Category: Teachings From The Word… (Page 13 of 14)

A weekly teaching series designed to encourage, challenge, and better inform those seeking a relationship with the Lord, or those who want to simply just come and hear what the Lord is saying to His people

The Dynamic Duo. John 6: 68-69

January 14, 2018 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

Simon Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You [alone] have the words of eternal life [you are our only hope]. We have believed and confidently trusted, and [even more] we have come to know [by personal observation and experience] that You are the Holy One of God [the Christ, the Son of the living God].”

They, unlike all those who’d walked away, had faith in this man, this Jesus. They believed Him when He told them that He was their long-awaited Messiah—even though some of His claims were extraordinary. His Flesh as bread to eat? His Blood, wine to drink? The power to grant eternal life! Ascending into the clouds of heaven from where He came? Yes! They believed. —John 6:1–71

But what is faith? And where did their faith—their ability to believe where others couldn’t, come from?

First, faith: In the New Testament the English word faith is used to translate the Greek word pistis. The New Strong’s Expanded Dictionary of Bible Word says, “Pistis is used of belief with the predominate idea of trust (or confidence) whether in God or in Christ, springing from faith in the same. ‘Faith’ means trust, confidence, assurance, and belief”

Hebrews 11: 1 says it this way: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

We get a clue about why some of these had faith others didn’t possess in verse 70.

Election… God had chosen them to believe in His Son—and, for so much more.

They would be the collective womb through which His Church would be birthed and flourish. Each possessing his own unique gifting’s and contributions. Jesus said as much about these 12 a few verses back after chiding some other disciples concerning their grumbling—their speculating, over His lineage. “Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve…?

So, their faith was a gift then—an undeserved, unearned, non-repayable gift from God? Yes. Yes, it was. As all faith is.

But what of this ‘election’?

Listen to how John MacArthur, Bible scholar and Author defines this term: “…the doctrine of election simply means that God, uninfluenced and before creation, predetermined certain people to be saved.

And in Scripture, The Apostle Paul speaks of election this way in 2 Thessalonians 2:13: “But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth.” (Emphasis my own)

Just as an unborn child cannot choose to give itself life, and a dead man cannot will himself to get up and live once again, neither can we as sinful man, dead in our sins, choose to have faith—outside of the Sovereign will of God… “Therefore He says, Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall shine (make day dawn) upon you and give you light.” Ephesians 5:14.

Scripture abounds with references of election, those chosen by God: (Matt. 22:14; 24:22, 24, 31; Luke 18:7; Acts 9:15; 11:18; Rom. 8:29, 30, 33; Eph. 1:4, 5, 11; Col. 3:12; 2 Tim. 2:10; Titus 1:1; 2 Pet. 1:10. See, also, Luke 10:21-22; John 6:37, 44, 65; 10:26; 15:16; 17:2, 6, 9; Acts 5:31; 13:48; Rom. 9:11, 15, 16; 18 11:5, 7, 28; 1 Cor. 1:27, 28, 30; Gal. 1:15; 2 Thes. 2:13; 1 Pet. 1:1-2; 2:8, 9; Rev. 5:9; 7:10-12).

Which leads me to introduce you to our second Superhero, Knowledge. In our Scripture verse Peter states that not only did He and the others have faith, but they also possessed knowledge of Jesus. Certainly, being Jewish and growing up hearing God’s Word taught in the Temple and spoken of at home, they’d be familiar with the Torah. They’d have been aware of hearing tell of the Scriptures that foretold of Messiah. We see evidence of that knowledge when Andrew, a fisherman, calls his brother Peter, beckoning Him to come and follow the man he believes is the Messiah. “He first found his own brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah!” (which is translated Christ). Yet, I believe, and Scripture lends to this fact, that Peter was referring not only to his knowledge of Scripture, more, to experiential knowledge in this instance. He and the others had lived with, ministered, ate, slept, talked, and, listened to every Word that Jesus spoke…

To say nothing of being present as He performed His many miracles.

Strong’s Greek Concordance defines this type of knowledge in the following way: functional (“working”) knowledge gleaned from first-hand (personal) experience, connecting theory to application; “application-knowledge,” gained in (by) a direct relationship.

Connecting theory to application. Said differently, the marriage of faith to knowledge (experiential). Their faith was solidified—reinforced, by what they knew of the Man. Their experiencing Him.

As it is with all who share in this faith…

It was this gnosis enlivened by the Ruach Breath of the Holy Spirit that enabled these ill-informed, unschooled, common men to write the beloved Word of God—The Holy Scriptures, those coveted Words each that feeds, comforts, teaches, corrects, and sustains all believers. “But it is the spirit in a person, the breath of the Almighty, that gives them understanding.” —Job 32:8

This dynamic duo of faith and knowledge lived so deeply within them that from its very roots grew a love so strong—a bond so indestructible, that even when faced with deprivation, beatings, and death—often a cruel and violent death, each of Jesus’s Apostles, save John, faced their violent end having firm faith that when their end was met here, their eyes would open to see His glorious face yet again!

And they did… Even John, who died at a ripe old age exiled on Isle of Pathos.

If faith and knowledge of the Living God could create in an unlearned, but believing few, a force that brought about a world change—a change in how life and living are still defined; just think of what could happen in your life, church, family, ministry, marriage, community, corner of the globe—if you, like our brothers before us, joined forces with the dynamic duo of faith and knowledge!

If you invited the Holy Spirit to do all within you that aligned with God’s perfect will for your life…

But to extend this invitation to the Holy Spirit—you first must know Him—have a relationship with Him. So, won’t you do that know—ask Him into you, please? He’s waiting. He wants to introduce you to the dynamic duo of faith and knowledge of Him. More, He wants to spend every minute of your life loving you, and blessing you, and, teaching you. “I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear [to hear] them now. But when He, the Spirit of Truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth [full and complete truth]. For He will not speak on His own initiative, but He will speak whatever He hears [from the Father—the message regarding the Son], and He will disclose to you what is to come [in the future]” John 16:12-13.

“The Fountain” Jude 1:2

March 26, 2017 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

I’m certain you’ve heard the expression that breakfast is the most important meal of the day?

Typically, I ask the Lord each morning to show me what it is I need to eat for that day. Though I usually follow a reading plan, when Spirit led I deviate. I believe God knows far better than any plan what it is I need daily…

And, on this day He led me into the Book of Jude.

I began to read and then reread. As I finished the Book I asked God what it was that He wanted me to see because I felt like I’d missed the reason He’d led me there. I’d missed the “why” or “what” I was supposed to have seen. Nothing had stood out—leapt off the page, nor came alive to me. I heard Him say, “Read it again.” And I did, twice. But it wasn’t until the third time that I read it that It came to me. In my haste to get at what I had assumed was the meat—the depth of this text, I had completely skimmed over Jude’s salutation.

And that’s where the Lord caused my eyes to fall…

Tucked within my Bible, like so many treasures, are scraps of paper or whole sheets. Words written, and messages, or teaching topics, Scriptures that the Spirit has led me to through-out the years. I felt draw to one in-particular. It was a Word God had shared with me after having read Ezekiel 47:3-6. “When the man went out toward the east with a line in his hand, he measured a thousand cubits, and he led me through the water, water reaching the ankles. Again he measured a thousand and led me through the water, water reaching the knees. Again he measured a thousand and led me through the water, water reaching the loins. Again he measured a thousand; and it was a river that I could not ford, for the water had risen, enough water to swim in, a river that could not be forded. He said to me, “Son of man, have you seen this?” Then he brought me back to the bank of the river.”

I don’t know the date of the writing unfortunately. Suffice it to say, based on the worn condition of this sheet of paper, it had been in my Bible for a long while…

I kept looking between what I had just read in Jude and what I was reading on this paper. I was trying to see the connection. And then it hit me, abundance. An increase and an abundance…

While reading Jude Two the Spirit showed me a vision of a fountain. But not just any fountain. Look at the picture above and you will see, in part, what it is I saw.

An abundance of water. A plethora…

I understood the Lord was using all that He had put before me, as disconnected and piecey as it felt, to draw me into seeing and understanding just how it is He gives Himself and His Spirit to us—in this lavish, plentifully, way, and through ever-increasing intimacy, as we spend time in His Word. He draws us ever more deeply into Himself.

