this season in your life.
God has something for you to do, Raphael, but you can't go any higher with that weasel attached to your breast.
This is the moment. This is the season. This is the time for you to simply forget those things which are behind, and reach to those things which are before and simply, let it go.
I'm preaching to you Raphael. God sent me here to tell you you're not a chicken. You're an eagle. And if you'll let go of those little weasels in your life, if you will drop the weasel, you can fly.
It's your season to fly, Raphael. The stage is set. The time is right. The blessing of the Lord is here. This is your time to reposition yourself and let go of the things that are limiting you. It's time for you to fly.
I'm gonna pray that you drop the weasel, that you reposition yourself, and that you come into your season, Raphael, because I believe you can fly, I believe you can touch the sky.
What's eating at you, Raphael, at this season in your life, that's stopping you from reaching the next dimension of what God has for you?
Tonight, my purpose in coming, is to say to you, Raphael, "Let it go."
Release everything that's holding you back from this season in your life.
God has something for you to do, Raphael, but you can't go any higher with that weasel attached to your breast.
This is the moment. This is the season. This is the time for you to simply forget those things which are behind, and reach to those things which are before and simply, let it go.
I'm preaching to you Raphael. God sent me here to tell you you're not a chicken. You're an eagle. And if you'll let go of those little weasels in your life, if you will drop the weasel, you can fly.
It's your season to fly, Raphael. The stage is set. The time is right. The blessing of the Lord is here. This is your time to reposition yourself and let go of the things that are limiting you. It's time for you to fly.
I'm gonna pray that you drop the weasel, that you reposition yourself, and that you come into your season, Raphael, because I believe you can fly, I believe you can touch the sky.
Monday, August 27, 2007
fear Him, but fear not...
"But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows."
-Luke 12:4-7 (ESV)
-Luke 12:4-7 (ESV)
Sunday, August 26, 2007
John 16
John 16
- v8-11 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they do not believe in Me; of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
- v22-24 Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you. “And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
- v32-33 ... And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
- v8-11 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they do not believe in Me; of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
- v22-24 Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you. “And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
- v32-33 ... And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
Redemption
Ephesians 1:7
7In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.
Found the definition of redemption from dictionary.com and one of its definition is atonement for guilt. So this verse means that through the blood of Jesus, we have atonement for guilt. Thus believers today can have the gift of No Condemnation. The gift of No Condemnation is paid for by Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Our God knows us
- "Oh LORD, You have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my every thought when far away. You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment You know where I am. You know what I'm going to say even before I say it, LORD. You both precede and follow me. You place Your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to know!" - Psalm 139:1-6
John 15
John 15
- v7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.
- v11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.
- v15-16 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.
- v19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own.
- v7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.
- v11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.
- v15-16 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.
- v19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own.
Friday, August 24, 2007
perfected.
And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness". Therefore most gladly i will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2 Corinthians 12:9
2 Corinthians 12:9
John 14
John 14 (The Message)
-v1-4 "Don't let this throw you. You trust God, don't you? Trust me... And if I'm on my way to get your room ready, I'll come back and get you so you can live where I live. And you already know the road I'm taking."
- v11-14 "... From now on, whatever you request along the lines of who I am and what I am doing, I'll do it... I mean it. Whatever you request in this way, I'll do.
- v15-18 "... I will talk to the Father, and he'll provide you another Friend so that you will always have someone with you. I will not leave you orphaned. I'm coming back."
- v21"... And the person who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and make myself plain to him."
- v26-27 The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you. I'm leaving you well and whole. That's my parting gift to you. Peace. I don't leave you the way you're used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don't be upset. Don't be distraught.
- v28 "You've heard me tell you, 'I'm going away, and I'm coming back.' If you loved me, you would be glad that I'm on my way to the Father because the Father is the goal and purpose of my life.
-v1-4 "Don't let this throw you. You trust God, don't you? Trust me... And if I'm on my way to get your room ready, I'll come back and get you so you can live where I live. And you already know the road I'm taking."
- v11-14 "... From now on, whatever you request along the lines of who I am and what I am doing, I'll do it... I mean it. Whatever you request in this way, I'll do.
- v15-18 "... I will talk to the Father, and he'll provide you another Friend so that you will always have someone with you. I will not leave you orphaned. I'm coming back."
- v21"... And the person who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and make myself plain to him."
