Words of Jesus Podcast

Salvation, certainly discipleship, is a journey. We must repent (make changes) as imperfections are revealed. This is an individual walk, a striving to enter the narrow gate, to make a life of character that is worthy to offer our Savior and King. How can we hear the instructions of the Holy Spirit? Here's the initial steps: 1) Keep the Ten Commandments. 2) Take time every day to hear the voice of God. 3) Never, ever violate your conscience. The Bible is full of conditional promises. ***73 & 74: Jesus Teaches About God’s Love In ParablesLuke 15:1-32The Lost SheepAmong the many people who came to hear and see Jesus were publicans and sinners.  The Pharisees and scribes murmured among themselves, saying:            “This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them.”            Jesus told a parable, saying:            “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, ‘Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.’ I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in Heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”The Lost Coin Jesus continued saying:            “Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently til she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.’ Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.”The Prodigal Son Jesus continued:            “A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me.’ And he divided unto them his living.And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land, and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat; and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, “Father, I have sinned against Heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. Make me as one of thy hired servants.”’ And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, ‘Father, I have sinned against Heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it;...

The journey to salvation begins with repentance (i.e., making changes as prompted by the Holy Spirit) and is completed with the achievement of "enduring till the end." One is our Teacher, even Christ. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 1 John 3:7-11 ***73: Jesus Tells The Cost Of DiscipleshipLuke 14:25-35 Great multitudes followed Jesus. He said to them:            “If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.And whoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build, and was not able to finish.’ Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an embassage, and desireth conditions of peace. So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.            “Salt is good; but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be seasoned? It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

The Jews refused or were unable to reconcile their preconceived ideas to the reality of Messiah. They did not expect Jesus to minister the way He did, in spite of many miraculous signs.  The leaders were unwilling to give up their religious protocols or animal sacrifices. They could not hear, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice." Jesus came to be King and High Priest of Israel and to remove the temple. To this day Jesus is rejected by the Jews because of unfulfilled prophecies; again, unable to see how their rejection of Jesus led to His crucifixion and the interruption of Jesus' work on the earth. To avoid similar misunderstandings we must hear from the Spirit of God.  How? 1) Keep the Commandments (the big ten).2) Take time every day to hear from God (meditate).3) Never disobey your conscience. ***70: Jesus Reveals That The Way Into The Kingdom Is DifficultLuke 13:22-30Jesus went through cities and villages, teaching. As he journeyed toward Jerusalem, one who went with him said:            “Lord, are there few that be saved?”            Jesus replied:            “Strive to enter in at the straight gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying,‘Lord, Lord, open unto us;’ and he shall answer and say unto you, ‘I know you not whence ye are’ – then shall ye begin to say, ‘We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.’ But he shall say, I tell you, ‘I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.’ There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.”

Why do you call me LORD and not do what I say? Remember the Sermon on the Mount - give in secret, pray in private, give to those who cannot repay. We must understand that it was the rejection of the Jews of the authority of Jesus which led to empty seats at the table. Jesus turned to the halt, the blind, the lame - us (the Gentiles). Don't boast against the natural branches. We are less than the guests expected by Jesus. ***71: Jesus is Warned of Herod Luke 13:31-35On the same day certain Pharisees came to Jesus, saying:            “Get thee out and depart hence. For Herod will kill thee.”            Jesus answered them, saying:            “Go ye, and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.’ Nevertheless I must walk today, and tomorrow, and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem. O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate; and verily I say unto you, ‘Ye shall not see me, until the time come when ye shall say, “Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.”’”***72: Jesus Teaches At The Table Of A Chief PhariseeLuke 14:1-24Jesus Heals A Man With DropsyOn a Sabbath day Jesus ate in the house of one of the chief Pharisees. He was being watched closely.            A man came before him who was afflicted with dropsy. Jesus spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, asking:            “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath day?”            The lawyers and Pharisees remained silent. Thereupon Jesus healed the man and let him depart. Then he said to the lawyers and Pharisees:             “Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the Sabbath day?”            And the lawyers and Pharisees were unable to give any answer.The Parable Of The Wedding Guest While he was eating at the home of the chief Pharisee, Jesus, who noticed how certain of the guests always pushed themselves into the positions of honor, said to them: “When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room: lest a more honorable man than thou be bidden of him; and he that bade thee and him, come and say to thee, ‘Give this man place;’ and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”  Jesus Instructs The Pharisee Jesus also said to the Pharisee who had invited him to eat: “When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither they kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbors; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompense be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind; and thou shalt be blessed;...

We must be diligent to see past traditions or political protocols which get in the way of us taking care of people. We protect the seed of Christ planted in us when we care for one another. It is our responsibility to build the character to stand. Alone, if need be. Expect persecution. Endure to the end. ***69: Jesus Heals A Crippled WomanLuke 13:10-17On a Sabbath day Jesus was teaching in a synagogue. In the congregation there was a woman whose back was bent as a bow. For eighteen years she had been deformed.Jesus saw her and called her to him, saying:            “Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.” He laid his hands on her and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. The ruler of the synagogue was angry that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath day. He said to the people: “There are six days in which men ought to work. In them therefore come and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.” Jesus retorted, saying to the ruler: “Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering? And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” When Jesus had finished speaking, all those who had opposed him were ashamed and the people rejoiced for the glorious things he had done.

Give thanks in all things. God is not our enemy (or our valet). As children, students or disciples we understand that problems are the path to perfection. Jesus said eternal life can be obtained by obedience to the law. Take a longer view of outcomes. Circumstances of life provide the opportunity for our growth. to work with "works of God to be made manifest" God is not our enemy. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:  But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? . . . Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. 1 Peter 4***68: Jesus Teaches Concerning RepentanceLuke 13:1-9All Men Are SinnersSome of the crowd told Jesus of the Galileans who had been killed by Pilate and whose blood had been mingled with their sacrifices. Jesus said:             “Suppose ye that these Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, ‘Nay,’ but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, ‘Nay,’ but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Parable Of A Barren Fig Tree            Then Jesus told those who were with him this parable:            “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, ‘Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none. Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?’ And he answering said unto him, ‘Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it. And if it bear fruit, well; and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.”

When we repent we make changes in our life. If no change occurs, we remain in our sin. We are not condemned because of Adam. We will be judged based on what we do; not what we believe. What we believe will determine our actions. Sin is a transgression against the law. Jesus says, "Go and sin no more." There is a protocol required for relationship with God. We must love God and love our neighbor enough to keep the 10 commandments. The commandments are our guard rails. When we keep the commandments we will be led by the Spirit of God. When you obey your conscience it gets louder. Jesus will teach us HIS ways - from the inside. Listen. ***68: Jesus Teaches Concerning RepentanceLuke 13:1-9All Men Are SinnersSome of the crowd told Jesus of the Galileans who had been killed by Pilate and whose blood had been mingled with their sacrifices. Jesus said:             “Suppose ye that these Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, ‘Nay,’ but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, ‘Nay,’ but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Parable Of A Barren Fig Tree            Then Jesus told those who were with him this parable:            “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, ‘Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none. Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?’ And he answering said unto him, ‘Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it. And if it bear fruit, well; and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.”