And, as a result of following His great example—instructs us how we too must pour out from our overflow on those we encounter with no thought of running dry ourselves—because we know (koinonia) our source is never-ending!

Matthew Henry says it far more succinctly yet with eloquence in his commentary on Ezekiel 47: Christ is the temple; he is the door; from him those living waters flow, out of his pierced side. It is the water that he gives us that is the well of water which springs up, Jn. 4:14. And it is by believing in him that we receive from him rivers of living water; and this spoke he of the Spirit, Jn. 7:38, Jn. 7:39. The original of these waters was not above-ground, but they sprang up from under the threshold; for the fountain of a believer’s life is a mystery; it is hid with Christ in God, Col. 3:3.

Elisha said to her, “What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?” And she said, “Your maidservant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil.” Then he said, “Go, borrow vessels at large for yourself from all your neighbors, even empty vessels; do not get a few” (2 Kings 4:2-3, emphasis my own).

Elisha, sent by God to this widow to ensure that she not only had what she needed—but had it in abundance! Listen to what he says to this widow in verse 7: “He said, “Go! Sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what remains.”

Surplus—an inconceivable supply for this woman who just moments ago, had nothing but a bit of oil and some borrowed empty jars…

Through her obedience to Elisha, and His to God, they are each refreshed. Both she and her family are renewed—spiritually first, and then their physical needs are met as well (I Kings 17:8-10; 2 Kings 4:3-5).

That is what Jesus was showing me. Reminding me of. How we are each called to pour out—pour into, lavish others with all that He has given us, holding nothing back. So, that those He sends us to may be filled to overflowing, and in return—pour into others as well…

Jesus factually poured out His life in service to the Father. And, as the widow’s oil continued to flow until the very last jar was filled, so Jesus continues to pour out the benefits of His Work on the Cross today—in abundance, that all men might have life eternal, still. …“I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance” (John.10:10).

And we too must be willing to give all. Including and up to the pouring out of our very lives for another…

We each have gifts. A call on our life. A unique reason for being here. And only we—only you, can contribute—bring to the world, what God has placed inside of you to give—and to do, with abandoned, in abundance, completely—until you are spent and others have received from your overflow all that God has for them…

Repeatedly.

Friends, God gives us more than we deserve daily. Think of it—I mean really think of it. In fact, grab a piece of paper and sit and write a gratitude list to God today. Pray, and ask the Spirit to bring to your remembrance all that God gives you daily—starting with Himself…

You don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus yet? That’s okay—for the moment. He has one with you. Ask Him to show you what He does for you daily starting with His mercy—given in abundance, spoken of in Joel’s salutation. Surely that will lead you into a peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:7), and immerse you into a love that has yet to be plumbed. “So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to comprehend the length and width and height and depth of His love, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Eph. 3:17-19 emphasis my own).

You were given an abundance for a purpose…

“Unexpected Places” Luke 15:1-10

March 12, 2017 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

Jesus didn’t choose those who followed Him from among the pious religious leaders of His day. Nor did He chose the mega-church pastors, kings or rulers. He chose people from unexpected places…people like you and I (1Cor.1:27-30).

If you have ever lost something, something that was precious to you, that you placed great value in, then you can relate to the feelings of being frantic, grief-stricken even, until that which was lost is found.

I’m not talking car keys here, I’m talking about a sickening feeling, however brief, that grips your heart. When, for an instance, as a parent or guardian of a child you turn your head for the briefest second and wham!

The child is gone! The shopping mall nightmare!

Fortunately for most of us, all ends well. And within minutes a little head pops out, and their giggling is heard, from beneath the rack of clothes you’d been looking through.

Here I am silly daddy, I was hiding on you…!

God is also familiar with finding what’s been lost (Mt 4:19 NIV). Like us, He experiences heartbreak over the one who leaves the safety of His side. However, unlike us, God does not get panicky. He is Omniscient. He knew before He brought us into this swarming peopled planet, that we’d get lost.

So, as a result, He took steps to make sure we’d always be able to find Him…

No matter what separated us (Ps.33:11 NIV).

God so loved us that He sent His Only Begotten Son, Jesus, to find and return to Him that which has and will become lost. Us…

“All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out. “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me’” (Jn.6:37-38).

In today’s teaching Jesus is talking to a large crowd. And, though the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law are present, scripture opens with, “Now the tax collectors and “sinners” were all gathering around to hear Him” (Lk.15:1 NIV).

There were always holy men around Jesus, yet it was those unexpected few that came seeking after Him that He came intentionally to find.

Why is God so concerned with the lost? Very simply stated, He loves us!

We are valuable and cherished by Him. His desire is that not one person be lost! Liken it to the sense of loss mentioned above, then multiply that by too many zeros to type here!

So great is His love for us, so precious are we, that He sent Jesus, His Only Begotten Son to save us. So, that through Him, we would have a way back to God: “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” (Jn 3:16 NASB)!

That lost sheep referred to in our text represents you and I if we don’t know the Lordship of Jesus in our hearts…

I’m not speaking here about knowing of Jesus. I’m not even talking about being saved, a gift that is unfathomable to those who have tasted such mercy and grace…

I’m speaking specifically of knowing Jesus.

Knowing in the way a husband and wife know each other. Intimately. To the exclusion of another. Mystically One (Jn.17:20-22 ESV).

I’m talking about being relationally bonded. Not mere intellectual buddies or people who regurgitate platitudes to God in the hopes of gaining points.

In plain speak, not like the Pharisees and hypocrites referred to in Matthew (Mat. 23:13 ESV). So let’s break down this parable into two segments shall we?

What are the risks involved in being lost? And 2. Why finding is finding us so important?

#1. What is wrong with being the lone sheep that leaves the safety of the fold to go out exploring what looks good to us?

A.) It is Separation from God and His will for our lives…

It represents the potential that separation our may be eternal. Plainly, Hell. Which was not created for man but rather for satan and his fallen angels. However, next to salvation, one of the greatest gifts God gave us is free will. It was not God’s plan, and is not His choice, that any man should go to hell. Jesus came to make it possible for each man to be reconciled to God after the fall of Adam and Eve.

But, yes there is a but. We must choose God.

Here, and now. While it is stilll called today…

Or, we run the risk of following into eternal death the one we choose to follow in life (Mt.25:40-42 NIV). One of the more quoted Scriptures explaining the danger of hell is found in Proverbs 14:12, it states, “There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.” The ways of this world, the desires of our eyes and flesh, the have it your way attitude that permeates this worlds thinking fails to infer, never mind tell us clearly that we even have an enemy who seeks to kill us…

One that is ever-near, standing just off in the shadows waiting to get us alone. Or that he’s fixed and ready to pounce on us like credulous prey! Only God in His Word foretells of satan’s fatal intentions,“Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour” (1 Pe.5:8 AMPC)

.…in fierce hunger? Devour? Isn’t there something in God’s Word about a path that leads to life?

I choose that one please!

“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way”(Mt.7:13NLT).

What about you? Given the above knowledge, which road do you choose? And here’s the follow-up. Have you chosen it yet? And if not, why not?

These examples are but a few of the copious reasons given throughout Scripture about the perils of being and choosing to stay, lost.

Though you were born into sin, you don’t have to stay in it…

You have a choice. You’ve been empowered through the loving sacrifice accomplished for you on The Cross of Christ!

#2. WHY IS FINDING US SO IMPORTANT…?

LOVE.

Reread above about His concern, your value and how cherished you are.

Better yet, open your Bible and read John 3:16!

We are valuable to Him and He does not want to see harm come to us. He intentionally seeks us out to save us from harm. His love is not random because He’s not! There is nothing random about God. He is intentional,ordered, in all of His ways. And His love for you is not a mistake, you are not a mistake! Throughout His Word we find every answer to every issue, question, or, life problem we will ever face.

His Word is our road map…

It safety guides us through hostile enemy territory, aka, the world (Ps.119:105 NIV). God, being Omniscient, placed within His Word many lessons informing us of the dangers of going astray.

