Lent Part 14- Risen

April 19, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Mark 16:6 NLT

The angel said, “Don’t be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Look, this is where they laid his body.”

How does Jesus’ resurrection affect us? Let's deconstruct this thought for today’s reflection.

Have other people been raised from the dead before Jesus? Absolutely, YES!
1 Kings 17- Elijah raised the son of the widow from Zarephath from the dead
2 Kings 4- Elisha raised the son of the Shunammite woman from the dead
2 Kings 13- A soldier was raised from the dead when his body landed on Elisha’s bones
Luke 7- Jesus raised the son of the widow of Nain from the dead
Luke 8- Jesus raised the daughter of Jairus from the dead
John 11- Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead (1)

What is the difference between these resurrections and Jesus’ resurrection?
First of all, these people were resurrected into the same human body they had before, which would die again. Jesus was raised from the dead with a glorified body, without blood, that will live for eternity.

Second, it proves that God is greater than death and Satan.
Romans 6:9 NLT, “We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him.”

Third, it proves that God’s power exudes life and not destruction.
John 1:4 NLT, “The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.”

Fourth, it proves that we are more than just a physical body.
John 3:6 NLT, “Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.”

Paul wrote to the Philippians 3:10, “I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead.”

Knowing Jesus is the prerequisite to accessing resurrection power

Knowing Jesus means to understand His character, study His Words, be conscious of His presence, listen to and display His wisdom, and to follow His example. Spending time with Jesus, conversing with Him all through your day, and walking out His will is ‘knowing’ Him. Resurrection power comes by relationship with Him because everything Jesus touches is impacted by His light and power.

What is the evidence of resurrection power?
It illuminates spiritual understanding.
It regenerates a dead spirit into a new spirit filled with God.
It removes sin.
It breaks the curse of sin.
It heals broken hearts.
It heals emotional wounds.
It heals sick bodies.
It delivers from demons.
It delivers from addictions.
It preserves from dangerous situations.
It produces boldness in sharing the Gospel with others.
It gives favor with others.
It empowers to prosper.
It raises a dead body back to life.
It will give us a resurrected body to live with God forever.

Thank God! Do you want to know Jesus and the power of His resurrection? He is as near as your next breath (Salvation).

To our readers, we here at Founded pray over ourselves and you Philippians 3:10, May we know Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed One, and experience in our lives this mighty resurrection power that raised Him from the dead. To God be the glory, forever and ever! In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:
https://bible.org/illustration/accounts-people-raised-dead

Lent Part 13- Disarmed

April 16, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Colossians 2:15 NLT (parenthesis added)

He (Jesus) disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross.

Jesus totally disarmed the greatest enemy known to God and to mankind. Let’s deconstruct this passage in Colossians for today’s reflection.

Who was Jesus disarming?
According to Strong’s Concordance these terms are defined as:
Spiritual rulers- the leader in first place, the principality, ruler, magistracy of angels and demons (1).
Authorities- the power of rule or government (the power of him whose will and commands must be submitted to by others and obeyed) (2).

How did Satan and his demons become rulers?
Adam and Eve were our first parents, who represented all of mankind. They were children of God (position) and were blessed by God to rule (authority) everything in the earth. They disobeyed God and judgement was passed. Satan became the god of this world (position) and held the power (authority) to rule over all the people living in it. Every descendant of Adam and Eve are born in sin and live under the curse of sin because of this transaction.

How did Jesus disarm Satan and his rulers?
Jesus, the Son of God, was born a man and became the second Adam. Jesus now represented all of mankind. He took our place and suffered the penalty of our sins when He died on the cross. When Jesus rose from the dead, He conquered Satan's position as ruler over us. Satan could no longer decree the curse of sin to dominate over our lives or pass the judgement of sin which is eternal damnation. Once again, Jesus has authority to rule our lives, but only with our permission.

Jesus made a way for us to disarm Satan and his rulers
We must acknowledge Jesus is the Son of God, who suffered our penalty of sin and death. We must acknowledge that He rose from the grave to live forever. The moment we believe and verbally admit this truth, we enter into covenant with Jesus. When Jesus becomes our ruler, we rule with Him and inherit:

1) Position because we are children of God (John 1:12) and,
2) Authority because we are seated in the heavenly realm with Christ (Ephesians 2:6).

How did Jesus shame Satan and his leaders?
Satan used every arsenal to cause Jesus to sin. His body, soul, and spirit battled to resist temptation until the very end when He gave His life.

Just as Satan was unsuccessful in luring Jesus into temptation during His 40 day fast in the desert, he couldn't dissuade Jesus from carrying out His Father’s will. Can you imagine how attentive Satan must have been when he heard Jesus ask God why He had forsaken Him? (Crucified)

Throughout this entire ordeal, Jesus used the divine wisdom of the Word of God in response to every attack. This is His testimony of how He shamed and humiliated Satan and his followers. Wielding the Sword of the Spirit, Jesus disarmed and slew the heart of His enemies where it hurt the most, their pride. Jesus refused to worship him and kept His love and faith in His Father sending Satan and his cohorts reeling.

When Jesus bowed his head, His spirit left this earth and He descended into the depths of hell. As He entered every hideous realm, Satan and his wicked rulers were forced to bow down and declare Him "Lord". To their utter shame and defeat, they handed over the keys of authority they used to abuse humankind. It was 'the' public display of defeat in Satan's own territory.

Let’s pray:
Father, it humbles me when I meditate on the most famous battle ever fought, the battle between Jesus and Satan. Jesus disarmed Satan and his demons by understanding His position, using His authority, and speaking the wisdom of Your Word into every situation. Give me the grace to follow the example Jesus set for me. When the enemy attacks, I will disarm Satan and his demons by understanding my position as a child of God, using the authority You have given me in Jesus name, and speaking the wisdom of Your Word into every situation. Jesus, You are my Lord! I give You my life. You may do with me as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G746&t=NLT
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G1849&t=NLT

Lent Part 12- Crucified

April 13, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Mark 15:33-34

At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. Then at three o’clock Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”

Mark 15:39

Then Jesus uttered another loud cry and breathed his last.

Recorded here are Jesus last words and last thoughts before His death. Let’s deconstruct this passage for today’s reflection.

'Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani', is the first verse of Psalm 22 written by King David 1,000 years earlier. The Holy Spirit revealed to David a vision of the crucifixion as perceived through the eyes of Jesus. It would stand to reason that the Holy Spirit brought to Jesus’ recall Psalm 22 which is why He spoke those words in His last moments on the cross.