Seek Ye the Kingdom: People led of the Spirit will know the TimesTime is short. Believe God is a Holy and Righteous Judge.  He is. Stay busy doing right-ness. The day of the end is not going to be easy - fire, division, trouble.  Hold fast your profession of faith without wavering; exhorting one another.   We will recognize things on the way; signs, weather - you know what is right and wrong - DO RIGHT! We will give an account of how we handled our responsibilities."Why not judge ye of yourself what is right?"***67: Jesus Speaks Of God’s CareLuke 12:12-59Seek Ye The KingdomAfter Jesus had related the parable about the rich man, he spoke to his disciples, saying:            “Therefore I say unto you, ‘Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.’ The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap – which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them. How much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? Consider the lilies how they grow; they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.            “But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good please to give you the kingdom.Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the Heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.The Faithful Steward “Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately. Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching. Verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this I know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also. For the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.”            Then Peter said to Jesus:            “Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or even to all?”            Jesus replied:            “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath. But and if that servant say in his heart, ‘My lord delayeth his coming;’ and...

A good steward is mindful of being held accountable for our responsibilities. “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13***67: Jesus Speaks Of God’s CareLuke 12:12-59Seek Ye The KingdomAfter Jesus had related the parable about the rich man, he spoke to his disciples, saying: . . .To Be A Faithful Follower Is Not Easy            Jesus continued speaking to his disciples, saying:            “I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, ‘Nay; but rather division.” For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”People Unable To Read The Times            Jesus turned to the people and addressed them, saying:            “When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower’; and so it is. And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, ‘There will be heat’; and it cometh to pass. Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time? Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?            “When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art on the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison. I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou has paid the very last mite.”

We live in uncertain times. We endeavor to save or acquire enough to protect ourselves from any loss or discomfort. How much is enough? Bigger barns? More investments? These are short-sited arrangements, coins in a pocket with holes, if you will. There is a way to get God involved in your finances. Pay your tithes; ten percent for God, ten percent for keeping the feasts (vacay); and 3% for you the poor or needy neighbor. Consider the compassion and desire of the Lord to be involved in our daily provision and care:"Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts." Malachi 3“For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” Matthew 7:2***67: Jesus Speaks Of God’s CareLuke 12:12-59Seek Ye The KingdomAfter Jesus had related the parable about the rich man, he spoke to his disciples, saying:            “Therefore I say unto you, ‘Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.’ The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap – which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them. How much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? Consider the lilies how they grow; they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.            “But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good please to give you the kingdom.Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the Heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.The Faithful Steward “Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately. Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching. Verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this I know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also. For the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.”            Then Peter said to...

It is the propensity of man to shift responsibility; to look to experts or professionals to relieve the pressure of thinking, of deciding and of acting; a type of child (or slave) mentality. It is true, we begin our walk in Christianity as servants; however, there is more for those who would be heirs. God desires a "living sacrifice." Daily we deny-ourselves. Daily we take-up-our-cross. Daily we seek a Word from God. Daily we obey Jesus when He says, "Follow-me". ***66: Jesus Warns Against CovetousnessLuke 12:13-21 After Jesus had given his warnings regarding hypocrisy, one of those present said to him:            “Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.”            Jesus replied:            “Man, who made me a judge or divider over you?”            He continued:            “Take heed, and beware of covetousness. For a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”            Then Jesus told a parable of a rich man to the multitude, saying:            “The ground of a certain rich man was brought forth plentifully. And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?’ And he said, ‘This will I do: I will pull down my barns and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.”’ But God said unto him, ‘Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee; then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?’ So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

The way to salvation is described as a narrow path. There is no room for crowds maintained by hypocrisy (acting) or compromise. A purposeful stand regardless of "what others think" will bring persecution and pressure. We must square our shoulders and resist the temptation to change our position to "get along" or to "belong" to the crowd. It is denial of Christ that we must fear. There will be difficulty for sure, but when you stand with Christ - you do not stand alone. Be strong. ***65: Jesus Warns His Disciples Against HypocrisyLuke 12:1-12When a great multitude of people gathered around him, standing so thick that they trod upon one another’s feet, Jesus began to speak, saying:             “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. And I say unto you my friends, ‘Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.’ But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear. Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, ‘Fear him.’ Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore. Ye are of more value than many sparrows. Also I say unto you, ‘Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God. But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.’ And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; but unto him that blasphemest against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven. And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say. For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.”

The commandments bring life, order and communication with God. It is important work.  However, the traditions making the law more difficult creates barriers and voids the benefits of keeping the law.  Past consequences of commandment disobedience (i.e. 70 years of slavery for violations of the Sabbath) motivated religious leaders to set boundaries (fences) around the law with the intent of protecting the law.  These fences made the law grievous and difficult to obey.  Over time these fences became a favored source of authority, as people were required to continually consult religious leaders regarding every-day life.   Jesus corrects the practice of the leadership and further expounds on the "weightier matters" of the law.  Jesus said, "These things ye ought to have done" and "not avoid the weightier matters..." ***64: Jesus Rebukes The Pharisees, Scribes, and LawyersLuke 11:37-54A Pharisee invited Jesus to come to his house to eat. Jesus entered and sat down to the food spread before him. The host was surprised that Jesus began to eat without washing before dinner.            Perceiving his thoughts, Jesus said to him:            “Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also? But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. But woe unto you, Pharisees! For ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God. These ought ye to have done, and not leave the other undone. Woe unto you, Pharisees! For ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.”            Then a lawyer who was present said to Jesus:            “Thus saying thou reproachest us also.”            Jesus replied:            “Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! For ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers. Woe unto you! For ye build the sepulchers of the prophets, and your fathers killed them. Truly ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers; for they indeed killed them, and ye build their sepulchers. Therefore also said the wisdom of God, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute’ – that the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation; from the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple. Verily I say unto you, ‘It shall be required of this generation.’Woe unto you, lawyers! For ye have taken away the key of knowledge. Ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.”

Enthusiasm to recruit believers has lead to short-sighted evangelistic techniques which result in false doctrines and misunderstandings of the gospel. There is consistent truth in the instruction of Jesus. Jesus continually prods and pushes His disciples to see Kingdom things. Jesus looks for us to imitate Him; to quickly care for those in our sphere of influence. In order that it may be, "Thy will be done in earth..." Just do it. Just do God's will. He tells us what it is. Then, the will of God shall be done - in the earth. ***63: Jesus Discusses PrayerLuke 11:1-13Once, when Jesus had been praying, one of his disciples said to him:            “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”            Jesus replied:            “When ye pray, say:‘Our Father which art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.Thy Kingdom come.Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so in earth.Give us this day our daily bread.And forgive us our sins;For we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.And lead us not into temptation;But deliver us from evil.’”Then Jesus told this story to his disciples, saying:            “Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves. For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him’? And he from within shall answer and say, ‘Trouble me not; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.’ I say unto you, “Though he will not rise and give him because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.’ And I say unto you, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you.’ For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”

In our day prayer is cheap. Can we click to forward a prayer request from the internet to the throne of God? Does a prayer wheel get the job done? Can we hire the righteous to make prayers vicariously? Does a recorded prayer work? Is there a number of repetitions required (like votes) to get the attention of God? We have been taught God is always listening, He will grant our every desire (no limits like with Aladdin), and "all we have to do is believe." Friends, this is not true. Nothing adds to the rolls of atheism like unanswered prayer requests. The disciples noticed something different about Jesus' prayers. First, they never heard Jesus say, "Father would you just . . ." Secondly, the prayers of Jesus were effective and obedient. A servant, a son, does not petition without obtaining instruction, i.e. the will of God. In many cases, however, it is our will; not God's that is sought. Which leads to exactly the result described in the Scriptures - you ask and receive not because you ask amiss, that you may consume it upon your lusts. There must be a better way. Jesus teach us to pray.***63: Jesus Discusses PrayerLuke 11:1-13Once, when Jesus had been praying, one of his disciples said to him:            “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”            Jesus replied:            “When ye pray, say:‘Our Father which art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.Thy Kingdom come.Thy will be done, as in Heaven, so in earth.Give us this day our daily bread.And forgive us our sins;For we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.And lead us not into temptation;But deliver us from evil.’”Then Jesus told this story to his disciples, saying:            “Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves. For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him’? And he from within shall answer and say, ‘Trouble me not; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.’ I say unto you, “Though he will not rise and give him because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.’ And I say unto you, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you.’ For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”