But… there’s that but again, It is our choice to follow Jesus or jump the fence for other another’s pasture. For more on this topic see (Isa. 53:6;1Pet. 5:8; Job 1:7;Pr.28:15; Pr.2:17;Pr.10:17; Pr.21;16;Lu.12:5).

One of the greatest dangers for a sheep is to get separated from the protection, love and care of the Sheppard. Sheep are far more vulnerable not only to attack from unforeseen predators, but, more often, death, when alone. “The thief comes only to take the sheep and to put them to death: he comes for their destruction: I have come so that they may have life and have it in greater measure” (Jn.10:10 BBE).

Verse 8 of Luke plainly illustrates that another risk of being lost is being in darkness…

We may feel safe in the dark, unseen, our whereabouts unknown by God or man. And we may be right on this second account, at least the man part of it…

But, be assured we are felonious on the first part! (Ps.139:1-16 NIV). Let me explain by sharing with you just a taste of this Psalm…,” Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, (hell) behold, You are there.”

Just as the lost coin could not escape the searching eye of the woman in Jesus parable, we can’t hide from an all-knowing, all-seeing, God! Throughout Scripture God is referred to as Light, and not just light, but pure light! “There is no darkness within Him at all” (1Jn.1:5 KJV).

God always seeks what is best for us. Our decision of choosing to go it solo often results from not believing this one fundamental Truth about God. Too many in today’s world feel God is chasing them down to take something from them, when in fact, He’s running after them to give to them.

God came to give life, not take it away (John 10:10).

The common denominator in verses 1 through 10 of Luke is intentionality: By definition it is: done with intention or on purpose; intended: designed, planned; deliberate.

Through the shepherd’s intentionality in finding the lost sheep, and the woman the lost coin; and as both rejoiced when each were found, we’re able to catch a glimpse of the Fathers deliberate search for us!

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me” (Rev 3:20 BSB).

Lastly, concerning Gods rejoicing over finding us, His love toward us may feel unexpected, but never forget our God is deliberate. Be encouraged today. He is searching for you…

…Blessings!

“What Will You Choose?” Luke 10:38-42

February 5, 2017 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

“Now while they were on their way, Jesus entered a village [called Bethany], and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was continually listening to His teaching. But Martha was very busy and distracted with all of her serving responsibilities; and she approached Him and said, “Lord, is it of no concern to You that my sister has left me to do the serving alone? Tell her to help me and do her part.” But the Lord replied to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered and anxious about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part [that which is to her advantage], which will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:38-42).

If you’re a Christian, there are very clear lines in the sand you mustn’t cross. The world around you will always tell you otherwise, that’s its job…“Did God really say” (Gen 3:1 NIV)?

Please, don’t take my word for this. Just listen to what the world itself has to say. Read the newspapers. Listen in on the conversations people are having. People of every walk of life are talking about how chaotic the world has become. For that matter, drive on any metropolitan highway. Talk about chaos! One wrong turn and you end up in places that your GPS doesn’t recognize!

Pay attention, also, to the billboard advertisements lining those freeways. To their not-so subliminal messages aimed at shanghaiing your choices and directing them towards what some ad company wants you to view as important, needed, crucial, to your happiness…

Within our scripture passage today we’ll witness, in part, the blessings missed when we make unwise or harried choices. Those precious moments with Jesus that we allow to be snatched from our hands daily, when we permit ourselves to get so caught-up in work that we get sidetracked from seeking God’s presence. And, how that often leads us into making the wrong choices at crucial moments.(James 1:13-16 NASB).

“When you have to make a choice and don’t make it, that is in itself a choice.” -William James

Statistics tell us the average adult makes approximately 35,000 decisions a day. Now multiply that times two. Remember, we had to choose between two options to reach our one decision…

So, about 70,000 choices are contending for our attention on any given day. Ranging from the mundane: what we will eat, drink, wear? To what brand of toothpaste will we purchase? Then on to the more complex choices. Spend or save, rent or own, marry or remain single. And we haven’t touched on the sundry issues of the heart. Or, deeper still, our most important of choices…

Where will we be spending eternity?

Let’s enter the home of Martha and Mary. It’s okay, we’ve been invited in along with Jesus and His disciples. Let’s take our place at the dinner table. Pay attention to Martha. How busy she is bustling about. Remember, this is her home and she’s our hostess tonight. Mary, her sister, has been right beside her throughout the day seeing to it that everything is just-so for each of their guests. From the dinner choice and preparation, right down to the flower selection. Martha has insisted everything be picture-perfect!

After all, Jesus, their Rabbi, and friend, will be in attendance…

Often, our choices may seem to be the right-thing to do. They’re certainly done made with the best of intentions. With a good-heart, and from a desire to please. Undoubtedly, we want to do our best and give our best to those we love. And how much more when that someone is Jesus?

It’s within this tension of choices that our two sisters diverge in their definitions of what the better portion is…

Everyone’s seated and Jesus begins to speak. And with that, Mary pulls up a stool and sits at the His feet to listen to Him. Oh, how she loves to hear her Rabbi speak. His simplest words are like honey to her ears! (Luke.10:39).

Yet while Mary sits listening to Jesus, Martha returns to the kitchen clearly irked! Mary unawares, is in her glory! There is nothing more, in this life, that she enjoys than time spent with Jesus. She could sit for hours and simply drink in every word that flows from the Masters mouth…

Martha also, but not now, not tonight.

Tonight, Martha has chosen to make work—her service to the Lord. Her priority. After all, she has worked on this meal and its presentation all day. There will be time to sit with the Master another day. Now there is still much to do. The bread, I must put out the bread. Where is that sister of mine? I must speak to Jesus about her. Surely, HE will make her get up and help me…

And with that Martha, in the midst of her distraction, knocks the basket laden with the warm bread to the floor. She is now beside herself and burst into the dining room in a huff to demand that Jesus help…

Just listen to her rant!

“Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” Now pay attention to how lovingly, tenderly, yet plainly, Jesus answers His frazzled friend… “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke. 10:42-43 NIV).

“Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life” (Pr. 4:23 NASB).

Martha had just been taught a very valuable lesson about her choices. The question is, was she listening to the Lord as He spoke to her? Are we? Or are we doing nothing more than walking about distracted? Praying for answers but half listening when the answers are given to us?

I’m reminded of the words of the prophet Micah concerning what it is God truly requires of us, “He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you Except to be just, and to love [and to diligently practice] kindness (compassion), And to walk humbly with your God [setting aside any overblown sense of importance or self-righteousness] (Micah 6:8 AMP).

Martha was not an enemy of the Lord, she was His friend, and more, she loved Him and was a true believer. A follower of The Way. Scripture made that clear within the context of the conversation she and Jesus had. It had taken place when He came to her and her sister Mary after the death of their brother Lazarus. Jesus told Martha that Lazarus would live again. He asked her if she believed this. Let’s listen to her reply…

“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world” (Luke 11:27 NLT).

Even the most fervent of us, those who hunger and thirst after Jesus, who crave time alone with Him, get caught-up, on occasion, in service to Him. We forget to come away from all the work of our hands. We forget to simply be still in front of Him (Ps. 46:10 NKJV).

Like Mary, our first duty to the Lord is to Love HIM above all else. To seek Him out—to purposefully set aside time to sit at His feet so that we might build a deeper relationship with Him. To know Him, love Him, to spend time and converse with Him.

And, like Mary, desire to drink in His every Word (Duet.8:3 NIV).

We would each do well to follow her in her desire to be in communion with Jesus. In her desire to saté herself in Him alone demonstrates that she had in fact chosen the better portion. Walking away joy-filled and refreshed.

Neither woman was wrong in their choice of how they’d worshiped the Lord. Though each demonstrated their adoration quite differently…

I believe the deeper issue Jesus was communicating concerning Marth was one of the leaning of her heart.

What is the leaning of your heart? Work or worshiping at His feet? Deeper, what is your motivation for each…?

The take-away, Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matt.22:37 NLT).