Here is a brief synopsis of Psalm 22:

Verses 1-5
Traumatized and in insufferable agony, Jesus voiced His emotions to His Father and asked why He was being forsaken. But, Jesus reviewed His Father’s history of perfect faithfulness to His people.

Verses 6-11
Jesus tells the Father how the crowd perceived He was forsaken by God. He reflected on how the Father took care of Him from the moment of conception until this point in His life.

Verses 12-18
Jesus portrayed His enemies as powerful and violent bulls; and as lions that used their jaws to strangle and devour their prey. He further described the depth of His agonizing emotions, the condition of His tortured body, and the dehumanizing treatment from His enemies.

Verses 19-31
For every negative circumstance and emotion, Jesus countered with previous experiences of deliverance and truth. With confident faith Jesus eagerly expected to be saved from these evil circumstances. Jesus’ soul erupted with love, praise, and adoration for all that God had done and would continue to do. With prophetic eyes, He gazed into the future and recognized the glorious harvest of souls that would result from His crucifixion and resurrection.

Psalm 22: 22-31 NLT

“Praise the Lord, all you who fear him! Honor him, all you descendants of Jacob! Show him reverence, all you descendants of Israel! For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned his back on them, but has listened to their cries for help. I will praise you in the great assembly. I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you. The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the Lord will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. The whole earth will acknowledge the Lord and return to him. All the families of the nations will bow down before him. For royal power belongs to the Lord. He rules all the nations. Let the rich of the earth feast and worship. Bow before him, all who are mortal, all whose lives will end as dust. Our children will also serve him. Future generations will hear about the wonders of the Lord. His righteous acts will be told to those not yet born. They will hear about everything he has done.”

To everyone there, it appeared that Jesus was murdered under the most profane circumstances possible, and His religious movement would die with Him. However, the unseen reality was that Jesus victoriously won this spiritual battle by resisting hatred and offense, loving His Father, and keeping the faith. With those words from Psalm 22 ringing in His mind and heart, Jesus willed His death and released His spirit into the hands of His Father.

Let’s pray:
Father, What an amazing example Jesus modeled for me in His darkest hour! Whatever battle I find myself in, no matter how hopeless it seems, I will follow the steps that Jesus took. I will counter negative circumstances with previous positive experiences. I will ask the Holy Spirit to bring to my recall the scripture I need for that situation and worship You. I will resist hatred and offense, love You, and keep the faith. I give You my life. You may do with me as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Lent Part 11- Agony

April 11, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Isaiah 53:5 KJV,

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

Written seven hundred years before the crucifixion, the prophet Isaiah saw so clearly the agony our Messiah was to suffer. Each wound and every humiliation righted specific infractions and guaranteed distinct areas of wholeness and restoration. Let’s deconstruct this verse for today’s reflection.

Wounded for our transgressions:
Wounded here is defined as 'to wound fatally, bore through, pierce' (1).

Jesus’ face became a punching bag and His scalp and forehead was punctured with thorns. Jesus’ beard was literally pulled from His cheeks and His face was covered in spit. Also, Jesus’ back was lacerated and His hands and feet were pounded with large iron nails to a cross. Finally, Jesus’ side was lanced flushing out every last ounce of blood.

All these wounds satisfied the punishment for our transgressions or sins, a violation of the law (2). Each wound secured complete forgiveness of every sin.

Bruised for our iniquities:
Bruised is defined as 'crushed, contrite, or broken' (3).

Jesus battled with His will until it was crushed in the Garden of Gethsemane. His struggle was so intense that blood secreted from His pores. Jesus did not respond to an accusation or offense. Instead, He broke His will so the Father’s will would be carried out.

In a very public setting in front of political leaders, religious leaders, Jews and citizens from all over the known world, Jesus was declared a criminal and sentenced to the most shameful and horrifying type of death. Then, the people called for the release of a notorious killer and begged for His crucifixion.

Everything Jesus ever taught or spoke about was scrutinized with contempt. He was draped in a robe and mocked as king as if He were someone who had lost His mind. No one can imagine the grief and sorrow of Jesus’ broken heart.

Right before Jesus died, He looked at the people around Him and asked the Father to forgive them because they really didn’t understand the totality of what they had committed. He took responsibility for the guilt, shame, and the remorse of our sins even though He never sinned in all of His life.

These bruises satisfied the punishment for our Iniquities, defined as 'guilt, the feelings of responsibility for or the remorse of committing a sin' (4).

Chastised for our peace:
Chastised is defined here as 'discipline or correction' (5).

Before, during, and after the crucifixion, Jesus was disciplined by the religious leaders, Pilate, Herod, His accusers, the mocking soldiers, and the raucous crowd. Jesus was stripped of clothing and hung naked on a cross as chastisement for admitting He was the Son of God.

This chastisement satisfied the punishment for the consequences and the curses that accompany sin. Jesus was disciplined and corrected for our peace, the complete and total soundness of mind, body, and welfare of every area of our lives (6).

By His stripes, we are healed:
Stripes refer to 'deep physical internal bruises' (7).

Jesus was so bruised and His flesh was so shredded, He was not even recognizable as a human being. Jesus’ whipping was described by David.

Psalm 129:3, “My back is covered with cuts, as if a farmer had plowed long furrows.”

Jesus’ stripes satisfied the punishment for sickness, disease, addictions, and death. It guaranteed us to be healed (8) and to make us whole and keep us healthy from physical and personal distresses.

Jesus suffered every type of agony known to mankind. He took our place because we should have suffered those consequences. He loves us that much.

Let’s pray:
Father, thank You for giving me Jesus. He took my place on that cross and He suffered on my behalf. I will not forget all the agony Jesus suffered for me. Your love for me is way above anything I can understand. You are worthy of all glory, honor, praise, and dominion forever and ever. I give you my life. You may do with me as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H2490&t=KJV
http://www.dictionary.com/browse/transgression?s=t
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H1792&t=KJV
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H5771&t=KJV
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H4148&t=KJV
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H7965&t=KJV
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H2250&t=KJV
https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H7495&t=KJV

Lent Part 10- Pontius Pilate

April 06, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Mark 15:2-15 NLT

Pilate asked Jesus, “Are you the king of the Jews?” Jesus replied, “You have said it.” Then the leading priests kept accusing him of many crimes, and Pilate asked him, “Aren’t you going to answer them? What about all these charges they are bringing against you?” But Jesus said nothing, much to Pilate’s surprise. Now it was the governor’s custom each year during the Passover celebration to release one prisoner—anyone the people requested. One of the prisoners at that time was Barabbas, a revolutionary who had committed murder in an uprising. The crowd went to Pilate and asked him to release a prisoner as usual. “Would you like me to release to you this ‘King of the Jews’?” Pilate asked. (For he realized by now that the leading priests had arrested Jesus out of envy.) But at this point the leading priests stirred up the crowd to demand the release of Barabbas instead of Jesus. Pilate asked them, “Then what should I do with this man you call the king of the Jews?” They shouted back, “Crucify him!” “Why?” Pilate demanded. “What crime has he committed?” But the mob roared even louder, “Crucify him!” So to pacify the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified.

