Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - "Bible Intake (Part 2)"
Memorization...
--supplies spiritual power
--strengthens your faith
--helps witnessing and counseling
--simulates meditation
word pictures, accountability, review
Meditation
--promises Joshua 1.8 and Psalm 1.1-3
--takes times, based on good understanding, application oriented.
It differs from worldly meditation...
--involves filling your mind
--requires constructive mental activity
--meditating on things that are true
--linked to prayer to God and responsible, Spirit-filled human action
"The reason we come away so cold from reading the word is, because we do not warm ourselves at the fire of meditation." --- Thomas Watson
A Journey to Victorious Praying - "Understanding the True Meaning of Worship" chapter 28
Worship...
--is ascribing glory to God's character
--involves the total person
--involves a faith response to God's character
"True worship always involves a response of complete dependence and obedience to God in our attitude and action."
The Chronological Life of Christ
167a
John 19.37-38 so that Scripture would be fulfilled... Psa. 34.20 & Zech 12.10 ...the One they have pierced... This one reminds me of our foolishness and of how dear Christ has become.
Mark 15.43 Joseph of Arimathea ... waiting for the kingdom of God... I wonder if I am known as someone who is waiting? What characterizes someone who is waiting? (How often would someone of his standing be involved in doing something like a burial?)
167b
Matt 27.39 Nicodemus... Known, among all his life and accomplishments for two things: meeting with Jesus in John 3 and helping with his burial. What would be the two things that I would be known for?
168
Matthew 27.63 We remember that... I guess that we don't really know for certain what the disciples were thinking, but you have to admire the thoroughness of the chief priests. They were listening and may have understood as well or better than the disciples.
Matthew 27.65 ...as secure as you know how. :o)
169
Matthew 28.1 Mary Magdalene, the other Mary
Mark 16.1 Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome
(Luke 24.10 Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them)
(John 20.1 Mary Magdalene)
170
I wonder what actually happened in the tomb when Jesus arose. I have a picture of him vanishing through the grave clothes, folding up the head cloth?, looking around, and then vanishing. The soldiers were the first to see the empty tomb, but Jesus only showed himself to His followers.
Matthew 28.2 angel #1 sat upon the stone with an appearance as lightening (kjv)
171
Luke 24.4 ...they were wondering about this... You think!?
John 20.5 & Matthew 28.5 angel #2? a young man sitting on the right side
Luke 24.4 angels #3 & 4? two men stood by them in dazzling apparel
There seems to some difference of opinion about whether these are all different or different accounts of the same. Since one was sitting and the two were standing, it may refer to three different. However, the similarity of what is said in each of the gospels would support the view that there were only two.
Mark 16.7 tell his disciples and Peter... I wonder what the preparations for the "press conference" were like. "And be sure to specifically mention Peter. I want him to be one of the first to see it." I wonder how many views there are on why Peter was mentioned.
Mark 16.8b and they said nothing to any one; for they were afraid... Fear of witnessing to others right from the start. :o)
172
Luke 24.11 appeared in their sigh as idle talk; and they disbelieved them. But Peter... Go, Peter, go!
John 20.3 So Peter and the other disciple [John] started for the tomb...
John 20.6 Simon Peter ... entered into the tomb...
John 20.8 believed believed what? the women's report?
173
John 20.12 two angels in white sitting, one at the head and once at the foot probably angels #3 & 4 again
John20.17 I ascend to my Father... I wonder why he hadn't already done that.
174
Matthew 28.10 first century twiter?
175
Matthew 28.15 circulated among the Jews to this very day... Sorta like some of these bogus e-mail that never seem to die.
176
Luke 24.11 And beginning with Moses and all the prophets... I guess knowing Moses and the prophets is better than the newspaper.
Luke 24.31 ...their eyes were opened... It is a spiritual thing.
177
Luke 24.34 and has appeared to Simon... This is also a reminder that we are only getting snippets of all the events swirling around the resurrection.
178
Luke 24.38 Why do doubts rise in your mind? Good food for thought.
