Some Will, Some Won't!

Have you ever wondered why some Christians won't attempt anything remotely substantial for God? After reading the parable of the two sons in Matthew 21 v28-32. The only conclusion I came to is that "some will, and some wont!"

Jesus tells the parable of two sons who were given clear instructions by their father to go work in his vineyard. 

The first son was reluctant to work, but afterwards came to his senses and did as his father had asked him "I will not: but afterward he repented, and went"

The second son initially showed promise! But decided not to go work in the vineyard "And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not"

Jesus Christ finishes this parable by asking the listeners "Whether of them twain did the will of his father" - the answer clearly being the first son. The parable was spoken to contrast how the scribes and pharisees rejected the teachings of John Baptist un-repentantly, but the publicans and harlots gladly received the teachings are were saved

"For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him"

The parable itself can be interpreted though for Christians who have been given clear instructions to go "work" in the vineyard of our heavenly father. Let's say the command is the great commission "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature"

This command is clear, but the response by all Christians will be one of two things! Some will obey and do, and some won't obey. There could be a plethora of reasons behind their decision but it will always be that some will and some wont.

I have come to two conclusions from this simple truth; and they are these.

1) Thank God that we are not saved by our "works" but rather by the blood of Jesus Christ. Reason being if we were justified by our works, then we all would fall short, even if we were to obey every command of God, we will fall short of perfection every single time. Jesus Christ on the other hand did all that was required of him, and died as the perfect sacrifice for our sins. The works we do show our love for our father, but do not justify us in is sight and they never will. Only Jesus Christ can justify us through faith.

2) Don't be downcast when you see Christians around you not wanting to do anything for God, but you yourself are trying to live a righteous life or trying to preach the gospel to others. God know's and see's the everything and someday we all individually as believers will have to stand before God. This will not be for judgment of our sins, since we have been declared righteous already, but rather it will be to give an account of how we lived our lives here on earth. Whether we spent out time laying up treasures in heaven or spent our time building up wood hay and stubble here on earth.

Trusting God in Places of Cruelty

Psalm 74 is a Psalm written by Asaph; This Psalm is quite a dark dreary passage, as Asaph is describing the condition of the land in which he is living in. In Asaph’s time of need he asks God not to forget his promises to his people, as he sums up the state of the land in v20 “Have respect unto the covenant: for the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty.”

When I read this passage 4 years ago as a 1 year old Christian. I could not imagine such a land, but over these four years I cannot fail but see it with my own eyes all around me. This is a cruel cruel world! I sympathize with Christians sometimes who….just can’t go on. They are trying to do what’s right, they are trying to do the will of God, but it seems the world is at constant odds with them.

The antagonism is overwhelming, we can be as Asaph was in asking God “where are you” v1 “O God, why hast thou cast us off for ever? why doth thine anger smoke against the sheep of thy pasture?”

Asaph continues on to say in v10 “O God, how long shall the adversary reproach? shall the enemy blaspheme thy name for ever?”

in v7 Asaph explains how the enemies of God have infiltrated the very house of God “They have cast fire into thy sanctuary, they have defiled by casting down the dwelling place of thy name to the ground.”

You can easily see why Asaph would think that God had forgotten them; in his desperation he asks God to “respect the covenant“, to respect the promises he made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

Asaph was reacting according to what he was seeing around him! Had God forgotten them? Of course not! God has always been near, and as he was with Asaph during his darkest times, he will be with us today through our darkest times.

Asaph begins to encourage himself from verses 12 to 19 of Psalm 74.

He starts off by acknowledging who God is in v12 ”For God is my King of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth.”

then proceeds to state the power of God

v14 “Thou brakest the heads of leviathan in pieces, and gavest him to be meat to the people inhabiting the wilderness.“

v15 “Thou didst cleave the fountain and the flood: thou driedst up mighty rivers.”