Who was Pontius Pilate?
He was a prefect in the Roman province of Judea. He was known as a brutal leader and was notorious for the cruel treatment of his citizens. Philo, a Hellenistic Jewish philosopher and contemporary of Pilate, described Pilate’s rule as one of corruption, insolence, cruelty and unjust murders of people untried and condemned (1). Luke 13:1 records that Jesus was informed that Pilate had killed Galileans as they made their Temple sacrifices and mixed their blood with the animal's (3). Pilate, whose name means 'one with a spear', used terrorism as a tool for preserving his status of power.

A divine message
Yet surprisingly, when Jesus was presented to Pilate, he was reluctant to condemn Him to death for the following reason. Matthew 27 tells us that as Pilate sat on his judgment seat, he was given a message by his wife. That night she had a nightmare about Jesus. Realizing that He was a righteous man, she pleaded for Pilate not to harm Him. Her warning left an impact on his decision making process. One can deduce that his wife had a history of dreams containing messages that came to pass.

Perceptive
Also, Pilate discerned that the religious leaders were jealous of Jesus. This was the true reason why they wanted Him publicly condemned and cruelly murdered. The pharisees believed that this “Jesus movement” would dissipate, and they would rule the synagogue once again. Like himself, the religious leaders ruled the people through terror.

Peer pressure
Pilate tried one strategy after another to convince the religious leaders and their crowd not to condemn Jesus to death. Every intervention was thwarted.

Caved in
Even though he had been divinely warned, correctly ascertained the religious leaders motives, and found Jesus blameless, Pilate did not defend this innocent man. According to Matthew 27, Pilate saw that he wasn’t getting anywhere and that a riot was developing. So he sent for a bowl of water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood. The responsibility is yours!” He freed the murderer Barabbas (interpreted as 'son of the father', a symbol of the anti-christ), had Jesus whipped, and passed the death sentence of crucifixion. Pontius Pilate took the path of least resistance. He was all form and no substance.

What happened to Pilate?
Josephus, a first century Romano - Jewish historian (2), recorded in c. AD 93, that Pilate was removed from his position after harshly suppressing a Samaritan revolt on the date of 16 March AD 37 (1). His handling of the Samaritans' caused Pilate to be deposed because the Roman government considered him inhumane. History records that a few years after he was deposed, Pilate committed suicide (1).

Although God intervened, Pilate threw away his opportunity for redemption.

Let’s pray:
Father, You are so merciful. You provide everyone with opportunities for redemption and it is up to us whether or not to take it. Give me the boldness and the courage to always stand up for You and to do what is right. I give You my life. You may do with me as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pontius_Pilate
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Josephus
http://christianity.stackexchange.com/questions/23873/who-were-the-galileans-whose-blood-pilate-mingled-with-their-sacrifices

Lent Part 9- Peter

April 05, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Mark 14:66-72 NLT

Meanwhile, Peter was in the courtyard below. One of the servant girls who worked for the high priest came by and noticed Peter warming himself at the fire. She looked at him closely and said, “You were one of those with Jesus of Nazareth.” But Peter denied it. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said, and he went out into the entryway. Just then, a rooster crowed. When the servant girl saw him standing there, she began telling the others, “This man is definitely one of them!” But Peter denied it again. A little later some of the other bystanders confronted Peter and said, “You must be one of them, because you are a Galilean.” Peter swore, “A curse on me if I’m lying—I don’t know this man you’re talking about!” And immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he broke down and wept.

Mark was a scribe for the Apostle Peter so the events recorded here are through the eyes of Peter. Let's deconstruct this passage for today’s reflection.

Jesus’ prophecy
First, let’s backtrack a little. Earlier in Mark 14:27-31, Jesus prophesied to His disciples that, on this night, they would desert Him. The reason being that they would find themselves in grave danger with no way out. Jesus used the analogy of an incapacitated shepherd whose scattered sheep were unable to care for themselves. Appalled at such a scenario, Peter declared that even if all of the disciples deserted Jesus, he would never do so. Locking eyes with Peter, Jesus informed him that before the rooster crowed twice the next morning, he would deny knowing Him three separate times. With even more passion, Peter insisted this would never be the case.

Deserter and cursed

As foretold, Peter regrettably rejected Jesus three times, the three signifying in the Hebrew total desertion. His third and last denial was so adamant in verse 71, that Peter vehemently decreed a curse of condemnation upon himself. That doesn't mean that he called himself some four letter words. When Peter cursed himself, he made a decree that everything in his life would miserably fail.

Triggers
Jesus created an auditory trigger for Peter. Two times Peter insisted he was more loyal and courageous than the other disciples (Mark 14: 29 & 31). When someone considers themselves better than others, or thinks too highly of oneself, we often use the word cocky. This word comes from the onomatopoeia used for the crowing of a rooster, an animal associated with the above descriptors. Just as Peter twice announced his superior loyalty above the rest of the disciples, twice crowed the rooster and the sound of the second crowing triggered Peter’s auditory memory. Peter’s emotional response was remorseful and uncontrollable sobbing. Crowing would be a constant reminder of his cockiness and unfaithfulness.

Peter obeys
After the resurrection, it is recorded in John 21 that a repentant Peter got back on track with God's will. He traveled to Galilee to meet Jesus as he was instructed to before Jesus' death. Peter and a few other men went fishing. The expedition was a failure due to the curse Peter pronounced on himself in Mark 14. Early in the morning when the men were ready to quit and the rooster would be crowing, Jesus appeared on shore. He directed the men to cast their nets on the right side of the boat which resulted in a miraculous catch of 153 fish. Peter then realized that Jesus had broken his self imposed curse over his life.