Luke 24.41 ...still did not believe it because of joy and amazement... This makes an interesting statement about the nature of faith.
179
John 20.29 blessed are those... I had never thought about what a special thing it is to have believed without seeing Christ.
180
John 20.2 I wonder why the other two disciples were not named.
John 20.11 153 I am always amused by the mental gymnastics people go to in order to give random numbers like this deep spiritual meanings.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday Communion Sermon
Introduction
1. Segway
(A Harmony of the Gospels is a good tool for following the events in the life of Christ in chronological order from all the gospel accounts.)
· As I have been reading through the gospel accounts of Christ's last days with His disciples and His crucifixion, I have been struck by the people who were involved and how God used each one to add to His story.
· Probably no one in the events of Christ's last days is more colorful and captivating that the Apostle Peter.
· His deep love for the Savior and rash zeal to follow him are both endearing and inspiring.
· Peter is often maligned for his ambitious words, his blunders, and failures, but at the heart of them is a man who loved Christ passionately and aspired to do great things for him.
· To often we judge people too much on how many mistakes they make and not enough on their heart and their acts of faith for the Lord.
2. Overview
· Peter had a passion for the Lord that was not informed or powered by the Spirit.
· We should strive for his passion and love for Christ and direct it with a knowledge of the Word and empowerment of the Spirit.
· Tonight we will highlight six mentions of Peter leading up to Christ's sacrifice for our sins.
1. Christ washing feet (145) John 13.1-20
& John 13 1 Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.2 And supper being ended, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray Him, 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, 4 rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. 5 After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. 6 Then He came to Simon Peter.
And Peter said to Him, “Lord, are You washing my feet?” 7 Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” 8 Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!”
———————————————————————————
Peter's heart was that he would esteem Christ as his Lord and would be the servant. He was poorly informed and did not understand what Christ was doing.
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes. But do we have that same passion?
———————————————————————————
Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”
9 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!”
———————————————————————————
There was nothing half way with Peter. He was not content to follow Christ some. He wanted everything Christ had to offer him.
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes. But do we want Christ to have all of us?
———————————————————————————
10 Jesus said to him, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you.” 11 For He knew who would betray Him; therefore He said, “You are not all clean.” 12 So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.
(146)
· During the Paschal meal Christ predicts his betrayal.
· All the disciples were concerned that they might be the betrayer.
· Christ pointed points out Judas as the betrayer and he left.
· & The account continues in Mark 14.
2. Christ's prediction (147) Mark 14.27-31 / Luke 22.31-32
In Luke 22.31-32
31 … the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”
In that context we come to Mark 14.27-31
27 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: ‘ I will strike the Shepherd, And the sheep will be scattered.’28 “But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.” 29 Peter said to Him, “Even if all are made to stumble, yet I will not be.” 30 Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that today, even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” 31 But he spoke more vehemently, “If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” And they all said likewise.
——————————————————————————
Peter seems to be in the lead here, or his words may be highlighted to give context to his coming denial. The Lord's statement that Satan was coming to "sift him as wheat" must have heightened his concern. However, all the disciples loyally affirmed the same thing in spite of the OT prophecies.
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes and rely on the Spirit's filling. But do we share the same determination as Peter?
———————————————————————————
· (148) Christ institutes the Lord's Supper during the celebration of the Passover Seder.
· (149) Jesus gives the upper room discourse recorded in John.
· and continue to share (150) as they move toward Gethsemane.
· John 17 records Christ's intoercessory prayer.
· & Then Matthew 26.36-40 records the Lord's prayer in Gethsemane.
3. The Lord's last prayer (152) Matt 26.36-40
36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” 37 And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed.
———————————————————————————
This is characteristic of Peter. He was one of the closest to the Lord. To often our goal is just to keep from straying too far. We should aspire and seek to be in Christ's inner circle.
———————————————————————————
38 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.” 39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” 40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41
———————————————————————————
If we aspire to stand for Christ, we must learn to watch and pray. That is our defense against entering into a temptation.