- v26-27 The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you. I'm leaving you well and whole. That's my parting gift to you. Peace. I don't leave you the way you're used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don't be upset. Don't be distraught.
- v28 "You've heard me tell you, 'I'm going away, and I'm coming back.' If you loved me, you would be glad that I'm on my way to the Father because the Father is the goal and purpose of my life.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
ephesians 32:20-21
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
the finished work begins in your mind
love this devotional by Pastor Prince and its worth meditating on it over and over again especially when things seem to get tough in school
Jesus Wore The Crown Of Thorns For You
John 19:2
2And the soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and put it on His head…
If hard work is the formula for prosperity, then everyone who works hard should be prosperous. But this is certainly not the case. Many people who work very hard are still poor!
I am not advocating laziness. What I am saying is that working hard by the sweat of your brow is not how God’s prosperity comes. In fact, if you have to work overtime all the time and are stressed out, you are operating under a curse.
What curse is that? It is this curse: “In the sweat of your face, you shall eat bread…” (Genesis 3:19). And it refers to the stress, struggle and anxieties that come with working hard and yet producing little. Now, work itself is not a curse since God gave Adam work before the fall — Adam was to tend the garden of Eden. It was only after Adam sinned that the land was cursed and it brought forth thorns, and man had to toil to eat of it. (Genesis 3:17–18)
But praise God Jesus wore the thorns on His head to show you that He has borne this curse for you and redeemed you from it. He wore the crown of thorns so that you can work stress-free and yet have the results. You don’t have to toil night and day like the world just to get ahead in life. Your heavenly Father can get you there without the stress. (Matthew 6:32–33)
Beloved, every curse that was supposed to fall on your head fell on Jesus’ head, typified by the crown of thorns. He wore the crown of thorns for you so that you can have peace of mind. He wore the crown of thorns for you and took your curse so that you can wear the crown of glory and take His righteousness, and all the benefits of that righteousness!
Today, don’t labour and toil like the people of the world. Instead, expect to see the blessings of God come into your life without blood, sweat and tears because Jesus wore the crown of thorns for you!
Jesus Wore The Crown Of Thorns For You
John 19:2
2And the soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and put it on His head…
If hard work is the formula for prosperity, then everyone who works hard should be prosperous. But this is certainly not the case. Many people who work very hard are still poor!
I am not advocating laziness. What I am saying is that working hard by the sweat of your brow is not how God’s prosperity comes. In fact, if you have to work overtime all the time and are stressed out, you are operating under a curse.
What curse is that? It is this curse: “In the sweat of your face, you shall eat bread…” (Genesis 3:19). And it refers to the stress, struggle and anxieties that come with working hard and yet producing little. Now, work itself is not a curse since God gave Adam work before the fall — Adam was to tend the garden of Eden. It was only after Adam sinned that the land was cursed and it brought forth thorns, and man had to toil to eat of it. (Genesis 3:17–18)
But praise God Jesus wore the thorns on His head to show you that He has borne this curse for you and redeemed you from it. He wore the crown of thorns so that you can work stress-free and yet have the results. You don’t have to toil night and day like the world just to get ahead in life. Your heavenly Father can get you there without the stress. (Matthew 6:32–33)
Beloved, every curse that was supposed to fall on your head fell on Jesus’ head, typified by the crown of thorns. He wore the crown of thorns for you so that you can have peace of mind. He wore the crown of thorns for you and took your curse so that you can wear the crown of glory and take His righteousness, and all the benefits of that righteousness!
Today, don’t labour and toil like the people of the world. Instead, expect to see the blessings of God come into your life without blood, sweat and tears because Jesus wore the crown of thorns for you!
John 13
John 13:1-17 (The Message)
Washing His Disciples' Feet
-v8 ... Jesus said, "If I don't wash you, you can't be part of what I'm doing."
Washing His Disciples' Feet
-v8 ... Jesus said, "If I don't wash you, you can't be part of what I'm doing."
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
John 12
John 12:36-50 (The Message)
Their Eyes Are Blinded
- v42-43On the other hand, a considerable number from the ranks of the leaders did believe. But because of the Pharisees, they didn't come out in the open with it. They were afraid of getting kicked out of the meeting place. When push came to shove they cared more for human approval than for God's glory.