Do you love me?
Afterward, Jesus asked a very grateful and forgiven Peter if he loved Him. Wholeheartedly, Peter responded 'yes' and Jesus ordered him to feed His lambs. Lambs follow older sheep and eat constantly. They also tend to be playful and can get into accidents (1). Jesus was saying that young believers would follow his example and need a lot of teaching. They also would need help, prayer, time, direction, and assistance in getting rid of sinful behavior patterns. It would be his responsibility to keep young Christians on track and nurse and train them to spiritual health and maturity.

A second time Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him. Peter declared 'yes' and Jesus ordered him to shepherd His sheep. Shepherd's guide sheep to good pastures and protect them from harm. Jesus was asking Peter to feed the more experienced believers with the meat of the Word of God and steer them away from danger.

A third time Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him. Totally vulnerable, Peter responded with a resounding 'yes' and reminded Jesus that nothing in his heart was hidden from Him. Satisfied, Jesus ordered Peter to be an overseer to His sheep, to supervise and promote their spiritual welfare and individual callings in every way possible. Years later, Peter wrote to Christians who were being persecuted and martyred in Asia Minor. 1 Peter 2:25“For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” A humble and mature Peter was no longer a cocky glory hound but a shepherd and overseer privileged to be submitted to Jesus and willing to die for Him.

Jesus heals the brokenhearted
Jesus healed Peter’s broken heart by replacing old painful triggers with new healthy triggers. Every time Peter was near fish, it reminded him that Jesus removed his curse of failure with the blessing of favor. Three disclaimers became three affirmations of Peter’s destiny. Jesus replaced the shame of the rooster's crow with the forgiveness of the sheep's bleating. Sheep bleat all day and all night. For the rest of his life Peter would be constantly reminded of his divine calling and the deep love Jesus had for him.

Let’s pray:

Father, when I see how Jesus loves, I see You and that is what Your Word says, "When you see me, you see the Father." I love Your ways. Even when it is my own fault that my heart is broken, Jesus made restoration so personal and so complete. Jesus truly healed the brokenhearted then, and He heals the brokenhearted today. Thank You for restoring me when I was wrong and for healing my heart in areas where it has been broken. Help me to assist You in restoring others with broken hearts. I give you my life. You may do with me as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:

1)http://www.sheep101.info/201/behavior.html

Lent Part 8- The Disciples

April 02, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Mark 10:32-34 NLT

They were now on the way up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. The disciples were filled with awe, and the people following behind were overwhelmed with fear. Taking the twelve disciples aside, Jesus once more began to describe everything that was about to happen to him. “Listen,” he said, “We’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die and hand him over to the Romans. They will mock him, spit on him, flog him with a whip, and kill him, but after three days he will rise again.”

Mark 14:28 NLT

“But after I am raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there.”

These verses are filled with information, none of it symbolic. Jesus spoke plainly to the disciples because the facts were so hard for them to bear. Let's study this information for today's reflection.

Recorded attempts on Jesus’ life

We have several recorded incidences where the Pharisees and/or Jews attempted to kill Jesus:

Luke 4:29-30

On a Sabbath in Nazareth, the people in His hometown expelled Him from the synagogue and tried to push Jesus over a cliff.

John 5:18

The Jewish leaders conspired to kill Jesus for breaking Sabbath rules and claiming He was equal with God.

John 8:37 and 8:40

Records that Jesus disclosed the intentions of the Jewish leaders who plotted to kill Him.

John 10:31 and 10:39

The people first tried to stone Jesus but when that didn’t work, tried to arrest Him but He slipped away.

John 11:8

The disciples warned Jesus not to go back to Bethany to heal Lazarus because just a few days prior the people there tried to kill Him.

Miraculously, for three and a half years, Jesus escaped every wicked attempt on His life. The disciples were kept very safe under His care and had full confidence that He would shelter Himself and them from harm.

Jesus’ warnings to the disciples

Jesus warned the disciples ahead of time on three separate occasions that He would die and rise again.

The first warning is recorded in Matthew 16:21-28; Mark 8:31-37; and Luke 9:22-27.

The second warning is recorded in Matthew 17:22, 23; Mark 9:32-34; and Luke 9:43b-45.

The last warning is recorded in Matthew 20:17-19; Mark 10:32-34; and Luke 18: 31-34.

In these conversations, Jesus gave them the sequence of events that would occur in the near future. But, that information did not sink in; it went right over their heads. The realization that Jesus would die was so unfathomable that the disciples were in shock even in the midst of the crucifixion.

Jesus gives hope

The disciples assumed that life would continue with Jesus always evading danger, but He repeatedly prepared them for the heartbreak ahead. Although the men were almost overcome with grief during those dark hours, Jesus gave them a piece of information that gave them a bright hope. Jesus told them when He rose from the dead He would meet them in Galilee. He always spoke the truth and the men knew that He was as good as His Word.

Let’s pray:

Father, how good You are to prepare me for what lies ahead. Help me to discern Your warnings and to obey the warnings already written in Your word. Help me to heed Your warnings even if its hard to bear. Thank you for always giving me hope. In Jesus name, Amen.

Lent Part 7- Condemned

March 31, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Mark 14:55-64 NLT

Inside, the leading priests and the entire high council were trying to find evidence against Jesus, so they could put him to death. But they couldn’t find any. Many false witnesses spoke against him, but they contradicted each other. Finally, some men stood up and gave this false testimony: “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with human hands, and in three days I will build another, made without human hands.’” But even then they didn’t get their stories straight! Then the high priest stood up before the others and asked Jesus, “Well, aren’t you going to answer these charges? What do you have to say for yourself?” But Jesus was silent and made no reply. Then the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah? The Son of the Blessed One?” And Jesus said, “I AM. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Then the high priest tore his clothing to show his horror and said, “Why do we need other witnesses? You have all heard his blasphemy. What is your verdict?” “Guilty!” they all cried. “He deserves to die!”

At that time, the highest spiritual council in Jerusalem consisted of the most evil and immoral religious men and their associates. They set up a kangaroo court to condemn an innocent man to death. Not just any innocent man, but the Son of the Blessed One. Let’s study this passage for today’s reflection.

Evidence that Jesus was the Messiah

Less than two years previous this trial, a very important conversation took place just before John the Baptist was beheaded (Luke 7: 19-22). John sent two of his disciples to ask Jesus if He was the Messiah. He responded to John’s men by referencing Isaiah’s prophecy (Isaiah 35:5-6; 61:1-2) concerning the Messiah; the blind could see, the lame could walk, the lepers were cleansed, the deaf hear and the dead were raised. John's men knew that Jesus had performed all of these miracles, and thus concluded that He was the real deal. By the way, at least several of these miracles were witnessed by the very religious leaders who were scrutinizing Jesus at His mock trial.