Do we strive and aspire to be close to Christ? Have we learned to watch and pray?
———————————————————————————
Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” 43 And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy. 44 So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”
& (153) Next is betrayal of Christ by Judas and Jesus' arrest. In the midst of that account we see another example of Peter's zeal for the Lord. Look down to verse 50.
4. Peter defends Christ (153) Matt 26.50-56
50 But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him. 51 And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus [Peter] stretched out his hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. 52 But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53 Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels? 54 How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?”
——————————————————————————
Just as he promised, Peter does indeed take his stand for Christ. He is brave against overwhelming odds and should receive credit. However, his zeal is misinformed and did not further God's plan.
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes. But do we share the same boldness and courage to stand for Christ as Peter did?
————————————————————————
55 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not seize Me. 56 But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.
(154) Jesus is examined by Annas, father of the high priest.
(155) Jesus is tried and condemned by Caiphas, the high priest
& As we turn to John 18, we find Peter as followed Christ from a distance.
5. Peter followed Christ (156) John 18.15-16
John 18
15 And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Now that disciple was known to the high priest, and went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest. 16 But Peter stood at the door outside. Then the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to her who kept the door, and brought Peter in.
————————————————————————
After Peter flees in the garden, we find him back following Christ. After the incident with the high priest's servant, this was a pretty bold move. The Bible is silent about the other nine disciples, but it is reasonable to assume that they were on the run or in hiding. John had connections and could get in and had Peter let in. Peter was the only one brave enough to be in the position to deny Christ. You don't fail when you don't try.
But do we share the same tenacity to persist in following Christ ?
————————————————————————
6. Peter wept bitterly (156) Luke 22.59-62
It is easy for us to forget what a sticky situation Peter was in here. Three times people pointed him out and questioned whether he was with Jesus. It is easy for preachers to belittle Peter for "being afraid of a servant woman," the reality is that he was in real danger. He moved away from the fire to the gate where two times more he was pointed out.
59 Then after about an hour had passed, another confidently affirmed, saying, “Surely this fellow also was with Him, for he is a Galilean.” 60 But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are saying!” Immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. 61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” 62 So Peter went out and wept bitterly.
—————————————————————————
Peter had determined with all his might to stand up for Jesus and was devestated and crushed when he failed so miserably. "wept bitterly" The Greek word for bitterly* here carries the idea of "being pierce through." It is a word you would use for someone mourning for the dead.
This response demonstrates the deep love for the Lord and strong desire to stand for Him that we should all aspire to.
To often we have a "Well, whatever" attitude about sin. Do we share the same heartbreak over our sin and failure to honor the Lord that Peter had?
—————————————————————————
*πικρῶς pikrōs St#G4090
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes and rely on the Holy Spirit's filling
to avoid Peter's mistakes, but ...
· Do we have that same passion?
· Do we share the same determination?
· Do we strive and aspire to be close to Christ?
· Do we share the same boldness and courage to stand for Christ?
· Do we share the same tenacity to persist in following Christ ?
· Do we share the same heartbreak over our sin and failure to honor the Lord?
The next day, as Jesus was dieing, He said, "It is finished!" And bowing his head, He gave up His spirit. (John 19.30)·
Not only was the price for Peter's sin and his shortcomings paid in full, but ours also.
1. Segway
(A Harmony of the Gospels is a good tool for following the events in the life of Christ in chronological order from all the gospel accounts.)
· As I have been reading through the gospel accounts of Christ's last days with His disciples and His crucifixion, I have been struck by the people who were involved and how God used each one to add to His story.
· Probably no one in the events of Christ's last days is more colorful and captivating that the Apostle Peter.
· His deep love for the Savior and rash zeal to follow him are both endearing and inspiring.
· Peter is often maligned for his ambitious words, his blunders, and failures, but at the heart of them is a man who loved Christ passionately and aspired to do great things for him.
· To often we judge people too much on how many mistakes they make and not enough on their heart and their acts of faith for the Lord.