He then concludes by asking God to intervene against the ungodly.

v18 “Remember this, that the enemy hath reproached, O LORD, and that the foolish people have blasphemed thy name.”

again in v22 “Arise, O God, plead thine own cause: remember how the foolish man reproacheth thee daily“

Asaph begins to understand and see that God is in control even in such dark times. It does not matter how much our habitations around us be be inhabited by cruel people, God will show himself strong to his people. Asaph describes a situation that is not foreign to us today. In fact we are probably in a worse state than in Asaph’s day.

I hope this devotion might stir in us the need to know that even if we live in the darkest places of this world, with no light, and no knowledge of God amongst the people around us….we can have hope in God who is always near. Asaph might have felt God was far from him at the start of the Psalm 74, but towards the end he realises that God has always been close by and he has kept his promises, and always will respect the promises he has made. I pray that we may know this as well in our times of desperation and need. Our God is a covenant-keeping God.

His Robes For Mine - New Song of the Month

Check out this man's video of his daughters singing this new hymn. The hymn was written by a student at BJU, who makes the sheet music (as well as a second ending with key change) available at no cost at http://www.churchworksmedia.com/hymns/his-robes-for-mine-text/

His robes for mine: O wonderful exchange!
Clothed in my sin, Christ suffered ‘neath God’s rage.
Draped in His righteousness, I’m justified.
In Christ I live, for in my place He died.

Chorus:  

I cling to Christ, and marvel at the cost:
Jesus forsaken, God estranged from God.
Bought by such love, my life is not my own.
My praise-my all-shall be for Christ alone.

His robes for mine: what cause have I for dread?
God’s daunting Law Christ mastered in my stead.
Faultless I stand with righteous works not mine,
Saved by my Lord’s vicarious death and life.

His robes for mine: God’s justice is appeased.
Jesus is crushed, and thus the Father’s pleased.
Christ drank God’s wrath on sin, then cried “‘Tis done!”
Sin’s wage is paid; propitiation won.

His robes for mine: such anguish none can know.
Christ, God’s beloved, condemned as though His foe.
He, as though I, accursed and left alone;
I, as though He, embraced and welcomed home!

Boasting In The Lord

Boasting In The Lord

So many will boast of their status and wealth -
For too many that is all that's worth living;
I'd rather boast in my spiritual health -
I'll rejoice that I am saved and forgiven!

So many will boast in who and what they know -
Their connections are the things they do treasure;
I would rather boast in the Lord Jesus Christ -
His Word is my only sure guide and measure!

So many will boast in the things they have made -
As if this life was the end of the story;
But I would rather boast in the world to come -
Heaven above is in what I will glory.

So many will boast that they have now arrived -
Trusting in themselves - a sad situation!
But I'd rather boast in what Jesus has done -
Singing aloud of His wondrous salvation!

So many will boast of things under the Sun -
Things that will one day be shaken and scattered;
I will boast in my Father's, "My child, well done" - 
In eternity, that's all that will matter!

January 9th, 2011
Jerry Bouey

Jeremiah 9:23-24 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovindkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

1 Corinthians 1:29-31 That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

1 Corinthians 2:15-16 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Colossians 3:1-2 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

Hebrews 12:26-28 Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And this word, Yet once more, signifying the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.

Matthew 25:21 His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.

What will you be boasting about in 2011?

Santa vs. Jesus

Santa rides in a sleigh. JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year. JESUS is an ever-present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies. JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited.

JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your heart upon invitation.

You have to stand in line to see Santa. JESUS is as close as the mention of His name. Santa lets you sit on his lap. JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn't know your name. All he can say is "Hi, little boy or girl, what's your name?" JESUS knew our names before we did. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He knows how many hairs are on our heads.

JESUS has a heart full of love. JESUS offers health, help and hope. Santa says "You better not cry". JESUS says "Cast all your cares" on me for I care for you.

Santa's little helpers make toys. JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle, but JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree, JESUS became our gift and died on the tree. Then rose again, giving eternal life and victory over death to all who believe on Him.

It's obvious there is really no comparison.