Let me leave you to ponder an excerpt from, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary of our text. I believe you’ll find it to be not only eloquent, but more, enlightening, thought-provoking and biblically sound…

Here with respect to our Lord Jesus and right care of her household affairs (speaking of Martha). But there was something to be blamed. She was for much serving; plenty, variety, and exactness. Worldly business is a snare to us, when it hinders us from serving God, and getting good to our souls. What needless time is wasted, and expense often laid out, even in entertaining professors of the gospel! Though Martha was on this occasion faulty, yet she was a true believer, and in her general conduct did not neglect the one thing needful. The favour of God is needful to our happiness; the salvation of Christ is needful to our safety. Where this is attended to, all other things will be rightly pursued. Christ declared, Mary hath chosen the good part. For one thing is needful, this one thing that she has done, to give up herself to the guidance of Christ. The things of this life will be taken away from us, at the furthest, when we shall be taken away from them; but nothing shall separate from the love of Christ, and a part in that love. Men and devils cannot take it away from us, and God and Christ will not. Let us mind the one thing truly needful more diligently than all else.

“Free or Freedom?” Jn. 8:36

October 8, 2016 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

Moses was instructing the Israelite’s in the tenets of the new covenant and its oaths. A New Covenant they were about to enter with God—after their long sojourn through the wilderness. Moses makes plain to the Israelite’s in Deuteronomy 30, that a choice to follow God, and all He asks of them, must be set in their hearts—chosen by them—fixed…

Also, in Chapter 29, Moses, during this same instructing, says this, “Someone may hear the conditions of this promise. He may think that he is so blessed that he can say, “I’ll be safe even if I go my own stubborn way. After all, [the LORD would never] sweep away well-watered ground along with dry ground” (Duet.29:19).

Plain speak. Don’t think to yourselves, “I believe in God, I’m his, after all, He is the God of my father’s—He’s got my back, I’m not like those people.” (the world, the unsaved) those that may know of the Lord—yet presume upon, take for granted, His grace, His patient mercy…because what they actually have is religious knowledge, not true relationship.

For those that may say, but that’s what the Old Testament says with it’s dark, negative speak…listen to what the Apostle Paul tells us in the New Testament. Listen to what he has to say about taking such liberties with God’s mercy and grace, “What shall we say then? shall we continue in sin, that there may be abundance of grace? God forbid! How shall we that are dead as touching sin live any longer therein” (Rom. 6:1-2).

You may be asking what this has to do with today’s verse? Everything, would be the short answer…

Allow me to elaborate. There is an eternal difference between having freedom’s and being—free…

It is the theme—the fact stated, by our above mentioned principles, Moses and Paul. Each a witness to the Truth, Jesus, who alone is able to set men free.

Solomon informs us in Ecclesiastes that there’s nothing new under the sun, listen: “History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new.” (Emphasis mine.) As it was then, so it is today…

Culture, technology, fashions, foods, appearances…all of these certainly are different—unarguably. But the heart of man, his core, remains unchanged. The sin-nature that drives him to chase after the illusive “anything” that will offer him the slightest whiff of supposed freedom—his right to choose, that has not changed one iota in man…

And that friends, that searching, that rebellious selfish want is what drives a man to serve the masters of his flesh, his thoughts, plans, needs and wants—his, what’s best for me. That is what this world and the father of it calls—offers as, supposed freedom. Freedom to choose—my choice, I get to pick, I get to say…Me.

Think of the Israelite’s and the golden calf here…Me, what I want. And I’ll give everything I have and own to get it! They forgot all about Moses on the mountain, weren’t giving a second thought to the fact that he was up there seeking God on their behalf—now, I want it now…(Ex.32:1-3).

Think Pharisees…Me, I deserve the best. All roads point to what I want, what best serves what my flesh is screaming out for. Recognition, accumulation, stature. Don’t I deserve that, after all… (Matt.23:4-7).

Concerning this freedom, how can the world give you something it does not possess? Doesn’t have to give? (Matt.4:9),

Only Jesus has the power and the authority to set a captive soul free (Lk.4:18-19).

There is no better evidence of the false freedoms this world offers, no greater evidence of its lie, and the father of its lies, than what we witness in the dialogue between Jesus and satan. Concerning the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, listen as satan tries to offer Jesus the very things which Jesus himself created! “Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory; and he said to Him, “All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me.” (Matt.4:8-9).

Why would anyone ever choose a counterfeit over an original? The world—satan and what he does not have to offer—his temporary smoke screens, over God the creator of heaven and earth and satan as well? satan, known from the beginning as Lucifer, was a high-ranking angel allowed to choose sin, choose selfishness. He was cast to earth and away from God where he was given dominion to rule temporarily—but never is he, nor will he ever be, mightier than God…

And both he and his illusions of freedom will one day be cast into hell for all eternity… (Rev. 20:1-3).

Regarding this false freedom: it was this-worldly, prideful, sin-soaked freedom, that the Lord allowed one of His creations to choose. And in his choosing, he became the father of lies. The father of those he whispers to—lures, with false promises, stroking their prideful ego’s. Just as he tried to do to Jesus. It failed—he failed. Because it is written—Truth, true freedom, will always, always, expose the darkest of lies—illusions of freedom.

Now let’s hold that idea of freedom—satan’s lies, and contrast, compare them to, the Freedom found in Christ…

God’s Word clearly states, “So if the Son sets you free, you are free through and through.” (Jn.8:36). Completely free—nothing held back from you.

Being free is found only through submission—selflessness. It’s the choice we make to relinquish the freedom to choose our own way for God’s…Sounds backward right? It’s certainly a-not-of-this world thinking—not man’s logic.

The best known Bible figures each referred to themselves as, ‘bondservants” of Jesus Christ and claimed to be free through His ownership of them and through their service to others, seflessness…

The term “bondservant” in the New Testament (bond-servant or slave in some translations) is a translation of the Greek word doulos. Unlike perceptions of modern slavery, bondservant or doulos is a relatively broad term with a wider range of usage. In the time of the New Testament a bondservant could refer at times to someone who voluntarily served others. In most cases, however, the term referred to a person in a permanent role of service. The importance of these New Testament authors referring to themselves as bondservants should not be overlooked. Despite proclaiming a message of freedom from sin in Jesus Christ, these writers were dedicated to Jesus as their one master. Further, their service to the Lord was not one they could consider leaving. Most importantly, the image of the bondservant became one of great importance for Christians, who are called to live as bondservants of Christ Jesus…

Just as a bondservant was more than an employee who could leave for another job, the true Christian is a servant who can never leave their master for another. As Christ belonged to the Father and submitted His will to Him, and unto death for us, so we too must submit to Jesus—via our death to self.

Being free is found only in surrendering our wills—wants, desires, those temper tantrums of the flesh, to a higher calling—the common good. Service to another—others. Being free is found only in the resurrected self. Made alive through Christ’s life, death and resurrection… “Truly, truly, I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him” (Jn.13:16).

Freedom to do it my way…. It’s a lie. It was born from the father of lies. A poisonous brew concocted from the twisted mind of the father of lies—worldly. Offered to all who will as a sweet drink that promises to please. And it does, for a time…but ultimately it ravages, destroys—takes captive, the mind—soul, body, emotions, of the one who drinks it in. It, like its slithering originator, will squeeze the very life from its partaker—one poisonous sip at a time… (Jn.8:43-44; Pro.14:12).

Being truly—eternally free to live a life worthy of—dedicated to God, and service to His people. Will cost you your so-called life…But here’s the thing, since you didn’t create yourself, give live to yourself, it’s not really yours to keep after all… is it (Matt.10:24)?

And unless your life is given in loving surrender to the One who died to purchase your opportunity—the chance for you to be free, the moment you exhale that last breath, His gift to you—it is to your father you will go to partake in a final—eternal glass, of his poisonous brew…

I beseech you today to choose being free in Christ Jesus…As long as you have breath in your lungs there is time…

Listen to Jesus as He shares this same Truth with the Israelite’s gathered around Him: “Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed’” (Jn.8:34-36).

“Does God Play Favorites?” Rom.9:21-22

August 13, 2016 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

When a potter makes jars out of clay, doesn’t he have a right to use the same lump of clay to make one jar for decoration and another to throw garbage into? In the same way, even though God has the right to show his anger and his power, he is very patient with those on whom his anger falls, who are destined for destruction” (Rom.9:21:22).