2. Overview
· Peter had a passion for the Lord that was not informed or powered by the Spirit.
· We should strive for his passion and love for Christ and direct it with a knowledge of the Word and empowerment of the Spirit.
· Tonight we will highlight six mentions of Peter leading up to Christ's sacrifice for our sins.
1. Christ washing feet (145) John 13.1-20
& John 13 1 Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.2 And supper being ended, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray Him, 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, 4 rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. 5 After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. 6 Then He came to Simon Peter.
And Peter said to Him, “Lord, are You washing my feet?” 7 Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” 8 Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!”
———————————————————————————
Peter's heart was that he would esteem Christ as his Lord and would be the servant. He was poorly informed and did not understand what Christ was doing.
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes. But do we have that same passion?
———————————————————————————
Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”
9 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!”
———————————————————————————
There was nothing half way with Peter. He was not content to follow Christ some. He wanted everything Christ had to offer him.
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes. But do we want Christ to have all of us?
———————————————————————————
10 Jesus said to him, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you.” 11 For He knew who would betray Him; therefore He said, “You are not all clean.” 12 So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.
(146)
· During the Paschal meal Christ predicts his betrayal.
· All the disciples were concerned that they might be the betrayer.
· Christ pointed points out Judas as the betrayer and he left.
· & The account continues in Mark 14.
2. Christ's prediction (147) Mark 14.27-31 / Luke 22.31-32
In Luke 22.31-32
31 … the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”
In that context we come to Mark 14.27-31
27 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: ‘ I will strike the Shepherd, And the sheep will be scattered.’28 “But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.” 29 Peter said to Him, “Even if all are made to stumble, yet I will not be.” 30 Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that today, even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” 31 But he spoke more vehemently, “If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” And they all said likewise.
——————————————————————————
Peter seems to be in the lead here, or his words may be highlighted to give context to his coming denial. The Lord's statement that Satan was coming to "sift him as wheat" must have heightened his concern. However, all the disciples loyally affirmed the same thing in spite of the OT prophecies.
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes and rely on the Spirit's filling. But do we share the same determination as Peter?
———————————————————————————
· (148) Christ institutes the Lord's Supper during the celebration of the Passover Seder.
· (149) Jesus gives the upper room discourse recorded in John.
· and continue to share (150) as they move toward Gethsemane.
· John 17 records Christ's intoercessory prayer.
· & Then Matthew 26.36-40 records the Lord's prayer in Gethsemane.
3. The Lord's last prayer (152) Matt 26.36-40
36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” 37 And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed.
———————————————————————————
This is characteristic of Peter. He was one of the closest to the Lord. To often our goal is just to keep from straying too far. We should aspire and seek to be in Christ's inner circle.
———————————————————————————
38 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.” 39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” 40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41
———————————————————————————
If we aspire to stand for Christ, we must learn to watch and pray. That is our defense against entering into a temptation.
Do we strive and aspire to be close to Christ? Have we learned to watch and pray?
———————————————————————————
Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” 43 And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy. 44 So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”
& (153) Next is betrayal of Christ by Judas and Jesus' arrest. In the midst of that account we see another example of Peter's zeal for the Lord. Look down to verse 50.
4. Peter defends Christ (153) Matt 26.50-56
50 But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him. 51 And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus [Peter] stretched out his hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. 52 But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53 Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels? 54 How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?”
——————————————————————————
Just as he promised, Peter does indeed take his stand for Christ. He is brave against overwhelming odds and should receive credit. However, his zeal is misinformed and did not further God's plan.
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes. But do we share the same boldness and courage to stand for Christ as Peter did?
————————————————————————
55 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not seize Me. 56 But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.
(154) Jesus is examined by Annas, father of the high priest.
(155) Jesus is tried and condemned by Caiphas, the high priest
& As we turn to John 18, we find Peter as followed Christ from a distance.
5. Peter followed Christ (156) John 18.15-16
John 18
15 And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Now that disciple was known to the high priest, and went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest. 16 But Peter stood at the door outside. Then the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to her who kept the door, and brought Peter in.