What God wants is almost irrelevant because of man's will. The Bible is full of broken Scriptures. So much is in our control. We do what we want to do, which may or may not be God's will. God does not intervene because of our prayers. We are allowed (and required) to partner with God to affect outcomes in this life. Christians are "more-than" when we develop our relationship with God; not because we say it, but, because we obey. We are afraid of the consequences of being sold out to the Word of God in our ear. ***62: Jesus Is Attacked In JerusalemJohn 10:22-39Jesus was in Jerusalem for the Feast of the Dedication, which occurred in the winter time. While he walked on Solomon’s Porch, a part of the temple, the Jews came around him and said:            “How long dost thou make us doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.”            Jesus answered them saying:            “I told you, and ye believe not. The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me. But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. 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 any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.”            Those around him picked up stones to hurl at Jesus, who said:            “Many good works have I showed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?”            They answered Jesus:            “For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.”            Jesus replied to them:            “Is it not written in your law, ’I said, “Ye are gods”’? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken, say ye of him, who the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, ‘Thou blasphemest’; because I said, ‘I am the Son of God?’ If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works; that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.”            Thereupon the authorities sought to arrest Jesus, but he eluded them.

Our inherited traditions hamper our ability to hear Jesus. There are gods many. Modern thought uses the "god of the gap" theory as a precursor to scientific understanding, forcing a contrived choice of belief in god or science. In this chapter, the religious leaders allowed their expectations and traditions as justification to disregard the works of Jesus. “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13 (KJV)“But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.” Hebrews 1:9 (KJV)***62: Jesus Is Attacked In JerusalemJohn 10:22-39Jesus was in Jerusalem for the Feast of the Dedication, which occurred in the winter time. While he walked on Solomon’s Porch, a part of the temple, the Jews came around him and said:            “How long dost thou make us doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.”            Jesus answered them saying:            “I told you, and ye believe not. The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me. But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. 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 any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.”            Those around him picked up stones to hurl at Jesus, who said:            “Many good works have I showed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?”            They answered Jesus:            “For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.”            Jesus replied to them:            “Is it not written in your law, ’I said, “Ye are gods”’? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken, say ye of him, who the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, ‘Thou blasphemest’; because I said, ‘I am the Son of God?’ If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works; that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.”            Thereupon the authorities sought to arrest Jesus, but he eluded them.

Mark 4:19“And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.”Traditions, protocol and bad theology lulls the modern Christian into a sense of false security. Examine the Words of Jesus and compare His ways to the ways we have sought out for comfort or convenience. This work is difficult. Examine your thoughts. Where did the concern come from? Make changes as you go. Hirelings prevent sheep from getting to the Lord Jesus. Beware of finding or being "Another Christ", the preacher has one job. Bring the sheep to the Shepherd.***61: Jesus Tells The Parable Of The Good ShepherdJohn 10:1-21Jesus continued speaking and said:            “Verily, verily I say unto you, ‘He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him, the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice; and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him, for they know not the voice of strangers.”            The listeners did not understand the meaning of what Jesus said. He continued:            “Verily, verily, I say unto you, ‘I am the door of the sheep.’ All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door; by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is a hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth; and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is a hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold. Them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd. Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.”            The words of Jesus again caused a difference of opinion among the people. Many of them said:            “He hath a devil, and is mad. Why hear ye him?”            Others said:            “There are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?”

The joy of an eye-opening miracle creates immediate awe and attention. The clamor almost overshadowing the life-changing experience itself. How could a man born-blind have sight? Fake news pundits were decrying the event and even the identity of the healed man. "Think not that I came to bring peace..." said Jesus. A choice is mandated of those who receive a visitation by God, the receiver of the gift and of the watchers. Every act of obedience to the Father by Jesus declared, "It's not like you think." Quite a challenge to those who are professionals in "God's business". Established circumstances, regulations, and protocol dictates who is and is not eligible to receive from God. ***60: Jesus Heals The Man Born BlindJohn 9:1-41As Jesus walked along on a Sabbath he saw a man who had been born blind from birth.            Jesus’ disciples said to him:            “Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?”            Jesus answered them, saying:            “Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents; but that the works of God should be made manifest in him. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day. The night cometh, when no man can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”            As soon as he had finished speaking, Jesus spat on the ground, made a soft mass of clay with the spittle, and placed it, as an ointment, on the eyes of the blind man. Then he said to the man:            “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam.”            The blind man went to the pool, and when he had washed his eyes he could see.             Acquaintances who saw him said:            “Is this not he that sat and begged?”            Some said:            “This is he.”             Others said:            “He is like him.”            The man who had been blind said:            “I am he.”            Thereupon he was asked:            “How were thine eyes opened?”            He replied:            “A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash.’ And I went and washed, and I received sight.”            The man was asked:            “Where is he?”            He answered:            “I know not.”            The people who had questioned him took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees.            When the Pharisees asked him how he had...

We don't know what is good. Circumstances judged on an emotional level will throw us off track. Trust God the Father to know the circumstance we need to become a mature child of God. There is striving, endurance and overcoming to secure a relationship with God. We are admonished to "grow-up in Christ" by becoming a servant. "Know ye what I have done to you?" Jesus asked the disciples. He washed their feet. He served. He humbled himself. He led.We minister to the LORD in physical ways, picking up garbage, cleaning, feeding the hungry; "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."Present your body as a living sacrifice; holy and acceptable to the Lord. John 4:23“But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.”***59: Jesus In The Home Of Mary And MarthaLuke 10:38-42Jesus In The Home Of Mary And MarthaWhen he came to the village of Bethany, Jesus rested in the house of a woman named Martha. Martha had a sister, Mary, who sat at the feet of Jesus and listened to his words.            Martha, who was very busy taking care of the house and serving, went to Jesus and said:             “Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me.”            Jesus answered Martha, saying:            “Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things. But one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”

Do you know this Parable? Jesus said one parable is the key to understanding ALL parables. A prerequisite understanding if you will. Do you know which parable he referenced? If not, go to your Bible and find it right away. Even with Jesus the Son of God, in physical form on the earth, there was an enemy and a communication barrier that required stealth implementation. There are hints of this in the Gospels. Also, remember Paul's words in 1 Cor. 2:7-8 "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." A DVD titled, "The Parable Paradox" is available online free to all at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnueHpgtz6g/ Or you may request your free copy of "The Parable Paradox" DVD via email from [email protected].***58: The Parable Of The Good SamaritanLuke 10:25-37The Parable Of The Good SamaritanA Lawyer asked Jesus:            “Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”            Jesus answered with a question, saying:            “What is written in the law? How readest thou?”            The lawyer replied:            “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.”            Jesus said to the lawyer:            “Thou hast answered right. This do, and thou shalt live.”            Then the lawyer asked:            “Who is my neighbor?”            Jesus answered with a parable, saying:            “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, ‘Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.’ Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?”            The lawyer replied to Jesus:            “He that showed mercy on him.”            Jesus replied: "Go, and do thou likewise."