Their Eyes Are Blinded
- v42-43On the other hand, a considerable number from the ranks of the leaders did believe. But because of the Pharisees, they didn't come out in the open with it. They were afraid of getting kicked out of the meeting place. When push came to shove they cared more for human approval than for God's glory.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
be not condemned
36 “For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and saw corruption; 37 but He whom God raised up saw no corruption. 38 Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins; 39 and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Acts 13:36-39
law of Moses can only condemn. but Jesus can only preach forgiveness of sins that justifies
Acts 13:36-39
law of Moses can only condemn. but Jesus can only preach forgiveness of sins that justifies
John 11
John 11:1-44
- v14-15 Then Jesus said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless let us go to him.”
- v33 Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled.
- v35 Jesus wept.
- v38 Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it.
- v40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?”
- v42 And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me.”
- v14-15 Then Jesus said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless let us go to him.”
- v33 Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled.
- v35 Jesus wept.
- v38 Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it.
- v40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?”
- v42 And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me.”
Monday, August 20, 2007
the cure for dread in school
For if by the one man’s offence death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ
Romans 5:17
the cure for dread in going to school! knowing that you reign in life sure makes going to school easy. its like going to a race, an exam knowing that you have already won and gotten full marks!
Romans 5:17
the cure for dread in going to school! knowing that you reign in life sure makes going to school easy. its like going to a race, an exam knowing that you have already won and gotten full marks!
John 10
John 10:22-30
The Shepherd Knows His Sheep
- v27-29 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.
The Shepherd Knows His Sheep
- v27-29 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
John 9
John 9:13-34
The Pharisees Excommunicate the Healed Man
- v27 He answered them, “I told you already, and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become His disciples?”
- v30 The man answered and said to them, “Why, this is a marvelous thing, that you do not know where He is from; yet He has opened my eyes!"
Haha I love the sarcasm! Hahaha
John 9:35-41
True Vision and True Blindness
- v35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when He had found him, He said to him, “Do you believe in the Son of God?”
Notice that earlier in the chapter, in v22-23, it says:
- v22-23 His parents said these things because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had agreed already that if anyone confessed that He was Christ, he would be put out of the synagogue. Therefore his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”
His parents chose to shift the responsibility to their son because they were afraid of declaring that Jesus was the Messiah. Their son stood up to the Pharisees and got excommunicated. And what happened to him? Jesus personally came to find him! WOAH!!!
The Pharisees Excommunicate the Healed Man
- v27 He answered them, “I told you already, and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become His disciples?”
- v30 The man answered and said to them, “Why, this is a marvelous thing, that you do not know where He is from; yet He has opened my eyes!"
Haha I love the sarcasm! Hahaha
John 9:35-41
True Vision and True Blindness
- v35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when He had found him, He said to him, “Do you believe in the Son of God?”
Notice that earlier in the chapter, in v22-23, it says:
- v22-23 His parents said these things because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had agreed already that if anyone confessed that He was Christ, he would be put out of the synagogue. Therefore his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”
His parents chose to shift the responsibility to their son because they were afraid of declaring that Jesus was the Messiah. Their son stood up to the Pharisees and got excommunicated. And what happened to him? Jesus personally came to find him! WOAH!!!
John 8
John 8:12-59
It whole section of scripture is amazing. You see Jesus debating with the Pharisees and unbelievers. With so many ppl coming against Him alone to question his integrity, line-after-line, you can see how steadfast He is in His identity as the Messiah. No one can shake Him from that belief. It is mind-blowing!
It whole section of scripture is amazing. You see Jesus debating with the Pharisees and unbelievers. With so many ppl coming against Him alone to question his integrity, line-after-line, you can see how steadfast He is in His identity as the Messiah. No one can shake Him from that belief. It is mind-blowing!
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Luke 6:21
Blessed are you who hunger now, For you shall be filled (satisfied).
Blessed are you who weep now, For you shall laugh.
was using my new bible today (thank you) and i thank God for daily manna! it's so comforting to know that when we are hurting, Daddy promises days of rejoicing and laughter.
Blessed are you who weep now, For you shall laugh.
was using my new bible today (thank you) and i thank God for daily manna! it's so comforting to know that when we are hurting, Daddy promises days of rejoicing and laughter.
Friday, August 17, 2007
John 7
John 7:10-24
The Heavenly Scholar
- v16-18 Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority. He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him."
The Heavenly Scholar
- v16-18 Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority. He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him."