Jesus’ reputation
Also evidenced by the public and close associates was Jesus’ spotless reputation for honesty. He never lied, not one time. In fact, a religious leader acknowledged that Jesus was known as someone Who only spoke the truth (Matthew 22:16; Mark 12:14). The religious leaders were liars, were acknowledged as such, and Jesus publicly called them children of Satan, the father of lies. When they questioned Jesus if He was the Son of the Blessed One, His riveting response was “I AM”, the same name God had given to Moses from the burning bush. So, when it came down to Jesus' word against theirs, it was obvious that He gave a truthful answer to their accusations.

The Verdict

Jesus let this court know He would resurrect from the dead and they would see Him returned to earth, seated at a place of total authority, God’s right hand. The word cloud (1) is the same word used in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, referring to where the dead in Christ reside. Allow me to paraphrase Jesus’ response at that counterfeit trial;

These religious leaders will see with their own eyes the resurrected Jesus as Judge, and they will stand in His courtroom of heavenly witnesses as condemned men.

The crowd’s reaction
Terrified, the silenced crowd closely observed the head leader's reaction. Here was the opportunity for mercy and repentance. All the high priest had to do was ask for forgiveness and the men would have followed his example. But, God’s top representative on earth realized his plan would lose momentum and dissipate if he demonstrated any credence to Jesus’ words. Panning his audience, he spewed over with fury, tore his clothes, and wildly exhibited disbelief and outrage in front of his followers. The high priest called Jesus a blasphemer, someone who cursed God by claiming He was His Son. Trusting his judgment, the crowd took on the high priest’s offence and pronounced the Son of God worthy of death.

Let’ pray:

Father, My love and reverence for Jesus grows as I study His life. Jesus presented the opportunity for repentance every step of the way, even in the midst of hopeless situations. Father, if I should ever find myself in such a despairing place, please enlighten me by Your Holy Spirit to turn my face towards You and accept Your grace and forgiveness. If I am ever in such a place where others condemn me unfairly, I want to be like Jesus and extend the hand of grace and forgiveness to them. You may do with my life as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:

https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G3507&t=KJV

Lent Part 6- Judas

March 27, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Matthew 26:15 NLT

“How much will you (religious leaders) pay me (Judas) to betray Jesus to you?” And they gave him 30 pieces of silver. (parenthesis added)

Mark 14: 43-46 NLT

And immediately, even as Jesus said this, Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived with a crowd of men armed with swords and clubs. They had been sent by the leading priests, the teachers of the religious law, and the elders. The traitor, Judas, had given them a prearranged signal: “You will know which one to arrest when I greet him with a kiss. Then you can take him away under guard.” As soon as they arrived, Judas walked up to Jesus. “Rabbi!” he exclaimed, and gave him the kiss. Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him.

Judas' betrayal had to be one of the most painful experiences that Jesus ever encountered. Let's deconstruct this passage for today’s reflection.

Who was Judas?
First of all, what do we know about Judas? He did not associate with the religious leaders or their crowd, but was one of the original twelve disciples, and part of the intimate circle of Jesus. Mark 6 tells us that Jesus dispatched the twelve men in pairs to preach the gospel of repentance, heal the sick, and cast out devils. Jesus revealed the mysteries of the parables to his disciples in Mark 4. In Mark 10, Jesus alerted His disciples about His forthcoming death and resurrection. Judas was present and a participant in all of these events.

What was his experience with Jesus?

Judas witnessed the numerous times the religious leaders endeavored to make Jesus look like a fool or catch Him in the act of breaking the Mosaic Law. Every attempt was not only thwarted, but boomeranged. Judas also witnessed the times when the crowd would rise with fury against Jesus and attempted to kill Him, but miraculously every venture failed. Judas had concluded that Jesus was indestructible.

Judas’ logic

This is my opinion. I believe that Judas did not believe Jesus would actually be condemned to death. He figured that Jesus would escape destruction once again. For quite some time the religious leaders unsuccessfully endeavored to capture Jesus. Judas provided them with an excellent and seemingly foolproof plan.

30 pieces of silver

Once Judas delivered the perfect plan, he demanded payment . The Pharisees insultingly offered only thirty pieces of silver, the monetarily value placed on a slave, considered the lowliest of humans. Judas could have easily negotiated with the religious leaders for an exorbitant amount of money, but it was necessary for Scripture to be fulfilled (Zechariah 11).

The 30 pieces of silver are very significant here. In Exodus 21:32, is the first mention in the Bible of 30 pieces of silver as a price to pay for a slave accidentally killed. Why is this important? Because Jesus took the position of a slave when He became a human being.

Philippians 2:7,

He (Jesus) gave up his divine privileges, he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. (parentheses added)

Failed plan

For 3 ½ years, Jesus dodged every accusation and death trap. Filled with the devil, Judas reasoned he would deviously maneuver Jesus into a scenario where He would be compelled to make the greatest escape of all time. In his self important mind, Judas would be indispensable to Jesus and have accepted the responsibility and the glory of such an achievement. But, contrary to his assumption, this evil plan backfired and Jesus was sentenced to be crucified.

Satan exploited Judas

When the court condemned Jesus to crucifixion, it dawned on Judas there was no way out of this predicament. His plan miserably failed and he accidentally sent Jesus to His grave. Filled with deep emotional remorse, he refused to ask God for forgiveness and forgive himself. It was at this point when Judas returned the silver to the Pharisees and hung himself.

Judas exploited the Lord’s goodness. He learned how to operate in the Kingdom of God. He understood and experienced the goodness of God but took advantage of it for his own purposes. Judas tempted God and horrifically set himself up for destruction.

Let’s pray:

Father, Thank You for bringing to my attention yet another one of the devil's traps. I will not test You or take advantage of Your goodness and mercy. I ask that You help keep me truthful and to never exploit You or anyone else in any way. Keep me safe from evil and the evil one. I give You my life and You may do with me as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Lent Part 5- Gethsemane

March 22, 2019 by Cee Maria

Mark 14: 32-40 NLT

They went to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and Jesus said, “Sit here while I go and pray.” He took Peter, James, and John with him, and he became deeply troubled and distressed. He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” He went on a little farther and fell to the ground. He prayed that, if it were possible, the awful hour awaiting him might pass him by. “Abba, Father,” he cried out, “everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Then he returned and found the disciples asleep. He said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing but the body is weak.” Then Jesus left them again and prayed the same prayer as before.