"What must I do [for eternal life]?" How readest thou?" Jesus answers the question like no modern preachers or evangelists. "Keep the commandments." "…this do and thou shalt live…" Jesus said. If we could keep the two commandments 1) Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and strength; and 2) Love your neighbor as yourself; there would have been no reason for JESUS to come. The ten commandments are a gift to us for the purpose of regeneration. We can keep the ten commandments. This prerequisite allows the indwelling of the Spirit of God for internal guidance. Going God's way opens the door to acquire the power to become Sons of God. This grace is not a free gift. We must lay down our life and follow Jesus - to the end. ***58: The Parable Of The Good SamaritanLuke 10:25-37The Parable Of The Good SamaritanA Lawyer asked Jesus:            “Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”            Jesus answered with a question, saying:            “What is written in the law? How readest thou?”            The lawyer replied:            “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.”            Jesus said to the lawyer:            “Thou hast answered right. This do, and thou shalt live.”            Then the lawyer asked:            “Who is my neighbor?”            Jesus answered with a parable, saying:            “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, ‘Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.’ Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?”            The lawyer replied to Jesus:            “He that showed mercy on him.”            Jesus replied: "Go, and do thou likewise."

Jesus instructs the disciples in a way that is counterintuitive to the physical world. Ambition is not encouraged. Selfishness is put-down. They are told to accept what is given with humility, not pursuing wealth, so your gospel is not perverted. A laborer is worthy of hire - a place to sleep, something to eat. The disciples were provided for by God not by manipulation or contrivance or pressure or compulsion or marketing. The demand on the disciples was to learn to be content. The miracles of healing and deliverance were exciting, but they were not the greatest miracle being made manifest. ***57: The Mission And Success Of The Seventy Disciples Of JesusLuke 10:1-24JESUS APPOINTED seventy disciples in addition to the twelve. He sent them before him, two by two, into every city and place through which he would pass. When they were gathered around him, he sent them forth with these instructions: “The harvest is truly great, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth laborers into his harvest. Go your ways. Behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes, and salute no man by the way. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house.’ And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it; if not, it shall turn to you again. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give; for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house. And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, ‘The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.’ But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same and say, ‘Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you.’ Notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable that day for Sodom, than for that city. Woe unto thee, Chorazin! Woe unto thee, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to Heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.” When the seventy were with Jesus again, they were much elated and said to him: “Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.” Jesus answered them, saying: “I beheld Satan as lightning fall from Heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding, in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in Heaven.” In that hour Jesus rejoiced and prayed to his Father, saying: “I thank thee, O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes; even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered to me of my Father; and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.” Then he turned again to his disciples and said to them: “Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see. For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.”

 "If it sounds too good to be true, it's probably not true."   Consider the premise, "Salvation is free."  While it is true salvation cannot be obtained without the gift of faith and the sacrifice of Jesus; it is also true that Christianity is costly.  To gain new life, we must lay down our old life.  We must submit to the commandments, to the authority of the Spirit of God, and to Jesus Christ of Nazareth as our ONE teacher.  The path of redemption is narrow. This fight, this faith, this race, presents all the challenges one would expect when searching for a new life, as eternal goal, a God worthy of worship and honor. Worship not in words, but in humility and action. It is recognized as obedience. ***57: The Mission And Success Of The Seventy Disciples Of JesusLuke 10:1-24JESUS APPOINTED seventy disciples in addition to the twelve. He sent them before him, two by two, into every city and place through which he would pass. When they were gathered around him, he sent them forth with these instructions: “The harvest is truly great, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth laborers into his harvest. Go your ways. Behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes, and salute no man by the way. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house.’ And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it; if not, it shall turn to you again. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give; for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house. And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, ‘The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.’ But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same and say, ‘Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you.’ Notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable that day for Sodom, than for that city. Woe unto thee, Chorazin! Woe unto thee, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to Heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.” When the seventy were with Jesus again, they were much elated and said to him: “Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.” Jesus answered them, saying: “I beheld Satan as lightning fall from Heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding, in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your name are written in Heaven.” In that hour Jesus rejoiced and prayed to his Father, saying: “I thank thee, O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes; even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered to me of my Father; and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.” Then he turned again to his disciples and said to them: “Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see. For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not...

We attempt to negotiate our obedience to God to minimize our sacrifice. We are required to deny ourselves, to commit to our death for our faith, and to imitate Jesus. Jesus did not offer prosperity to people who came to Him. Hold everything we own in an open hand. Jesus came to teach us to be acceptable to him. He did not come for us to accept Him. Kingdom philosophy is opposite many religious doctrines - expect it. We cannot enter the Kingdom of God with this world attached to us. The gate is narrow. ***55: Jesus Rebukes James’ And John’s Desire To Misuse Spiritual PowerLuke 9:51-56AS JESUS was making his way toward Jerusalem, he sent messengers before him. They entered a village of Samaria to make ready for Jesus’ passing through that place. The Samaritans would not receive Jesus because he was going toward Jerusalem. Two of his disciples, James and John, became very angry over this and said: “Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from Heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?” But Jesus turned and rebuked them, saying: “Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.” So they went to another village.***56: Jesus Teaches That All Else Must Be ForsakenMatthew 8:19-22; Luke 9:57-62A MAN came to Jesus and said: “Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.” Jesus replied: “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” Jesus spoke to another man, saying: “Follow me.” The man said: “Lord, suffer me to first go and bury my father.” Jesus said to him: “Let the dead bury their dead. But go thou and preach the kingdom of God.” Another man said to Jesus: “Lord, I will follow thee. But let me first go bid them farewell which are at home at my house.” To him Jesus said: “No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”

"We do not know what Spirit we are of." The disciples and the religious leaders misunderstood God. The practice of the day was to use religion selfishly to obtain materialistic goals. Jesus came to reveal the Kingdom of God. Jesus came to clarify the way to please God. The Scriptures record multiple instances where God said, "I am not like you." God said, "I desire mercy and not sacrifice." The process of understanding, of becoming born from above, of following Jesus in Spirit and Truth takes diligence and time. Practice taking a longer view of life. People are watching. Be consistent. Be loving. Be obedient. ***55: Jesus Rebukes James’ And John’s Desire To Misuse Spiritual PowerLuke 9:51-56AS JESUS was making his way toward Jerusalem, he sent messengers before him. They entered a village of Samaria to make ready for Jesus’ passing through that place. The Samaritans would not receive Jesus because he was going toward Jerusalem. Two of his disciples, James and John, became very angry over this and said: “Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from Heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?” But Jesus turned and rebuked them, saying: “Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.” So they went to another village.

“For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through [Jesus] might be saved. He that believeth on [Jesus] is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” John 3:17-18Changes! No more bloodline salvation; whosoever will (not whosoever wants). There are requirements for salvation. Deny yourself, die (take up your cross), and follow me. Jesus is a stranger to His church. Salvation not one and done; we need to change. When we move from mercy we "don't know what Spirit we are of". It is helpful to remember the 'pit' from whence you came.***55: Jesus Rebukes James’ And John’s Desire To Misuse Spiritual PowerLuke 9:51-56AS JESUS was making his way toward Jerusalem, he sent messengers before him. They entered a village of Samaria to make ready for Jesus’ passing through that place. The Samaritans would not receive Jesus because he was going toward Jerusalem. Two of his disciples, James and John, became very angry over this and said: “Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from Heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?” But Jesus turned and rebuked them, saying: “Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.” So they went to another village.