————————————————————————
After Peter flees in the garden, we find him back following Christ. After the incident with the high priest's servant, this was a pretty bold move. The Bible is silent about the other nine disciples, but it is reasonable to assume that they were on the run or in hiding. John had connections and could get in and had Peter let in. Peter was the only one brave enough to be in the position to deny Christ. You don't fail when you don't try.
But do we share the same tenacity to persist in following Christ ?
————————————————————————
6. Peter wept bitterly (156) Luke 22.59-62
It is easy for us to forget what a sticky situation Peter was in here. Three times people pointed him out and questioned whether he was with Jesus. It is easy for preachers to belittle Peter for "being afraid of a servant woman," the reality is that he was in real danger. He moved away from the fire to the gate where two times more he was pointed out.
59 Then after about an hour had passed, another confidently affirmed, saying, “Surely this fellow also was with Him, for he is a Galilean.” 60 But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are saying!” Immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. 61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” 62 So Peter went out and wept bitterly.
—————————————————————————
Peter had determined with all his might to stand up for Jesus and was devestated and crushed when he failed so miserably. "wept bitterly" The Greek word for bitterly* here carries the idea of "being pierce through." It is a word you would use for someone mourning for the dead.
This response demonstrates the deep love for the Lord and strong desire to stand for Him that we should all aspire to.
To often we have a "Well, whatever" attitude about sin. Do we share the same heartbreak over our sin and failure to honor the Lord that Peter had?
—————————————————————————
*πικρῶς pikrōs St#G4090
We should be students of the Word to know God's design and purposes and rely on the Holy Spirit's filling
to avoid Peter's mistakes, but ...
· Do we have that same passion?
· Do we share the same determination?
· Do we strive and aspire to be close to Christ?
· Do we share the same boldness and courage to stand for Christ?
· Do we share the same tenacity to persist in following Christ ?
· Do we share the same heartbreak over our sin and failure to honor the Lord?
The next day, as Jesus was dieing, He said, "It is finished!" And bowing his head, He gave up His spirit. (John 19.30)·
Not only was the price for Peter's sin and his shortcomings paid in full, but ours also.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Thurs 090409 pm Chron Life Christ
Chronological Life of Christ
Matthew 26.40 Could you not keep watch with me for one hour? How convicting!!
Mark 14.40-41 They did not know what to say to Him? How like me! Praise God that He is long-suffering with us and that His mercy endures forever.
John 18.4 knowing all that would happen... I am thinking about how this integrates with Philippians 2.
John 18.9 Oddly enough, I am not sure that I have ever heard John 17.12 preached or taught with this interpretation.
Matthew 26.51-54 Again, Peter with the greatest of enthusiasm and commitment, but poorly informed.
Mark 14.51-52 I am trying to imagine the chaotic scene here where Peter, right in the center of the action, is able to make a clean get away, but this poor fellow almost gets caught.
John 18.23 That was a lot of spunk.
Mark 14.55-56 It surprises me that they didn't have their act together any better than this.
Mark 14.61-61 a reference to Daniel 7.13 and Psalm 110.1
Luke 22.62 wept bitterly... Again, evidence of Peter's great intentions and strong desire to be faithful to death. It must have been heartbreaking for him to fall short of his high standards for the One he loved so dearly.
Matthew 26.40 Could you not keep watch with me for one hour? How convicting!!
Mark 14.40-41 They did not know what to say to Him? How like me! Praise God that He is long-suffering with us and that His mercy endures forever.
John 18.4 knowing all that would happen... I am thinking about how this integrates with Philippians 2.
John 18.9 Oddly enough, I am not sure that I have ever heard John 17.12 preached or taught with this interpretation.
Matthew 26.51-54 Again, Peter with the greatest of enthusiasm and commitment, but poorly informed.
Mark 14.51-52 I am trying to imagine the chaotic scene here where Peter, right in the center of the action, is able to make a clean get away, but this poor fellow almost gets caught.
John 18.23 That was a lot of spunk.