So are we to understand that we serve a God who plays favorites? Some school-yard bully randomly choosing up sides for a game of you-go-to-heaven-you-go-to-hell?

“You—yeah, you, the fast one, I’ll take you.”

“And you, yeah, you next to him, you can come too.”

“But not you—are you kidding me…not on my team!”

For many this example brings up memories of being the last man standing. Cheeks-red, ashamed. And even now, after all these many years and accomplishments later, you’re feeling the pain, still— are angry, still—to say nothing of feeling like it was completely unfair!

After all, what’s wrong with me you’ve asked? I’ve got two legs and two feet. I could run fast—heck, I could run faster than him! So why didn’t I get chosen—I am too good enough!

And there it is… Paul’s argument.

Our answer—Election.

God’s Sovereignty.

The topic some pastors dodge, and unseasoned ministers shrink under the weight of. But not Paul. Why do they run and shrink? It’s unforgiving—this topic of election. It doesn’t play well with collection plates and full pews—true statement.

So what do we do with unpopular Truth? Truth too great for finite man to wrap his finite mind around? Do we who have been called to bring His Word, this Truth, into a lost and dying world, water-down the gospel—dilute God, so as not to offend?

I will say as my brother Paul said before me, “God Forbid!”

No, we are called to boldly proclaim the Gospel, boldly speak the Truth. We serve a Sovereign God. He does not serve us…Potter, clay. Divine order.

I’m reminded of a quote I recently came across. “A watered down gospel may fill pews, but it will never lead a sinner to the Cross of Christ.” And we are sinners, of that be sure. All of us. There’s not one of us “deserves” to be on team Jesus.

Not one of us is good enough to have gotten picked for His team…

Who of you reading this, in the light of God knowing your heart can say, “but I am”—good enough that is.

The Word of God itself condemns you. “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1Jn.1:8). “All have turned away; they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.…(Rom.3:12).

God is the Righteous Sovereign over the whole world. As such, He, God, has the right to do with anyone or anything He created exactly as He wishes, sees fit —no questions asked..

.And that’s where our backs get up—our necks stiffen…

That’s where we cry, “foul!” That’s where the screaming starts, “but it’s not fair!”

We forget that we serve at His pleasure and His calling. Grateful beyond words to have been called, chosen at all. We are not owed our salvation—quite the opposite in fact. What we deserved is hell… Why do we all try to convince ourselves that we are good? Haven’t we all told a lie before? Haven’t we all stolen something that did not belong to us? Haven’t we all looked with lustful eyes or had sexually perverted thoughts?

Jesus defined looking with lust-filled eyes to be the same as adultery (Matthew 5:28).

You are a liar, a thief and an adulterer and so am I. And there is not one person on this planet that likes liars, thieves, adulterers or murderers…

The reality is you agree with God and you cannot fight something you agree with…

How would you defend yourself when you agree with the very laws you’ve broken?

Romans 9 is God speaking to us in and with His authority. It’s not Paul speaking to us—sharing his opinions. How can we know that God’s promise of salvation will not fail? Paul’s answer is that our salvation is secure because it doesn’t depend on us, rather on God’s purpose according to election.

As the sovereign of the universe, God always accomplishes what He purposes to do. He chooses some for salvation apart from anything that they do, and He rejects others apart from anything they do… “So it is written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” (Rom. 9:13).

Think the man at the pool of Bethesda in John 5:15. Was He the only one there that day in need of a healing? Why not heal all those gathered? And Why Israel? Why wasn’t Africa or Asia made the Apple of God’s eye—His chosen people?

We need to submit, joyfully, to this truth of Gods Sovereignty. Not question it. It’s God’s authoritative revelation of Himself. And this revelation should put an immediate end to our, “I’m good enough for His team argument.”

Paul knew then, as ministers of the gospel know now, today, that there will always be those who will cry out loudly, “but that’s just not fair!” Why them and not me? I’m a good person, don’t I deserve…

Their failure to see—their shortsightedness, comes from their inability to realize, accept, that God is not bound further than He has been pleased to bind Himself by his own covenant and promises…

In other words, God is bound by His will and Word only. Not be our wills and wants. Not by what we think we should have and deserve. Our screaming, “It’s not fair”, changes nothing…

It serves only to show how little we fear God and how prideful arrogant we actually are—how little we know of submission or humility…

How little we understand—know—about God. About the unconditionality of being chosen by God as a child of promise. “So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.” (vs.16)

He owes His creation nothing. Hard pill to swallow I know. Doesn’t sound like the squeezably-soft God of love, and plenty and forgiveness for all being preached about today. Apostasy! A feel good gospel designed to tickle the ears of those who cannot—will not—hear the saving Truth of the Gospel.

So to answer my opening question, no, God is not some school-yard bully. He is rather an Awesome God, Righteous in everything He does. Sovereign, sinless and pure—perfect in all of His ways—above reproach.

But, as this Righteous Sovereign God He is also free to harden whom He wishes, in order to display His glory…

God could have chosen to be merciful to Pharaoh and the Egyptians by softening their hearts—telling them about the need to put the blood on their doorposts to escape the wrath of the destroying angel. Rather, God chose to harden Pharaoh’s heart for the greater purpose of displaying His glory in power and judgment, so that His fame would spread throughout the earth.

As the Righteous Sovereign over all, God has the freedom to harden sinners for His greater purpose of displaying His glory and power in righteous judgment. “You will say to me then, “Why does He still find fault? For who resists His will?” On the contrary, who are you, O man, who answers back to God? The thing molded will not say to the molder, “Why did you make me like this,” will it? Or does not the potter have a right over the clay, to make from the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for common use? (Rom.9:19-21).

Remember today that you are the clay, not the Potter. “For the sake of Jacob My servant, And Israel My chosen one, I have also called you by your name; I have given you a title of honor Though you have not known Me. “I am the LORD, and there is no other; Besides Me there is no God. I will gird you, though you have not known Me; That men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun That there is no one besides Me. I am the LORD, and there is no other” (Isa. 45:4-6).

“For Your Eyes Only” Luke 24

May 1, 2016 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

people-1099782_960_720 It had been revealed to Peter—Christ’ identity that is.

They answered and said, “John the Baptist, and others say Elijah; but others, that one of the prophets of old has risen again. “And He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.” (Lk.9:19-20; emphasis added).

So let’s talk about knowing...that which is meant for your eyes only. Because, heartbreakingly, not everyone chooses to see. “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn–and I would heal them” (Jn.12:40).
However God in His sapience, chose to open Peter’s eyes to who Jesus truly was. And so it comes as little surprise, that of those disciples gathered together when the women returned from finding an empty tomb early that morning, that it would once again be Peter who was among the first to—see.

“But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen wrappings only; and he went away to his home, marveling at what had happened” (Lk 24:11-12NASB; emphasis added).

Some versions read that, he went off wondering in himself,others, amazed at what happened…and others still, wondering in himself at that which had come to pass.

But in researching our text I was struck by the phraseology used in the Aramaic Bible in Plain English…listen—“Shimeon(Simon) arose and he ran to the tomb, and beholding, he saw the linen that was placed by itself and he left wondering in his soul over what had happened” (Lk. 24:12).

As rich as Luke 24 is—containing a plethora of revelatory Scriptural lessons, it is not toward its many richly mined examples of theological thought that we will heading today. Rather, we will tread a fresher ground, and camp out at the entrance of the proverbial heart.

Peter’s heart that is…And that of those two unnamed disciples as well, you now, the guys heading to Emmaus.

For a moment, let’s center on Peter’s response to the news that the women who walked with Jesus have just conveyed to the disciples. Deeper, let’s ask ourselves what happened in Peters belly, in his knower, that made him get up and run to the tomb.

What separated him from the other eleven that sat self-righteously ridiculing these faithful women? And our two unknown’s, what caused them to make a beeline back to Jerusalem after having met a man? Lastly, how does this apply to you and I?