We need to remember WHO Christmas is all about. We need to put CHRIST back in CHRISTmas. Jesus is still "the reason for the season". Without Him, there would not be a Christmas.

May the Lord Bless and watch over you and your loved ones this CHRISTmas. And may He prosper and bless the work of your hands in the New Year.

Merry CHRISTmas!

FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOURS.

(received via email, author unknown)

J-E-S-U-S

The ONE Reason for the Season!

J - Just ONE (Luke 1:35)
E - Eternal ONE (John 3:1-3)
S - Saving ONE (Matthew 1:21)
U - Understanding ONE (1 Peter 5:7)
S - Soon Returning ONE (Titus 2:13)

- Clay Pawley

I Am

Lately, I have been preaching on the I Ams of Jesus from the Gospel of John.

Exodus 3:14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.

John 4:25-26 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.

John 8:58 Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.

I Am

I Am the Good Shepherd;
I gave My life for My sheep.
I Am the Resurrection and the Life -
Your comfort when you weep.

I Am the Light of the World
That shines upon you each day -
In this perilous journey of life,
I Am the only Way.

I Am the True Vine -
There is no real living apart from Me.
I Am the Door of Salvation;
Eternal life is knowing Me.

I Am the Messiah, who died
From sin to set you free;
For everything you are searching for -
I that speak to you Am He.

I Am the Bread of Life
On which your soul can feed.
I Am That I Am -
I Am all you will ever need.

I Am the Great Jehovah;
The LORD of Heaven, the earth, and the sea.
I Am Jesus Christ, the Saviour;
The LORD which is, which was, and will be.

I Am Jesus.

April 21st/2010
Jerry Bouey

Who I Am

Who I Am

This study builds a little on the themes covered in these two studies: The Giver, Or The Gifts? and Blessed Contrasts In Scripture Please read these two studies for more Scripture references on some of these points below.

Many before the time of Christ were waiting for the Messianic kingdom to right the wrongs in this world (grievances, violence, wrong judgment, sin - Hab 1:3-4, 13; 2:2-3). They were looking for a time (ie. an event) when a King would rule over the earth and restore order (in fulfillment of the “vision”, ie. of the Old Testament prophecies) – Jesus directs us to Himself. Hebrews 10:38.

Many of the Jews in the time of Christ were looking for a political and social Messiah. Many rejected Christ because when He came the first time, He was not here to right all the political or social wrongs, but to deal with our sins. He did not come as “King” (though He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and will come back one day to reign), but as Saviour.

Some followed Jesus for the wrong reason – because He did a miracle that provided for their needs. John 6:24-26.

They sought to make Jesus king – by force, seizing Him by violence! John 6:14-15.

When He was betrayed by Judas and surrounded by the armed guards in the Garden of Gethsemane, He refused to fight back, but gave Himself up to them. John 18:3-9, 12.

When speaking to Pilate, He stated His kingdom was not yet of this world; therefore His followers would not fight back with physical weapons. John 18:33-36.

40 days after Jesus arose, just before He ascended to Heaven, His disciples asked Him a question about His coming kingdom: Acts 1:6-7. Jesus changed their focus, then the angels pointed to His return, not just to His kingdom – ie. pointed to Him. Verses 9-11.

The Samaritan woman was waiting for the Messiah to reveal all things. Jesus told her, “I Am the Messiah.” John 4:25-26.

Martha was waiting for a coming day, an event (ie. the future day of resurrection) - Jesus redirected her to a person, Himself. I Am the Resurrection and the Life. John 11:23-26.

The end of all arguments – whatever is going on in the world or in the lives of His people, God declares:
I am the LORD (or the Lord GOD - 164 times)
I am God (9 times)
I Am, and there is no other god (or saviour) beside Me (Deut 4:35, 39; 1 Sam 2:2; 2 Sam 7:22; 1 Kings 8:60; 1 Chron 17:20; Is 43:10-12; 44:6-8; 45:5-6, 18, 21-22; 46:9; Hosea 13:4; Joel 2:27)

Many in the world are running around looking for each of these things – even God’s people – but what we need more than provision, more than something to happen – what we need is Jesus Himself!