I have seen many paintings of this scene, but it would be impossible for any artist to capture the extreme agony Jesus suffered at Gethsemane. These verses in Mark are filled with symbolism. Let us deconstruct this passage for today’s reflection.

Jesus’ condition

Let’s first look at the condition of Jesus’ well being. He was deeply troubled and distressed. Troubled is defined as struck with terror or amazement or astounded (1). Distressed tells us that Jesus was in extreme anxiety, sorrow, and/or pain (2).

Jesus struggled

In His weakness, Jesus begged His Father to remove the cup of suffering, the cup of redemption. Jesus struggled with His calling in this garden. He wrestled with His very destiny and purpose. He was even tempted just like we are (Luke 4:13; 22:28). His choice to resist temptation and sacrifice Himself would alter the course of history and the destiny of every living being.

Hebrews 4:15 NLT, “This High Priest of ours (Jesus) understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.” (parentheses added)

Gethsemane

The very name of the olive grove, Gethsemane, is revealing. Gethsemane is translated ‘oil press’ (3). An olive press extracts beads of oil by applying pressure and compressing the flesh of the olive. Like the olive press, Jesus allowed the Holy Spirit to apply pressure on Him and compress His weakness. How did Jesus allow His spirit to dominate His own wants and emotions when His soul and body were in such paralyzing fear, pain, and anguish?

1) By moving forward in God’s will

The word ‘went’ in Mark 14:32 is the same word as ‘come’ used in Matthew 6:10, ‘Thy kingdom come’. It can be interpreted as to come with the distinct purpose of appearing, to be established (4). Jesus led his disciples to the garden of Gethsemane directly after the Seder meal. He did not run away from his destiny. He did not encourage His men to run away from God’s will, either. Jesus firmly planted Himself at Gethsemane fully knowing that His betrayer would soon meet Him.

2) By guarding Himself from falling into temptation

This is what Jesus meant when He told the disciples to keep watch. Jesus was not keeping watch over the men who on their way there to arrest Him. He was keeping watch over His soul and the souls of the disciples. 'Watch' means to pay vigilant attention so as not to be suddenly overcome by calamity (5). Humility is key in watching or guarding the soul. Jesus humbly acknowledged that the spirit is willing, but the body was weak. That is why He asked for the cup of suffering or redemption to be removed from His life. He urged the disciples to guard themselves as well because humility is the crux of obtaining victory. Humility acknowledges and admits weakness to God so God is able to be strong in you.

3) By praying in the power of the Holy Spirit

Jesus threw Himself at His Father’s mercy three times, the number of perfection and unity. Each time Jesus prayed the more of His will aligned with the Father’s will (perfection) The Father’s will and Jesus’ will became one and the same (unity).

Romans 8:26 NLT, “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for, but the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words."

Jesus is our example
These are the three steps Jesus took to 'compress' or 'crush' His flesh. What was He teaching and demonstrating to us? Our flesh (our wants and wills) must die. Then the Holy Spirit can produce the pure oil of His anointing. It is the anointing that removes our burdens and destroy the yokes that hold us back from obeying God. This is how we are to crush our own will, be consumed with God’s will, and fulfill God’s destiny for us in this life.

Let’s pray:

Father, I can never thank You enough for all that Jesus did for me. His deep love and faithful commitment to You is a wonderful example for me to follow. I realize that my life is not my own. No matter what temptation comes my way, I pray that Your Holy Spirit will help me to continually move forward, guard me from falling into temptation, and help me to pray with accuracy and power. I give You permission to crush my flesh so that Your will and my will are one and the same. I want the pure oil of the anointing and power of the Holy Spirit to permeate my life. You may do with my life as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:

Lent Part 4- The Passover Seder Wine

March 21, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Matthew 14:23-25 NLT

And he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. And he said to them, “This is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice for many. I tell you the truth, I will not drink wine again until the day I drink it new in the Kingdom of God.”

The Passover Seder or meal commemorates the Exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt.

Four Cups of Wine

Four cups of wine are served at this meal and each cup represents a promise in Exodus 6:6-7 (1).

I will bring you out from the burdens of the Egyptians
I will rid you of their bondage
I will redeem you with a stretched out arm, and with judgments
I will bring you into the land I swore Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

First Cup of Wine

The first cup is called the kiddush or the cup of sanctification (1) because God raised Moses to lead His people out of Egypt. As the Israelites were separated from Egypt and all of its wicked practices and set apart for God, people of this new covenant will be separated from the world and its sinful practices and set apart for God.

Second Cup of Wine

The second cup is called the cup of deliverance (2). Every participant dips their finger into the cup and flicks a drop of wine on their plate. Each drop represented a plague. Nine of the ten plagues only affected the Egyptians. The tenth plague, the death of the first born, affected everyone. But the Israelites were spared because their door posts were marked with the blood of the Passover lamb in the shape of a cross. Jesus’ death on the cross gave us our deliverance. His blood delivered us from the bondage of every type of sin and from the effects of the sins of others.

Third Cup of Wine

The third cup is called the cup of redemption (3). Redemption means the action of being saved from evil. God raised Moses to save the Israelites from the Egyptian bondage of slavery and restore them to freedom. 1500 years later, God raised Jesus the Messiah to save His people from their sins and from the curse of the law and restore them to freedom. This is the cup that Jesus didn’t drink from in Matthew 14. Jesus declared to his disciples that it was His blood that would pay the price to spare and save us from the judgment of sin and evil. But, Jesus was already looking ahead into the future. He was disclosing to His disciples that the next time He drank wine from the cup of redemption, it would be during His future reign as Messiah. Revelation 11:15, “The world has now become the Kingdom of our Lord (Kingdom of God) and of His Christ (Messiah) and He will reign forever and ever" (parentheses added).

Fourth Cup of Wine

The fourth cup is the cup of praise or the Hallel (5). The Hallel are Psalms 113-118 and they were sung with this last cup of wine. Jesus and his disciples sang the Hallel on their way to the Garden of Gethsemane. Moses led the people to God so they could enter the Promised Land. Jesus led the people to His Father so they could enter into the family and the Kingdom of God.