Gnosis, knowing—like a man knows his wife. Intimately, wholly, as we are known by Christ. Not as a plain intellectual exercise, as with—after reading the autobiography of George Washington I can honestly say I feel like I know him now. Intellect is a sure part of gnosis—in fact, it’s one of three of its informing components actually. As God is Triune, being created in His image so too are we comprised—mind, soul, and Spirit.

And as with Peter, our capacity to know and love God is possible only because He first loved and knew us.

So why Peter? Why not any of the others, after all, the eleven were ever present? And they too loved and served Jesus? Just look in the boat, they’re all there—yet only Peter risked getting out of the boat to respond to Jesus’ bidding to come walk on water with his Lord. And now, running out of this room, though John followed—it is Peter we see jumping up and running off to check the tomb. And just a few chapters back, again, it was Peter that spoke the words that came from God Himself, “But who do you say I am?” He asked. Peter replied, “The Christ of God” (Luke 9:20).

Peter, atop of Mount Herman, He stood among the elect of the elect. He heard the voice of Father God bear witness to His love of, and pleasure in, His Son Jesus. The revelation of Christ’s glory in this chapter was a clear confirmation to the disciples of the truth of Peter’s confession of faith (16:16). It was also encouragement for Jesus; opposition had started to mount and would greatly increase.

It was Peter, pulling a coin out of the mouth of a fish to pay their taxes, his and Jesus’, Peter watching his Master not once, but twice, break bread, and in so doing multiply it to feed thousands. Peter, who in a moment of supreme weakness, only moments after having cut off a man’s ear in a fierce rage, denied Christ, thrice…

Why was it he jumped up first and ran?

Did his running really have anything to do with him or was he compelled? Both. Yes, he certainly had free will as we each do. And yes, he exercised it in that moment. But Just as the Scripture implies, Peter knew something…some past spark of a conversation fanned into full on flame…

Remember, we are searching today, weeding through the obvious, plucking up the ordinary, clearing away the similar, looking for the deeper things.

From their early beginnings with Jesus, each man was individually invited to follow Him. Specifically chosen, hand selected, for some innate quality that lay dormant within, almost certainly it was wholly unknown to each them.

But God knew…

And He sent Jesus to draw them into fellowship with Himself. And over time, and with great compassion and unplumbed love, Jesus drew their dormant gifting’s into active use. Kingdom use, eternal use…

Jesus foresaw that in order for each of them to fulfill their divine destinies, death would have to occur. Remember He tasted of the Glory that was yet to come, it’s surety, on the Mount of Transfiguration. And so He knew (gnosis) that asking them to die was inviting them not only into life, but guaranteeing them that within that life their gifting’s would be complete. Not greater, in the sense of better than Jesus’, but rather in their ability in sheer numbers to fulfill the Great Commission…, listen… “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father” (Jn.14:12).

It is here where we share in Peter’s experience, as in John’s, Mark’s, and Thomas’s.

Death must come so that life can begin—if you are called to serve God, as each of these men clearly were—remember, their handpicked, then death is imminent.

Going out fishing can be fun, but its fun benefits only the fisherman. Catching fish on the other hand, benefits everyone who is able to eat from the catch. But first, obviously, death must occur before substantive life can be offered to anyone. As the fish surrenders it life to feed, so we too must surrender ours to do the same. And so we die daily to self, will, pride, desires…the right to life itself.

So why Peter?

He was chosen specifically for what the Lord knew of Him. And so it followed with the eleven, and, as with dominoes, to us as well. To do the great works that brought Jesus to the Cross, the Restorative, Redemptive work of salvation demands a knowing of sacrificial love…

Death must occur. Proof you ask? Had there been no crucifixion, there’d be no need for a resurrection.

Why Peter…because He knew this. And some two-thousand years later, through his lifework and in his death, He is still preaching The Great Commission, still fulfilling His calling to feed God’s people.

Man’s fallen mortal condition could never have allowed for this…Only death to self and Life in Christ allows for the inclusion into that kind of transformative power.

Why Peter, because He knew outside of Christ, He was nothing…and from that knowing willingly, lovingly, deliberately paid the price required to have Jesus…His life.

Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Tend My lambs.” He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Shepherd My sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Tend My sheep.…

“Signs of The Times!” Luke 21

April 23, 2016 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

woman-1165989_960_720 How often in the past few weeks alone have either you or someone around you mentioned how much things have changed?

We live in day and time where people are not only alarmed and puzzled by current and global events, they are flat out mixed up!

Up is down and right is wrong. People are no longer content living within the image God created them—and as a result, have decided that we, (who take no issue with our own image), must see them as they see themselves or else!

Refuse to issue a marriage license to two people that God does not recognize as a couple and you’ll likely lose your job. Don’t bake a cake–you’ll be fined and may lose your business! Greater, refuse to not renounce the Name above Every name and you will quite literally lose your head. You’ll spend years in jail suffering unthinkable cruelties and torture. And no I’m not speaking of Peter who did endure a death of crucifixion, Paul, beheaded in Rome, or Stephen the first disciple to die being stoned to death. James too was beheaded.

I’m talking about Asia Bibi, accused blasphemer or Pastor Saeed Abedini, who from 2013, spent over three years in an Iranian prison suffering beatings, threats and isolation. Why? Because like his brothers before him, He loved His King more than his own life and wouldn’t deny Him. And yet Solomon reminds us, “What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecc.1:9).

There are times in life that to fully get hold of where we are, we need to understand where we have been—until that understanding bleeds out from our toes…

Allow me to introduce you to Tacitus and Suetonius, both Roman historians. They verify my words by sharing with you what they too knew to be truth, in part, the persecution of Christians at the hand of Nero. Yet,even with their witness neither my words nor theirs are little more to you than shared facts—we each are a mere resource. The Word of God only must be your guide and foundation; the sole Truth you both rely and build on. So to showcase the validity of Gods’ Word, let’s go to it and see where this type of Christian persecution was witnessedin times past.

And yes, it is persecution now, just as it was then…

Immediately after our Lord’s ascension, Peter and John were called before the Jewish senate, and beaten; (Acts 4:6-7; 5:40). Stephen was brought before the same court and put to death (Acts 7:58). James was brought before Herod, and by him put to death; who also laid Peter in prison, intending to kill him likewise; (Acts 12:2; Acts 12:4) that Paul, formerly himself a persecutor, but now converted, was, in his turn, frequently persecuted; that he and Silas were imprisoned and beaten in the synagogue at Philippi; (Acts 16:23;) that he was brought before the great synagogue of the Jews in Jerusalem; (Acts 22:30;) before King Agrippa and his wife, before the Roman governors, Gallio, Felix, and Festus; and last of all, before the Emperor Nero, in Rome, and his prefect, Helius Caesariensis.”

There are those, even as I type and you read, who are being murdered for believing in Jesus and refusing to say or do otherwise. I am reminded of the Words of Jesus in Matthew 8. He is talking to would be disciples concerning the cost one must pay for the privilege of following Him—And it is a privilege, least we ever forget!

Listen to the words Jesus spoke to those who didn’t fully weigh the honor of being called by Him. Who forgot to count the cost—they reacted to Jesus based on emotions. They didn’t respond based on thoughtful consideration and prayer.

As they were going along the road, someone said to Him, “I will follow You Wherever You go.” And Jesus said to him, “The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head” (Lk.9:58).

Jesus neither owes nor promises us a cushy lifestyle—somewhere it says if you want to follow me, pick up your cross.

Earthquakes, floods, wars and rumors of wars. Foes and friends and friends, foes. All of these things must come to pass—we are that generation spoken of who will not pass away until all these things have happen.

So why are we so shocked when we see these things unfolding? Jesus told us was going to happen…

Didn’t we believe Him when He said, for instance, that there would be signs in the Heavens…

Between April 15, 2014 and September 28, 2015 we as a global society experienced four blood moons. Notice I said, as a global society, and not just in the United States? These signs were given for the whole world to see. Why? So that on the day of judgement, and yes there will be one, believe it or not, no man will be able to say—I wasn’t living in that part of the world, I didn’t see it!