Mark 14.55-56 It surprises me that they didn't have their act together any better than this.
Mark 14.61-61 a reference to Daniel 7.13 and Psalm 110.1
Luke 22.62 wept bitterly... Again, evidence of Peter's great intentions and strong desire to be faithful to death. It must have been heartbreaking for him to fall short of his high standards for the One he loved so dearly.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Wed 090408 am Chron Life Christ
The Chronological Life of Christ
John 16.15 This a way that I can bring glory to my Savior, by taking His Word and making it clear to others. This is a way that good teaching of Christ's teaching in the Scriptures can intersect with worship.
John 16.19-22 It is an interesting explanation of his death and resurrection. It seems to me that He could have given a much clearer timeline and descriptions of events. I am not sure anything He said could have completely prepared them for what about to happen. It has been interesting to think about what and how he did say and didn't say things. Compare with verse 25.
John 16.27 If it weren't for our connection with Jesus, we'd be sunk.
John 16.32 Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. What a reassuring thought.
John 17.3 eternal life ... know You ... This relationship between eternal life and knowing God has much to offer for meditation.
John 17.10 Why is all I have not the Father's. Either it is his and I just need to realize it, or it is something that is not His and I should discard it.
John 17.19 I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified. My feeble results in my family and ministry might well be traced back to this verse.
John 17.23 It is my sense that this concept and goal of unity is often under emphasized and misunderstood. What are the ways that Christ is unified with the Father that we can be unified with the Father. It is something how our unity is evidence of God's love. It begs the question of the relationship between our unity and the lack (felt or otherwise) of God's love. There is a disconnect somewhere between the infinite love of God that is directed toward us and the pitiful testimony that we give of it.
John 17.26 It sometimes think of truth/knowledge and love as paradoxical in some ways, but this says that knowledge of God facilitates having His love in us.
Matthew 26.37 Jesus was sorrowful and troubled!? and He still never sinned. Troubled looks similar to the word loath in Greek. We seldom think of those emotions as being part of a sinless and righteous life.
Mark 14.35 It is facinating that Jesus asked for something that He surely knew that He was not going to be granted. In our common thinking about prayer, once you know it is not going to happen, what's the point of asking. But Jesus asked for something He wasn't going to get (in his sorrowful and troubled state of mind) and then reaffirmed His submission and obedience to the Father's will. hmmmm.
Mathew 26.40 watch with me Col 4.2; 1 Peter 4.7; Mk 13.33; Luke 21.36,38
John 16.15 This a way that I can bring glory to my Savior, by taking His Word and making it clear to others. This is a way that good teaching of Christ's teaching in the Scriptures can intersect with worship.
John 16.19-22 It is an interesting explanation of his death and resurrection. It seems to me that He could have given a much clearer timeline and descriptions of events. I am not sure anything He said could have completely prepared them for what about to happen. It has been interesting to think about what and how he did say and didn't say things. Compare with verse 25.
John 16.27 If it weren't for our connection with Jesus, we'd be sunk.
John 16.32 Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. What a reassuring thought.
John 17.3 eternal life ... know You ... This relationship between eternal life and knowing God has much to offer for meditation.
John 17.10 Why is all I have not the Father's. Either it is his and I just need to realize it, or it is something that is not His and I should discard it.
John 17.19 I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified. My feeble results in my family and ministry might well be traced back to this verse.
John 17.23 It is my sense that this concept and goal of unity is often under emphasized and misunderstood. What are the ways that Christ is unified with the Father that we can be unified with the Father. It is something how our unity is evidence of God's love. It begs the question of the relationship between our unity and the lack (felt or otherwise) of God's love. There is a disconnect somewhere between the infinite love of God that is directed toward us and the pitiful testimony that we give of it.
John 17.26 It sometimes think of truth/knowledge and love as paradoxical in some ways, but this says that knowledge of God facilitates having His love in us.
Matthew 26.37 Jesus was sorrowful and troubled!? and He still never sinned. Troubled looks similar to the word loath in Greek. We seldom think of those emotions as being part of a sinless and righteous life.