Thursday, August 16, 2007
John 6
John 6:60-71 (The Message)
Too Tough to Swallow
- v64-65 ... (Jesus knew from the start that some weren't going to risk themselves with him. He knew also who would betray him.) He went on to say, "This is why I told you earlier that no one is capable of coming to me on his own. You get to me only as a gift from the Father."
Too Tough to Swallow
- v64-65 ... (Jesus knew from the start that some weren't going to risk themselves with him. He knew also who would betray him.) He went on to say, "This is why I told you earlier that no one is capable of coming to me on his own. You get to me only as a gift from the Father."
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
John 5
John 5:19-47 (The Message)
What the Father Does, the Son Does
- v30-31 "I can't do a solitary thing on my own: I listen, then I decide. You can trust my decision because I'm not out to get my own way but only to carry out orders. If I were simply speaking on my own account, it would be an empty, self-serving witness."
What the Father Does, the Son Does
- v30-31 "I can't do a solitary thing on my own: I listen, then I decide. You can trust my decision because I'm not out to get my own way but only to carry out orders. If I were simply speaking on my own account, it would be an empty, self-serving witness."
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
John 4
John 4:1-30 (The Message)
The Woman at the Well
- v1-3 Jesus realized that the Pharisees were keeping count of the baptisms that he and John performed (although his disciples, not Jesus, did the actual baptizing). They had posted the score that Jesus was ahead, turning him and John into rivals in the eyes of the people. So Jesus left the Judean countryside and went back to Galilee.
- v23-24 But the time is coming—it has, in fact, come—when what you're called will not matter and where you go to worship will not matter. "It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That's the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration."
The Woman at the Well
- v1-3 Jesus realized that the Pharisees were keeping count of the baptisms that he and John performed (although his disciples, not Jesus, did the actual baptizing). They had posted the score that Jesus was ahead, turning him and John into rivals in the eyes of the people. So Jesus left the Judean countryside and went back to Galilee.
- v23-24 But the time is coming—it has, in fact, come—when what you're called will not matter and where you go to worship will not matter. "It's who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That's the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration."
rest on every side
But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side; there is neither adversary nor evil occurrence.
1 Kings 5:4
let us rest too, in the finished work. a rest in our hearts and our minds.
1 Kings 5:4
let us rest too, in the finished work. a rest in our hearts and our minds.
Monday, August 13, 2007
John 3
John 3:1-21 (The Message)
Born From Above
- v12 If I tell you things that are plain as the hand before your face and you don't believe me, what use is there in telling you of things you can't see, the things of God?
- v17-18 God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted...
John 3:22-36 (The Message)
The Bridegroom's Friend
- v35-36 The Father loves the Son extravagantly. He turned everything over to him so he could give it away—a lavish distribution of gifts. That is why whoever accepts and trusts the Son gets in on everything, life complete and forever!
Born From Above
- v12 If I tell you things that are plain as the hand before your face and you don't believe me, what use is there in telling you of things you can't see, the things of God?
- v17-18 God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted...
John 3:22-36 (The Message)
The Bridegroom's Friend
- v35-36 The Father loves the Son extravagantly. He turned everything over to him so he could give it away—a lavish distribution of gifts. That is why whoever accepts and trusts the Son gets in on everything, life complete and forever!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Him be the praise
For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of no effect. For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1 Corinthians 1:17-18
let the Word of the cross, Jesus and His finished work be to us, THE power (dunamis) of God everyday in our lives and in every areas of our lives.
1 Corinthians 1:17-18
let the Word of the cross, Jesus and His finished work be to us, THE power (dunamis) of God everyday in our lives and in every areas of our lives.
Set Me Free
I think a lot of things set me free during Arrow yesterday.
Lynne shared during ambs meeting that she told Dorothy before she went up to dance for the Zone Concert that Jesus is performing WITH her. Wah that set me free to sing during pre-service yesterday, man!!!
And what Pastor Chin preached yesterday during Arrow really set me free too! He said that we shouldn't try to wash ourselves with the Word, and try hard to link and force things out. Just ask God to give your portion and show/speak to you. Wah and look at what God just showed me in John 2!! And John 2 is such a short chapter!!!!
Lynne shared during ambs meeting that she told Dorothy before she went up to dance for the Zone Concert that Jesus is performing WITH her. Wah that set me free to sing during pre-service yesterday, man!!!