Okay then, did you by chance miss the Blue Moon that showed itself on July,3,2015? Or maybe you weren’t around for the lunar eclipse which took place on March 20, 2015? NASA was. A scientific community was used by God to evidence His handiwork to the world in such a way that no one will be excused from not knowing of these occurrences. Why? Gods’ heart is that not one should perish (2 Pt.3:9).

He’s an equal opportunity Savior.

Listen to how the Lord comforts us concerning all of the events that are happening and will continue to happen in fulfillment of the Scriptures. “But be on your guard. Don’t let the sharp edge of your expectation get dulled by parties and drinking and shopping. Otherwise, that Day is going to take you by complete surprise, spring on you suddenly like a trap, for it’s going to come on everyone, everywhere, at once. So, whatever you do, don’t go to sleep at the switch. Pray constantly that you will have the strength and wits to make it through everything that’s coming and end up on your feet before the Son of Man” (Lk.21:32-34 MSG).

Just as Jesus prayed to the Father in John 17 not to take the Disciples out of the world, or out of the dangers that living in this world hold, He gave them the map to victory over the world and everything that it would throw at them! He knew about the whole lot that was coming, both for them and for us. Yet He reminds us, as He did them, that we are to expect these things; being hated by a world we are only passing through (as He was), persecutions of every kind, gross infringements, and every kind of trial.

Yet as awful and deflating as this may sound to us, Jesus says not to worry about it. Why? Because it has a purpose, a Kingdom purpose. One greater than our limited vision can see, or our finite thinking scarcely take in, listen… “This will be a time and an opportunity for you to testify [about Me]. So make up your minds not to prepare beforehand to defend yourselves; for I will give you [skillful] words and wisdom which none of your opponents will be able to resist or refute” (Lk.21:13-15).

Yes, we are in the last of times, the end of days, a member of that generation. The Word of God, that road-map given to us by a loving Father illustrates clearly the current happenings in the world. Past, present and those yet to unfold.

But if that is all we get from God and His Word, we have missed the choicest portion! We should be grateful to the point of death for a Father who cares so much for sinful man. Somewhere it is written—Who are we that You are mindful of us?

Yes, the end of this world as we know it is fast winding down. Yes, each of the prophecies foretold have all come to pass. This should however bolster us, creating a joyful hope in that what is written will come exactly as God foretold us it would!

We should not be shocked by the happenings of the world that like their father, are in their final days. Is it such a surprise to us that they are pulling out all the stops?

Picture a Marlin breaking the surface of the sea in one last ferocious battle for freedom. Struggling against the surety of a lure lodged deeply in its mouth.

It knows instinctively, this is life or death.

And so it is with this world. It’s a flailing toddler throwing a feverish tantrum! I want, I want—but it’s my right!

We can choose certainly, to stand by and watch this raucous display. But given the blessed assurance we have in Christ Jesus, are these the signs we ought to choose to focus on in our last hours?

“Then they will see THE SON OF MAN COMING IN A CLOUD with power and great glory. 28″But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Lk.21:28).

Look up! The King is coming; the King is coming!!!

“Brother, Clean Your Lenses!” Part 2 of Luke 15.

April 10, 2016 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

man-920083_960_720 Within five minutes of meeting this guy our eyebrows are raised and we’re asking ourselves, who is this angry young man?

We know him only as the older son. We first bump into him in Luke, at the corner of chapter 15 and verse 25. He has heard about the return of his wild, insolent younger brother, and subsequently, of the party their father is throwing in fete of his return. And he is ticked off! ! Incensed actually!

Since we’ve covered what took place between his younger brother and their father in a earlier post entitled, “The Prodigal and His Dad” dated 03/19/16. Feel free to catch-up it at your leisure.

Straightaway we’re looking at this older son…

If we are looking at this parable within a parable from the teaching perspective of Jesus, this is how it is theologically broken down for us.

The Prodigal son represents sinners and the father, Father God. Who is ever lovingly desiring for sinners to return to the safety of home. Similarly, is the vigilant father in our parable. Lastly, there is our older brother. He represents those who are churched, and perhaps like the Pharisees Jesus has talked to, those who feel a bit superior and angry truth be told.

How dare God, our Father show these dubious people , these undeserving, unclean sinners the same favor and mercy as us!

Now listen to how this older brother, the one who has always lived with his father, continually ever-dutiful, flips out when He learns from a servant about the house party happening at his address! He goes from a submissive, upright, ever-present son to a dangerously close mirror-image of his brother!

How?

Through willful rebellion. Just like his younger brother via thoughts, words and finally actions.

Showing even an iota of mercy has not even entered his hypocritical mind!

Watch as he steadily unravels. It begins with him rebuking his father, then by insinuating that he has been little more than a slave; and not in fact, the ever-dutiful, well-intentioned son he has depicted himself as being. Lastly, for all intents and purposes, he disinherited his younger brother by referring to him not as my brother but rather as that son of yours! (Lk. 15:28-30 NASB).

Remember friends, this is the person Jesus uses within this parable to represent the churched. It’s within this segment of the parable that we’ll find ourselves seated today…

Listen closely to the Words Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, “And he summoned one of the servants and began inquiring what these things could be. And he said to him, “Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has received him back safe and sound” (Lk.15:27 NASB).

This older son represents a person who is actively serving God (vs.25). Yet, who unseeing doesn’t view himself as God views him—beloved, cherished, a recipient of anything at his Father’s disposal. Rather, he sees himself as a slave (vss.29;31).

Thus, by inference, his father is not seen by him as a beloved parent, but rather a master or taskmaster to be served, as if for wages or earnings; and not rightly, from a heart of joyful, loving thanksgiving! (vs29).

This son, by means of his prideful indignation, has not only shown his brother no mercy, but has lamentably, wholly missed the heart of his Father, and an invaluable lesson in love. Through this Father’s gracious, merciful example of unearned restoration we see the perfect salvation message, the very purpose of Jesus’ leaving Heaven to come to earth as a man.

So how did this son get this way? What was driving him?

Let’s observe…

Firstly, via his own irreverent, pompous approach to his Father (Ex. 20:12; Pr. 18:12).

Secondly, through his superficial understanding of his Fathers heart (Pr.9:10; Ps.111:10).

And lastly, listen to the use of his disrespectful tone. He exhibits a distorted, self-pitying view of himself revealing an unlit heart (1Jn.1:5; Pr.4:7).

He is reacting like a petulant child. He’s throwing a tantrum because he perceives daddy as showing unearned favor to his sibling…

I’m certain anyone who has a younger sibling cannot only relate, but has also likely heard themselves saying to themselves, or others man they get away with everything! It sure wasn’t like that for me let me tell you!

Sound familiar?

Sadly, and more to the point Jesus was attempting to make to the Pharisees, is that as God’s older children must be aware that often as a Body there is also a lack of mercy and compassion towards his younger children.

Deeper still, some older children (as a result of having a works…earn His love, and not a relational…unmerited love, understanding of Our Father) view themselves as seen by God much like this older son referred to himself, as a slave—I must do this for God or else. Therefore, by inference, the Father is a taskmaster; always looking to crack the proverbial whip! (vs.29;30).

I believe, and various commentaries seem to agree, that it is in this parable within a parable that the heart of the Father and the central message of how His church is to the treat sinners is brought home by Jesus (vs. 32).

Starting in Chapter 15, Jesus has spoken to the sinners and the church leaders (Pharisees and teachers of the Law). You would think that between these two groups it would have been the churched who caught hold of and ran with Jesus’ teaching. After all, they knew the Scriptures and had attended service and Bible-Study weekly right? So when Jesus takes them through the earlier two parables as a foundational build-up, in this His climatic radical new teaching series, rather than saying, yes please, and asking for seconds, the churched look at Jesus as if He has not only lost his mind, but that He is also a half-step off being demon possessed and perhaps just a step above those He had taught and had been dining with (see Lk. 14:1; 5:29; 7:36-39. Also, Mt.9:10-13; 9:32-34; Jn.9:39-41).

Have you ever experienced judgement in church rather than love and welcoming?

Have you ever met Christians who profess to be saved and know God, yet if they hadn’t told you, you certainly wouldn’t have guessed it?

If so, you have sadly met this week’s older brother…

Please allow me to invite you to stay just a bit longer and introduce you to the Father. After all, that is who Jesus has pointed the crowds towards throughout all of His teachings thus far.