Mark 14.35 It is facinating that Jesus asked for something that He surely knew that He was not going to be granted. In our common thinking about prayer, once you know it is not going to happen, what's the point of asking. But Jesus asked for something He wasn't going to get (in his sorrowful and troubled state of mind) and then reaffirmed His submission and obedience to the Father's will. hmmmm.
Mathew 26.40 watch with me Col 4.2; 1 Peter 4.7; Mk 13.33; Luke 21.36,38
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Tues 090407 pm Chron Life Chron
The Chronological Life of Christ
John 15.9 remain in My love The command to remain implies that you can do otherwise.
John 15.17 This is my command... This is the heart of the commands.
John 15.25 This is the goal, to give people no reason to hate me.
John 16.2 like Paul
John 16.13 Spirit of Truth instead of Holy Spirit. Laying these two names alongside each other are good food for thought.
John 15.9 remain in My love The command to remain implies that you can do otherwise.
John 15.17 This is my command... This is the heart of the commands.
John 15.25 This is the goal, to give people no reason to hate me.
John 16.2 like Paul
John 16.13 Spirit of Truth instead of Holy Spirit. Laying these two names alongside each other are good food for thought.
Tues 090407 am Harmony of Gospels
Reading an NIV harmony of the Gospels
John 14.8 show us the Father and that will be enought for us. I suspect that it would not have been. The question shows a lack of understanding.
John 14.12 ...anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. I never thought of obedience as doing what you really believe in.John 14.13 Answered prayers help the Son to give glory to the Father.
John 14.15 If you love me, you will obey... I think that the lame line guys who just want something from a girl may have warped the meaning of this statement. I am thinking that there may be a close connection between 14.15 and 14.12 where he ties faith to doing what Christ does. But ... we can love without doing the same thing. Loving God is different than loving my children, who I do not "obey." (hopefully :o)
John 14.17 with you ... will be in you ... An important OT / NT distinction?
John 14.22-23 There seems to be an implication that we learn about God as we obey Him.
John 14. 27 do not let your heart be troubled implies that we can do something about it.
John 14.30 has no hold on me That is where I want to be! I am thinking about where he does have a grip on me. I want to be smooth and slippery for Satan.
John 15.3 You are already clean. This is a curious statement in the middle of a gardening illustration.
John 14.8 show us the Father and that will be enought for us. I suspect that it would not have been. The question shows a lack of understanding.
John 14.12 ...anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. I never thought of obedience as doing what you really believe in.John 14.13 Answered prayers help the Son to give glory to the Father.
John 14.15 If you love me, you will obey... I think that the lame line guys who just want something from a girl may have warped the meaning of this statement. I am thinking that there may be a close connection between 14.15 and 14.12 where he ties faith to doing what Christ does. But ... we can love without doing the same thing. Loving God is different than loving my children, who I do not "obey." (hopefully :o)
John 14.17 with you ... will be in you ... An important OT / NT distinction?
John 14.22-23 There seems to be an implication that we learn about God as we obey Him.
John 14. 27 do not let your heart be troubled implies that we can do something about it.
John 14.30 has no hold on me That is where I want to be! I am thinking about where he does have a grip on me. I want to be smooth and slippery for Satan.
John 15.3 You are already clean. This is a curious statement in the middle of a gardening illustration.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Mon 090406 pm Chron Life Christ
The Chronological Life of Christ
Luke 22.16 It seems that this should have gotten their attention. They seem to have missed the will not eat part and become enamored with the word kingdom. We are so like them.
John 13.1 having loved His own A comforting thought that he knows and looks out for his own in a special way.
John 13.3 Jesus know that the father ... so He ... Maybe we don't serve because of our myopic, temporal, insecure view of ourselves and the things around us.
John 13.8 Peter had a high view of Christ, but was poorly informed.
John 13.9 not just ... Peter wanted all Christ had to give, but was poorly informed.
John 13.15 I have set an example...