Jesus' simple instruction for us, "Keep the commandments and the Father and I will instruct you from the inside." The people did not understand Jesus was taught by His Father daily. Jesus wants that same communication for us. The steps? 1) Keep the commandments. 2) Take time every day to hear from God. 3) Never violate your conscience. ***Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of TabernaclesJohn 7:1-8:59Jesus Arouses Anger By Claiming Sonship With God            Jesus continued to speak, saying:            “I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins. Whither I go, ye cannot come.”            The Jews said among themselves:            “Will he kill himself? Because he saith, ‘Whither I go, you cannot come.’”            Jesus said to the Jews:            “Ye are from beneath; I am from above. Ye are of this world; I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins. For if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.”            The Jews asked him:            “Who art thou?”            Jesus replied:            “Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning. I have many things to say and to judge of you. But he that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of him.”            The Jews did not understand that he spoke of the Father.            Jesus continued, saying:            “When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. And he that sent me is with me. The Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.”            Because of these words, many believed in Jesus. To those Jews who believed he said:            “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”            The Jews replied:            “We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man. How sayest thou, ‘Ye shall be made free’?”            Jesus answered them:            “Verily, verily I say unto you, ‘Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.’ and the servant abideth not in the house forever; but the Son abideth forever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you. I speak that which I have seen with my Father; and ye do that which ye have seen with your father.”            The Jews answered, saying:            “Abraham is our...

The instruction of the Scriptures is often opposite the instructions of men. Jesus said we must deny ourselves, die and follow Jesus. We show the light to the world by our lives. If the world is not asking "of us" no light is shinning. Muslims, Jews, Christians are known as people of the book. Disciples are not people of the book; we are people of the author.***Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of TabernaclesJohn 7:1-8:59Jesus Rejects The Advice of His Brothers To Go To JerusalemWhen the Feast of the Tabernacles was at hand, Jesus’ brothers said to him:            “Depart hence, and go into Judea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. For there is no man that doeth anything in secret, if he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, show thyself to the world.”            Even his brothers did not believe in him.            Jesus replied to his advisers:            “My time is not yet come; but your time is always ready. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Go ye up unto this feast. I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet fullcome.”            And Jesus continued yet a while in Galilee. But, after his brothers had left for Jerusalem, he also went to the feast, not openly but secretly.Jesus Defeats An Attempt To Arrest Him            The authorities, suspecting that Jesus was in the city, asked:            “Where is he?”            The people murmured about him. Some said:            “He is a good man.”             Others said:            “Nay, but he deceiveth the people.”            However, all were afraid to speak openly of Jesus, for fear of the authorities.  About the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. Many people, surprised at his words, said:            “How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?”            Jesus answered them saying:            “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why ye go about to kill me?”            The people answered:            “Thou hast a devil. Who goeth about to kill thee?”            Jesus replied:            “I have done one work, and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers;) and ye on the Sabbath day circumcise a man. If a man on the Sabbath...

Jesus operated in the Spirit, not under the law. Jesus expected conflict with the law of Moses. "He who is without sin- let him come." ***Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of TabernaclesJohn 7:1-8:59Jesus Rejects The Advice of His Brothers To Go To JerusalemWhen the Feast of the Tabernacles was at hand, Jesus’ brothers said to him:            “Depart hence, and go into Judea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. For there is no man that doeth anything in secret, if he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, show thyself to the world.”            Even his brothers did not believe in him.            Jesus replied to his advisers:            “My time is not yet come; but your time is always ready. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Go ye up unto this feast. I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet fullcome.”            And Jesus continued yet a while in Galilee. But, after his brothers had left for Jerusalem, he also went to the feast, not openly but secretly.Jesus Defeats An Attempt To Arrest Him            The authorities, suspecting that Jesus was in the city, asked:            “Where is he?”            The people murmured about him. Some said:            “He is a good man.”             Others said:            “Nay, but he deceiveth the people.”            However, all were afraid to speak openly of Jesus, for fear of the authorities.  About the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. Many people, surprised at his words, said:            “How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?”            Jesus answered them saying:            “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why ye go about to kill me?”            The people answered:            “Thou hast a devil. Who goeth about to kill thee?”            Jesus replied:            “I have done one work, and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers;) and ye on the Sabbath day circumcise a man. If a man on the Sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the Sabbath day? Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous...

Jesus lived in humility and meekness, as the example of what God wants for us. We might think our actions would have been different than the religious leaders in Jesus' day. The understanding and authority of Jesus' instruction was a surprise. The spoken truth was inarguable. But, it was not what they expected. Those who taught in the yeshivas and synagogues and walked physically with Jesus had difficulty fitting His life into the expectations of Messiah. ***Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of TabernaclesJohn 7:1-8:59Jesus Rejects The Advice of His Brothers To Go To JerusalemWhen the Feast of the Tabernacles was at hand, Jesus’ brothers said to him:            “Depart hence, and go into Judea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. For there is no man that doeth anything in secret, if he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, show thyself to the world.”            Even his brothers did not believe in him.            Jesus replied to his advisers:            “My time is not yet come; but your time is always ready. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Go ye up unto this feast. I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet fullcome.”            And Jesus continued yet a while in Galilee. But, after his brothers had left for Jerusalem, he also went to the feast, not openly but secretly.Jesus Defeats An Attempt To Arrest Him            The authorities, suspecting that Jesus was in the city, asked:            “Where is he?”            The people murmured about him. Some said:            “He is a good man.”             Others said:            “Nay, but he deceiveth the people.”            However, all were afraid to speak openly of Jesus, for fear of the authorities.  About the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. Many people, surprised at his words, said:            “How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?”            Jesus answered them saying:            “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why ye go about to kill me?”            The people answered:            “Thou hast a devil. Who goeth about to kill thee?”            Jesus replied:            “I have done one work, and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of...

Every action, every word, every instruction from Jesus is for edification. Not every word for every person, but messages for those who "have ears to hear." Even his disciples did not understand how the Kingdom of God was to be implemented, nor did they understand how far the religious practice was in opposition to the plan of the God. Jesus was led by the Spirit. Being instructed by Jesus and led of the Spirit is our mission. One is our Shephard, even Christ. ***Ch. 54: Jesus At The Feast Of TabernaclesJohn 7:1-8:59Jesus Rejects The Advice of His Brothers To Go To JerusalemWhen the Feast of the Tabernacles was at hand, Jesus’ brothers said to him:            “Depart hence, and go into Judea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. For there is no man that doeth anything in secret, if he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, show thyself to the world.”            Even his brothers did not believe in him.            Jesus replied to his advisers:            “My time is not yet come; but your time is always ready. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Go ye up unto this feast. I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet fullcome.”            And Jesus continued yet a while in Galilee. But, after his brothers had left for Jerusalem, he also went to the feast, not openly but secretly.Jesus Defeats An Attempt To Arrest Him            The authorities, suspecting that Jesus was in the city, asked:            “Where is he?”            The people murmured about him. Some said:            “He is a good man.”             Others said:            “Nay, but he deceiveth the people.”            However, all were afraid to speak openly of Jesus, for fear of the authorities.  About the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. Many people, surprised at his words, said:            “How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?”            Jesus answered them saying:            “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why ye go about to kill me?”            The people answered:            “Thou hast a devil. Who goeth about to kill thee?”            Jesus replied:            “I have done one work, and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you...