And what Pastor Chin preached yesterday during Arrow really set me free too! He said that we shouldn't try to wash ourselves with the Word, and try hard to link and force things out. Just ask God to give your portion and show/speak to you. Wah and look at what God just showed me in John 2!! And John 2 is such a short chapter!!!!
John 2
John 2:1-12 (The Message)
From Water to Wine
- v4 Jesus said, "Is that any of our business, Mother—yours or mine? This isn't my time. Don't push me."
Are you pushing Jesus to get what you want? He makes all things beautiful in His time (Ecc 3:11). I don't just want any car; I want my beautiful car at an even more beautiful price.
John 2:13-22
Jesus Cleanses the Temple
- v16 And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!”
I wondered why Jesus specifically told those who sold doves. Since we know that doves are a picture of the Holy Spirit, was He referring to those who try to sell the Holy Spirit to you when all of us are entitled to be baptised in the Spirit for free?
John 2:13-25 (The Message)
The Discerner of Hearts
- v23-25 During the time he was in Jerusalem, those days of the Passover Feast, many people noticed the signs he was displaying and, seeing they pointed straight to God, entrusted their lives to him. But Jesus didn't entrust his life to them. He knew them inside and out, knew how untrustworthy they were. He didn't need any help in seeing right through them.
Here lies the key to not letting people disappoint you. Jesus did it Himself. Here's where you need to know that people (your leaders, your cg mates, the people who serve together with you) are not perfect. You need to be secure and stable in Him alone.
Notice that in this chapter itself, it is written that the disciples/people believed in Him on 3 different occurrences (how many times does it take for them to believe Him?!?!?):
- v11 This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.
- v22 Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.
- v23 Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did.
From Water to Wine
- v4 Jesus said, "Is that any of our business, Mother—yours or mine? This isn't my time. Don't push me."
Are you pushing Jesus to get what you want? He makes all things beautiful in His time (Ecc 3:11). I don't just want any car; I want my beautiful car at an even more beautiful price.
John 2:13-22
Jesus Cleanses the Temple
- v16 And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!”
I wondered why Jesus specifically told those who sold doves. Since we know that doves are a picture of the Holy Spirit, was He referring to those who try to sell the Holy Spirit to you when all of us are entitled to be baptised in the Spirit for free?
John 2:13-25 (The Message)
The Discerner of Hearts
- v23-25 During the time he was in Jerusalem, those days of the Passover Feast, many people noticed the signs he was displaying and, seeing they pointed straight to God, entrusted their lives to him. But Jesus didn't entrust his life to them. He knew them inside and out, knew how untrustworthy they were. He didn't need any help in seeing right through them.
Here lies the key to not letting people disappoint you. Jesus did it Himself. Here's where you need to know that people (your leaders, your cg mates, the people who serve together with you) are not perfect. You need to be secure and stable in Him alone.
Notice that in this chapter itself, it is written that the disciples/people believed in Him on 3 different occurrences (how many times does it take for them to believe Him?!?!?):
- v11 This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.
- v22 Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.
- v23 Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
John 1
John 1:43-51
Philip and Nathanael
- v47-50 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered and said to Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”
When we hear God's Word and simply believe it, do you think we'll not see even greater things? ;)
Philip and Nathanael
- v47-50 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered and said to Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”
When we hear God's Word and simply believe it, do you think we'll not see even greater things? ;)
Friday, August 10, 2007
Luke 23-24
Luke 24:44-53
You're the Witnesses
- v 44-45 Then he said, "Everything I told you while I was with you comes to this: All the things written about me in the Law of Moses, in the Prophets, and in the Psalms have to be fulfilled." He went on to open their understanding of the Word of God, showing them how to read their Bibles this way.
Are you reading your Bibles in another way? =)
You're the Witnesses
- v 44-45 Then he said, "Everything I told you while I was with you comes to this: All the things written about me in the Law of Moses, in the Prophets, and in the Psalms have to be fulfilled." He went on to open their understanding of the Word of God, showing them how to read their Bibles this way.
Are you reading your Bibles in another way? =)
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Luke 22
Luke 22:35-38
Suppplies for the Road
- v35 And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “Nothing.”
Suppplies for the Road
- v35 And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “Nothing.”
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Luke 20-21
Luke 21:7-19
The Signs of the Times and the End of Age
- v12-15 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony. Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist.
The Signs of the Times and the End of Age
- v12-15 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony. Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Why do I live?