The Empty Seat

There is a fifth cup set at an empty seat known as the cup of Elijah and no one drinks from it (4 & 5). Here the Jews wait for a man who will come in the spirit of Elijah. We know that Jesus identified that man as John the Baptist. This Passover ritual includes the opening of the front door and announcing the greeting, “Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!” It was necessary for John the Baptist to announce the first coming of the Messiah and it is necessary for Elijah to announce the second coming of the Messiah. How do we know when this takes place?

Two extraordinary signs will indicate that the second coming of the Messiah is near:

1) the hearts of the spiritual fathers are turned towards their spiritually lost children or congregation.

2) the congregation give up their rebellious ways and worship God.

Let’s Pray:

Father, I acknowledge the great price Jesus paid by shedding His blood for me. Thank you for sanctifying me, delivering me, and redeeming me. I will praise You forever for sending the Messiah, Jesus, to us. I will praise You in advance for His return. You may do with my life as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:

1.http://www.hebrew4christians.com/Holidays/Spring_Holidays/Pesach/Seder/Kadesh/kadesh.html

2.http://www.hebrew4christians.com/Holidays/Spring_Holidays/Pesach/Seder/Maggid/maggid.html

3.http://www.hebrew4christians.com/Holidays/Spring_Holidays/Pesach/Seder/Barech/barech.html

4.http://www.hebrew4christians.com/Holidays/Spring_Holidays/Pesach/Seder/Hallel/hallel.html

5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBGz3k37kDE

The Passover Seder Bread

March 19, 2019 by Cee Maria

Mark 14:22 NLT

As they were eating, Jesus took some bread and blessed it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take it, for this is my body.”

The Passover Seder or meal commemorates the Exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt . Throughout this series, remember that symbolism is a powerful language tool, and this verse in Mark is filled with visual significance. Let’s deconstruct this passage for today’s reflection.

Striped and Pierced

In Exodus, the Israelites were told to hurriedly bake bread and be ready to travel at a moment’s notice. In response to this warning, they baked matzah bread. Matzah bread contains no yeast and is unleavened. The bread is rolled out and pierced with a fork so it will keep its flat shape and pack easily. It is baked on a hot grid so there are imprints of stripes on the entire surface (1 & 2).

Leaven is a symbol for sin, thus the removal of leaven symbolizes purity. The matzah is pierced and striped. All of these symbols point to Jesus who was pure without sin, nailed to a cross, pierced with nails and a lance, and brutally whipped forming stripes on his back (1 & 2).

Isaiah 53:5 KJV, “He was wounded for our transgression, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we were healed.”

The Trinity

In the phase of the Seder where Jesus broke the bread, there would be a ‘matzot tosh’ or a bag on the table. This bag was sewn with three compartments, and each compartment contained a matzah. The Jewish rabbis teach that the matzot tosh symbolizes unity. Messianic Jews believe it is symbolic of the unity of the Triune Godhead: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (1).

Jesus, the Man of Affliction

As the Seder meal came to a close, the matzah in the middle compartment known as the ‘bread of affliction’, was removed from the bag and broken in half. The smaller of the two halves was then returned to the middle compartment of the matzot tosh. The middle matzah, the bread of affliction, points to Jesus, a man of sorrows or affliction (1 & 2).

Isaiah 53:3, “He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.”

Burial Linen

The larger piece of the two halves was known as the ‘afikoman’ or the dessert, and was wrapped in a special linen and hidden. The wrapped afikoman is a symbol of Jesus' body wrapped in ceremonial death linens and the hiding of the afikoman represents His burial (1 & 2).

Resurrection

The meal could not be completed without the missing afikoman. Before the completion of the meal, someone found the afikoman, returned it to the table, and was given a reward. The afikoman was then gently unwrapped. The finding and unwrapping of the afikoman represents Jesus' miraculous resurrection from the dead (1 & 2).

The Church is the Body of Christ

Once the afikoman is unwrapped, each member at the Seder table is given a small piece the size of an olive (1 & 2). The partaking of the afikoman symbolizes the resurrected Jesus, Son of God, head of the church and we are all part of the Body of Christ. This is what Jesus meant when He declared, “This is My body broken for you.”

Remember

Keep in mind that every time the Godhead witnessed the celebration of the Passover, they were painfully reminded of what Jesus was to suffer in His body. This is why God's mercy is so great! At this Passover recorded in the book of Mark, Jesus shared with the disciples that it was now their turn to be conscious the suffering He was about to endure. Today, we are to remind ourselves when we take communion of the great price Jesus paid for our sins, our healing, and our redemption.

Let’s Pray:

Father, for millennium You have prepared us for Jesus’ coming. All of these rituals were purposeful and filled with depth and meaning. Every time You witnessed the Passover Seder, You were reminded of the sacrifice Jesus would make for us. Now, it is for us to remember the great sacrifice made by Jesus, the man of affliction, the Son of God, who was pierced and whipped on our behalf. Thank You for the gift of being a member of Your family, the body of Christ. You may do with my life as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBGz3k37kDE

2.http://www.hebrew4christians.com/Holidays/Spring_Holidays/Pesach/Seder/Yachatz/yachatz.html

Palm Sunday

March 13, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Mark 11:7-10 NLT

Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it, and he sat on it. Many in the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others spread leafy branches they had cut in the fields. Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting, “Praise God! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessings on the coming Kingdom of our ancestor David! Praise God in the highest heaven!”

Symbolism is a powerful language tool, and these verses in Mark are filled with visual significance. Let’s deconstruct this passage for today’s reflection.

Colt

We'll begin with the colt that Jesus rode. It was the foal of a donkey, not a horse. A foal is a very young animal and does not have the strength or stamina of one that's reached maturity. Another note is that horses were what men rode into battle. Riding a donkey was a symbol of a king coming in peace ( 1 "The One New Man Bible" ).

Tallit

The garments that were thrown on the colt and road were most likely 'tallits' or prayer shawls (2 “The One New Man Bible”). The tallit was to be worn to cover the body. It was a reminder to the person to always be mindful of God's laws in the Torah, and to live holy (Numbers 15:39-40). Jesus was seated upon the tallit, a beautiful visual of Him being the fulfillment of the law.

Palm branches
The leafy branches spread on the roads were palms. The palm branch in this region of the world symbolized peace, victory, and eternal life (3). Peace is defined as protection and preservation from both physical and spiritual danger, restoration of what is lost or broken, i.e. health, wealth, prosperity, and relationships. Jesus brought peace by operating in the Kingdom of God as He healed the sick, cast out demons, and raised the dead.