Practice putting your ego in-check; esteem others as better. Resolve issues of offense or transgressions with an attitude of humility. First, go one-on-one to restore the relationship. Secondly, if they won't hear you, go to an objective, non-emotional audience. Next, if still no reconciliation, then go to the church for counsel. Strive to get along with one another. Resentment, unforgiveness, and discord block our ears. Fourth, "count the one who refuses reconciliation as a heathen and a publican", not a condemnation; but a path to peace and harmony. ***Ch 53: Jesus Discusses The Need For HumilityMatthew 18:1-35; Mark 9:33-50; Luke 9:46-50Who Is The Greatest In The Kingdom?ON THEIR way to Capernaum the disciples argued among themselves. When he was in the house, Jesus asked them:            “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?”            The disciples were silent for they had disputed about who was the greatest.            Jesus sat down with them and said:            “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.”            Then he set a child in the midst of the disciples and, holding him in his arms, he said:            “Verily I say unto you, ‘Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of Heaven.’ Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.” Tolerance Urged John said to Jesus:            “Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us. And we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”            Jesus replied:            “Forbid him not; for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, ‘He shall not lose his reward.’ Offenses to Avoid            “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! For it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh!Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life halt or mained, rather than have two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you that in Heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in Heaven.For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. No One Is Unimportant In The Sight Of God “How think ye? If a man have a hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, does he not leave

Confront the Words of Jesus in actuality not based on Bible study or Church ideas. Allow truth to replace tradition. Jesus provided the way to reconciliation. It's a joint opportunity for us to strive with Him, to obey His commandments, to hear instruction; it is a matter of authority. ***Ch 53: Jesus Discusses The Need For HumilityMatthew 18:1-35; Mark 9:33-50; Luke 9:46-50Who Is The Greatest In The Kingdom?ON THEIR way to Capernaum the disciples argued among themselves. When he was in the house, Jesus asked them:            “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?”            The disciples were silent for they had disputed about who was the greatest.            Jesus sat down with them and said:            “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.”            Then he set a child in the midst of the disciples and, holding him in his arms, he said:            “Verily I say unto you, ‘Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of Heaven.’ Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.” Tolerance Urged John said to Jesus:            “Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us. And we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”            Jesus replied:            “Forbid him not; for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, ‘He shall not lose his reward.’ Offenses to Avoid            “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! For it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh!Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life halt or mained, rather than have two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you that in Heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in Heaven.For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. No One Is Unimportant In The Sight Of God “How think ye? If a man have a hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, does he not leave the ninety and nine, and go into the mountains, and seek the one that has gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is...

Remember, the actual ministry of Christ is to feed the hungry, cloth the needy and help the poor. Keep money in the proper place in our life, not our god. Agreement on all matters is not required. Our progress in the Kingdom of God is an individual journey. Listen to the Holy Spirit to hear the correction of your loving Heavenly Father. Consider the end of your life. Reject social power. Everybody is equally important to God. Ego is a problem.***Ch 52: Jesus Tells Peter To Get The Tax Money From The Mouth Of A FishMatthew 17:24-27JESUS AND his disciples returned to Capernaum. The collectors of the temple tax asked Peter:            “Doth not your master pay taxes?”            Peter replied:            “Yes.”            When he came into the house, Jesus said to him:            “What thinketh thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? Of their own children, or of strangers?”            Peter answered:            “Of strangers.”            Jesus then said:            “Then are the children free. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast a hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money. That take, and give unto them for me and thee.”***53: Jesus Discusses The Need For HumilityMatthew 18:1-35; Mark 9:33-50; Luke 9:46-50Who Is The Greatest In The Kingdom?ON THEIR way to Capernaum the disciples argued among themselves. When he was in the house, Jesus asked them:            “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?”            The disciples were silent for they had disputed about who was the greatest.            Jesus sat down with them and said:            “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.”            Then he set a child in the midst of the disciples and, holding him in his arms, he said:            “Verily I say unto you, ‘Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of Heaven.’ Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.” Tolerance Urged John said to Jesus:            “Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us. And we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”            Jesus replied:            “Forbid him not; for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong

Obedience. Character. Righteousness. Our God requires Christian's to do the right thing for the right reason. Strive to keep the things of this world in the proper light. "Money is sewage, not my savior." The goal is to have the right attitude toward money. The obedience of paying tithes allows God to get involved in our finances. Regarding tithes Jesus said, "...these things ye ought to have done." Love makes us want to give to those we love -- our families, our neighbors, our God. We are only able to give a gift or offering when our tithes have been paid. "God so loved that He gave..." It's a divine principle.*** Ch 52: Jesus Tells Peter To Get The Tax Money From The Mouth Of A FishMatthew 17:24-27JESUS AND his disciples returned to Capernaum. The collectors of the temple tax asked Peter:            “Doth not your master pay taxes?”            Peter replied:            “Yes.”            When he came into the house, Jesus said to him:            “What thinketh thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? Of their own children, or of strangers?”            Peter answered:            “Of strangers.”            Jesus then said:            “Then are the children free. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast a hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money. That take, and give unto them for me and thee.”

It is our duty to work to meet our physical needs in this world. Today, we are compensated with money. It's a good system when our hearts do not turn to our own ability to meet our needs. We must use caution to keep our earnings in the proper perspective. Is the question of desires or unexpected tragedy, "Can I afford it?" instead of "Is it God's will for me?" The more money we have the more difficult it is to hold it in the proper light. Our faith is revealed by where we turn to solve a problem. Who do we trust? Money? The lottery? The government? A relationship with the Lord Jesus? ***Ch 52: Jesus Tells Peter To Get The Tax Money From The Mouth Of A FishMatthew 17:24-27JESUS AND his disciples returned to Capernaum. The collectors of the temple tax asked Peter:            “Doth not your master pay taxes?”            Peter replied:            “Yes.”            When he came into the house, Jesus said to him:            “What thinketh thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? Of their own children, or of strangers?”            Peter answered:            “Of strangers.”            Jesus then said:            “Then are the children free. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast a hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money. That take, and give unto them for me and thee.”

Elijah (John the Baptist) came unnoticed and misunderstood. The religious leadership had the same trouble with Jesus and his authority. They often said, "We will not have this man, Jesus, to reign over us." They preferred their traditions and their authority. The law and the prophets could be manipulated. We have the same problems today. Tradition, false doctrines and mistaken objectives prevented Jesus' acceptance as Messiah. The miracles were not enough. Jesus told his disciples "Things have changed... I'm gonna die."***Ch 49: Jesus Is Questioned Regarding ElijahMatthew 17:9-13; Mark 9:9-13AS THEY came down from the mountain, Jesus said to the three disciples:            “Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.”           The three were greatly perplexed and asked among themselves what “risen from the dead” meant.            Then they went to Jesus and asked him:            “Why say the scribes that Elijah must first come?”            Jesus replied:            “Elijah truly shall first come, and restore all things. But I say unto you that Elijah is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them.”         The disciples knew that Jesus spoke of John the Baptist.***Ch 50: Jesus Heals The Convulsed ChildMatthew 17:41-21; Mark 9:14-29; Luke 9:37-42WHEN JESUS came to the rest of his disciples, he found a great crowd gathered about them and they were being questioned by scribes. When people saw Jesus, they ran to him and greeted him.            Jesus addressed the scribes, asking:            “What question ye with them?”            A man came out of the multitude and, kneeling before Jesus, said:            “Lord, have mercy on my son; for he is epileptic, and suffereth grievously. For ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him.”            Jesus replied:            “O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I suffer you? Bring him hither to me.”            When the child was brought before Jesus, the dumb spirit tore him. He fell on the ground and wallowed, foaming at the mouth.            Jesus asked the father:             “How long is it ago since this came unto him?”            The father replied:            “Of a child; but if thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.”            To the father Jesus said:            “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”            The father of the child cried...