When we need (spiritual) light - He is our Light. He is Light. Psalm 27:1; 1 John 1:5.
When in need of strength - He is our strength. Psalm 28:7.
When we need wisdom - He is our wisdom. 1 Corinthians 1:30.
When we need understanding - He is understanding. Proverbs 8:14.
When we need mercy and grace - He is merciful and gracious; that is His name (in the Bible, a name represents who someone is, their character). Exodus 33:19; 34:5-7.
When we need peace with God, peace of mind, peace with man - He is our peace. Ephesians 2:14.
When we are hopeless - He is our hope. 1 Timothy 1:1.
When we have no purpose or reason for living - He is our life. Colossians 3:4.
When we are scrambling, seeking the truth - the truth is in Jesus. He is the Truth. Ephesians 4:21; John 14:6.
When we are desperately seeking for someone to love us, He not only provides love - He is Love. 1 John 4:8, 16.
When we are looking for safety, security, shelter from the storms of life – He is our shield. Genesis 17:1.
When we are looking for something lasting in life, something to carry on from generation to generation – He is our inheritance. Numbers 18:20.
When we are looking for a way to be right with God, not only does the Lord provide righteousness - He is our righteousness. Jeremiah 23:6.
When looking for salvation, Jesus not only provides salvation – He is our salvation. Psalm 35:3.
Not only does Jesus save – He is our Saviour, and it is to be Him we are looking for – not just some future day or some kingdom, some future event – Jesus Himself! Titus 2:13; 2 Timothy 4:8.

What is our focus? Even as believers, are we seeking the Lord Jesus Christ for what He can do for us (and yes, we should be seeking Him for every need we have) – OR for who He is? Seeking for something we need, for something to happen - OR for Jesus Himself?

May 9th/2010
Jerry Bouey

P.S. This is part of the series I have been preaching at the Gospel Mission on the I Ams of Jesus, and some of the thoughts that came out of it. I think the message was received pretty well today. It certainly gave some food for thought, and was a blessing to study out and preach. I hope it is also a blessing to you.

There’s Forgiveness

Don’t struggle alone, in fear and distress As if there’s no hope, just your ugliness. Our Lord offers grace, not judgment deserving, He longs for your love and your soon returning. There’s forgiveness. It’s tough cutting through the darkness of sin Striving for answers, His favor to win. He stands with His arms outstretched and extended To hold and restore you, just mercy intended. There’s forgiveness. Why search other places your answers to find To fill the vast void and touch the divine. Lay down your excuses and learn to confess Your sins and your shame to His holiness. There’s forgiveness. There’s healing and fellowship waiting for you The moment you turn, His face to pursue. You are the temple, His place for abiding, The only thing missing is your mind deciding. There’s forgiveness. Don’t wait for a feeling or mystical lark, Just bow down in quietness, open your heart. Be honest, and tell Him no secret to keep From there He restores you to fellowship sweet. There’s forgiveness. His promise is certain, “I will forgive,” Cleansing and freedom, it’s yours to live. From no other source full joy will you find. He is your victory, your peace so sublime. There’s forgiveness. To humble yourself, before Him in prayer, Is your first step, in unloading your care. There look Him squarely, straight in the face And tell Him all of the ways you disgrace. There’s forgiveness. Refreshment and fullness He will restore The moment you sincerely open the door. He is the life you thought you could win, By going your way and living in sin. There’s forgiveness. There’s no one beyond the reach of His arm To pick up and pardon, to rescue from harm. Return to the Master of your faith’s beginning. Give Him your all, and you’ll find yourself winning. There’s forgiveness. What wonderful love eternity holds, For those who are willing to be in the fold. The Savior is waiting, Oh come to Him now, At His nail-scarred feet, in humility bow. There’s forgiveness.

Lord bless,

Bro. Harry Shomaker