I was reading this book by K.P. Yohannan, founder of Gospel For Asia, and in it he told about a conversation he had with an 8-year-old boy which I thought was rather interesting. He was talking to the boy about Jesus and asked him several questions.
"What are you doing?" K.P. Yohannan asked the boy.
"I go to school," the boy replied.
"Why do you go to school?"
"To study," the boy said.
"Why do you study?"
"To get smart."
"Why do you want to get smart?"
"So I can get a good job."
"Why do you want to get a good job?"
"So I can make lots of money."
"Why do you want to make lots of money?"
"So I can buy food."
"Why do you want to buy food?"
"So I can eat."
"Why do you want to eat?"
"To live."
"Why do you want to live?"
At that point, the little boy thought for a minute, scratched his head, looked at K.P. Yohannan and said, "Sir, why do I live?" He paused a moment in mid-thought, then gave his own sad answer, "To die!"
There ain't much meaning in life without Jesus. I thought this conversation was rather cool becaues it bridge from a non-spiritual one to a spiritual one. Maybe can try using it on people.
"What are you doing?" K.P. Yohannan asked the boy.
"I go to school," the boy replied.
"Why do you go to school?"
"To study," the boy said.
"Why do you study?"
"To get smart."
"Why do you want to get smart?"
"So I can get a good job."
"Why do you want to get a good job?"
"So I can make lots of money."
"Why do you want to make lots of money?"
"So I can buy food."
"Why do you want to buy food?"
"So I can eat."
"Why do you want to eat?"
"To live."
"Why do you want to live?"
At that point, the little boy thought for a minute, scratched his head, looked at K.P. Yohannan and said, "Sir, why do I live?" He paused a moment in mid-thought, then gave his own sad answer, "To die!"
There ain't much meaning in life without Jesus. I thought this conversation was rather cool becaues it bridge from a non-spiritual one to a spiritual one. Maybe can try using it on people.
Luke 19
Luke 19:11-27
The Parable of the Minas
- v11. Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately.
- v24-27 “And he said to those who stood by, ‘Take the mina from him, and give it to him who has ten minas.’ (But they said to him, ‘Master, he has ten minas.’) ‘For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’”
Luke 19:28-40
The Triumphal Entry
- v37-38 Then, as He was now drawing near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, saying: “‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD!’ Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
- v39-40 And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
The word "stones" here is not referring just to literal stones as used in 2 Cor 3:3 - "written on tablets of stone". The word used here is Lithos, which means
a stone
of small stones
of building stones
metaph. of Christ
Isn't Jesus good at this "he who has ears let him hear" business?
The Parable of the Minas
- v11. Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately.
- v24-27 “And he said to those who stood by, ‘Take the mina from him, and give it to him who has ten minas.’ (But they said to him, ‘Master, he has ten minas.’) ‘For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’”
Luke 19:28-40
The Triumphal Entry
- v37-38 Then, as He was now drawing near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, saying: “‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD!’ Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
- v39-40 And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
The word "stones" here is not referring just to literal stones as used in 2 Cor 3:3 - "written on tablets of stone". The word used here is Lithos, which means
a stone
of small stones
of building stones
metaph. of Christ
Isn't Jesus good at this "he who has ears let him hear" business?
Monday, August 6, 2007
Luke 18
Luke 18:9-17
The Story of the Tax Man and the Pharisee
The Story of the Tax Man and the Pharisee
-v13-14 "Meanwhile the tax man, slumped in the shadows, his face in his hands, not daring to look up, said, 'God, give mercy. Forgive me, a sinner.'"
Jesus commented, "This tax man, not the other, went home made right with God. If you walk around with your nose in the air, you're going to end up flat on your face, but if you're content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself."
consider it done
Psalm 138
1 I will praise You with my whole heart;
Before the gods I will sing praises to You.
2 I will worship toward Your holy temple,
And praise Your name
For Your lovingkindness and Your truth;
For You have magnified Your word above all Your name.
3 In the day when I cried out, You answered me,
And made me bold with strength in my soul.
4 All the kings of the earth shall praise You, O LORD,
When they hear the words of Your mouth.
5 Yes, they shall sing of the ways of the LORD,
For great is the glory of the LORD.
6 Though the LORD is on high,
Yet He regards the lowly;
But the proud He knows from afar.
7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me;
You will stretch out Your hand
Against the wrath of my enemies,
And Your right hand will save me.