The long-awaited Messiah, Jesus, came to earth. Something new. It is one thing to anticipate the answer and correction of all things. It is quite another for the authority to arrive. As a man, Jesus lived in obedience to God the Father, demonstrating the way we are to operate in the Kingdom of God. Promise of Jesus when I go away, the Spirit of God will come and lead you from the inside. Previous efforts to reconcile God and man through the law and the prophets failed. God says, "I am not a book. Go to Jesus for answers."***Ch 48: Jesus’ TransfigurationMatthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36ABOUT A week later Jesus went with three of his disciples, Peter, James, and John, into a high mountain to pray.            As he prayed he was transfigured before them. His face shone as the sun and his garments became white and glistening, as bright as light. Moses and Elijah appeared and talked with Jesus about coming events at Jerusalem.            Peter said:            “Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”            While Peter was speaking a bright cloud came over them and out of it came a voice, which said:            “THIS IS MY BELOVED SON, IN WHOM I AM WELL PLEASED. HERE YE HIM.”            When the disciples heard the voice, they were afraid and fell on their faces.            Jesus came and touched them, saying:            “Arise and be not afraid.”            And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus.        The three disciples guarded word of this event as a secret, telling no one what they had seen.

The relationship between God and man is intimate and personal. Taught ideas (religions) are subject to the persuasions of another teacher; however, revelation from God cannot be easily replaced. The message of Jesus speaks to those who are called of God. "One is your Teacher, even Christ." There's a mystery, hidden in the gospels, a restoration of the communication lost in the Garden. Jesus bears witness to the truth, those of the truth hear him. ***Ch 47: Jesus Predicts His Death And ResurrectionMatthew 16:21-28; Mark 8:31-9:1; Luke 9:22-27JESUS BEGAN to teach his disciples saying:            “The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.”            Then Peter rebuked Jesus, saying:             “Be it far from thee, Lord. This shall not be unto thee.”            Jesus replied to Peter:            “Get thee behind me, Satan; thou art an offense unto me; for thou savorest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”            Then Jesus called all the people before him and said:            “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall have it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels. But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.”

The Ten Commandments state the laws of the Kingdom of God. These behaviors are required to please God. Evangelism through persuasion or education is not the plan of God. Rather, it is people who keep the commandments who get the attention of the Spirit of God. For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him... 2 Chron. 16:9 Jesus instructed His disciples, "See that you tell no man." If we won't keep the law, persuasion, resurrection or miracles will not be sufficient to enter the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God comes by revelation, not observation. ***Ch 46: Jesus Asks: “Who Do Men Say That I Am?”Matthew 16:13-20; Mark 8:27-30; Luke 9:18-21WHILE THEY were on the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked his disciples:            “Who do men say that I, the Son of man, am?”            The disciples replied:            “Some say that thou art John the Baptist; some, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.”            Jesus asked:            “But who say ye that I am?”            Simon Peter answered, saying:            “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”            Jesus responded:            “Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jonah; for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in Heaven. And I say unto thee that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys to the kingdom of Heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in Heaven.”            Then Jesus instructed his disciples to tell no one that he was Jesus, the Christ.

Have we been regenerated? Born again? There are degrees of Christianity. We begin to learn God's ways by keeping the ten Commandments; the hope is to graduate to maturity by denying ourselves (remove selfishness), taking up our cross (suffer wrongfully), and following Jesus. The Law will show you into the Kingdom of God, but it will always bring you to Jesus for regeneration. Here's the proof of regeneration according to the gospels: 1 John 2:3, "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments."1 John 3:14, "We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abides in death."Romans 8:16, "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:"***Ch 45: Jesus Heals A Blind Man Of BethsaidaMark 8:22-26AT BETHSAIDA a blind man was brought to Jesus, and he was asked to touch the man so that he should be healed.            Jesus took the hand of the blind man and led him out of the town. Applying spittle to his eyes, Jesus asked if he could see.            The man looked up and said:            “I see men as trees, walking.”            Then Jesus touched the man again and made him look up. His eyesight was then normal and he saw clearly.            Jesus told the man to go home, saying:            “Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.”

WARNING: The desire to belong and to be accepted is a deterrent to a Christian. "I've never heard anything like that before," the murmurings of any who listen to the words of Jesus. His unique understanding and instruction conveyed the way for lost, dead men to live; ironically, it costs your life. "Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow me." It's lonely. It's difficult. It's fraught with persecution. It's change. It upsets the status quo! It's repentance. It's worth it! ***Ch 44: Jesus Warns Against The Teachings Of The Pharisees And SadduceesMatthew 16:5-12; Mark 8:13-21WHEN JESUS had left the Pharisees and Sadducees to whom he had refused a sign, he embarked, with his disciples, to cross the sea.            The disciples forgot to take food with them. There was only one loaf in the ship.            Jesus said to them:            “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”            His disciples reasoned the meaning of this among themselves, thinking:            “It is because we have taken no bread.”            Jesus knew what they were thinking and said:            “Why reason ye because ye have no bread? Perceive ye not yet, neither understand? Have ye your heart hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? And having ears, hear ye not? And do ye not remember? When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?”            The disciples answered:            “Twelve.”            Then Jesus asked:            “And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?”            They answered:            “Seven.”            Then Jesus said to them:            “How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?”            So they understood that Jesus did not bid them beware of the leaven of bread but of the teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

God will not prove himself to mankind. Ch. 43 The issue is faith. Did Jesus mean what He said? We cannot believe in Jesus apart from His words. Ch. 44 The lesson continues in our day as in his, Jesus versus tradition. ***Ch 44: Jesus Warns Against The Teachings Of The Pharisees And SadduceesMatthew 16:5-12; Mark 8:13-21WHEN JESUS had left the Pharisees and Sadducees to whom he had refused a sign, he embarked, with his disciples, to cross the sea.            The disciples forgot to take food with them. There was only one loaf in the ship.            Jesus said to them:            “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”            His disciples reasoned the meaning of this among themselves, thinking:            “It is because we have taken no bread.”            Jesus knew what they were thinking and said:            “Why reason ye because ye have no bread? Perceive ye not yet, neither understand? Have ye your heart hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? And having ears, hear ye not? And do ye not remember? When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?”            The disciples answered:            “Twelve.”            Then Jesus asked:            “And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?”            They answered:            “Seven.”            Then Jesus said to them:            “How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?”            So they understood that Jesus did not bid them beware of the leaven of bread but of the teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees.***Ch 43: Jesus Again Refuses To Give A Sign To The Pharisees AndSadduceesMatthew 15:39, 16:1-4; Mark 8:10-12IMMEDIATELY AFTER he had fed the four thousand, Jesus and his disciples went by boat to another part of the country.             The Pharisees and Sadducees came and tempted Jesus, asking him to show a sign from Heaven as evidence of his authority.            Jesus refused them, saying:            “When it is evening, ye say, ‘It will be fair weather: for the sky is red.’ And in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today: for the sky is red and lowering.’ O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah.”            Then Jesus immediately left them.