John 13.19 On the purpose of prophecy--It is so that when it does happen you will believe.
Matthew 26.22 surely not I A healthy amount of respect for our own sinfulness and waywardness.
Luke 22:31-33 This is a very puzzling event. Jesus promised to pray that Simon's fail would not fail. Most would say that when he denied Christ his faith failed. When you have turned back... may indicate that faltering is not the same as failing.
Mark 14.31 And all the others said the same. So why does Peter always get such a bad rap?
John 14.6 Thomas ask how he can know the way and Jesus responds that, in so many words, he just needs to know Jesus. Similar to Job.
John 14.12 ...anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. I never thought of obedience as doing what you really believe in.
John 14.13 Answered prayers help the Son to give glory to the Father.
Luke 22.16 It seems that this should have gotten their attention. They seem to have missed the will not eat part and become enamored with the word kingdom. We are so like them.
John 13.1 having loved His own A comforting thought that he knows and looks out for his own in a special way.
John 13.3 Jesus know that the father ... so He ... Maybe we don't serve because of our myopic, temporal, insecure view of ourselves and the things around us.
John 13.8 Peter had a high view of Christ, but was poorly informed.
John 13.9 not just ... Peter wanted all Christ had to give, but was poorly informed.
John 13.15 I have set an example...
John 13.19 On the purpose of prophecy--It is so that when it does happen you will believe.
Matthew 26.22 surely not I A healthy amount of respect for our own sinfulness and waywardness.
Luke 22:31-33 This is a very puzzling event. Jesus promised to pray that Simon's fail would not fail. Most would say that when he denied Christ his faith failed. When you have turned back... may indicate that faltering is not the same as failing.
Mark 14.31 And all the others said the same. So why does Peter always get such a bad rap?
John 14.6 Thomas ask how he can know the way and Jesus responds that, in so many words, he just needs to know Jesus. Similar to Job.
John 14.12 ...anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. I never thought of obedience as doing what you really believe in.
John 14.13 Answered prayers help the Son to give glory to the Father.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Sun 090405 pm 2Chr 8-10
2 Chronicles 8
8.1-6 Solomon had built
8.7-10 The people who were left ... forced labor
8.11 It is curious that Solomon brought the daughter of pharaoh up from the City of David apparently because he didn't think she should live in a holy place.
8.12-15 offerings and priests, etc.
8.16-18 construction and trade
2 Chronicles 9
9.1-12 Queen of Sheba
9.7 happy are your men and ... servants It is a good sign when the employees are happy.
9.13-16 Solomon's gold
9.17-19 ivory throne overlaid with gold
9.20-21 silver was accounted as nothing in those days
9.22-25 surpassed all in riches and wisdom
9.26-28 he reigned over
9.29-31 death and records of Solomon
2 Chronicles 10
10.8 he rejected the advice which the elders had given him... poor judgment.
10.15 for the turn of events was from God, that the Lord might fulfill His word... God's sovereignty was at work through Reh0boam's foolish decision.
10.18-23 The political considerations and politics of wives, concubines, and sons.
8.1-6 Solomon had built
8.7-10 The people who were left ... forced labor
8.11 It is curious that Solomon brought the daughter of pharaoh up from the City of David apparently because he didn't think she should live in a holy place.
8.12-15 offerings and priests, etc.
8.16-18 construction and trade
2 Chronicles 9
9.1-12 Queen of Sheba
9.7 happy are your men and ... servants It is a good sign when the employees are happy.
9.13-16 Solomon's gold
9.17-19 ivory throne overlaid with gold
9.20-21 silver was accounted as nothing in those days
9.22-25 surpassed all in riches and wisdom
9.26-28 he reigned over
9.29-31 death and records of Solomon
2 Chronicles 10
10.8 he rejected the advice which the elders had given him... poor judgment.
10.15 for the turn of events was from God, that the Lord might fulfill His word... God's sovereignty was at work through Reh0boam's foolish decision.
10.18-23 The political considerations and politics of wives, concubines, and sons.
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