This is the heart of our Father, the very heart Jesus was trying to communicate in this parable within a parable. Listen to it in Isaiah, “Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you” (Is.49:15).

We expect the world, those who do not accept the Lordship of Jesus, to act unloving, reactionary, unkindly. After all some of us did when we were still of the world. But, here between us today, like then with the crowd, Jesus is reaching out to the Pharisees… the churched. He is looking to the whores, loan sharks, the outcasts, runaways, addicts, drunks and the teenage unwed moms. He’s looking out over everyone He sent His son to die for, every brand of sinner. I choose to leave you with the words of the Father so I will take you to where He sees His youngest son…known to us as the prodigal son, cresting the horizon. Just look at the Father’s heart for His lost children… “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him” (Lk.1520 NIV).

And there you have, the heart of God for His children.

All of His children!

The Love of the Father for his repentant children is what was missed by this older brother, he didn’t get it. The Pharisees and Teachers of the Law didn’t get it. And sadly, most today don’t either.

When the Scribes and the Pharisees saw that He was eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they said to His disciples, “Why is He eating and drinking with tax collectors and sinners”, and hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick; I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

This is what Jesus is saying to those who have been going to church for years and have grown rigid, hard-hearted, and coldly separatist. To those who feel aversion more than empathy, He says—these too are my children.

Let’s end here with the final conversation between our Father, this older brother, and subsequently us… “But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him.” And he said to him, “My Son, you have always been with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and has begun to live, and was lost and has been found” (Lk.15:30-31).

“No Medals Given Here.” Luke 17:7-10

April 2, 2016 / ministermaryellen@gmail.com

uniform-1273437__180 Friends, we live in a world where instant gratification rules. Where reward is expected for simply being us! I do, therefore I deserve…! And yes, we as Christians are just as guilty as the world. We treat our Master, if I dare use that title for Christ, as a genie-in-a-bottle far too often. Or, let me make this personal, I know I have. Maliciously? Never. Intentionally? I don’t believe so, but I will leave God to be my judge. But certainly I am guilty of expecting a reward for my service. Does that shock you? It was humbling , to say the least, when the Holy Spirit revealed it to me. And as the old saying goes…, “truth hurts”!

But there it was for me to confront. So in conjunction with our text, I am using my correction (thank you Jesus for your loving kindness) as a cradle for this week’s message. The message is intended firstly for the messenger, then for the listener.

I, too, am growing…

In studying our text, I saw clearly that via our fallen sin nature we as people, saved and unsaved alike, have become ensnared by pride…

Not always blatant pride nor arrogant pride; we seem to catch that easily enough. It’s our subtle pride, our shadowy underbelly pride that trip us up every time! Basically it’s the lie we tell ourselves when we say we have learned to operate outside of our pride. When Truth be told, we can do nothing in it of ourselves; outside of God we are powerless to change or surrender anything! Don’t believe me? Go serve somewhere as the person who does nothing but clean-up after people every day. Basically, a mom, or a single parent father, a custodial grandparent who has raised their child and is now raising their grandchild. As much as they love these children, there’s not one that I have ever met, myself included, who if they want to be honest, didn’t get ticked off because theirs was a thankless, taken for granted, expected to preform without reward job!

And as Christians we carry this-worldly attitude of expected reward into our service to Christ. That is clear in our text today. Jesus is answering his disciples request for more faith through a familiar teaching tool of His, a parable. Through His parabolic teachings Jesus breaks down our human thinking and presumptions for us… Remember what the Lord tells us about the differences between our ways and His, “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine” (Isa.55:8).

So here it is laid out simply:

Jesus is telling His disciples both then and now (His Word is the same yesterday, today and forever) are you looking for a reward before your job (service) is finished?
Are you looking to be victorious, to wear the garland without fighting the battle?
Or are you seeking to profit before payday?

To understand God’s message here we must listen with ears singularly attuned by humilities hand. We are the servants; HE is the Master. We are owed nothing, not even our lives! We deserve death, yet in His infinite mercy, He generously rewards us, His servants with life eternal!

Mercy is like a judge finding you guilty, but then withholding any punishment.

Grace is receiving of which you cannot conceive; an unfathomable gift. It’s like that same judge awarding you $10,000,000.00, after finding you guilty. That is the heart of Father God. For God said to Moses, ” The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love” (Ps.145:8 NIV).

So with this in mind, here’s the question…Are you self-serving, or are you God’s servant?

You must get this answer firmly settled in your heart and mind, not only in your relationship with God, but also in view of your eternity. It must be as fixed within you as Jesus’ face was fixed to go to Jerusalem. “When the days were approaching for His ascension, He was determined (fixed, steadfast) to go to Jerusalem” (Lk.9:51NASB).

He was set on fulfilling His service to God as The Spotless Lamb given in sacrifice for the redemption of sinful man. Never once in Scripture do we hear Jesus ask, What’s in it for me? What do I get if I do this for you? Never!

To the contrary, and by example to us all, His will was perfectly, wholly submitted to God the Father. He was heard in the Garden of Gethsemane when faced with His impending Crucifixion as saying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”(Mt.26:39NASB). Thank God we have a Savior who was, in His humanity, tempted as we are and able to relate to our weak flesh! Yet in His Divinity, submissive unto death on a tree for our reconciliation with the Father…

That is what Jesus was trying to communicate to His disciples both then and now, to each of us. And therefore, instead of valuing themselves upon what they had done, and expecting great rewards for it, it became them; after having performed all that was commanded them, to think and say that they had done nothing but their duty.

medal-179766__180 No medals are given to us for doing what it is we were fashioned to do; worshiping God in the form of our service. First, in a life totally surrendered to Him and secondly, as a natural by-product, service to His people. And nowhere in our contract/covenant (The Word of God), does it say that job will be easy or that we’re due a reward here on earth. Quite the contrary! Jesus tells us to expect persecution, harsh treatment, abuse, family discord, rejection, and humiliation…Listen to His Words… “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation (grievous trouble; severe trials or suffering), but take courage; I have overcome the world.” And, “If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you”.… (Jn.16:33NASB). What an honor!

You don’t deserve a reward. Period. You’re merely doing your job. You’re His chosen servant. That is your reward here and now; the great privilege of being chosen by God for service…let that sink into your core… “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn15:16 NIV).

Simple right? Man cannot profit God. Happy is he who judges’ himself an unprofitable servant; miserable is he whom God pronounces such. But though we are unprofitable to him, our serving him is not unprofitable to us. For he is pleased to give, by his grace, a value to our good works, which, in consequence of his promise, entitles us to an eternal reward.

When you are privileged to be called into the service of Our God, leave the need for recognition, honor, visibility, and accolades to others. Let them wear their medals as a reward for services rendered. You have just received God…

And as an aside… To our men and women of the Armed Forces, thank you to those who put their lives in harm’s way for our safety, rightfully you should wear your medals with honor and pride.

But for us servants, let us follow The Way of The King who came as our model, a living breathing example of humble servitude. “And whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

So here’s the thing…are you willing to lay down your pride, your need for recognition and reward? Are you willing to live in the shadows, allowing others to shine? What is motivating you to serve God, in your relationship with Him? The answer should not only be obvious… but is simple.

It’s our most powerful four letter word… LOVE! A light in this present darkness…

That’s it. For God so loved… “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (Jn.15:13 NIV).

“For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another”.

And… “Work as unto the Lord and as unto men. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ” (Col. 3:23-24)

There are no medals given for faithful service to God…

achievement-928144_960_720

Category: Teachings From The Word… (Page 13 of 14)

The Dynamic Duo. John 6: 68-69

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“The Fountain” Jude 1:2

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“Unexpected Places” Luke 15:1-10

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“What Will You Choose?” Luke 10:38-42

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“Free or Freedom?” Jn. 8:36

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“Does God Play Favorites?” Rom.9:21-22

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“For Your Eyes Only” Luke 24

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“Signs of The Times!” Luke 21

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“Brother, Clean Your Lenses!” Part 2 of Luke 15.

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“No Medals Given Here.” Luke 17:7-10

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