The communication barrier between God and man thwarted every attempt to relay the truth Jesus came to reveal. You can hear the frustration of Jesus, "wicked and adulterous generations seek signs." Hunger and thirst after righteousness not signs. There's a way to bypass the issue of physical signs and education proof texts. Jesus said, "If you'll keep my commandments, the Father and I will teach you from the inside." Jesus said, "My words are Spirit and they are Life." ***Ch 43: Jesus Again Refuses To Give A Sign To The Pharisees AndSadduceesMatthew 15:39, 16:1-4; Mark 8:10-12IMMEDIATELY AFTER he had fed the four thousand, Jesus and his disciples went by boat to another part of the country.             The Pharisees and Sadducees came and tempted Jesus, asking him to show a sign from Heaven as evidence of his authority.            Jesus refused them, saying:            “When it is evening, ye say, ‘It will be fair weather: for the sky is red.’ And in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today: for the sky is red and lowering.’ O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah.”            Then Jesus immediately left them.

Christianity Is Not A HobbyChristians are required to participate in our change (repentance). Salvation is a process which necessitates instruction from Jesus. Who else is able to minister to the individual needs of thousands? Religion offers education in the Scriptures or church traditions or history. While there is encouragement and benefit to be derived from reading the testimonies, Jesus is alive and speaking with compassion. Make room in our lives to hear from Him. Keep the Ten Commandments. Never violate your conscience. Take time every day to hear. Put your life on hold (at least 20 minutes a day) to pursue a righteousness. ***Ch. 42: Jesus Feeds Four ThousandMatthew 15:32-38; Mark 8:1-9JESUS CALLED his disciples to him and said:            “I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.”            Many in the multitude of more than four thousand had come far. His disciples replied:            “Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude?”            Jesus asked:            “How many loaves have ye?”            The disciples answered:            “Seven, and a few little fishes.”            Then Jesus commanded the multitude to sit on the ground. He took the loaves and the fishes, gave thanks, and broke them. He handed them to his disciples, who passed them to all who were there.            When all had eaten and were filled, the remaining fragments were gathered together and filled seven baskets.             Then Jesus sent the multitude away.

Genesis chapter one records the incredible power of God's word in creation of the world (and man) in six days. It's a beautiful story worthy of revisiting. In the cool of the day God walked and communed with Adam. Soon, however, the disobedience of Adam created a schism which made such communion impossible. As Adam and Eve were removed from the garden a promise of reconciliation shines through the darkness. The Scriptures record the copious actions and plans of God to restore communion with His man. A man of faith (Abraham), the ten commandments (Moses), a priesthood (from the Levite to Melchizedek) and a meeting place (from a temple to the heart) prepared the way. In time, Immanuel, Jesus, the Word of God, came to make the blind see, the deaf hear, the captive free, and the dead to life. "Be opened." "He that has ears to hear let him hear."***Ch 41: Jesus Heals A Deaf-And-Dumb ManMatthew 15:29-31; Mark 7:31-37 JESUS left the coastal regions of Tyre and Sidon, where he had driven the unclean spirit from the daughter of the Greek woman, and crossed the Sea of Galilee to the coasts of Decapolis.             A deaf man, who also had an impediment in his speech, was brought before Jesus, who was asked to put his hand upon the man.            Jesus took the man to one side, put his fingers into his ears, and touched his tongue. Looking up to heaven, Jesus said:            “Be opened.”            Immediately the ears of the man opened, the impediment in his speech was removed, and he could hear and speak plainly.            Jesus ordered them to tell no one how he was cured. But as in other instances when charged not to publish the great healing works of Jesus, they spread the word widely.            All men were astonished beyond measure and said:            “He hath done all things well. He maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.”

Conviction comes from God. Deal with the issues of your heart in private. Come as you are, then change; make corrections. Our mouth reveals our hearts - listen to hear your own words. Endure honest communication. Jesus came to save HIS PEOPLE not Gentiles; to bring grace (not unmerited favor) but, the power for men to become Sons of God. The Syrophoenician woman, 'called a dog', reached out in humility with an importunic prayer. Salvation is not an inherited right. Faith is required.    ***Ch. 40: Jesus Heals the Daughter of a Canaanitish WomanMatthew 5:21-28; Mark 7:24-30 AFTER JESUS had defended his disciples because they ate bread with unwashed hands, he went into the coastal regions of Tyre and Sidon, hoping to escape from the crowds.            However, his presence could not be hidden for long. A Greek woman, native of Syro-Phoenicia, whose little daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him. She came to him and fell at his feet, saying:            “Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David, my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.”            But Jesus did not answer her.             His disciples came to Jesus and said:            “Send her away, for she crieth after us.”            But Jesus replied:            “I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”            The woman continued to worship him and said:            “Lord help me.”            Jesus replied, saying:            “It is not proper to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to dogs.”            The woman said:            “Truth, Lord, yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.”            Seeing such great faith, Jesus said:            “O woman, great is thy faith; be it unto thee even as thou wilt.”            When the woman returned home, she found that her daughter had been healed from that very hour.

Embrace correction from Jesus. Tradition, ego, laziness, fear all contribute to dependence of a middleman or a sacrament to avoid the simple correction of our God. The message of the Kingdom of God is "repent!" In our vernacular, repent should be read as "change". Change is required for us to be restored to right relationship with God so we can enter the Kingdom of God. Let he who has ears to hear, hear; everyone will not understand.***Chapter 39: Jesus Defends His Disciples for Eating with Unwashed Hands Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23Certain Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem came to Jesus, finding fault that his disciples ate bread with unwashed hands.             For, according to tradition long handed down, the Pharisees and Jews could not eat without first washing their hands. There were many other old laws concerning the washing of cups, pots, brass vessels, and tables.            The Pharisees and scribes asked Jesus:            “Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? They wash not their hands when they eat bread.”            Jesus replied:            “Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, “This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.’ For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups; and many other such like things ye do. Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, ‘Honor thy father and thy mother,’ and ‘Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death.’ But ye say, ‘If a man shall say to his father or mother, “It is Corban,” that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.’ And ye suffer him no more to do aught for his father or mother; making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered; and many such like things do ye.”            Then Jesus called all the people to him and said:            “Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand. There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him. But the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.”            When Jesus retired from the people into the house, his disciples came to him and said:            “Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?”            Jesus replied:            “Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up. Let them alone. They be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.”            Then Peter, the disciple, said:            “Declare unto us this parable.”            Jesus answered:            “Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into man, it cannot defile him; because it entereth not into...

Be Christian. Not having everything you want, but wanting everything you have. Our natural inclination is to dispense with God’s rules and do life our way.  We make our fences to protect the commandments and we make our fences to avoid doing what is commanded.  Servants obey.  When we meet those who “…walk not with us…” love them anyway. Christians have the power to suffer wrongfully, to forgive and to live humbly. Our goal is regeneration.***Chapter 39: Jesus Defends His Disciples for Eating with Unwashed Hands Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23Certain Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem came to Jesus, finding fault that his disciples ate bread with unwashed hands.             For, according to tradition long handed down, the Pharisees and Jews could not eat without first washing their hands. There were many other old laws concerning the washing of cups, pots, brass vessels, and tables.            The Pharisees and scribes asked Jesus:            “Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? They wash not their hands when they eat bread.”            Jesus replied:            “Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, “This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.’ For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups; and many other such like things ye do. Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, ‘Honor thy father and thy mother,’ and ‘Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death.’ But ye say, ‘If a man shall say to his father or mother, “It is Corban,” that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free.’ And ye suffer him no more to do aught for his father or mother; making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered; and many such like things do ye.”            Then Jesus called all the people to him and said:            “Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand. There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him. But the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.”            When Jesus retired from the people into the house, his disciples came to him and said:            “Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?”            Jesus replied:            “Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up. Let them alone. They be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.”            Then Peter, the disciple, said:            “Declare unto us this parable.”            Jesus answered:            “Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into man, it cannot defile him; because it...