Jesus, the center of the procession
Jesus' position in this narrative was also symbolic. There may have been thousands of people on this road (4 “The One New Man Bible”) and yet Jesus rode right in the middle of this massive procession. This is a great visual representing Jesus as the Prince of Peace, and the center of our lives.

We miss the forest for the trees, or in this case, we miss the grove for the palm. Every symbolism, action, teaching, and model points to peace. Yet, the people were expecting another David, known as the warrior king, to appear and deliver them from Rome. The Kingdom of God is so much more far reaching than Rome or any other earthly empire. The Kingdom of God lives within us.

Let’s Pray:

Father, Your Word is so rich, Your thoughts are so beautiful, and Your love for me is so deep. Thank You for sending me Jesus, my Prince of Peace. I purpose to keep Jesus central in all I do and all I live for. Cause me to be a carrier of Your peace and to operate in the Kingdom of God as Jesus and his disciples did in the scriptures. You may do with my life as You will. In Jesus Name, Amen.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_branch_(symbol)

Lent Part 1- John the Baptist

March 08, 2019 by Cee Maria in Lent

Luke 1:76-77

“And you my little son, will be called the Prophet of the Most High because you will prepare the way for the Lord. You will tell his people how to find salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.”

Today we will start our series on Lent. We pray it is a blessing to you. We will begin this series with a blog about John the Baptist.

Zechariah’s prophecy
The first chapter of Luke begins with the circumstances relating to the birth of John the Baptist. Zechariah’s words to his newborn son, John, aptly sum up this baby’s entire life journey. John would become a prophet unlike any other of his time. Not only that, but he would prepare the people of Israel for their Messiah, Jesus.

Fast forward 30 years later….

Who was in charge of the religious system when John became an adult?

The religious leaders during John’s adulthood were the Pharisees, they were ‘God’s representatives’. The Mosaic priesthood, where the pharisees derived from, was established by God for the purpose of keeping the people in right relationship with Him. Mosaic Law was the manual of how to operate in the Kingdom of God so the Israelites would have their needs, wants, and desires met by Him.

What was going on in this religious system?

Basically nothing to do with God. Jesus had a confrontation with the Pharisees about this subject in Matthew 23. Embroiled with corrupt political leaders, the Pharisees focused on their own desires and flagrantly neglected their duty to meet the needs of the people. Allegiance to the Most High God shifted entirely over to Caesar. The Pharisees covertly disregarded the Mosaic Code of Ethics. In public, they were pretentious. Drunk with self righteousness and power, they hammered the people with laws that were impossible to keep. Jesus verbalized a list of damnable sins the Pharisees were guilty of in Matthew 23. But, the first and foremost complaint Jesus accused the Pharisees of was that they refused to enter the Kingdom of God themselves and slammed the door on the faces of people who tried.

How did John rebel against the corrupt religious system of the day?

Here lies the fulfillment of Zechariah’s prophecy (Matthew 3, Mark 1, Luke 3, and John 1). Uncorrupted by the religious system, John lived in the wilderness of Judea, accepting no bribes and refusing to swindle the people out of their money. He was ‘a voice crying in the wilderness’.

What is the message John the Baptist preached?

John did not harp on endless rules and regulations that made one ‘holier than thou’ as the Pharisees taught. John preached Matthew 3:2, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.” In other words, the Messiah is near and we need to be ready.

How did John prepare the way of the Lord?

John destroyed the sacred cows that permeated the thinking of the Jews. The Jews depended on their heritage for salvation (sons of Abraham). John preached that salvation came from repentance.

John gave people the opportunity to be baptized. Baptism was a physical sign to God and the public of the repentance and the forgiveness of sins. John was a seer and operated in the discernment of spirits. He had the ability to tell whether or not repentance was genuine. The people recognized he operated in this gift. This is why John turned away the Pharisees from baptism (Matthew 3). This is how he knew that Herod took his brother’s wife (Matthew 14). This is how he knew that Jesus was the Lamb of God (John 1).

Not only did John help the people repent of their sins, he gave them information of how to avoid falling back into its destructive cycle. In Luke 3, he told the people to share clothes and food with the poor. He told the tax collectors to be honest and only collect the amount the government exacted. He told soldiers not to extort their money, make false accusations, or be greedy. John was in the business of getting people clean and keeping them clean for God.

John was a role model for the people

The priests and Levites asked John if he was the Messiah. You don’t see John getting a ‘big head’ and using his spiritual gifts to manipulate or dominate people by fear like the Pharisees. You don’t see John trying to usurp Jesus’ authority. No! He adamantly denied being the Messiah and clarified the difference between himself and Jesus. John baptized with water (Ephesians 5:16, washing through knowledge of the Word). The Messiah would baptize with the Holy Spirit (power) and fire (passion and deliverance).

In fact, when John discerned that Jesus was the Messiah he was waiting for, he publically announced to the crowd, ‘Behold the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world’. John identified Jesus as superior to himself and asked Jesus to baptize him. But, John submitted to Jesus' request to baptist Him instead. Through John's submission, cooperation, and obedience, God the Father filled Jesus with His Holy Spirit in preparation for ministry.

John’s voice in the wilderness superseded the voices of corrupt Pharisees. John’s voice was validated by the very voice of God, “This is my Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Jesus was the answer to their salvation, the Messiah they had been waiting for.

We, the Church, must be like John and prepare the way of the Lord

Without a John the Baptist, without preparing hearts for the Messiah, Jesus could not have completed His mission. There was a predecessor to prepare the way for the First Coming of the Messiah. There must be a predecessor for the Second Coming of the Messiah as well. We, the Church, have been given the honor of that role. It is our responsibility wash others with the water of the Word, to help lead others to repentance, to help others avoid the pitfalls of repetitious sin, to allow God to use us for His purposes, to obey God and allow Him to validate our voice with His, and most importantly to teach how to operate in the Kingdom of God. Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and He is the answer to our salvation.

Let’s Pray:

Father, there is always a remnant of people who are willing to obey you. I marvel at how You admire humility and elevate the lowliest of hearts to do the mightiest of deeds. Through John, You drove back the darkness of corruption, power, and greed and progressively restored light and godliness back to Israel. John restored hope to his generation by preparing them for the Messiah. Help me to be like John. Help me to stay humble before you so that You may use me to do the mightiest of deeds for Your Glory. Help me to lead souls into the Kingdom of God and prepare them for the second coming of the Messiah. In Jesus name, Amen.