8 The LORD will perfect that which concerns me;
Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever;
Do not forsake the works of Your hands.
in the strong's concordance, "perfect" in v8 means to perform, to bring to an end, to complete. Jesus has completed His work on the cross and sealed our lives for greatness, for prosperity, for wholeness, for abundant life. today, He continually perfects every single detail that concerns us. consider it done.
1 I will praise You with my whole heart;
Before the gods I will sing praises to You.
2 I will worship toward Your holy temple,
And praise Your name
For Your lovingkindness and Your truth;
For You have magnified Your word above all Your name.
3 In the day when I cried out, You answered me,
And made me bold with strength in my soul.
4 All the kings of the earth shall praise You, O LORD,
When they hear the words of Your mouth.
5 Yes, they shall sing of the ways of the LORD,
For great is the glory of the LORD.
6 Though the LORD is on high,
Yet He regards the lowly;
But the proud He knows from afar.
7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me;
You will stretch out Your hand
Against the wrath of my enemies,
And Your right hand will save me.
8 The LORD will perfect that which concerns me;
Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever;
Do not forsake the works of Your hands.
in the strong's concordance, "perfect" in v8 means to perform, to bring to an end, to complete. Jesus has completed His work on the cross and sealed our lives for greatness, for prosperity, for wholeness, for abundant life. today, He continually perfects every single detail that concerns us. consider it done.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Pray for the Taliban militants and the 21 South Korean hostages
"...Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you..." Matthew 5:44 (NIV)
"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Luke 23:34 (NIV)
Ask the Father to forgive... if u dont have the strength to...
"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Luke 23:34 (NIV)
Ask the Father to forgive... if u dont have the strength to...
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
john 21:4-14
4Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
5He called out to them, "[Little children], haven't you any fish?"
"No," they answered.
(Jesus asked not because He didn't know the answer; He wanted His disciples to know that they cannot!)
6He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
7Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards.[b] 9When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.
10Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught."
11Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. 12Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. 13Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.
(quoted from mark's friend who went for the hillsong conference: the last session of the conference [speaker: TD Jakes]
Jesus was on the shore already COOKING fish – smell it! Thought you gave up the fish to follow Him? But whatever you gave up He’s already got prepared!
Mt6:33 Seek first kingdom and His righteousness and all these things ADDED. God will give it to you, not raw – COOKED! Pressed down, shaken together, running over! He’s waiting for you to be prepared for what He’s prepared for you!
God had fish prepared on shore all the time. Jesus says goodness and mercy is following – here comes all you thought you’d given up – 153 big fish! If you choose Him you will lose nothing – and gain it ALL!
It’s your last night on the boat! You can go forward, but you can never go back. Peter never recorded back on boat. His mind was taken to a new dimension – couldn’t be who he was and who he is at same time – forgetting those things behind and reaching to things before us! Kissed goodbye, and pressed on! Because of Word and what God’s been doing, this is your last night on the boat! )
i love this portion of the Scripture. there's so much to glean from it! be blessed!
5He called out to them, "[Little children], haven't you any fish?"
"No," they answered.
(Jesus asked not because He didn't know the answer; He wanted His disciples to know that they cannot!)
6He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
7Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards.[b] 9When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.
10Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught."
11Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. 12Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. 13Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.
(quoted from mark's friend who went for the hillsong conference: the last session of the conference [speaker: TD Jakes]
Jesus was on the shore already COOKING fish – smell it! Thought you gave up the fish to follow Him? But whatever you gave up He’s already got prepared!
Mt6:33 Seek first kingdom and His righteousness and all these things ADDED. God will give it to you, not raw – COOKED! Pressed down, shaken together, running over! He’s waiting for you to be prepared for what He’s prepared for you!
God had fish prepared on shore all the time. Jesus says goodness and mercy is following – here comes all you thought you’d given up – 153 big fish! If you choose Him you will lose nothing – and gain it ALL!
It’s your last night on the boat! You can go forward, but you can never go back. Peter never recorded back on boat. His mind was taken to a new dimension – couldn’t be who he was and who he is at same time – forgetting those things behind and reaching to things before us! Kissed goodbye, and pressed on! Because of Word and what God’s been doing, this is your last night on the boat! )
i love this portion of the Scripture. there's so much to glean from it! be blessed!
Jesus is God, but...
"He(Jesus) is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power."
"But he was wounded for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his stripes we are healed."
- Heb 1:3, Isa 53:5 (ESV)
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