oNe thirTy

May 2nd, Saturday: 3 John - Jude

2009-05-03T00:36:00.001+08:00

3 John

John wrote this letter to his friend, Gaius, to encourage him in a difficult situation in his local church.

Again, he concentrated on making God's truth a vital part of life.

Walking in truth.

People could see the truth in Gaius because he loved it and walked in obedience to it, and that brought great joy to John.

Every Christian parent can echo this verse and can even make it a prayer.

Working for truth.

When you assist and encourage God's servants, you become a fellow worker with them in spreading the truth.

Christian hospitality was important in those days and ought to be revived today.

Welcoming the truth.

Can you imagine Diotrephes rejecting a message from the apostle John?

He was so separated that he did not even receive John's friends.

When we welcome God's people, we welcome God's truth.

Witnessing for the truth.

Not all church members are like Diotrephes.

There are like people like Demetrius who love the truth and live it.

They're the ones who make the local church healthy.

Jude

Jude, like James, was a half-brother of the Lord Jesus.

His letter focuses on false teachers, and echoes Peter's warnings in 2 Peter 2.

Who they are.

Jude wanted to write about salvation, but the Lord directed him to write about invasion instead.

False teachers were creeping into the church, and going undetected.

These are unsaved people, ungodly people and unprincipled people, who used grace as an excuse for sin.

What they do.

Like the Jews in the wilderness, the fallen angels and the evil cities of the plain, they reject the authority of God.

Their words are defiant and defiling.

Like Cain, they have no saving faith.

But they do have religion like Balaam.

They use religion as a way to make money.

And like Korah, they defied the word of God and the authority of God's chosen servants.

What they are.

False teachers promised much, but produce little.

Like rainless clouds and fruitless trees, Enoch had the best word for them: ungodly!

What we must do.

Remember the Word and build yourself up in your Christian faith.

True believers are preserved in Jesus Christ.

And they prove this by keeping themselves in God's love.

Therefore God can keep them from fallings.

May 1st, Friday: 1 John 5 - 2 John

2009-05-03T00:35:00.001+08:00

1 John 5

When you're born of God – you are born to love.

You'll love the Father who gave you life, and the Son who gave His life for you.

You will also love His children for we all belong to the same family.

When you're born of God, you're born to win.

Your first birth made you a sinner and a loser.

But your second birth makes you a conqueror.

The world wants to entice you and the devil wants to seduce you.

But Christ will give you the victory you need if you trust Him.

When you're born of God, you're born to assurance, and you can know you have eternal life.

You're also born to talk to your Father in prayer and receive from Him what you need.

When you're born of God, you're born secure, and the evil one cannot harm you.

You do not keep yourself saved, for the Father does that, but you keep yourself from the clutches of the evil one.

As you abide in Christ, you experience His love and care.

2 John

John wrote this letter to an anonymous Christian woman, whose home was open to God's people to meet for fellowship and worship.

The emphasis is on truth and love.

And John points out 3 dangers believers must avoid.

i. Knowing the truth but not practising it.

We must walk in truth and walk according to His commandments.

The Word of God is mean for doing and not just knowing.

If we say but do not obey, well we're hypocrites!

ii. Practicing truth but not defending it.

See, the enemy is busy and we must oppose him.

Love must be balanced by truth, or you'll start supporting lies in the name of love.

It is easy to lose what you have gained by making friends with the wrong people.

iii. Going beyond the truth.

The word 'transgress' means to go beyond.

When you go beyond God's Word, you're going too far.

It is not progress but regress.

Beware anybody who has something to add to your Bible.

Phillips Brooks wrote, 'Truth is always strong no matter how weak it looks, and falsehood is always weak no matter how strong it looks.'

April 30th, Thursday: 1 John 3 - 4

2009-05-03T00:10:00.000+08:00

1 John 3

Deliberate sin is a serious thing.

When you deliberately sin, you grieve the heart of the Father, who loves you and has a wonderful future plan for you.

You grieve the Saviour, who died for you and delivered you from the power of Satan.

Deliberate sin grieves the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and gave you a new birth – you have a new nature and a new Father.

Therefore you should live a new life.

Well to John, the lack of love is the same as hatred.

And hatred is the moral equivalent of murder, according to Matthew chapter 5.

Deliberate sin also grieves God's people, because we cannot minister to them as we should if we're not walking in love and in the light.

So strive to have a heart that's right before God and men.

Ask God to use you to become an encouragement and help to others.

Love is more than a matter of words.

1 John 4

Love is evidence of salvation.

If you're born of God through faith in Jesus Christ, you have His nature within.

Since God is love, His children who have His nature should also manifest His love.

The children, in other words, should be like the Father.

Our love for others makes God's love real and visible to them.

So we can better witness to them about Christ.

Now it also makes God real and personal to us.

Merely reading in the Bible about God's love is not enough, is it?

Seek to experience that love in your heart by sharing it with others.

That's like priming the pump.

That's how we get the love out.

Just as truth is victorious over lies, love is victorious over fear.

As you mature in your love for God, you realise that you have nothing to fear.

Your Father has everything under control.

You trust those you love, right?

And faith and love will give victory over fear!

April 29th, Wednesday: 1 John 1 - 2

2009-04-27T23:46:00.001+08:00

1 John

Overview

The apostle wrote this letter to his dear 'little children' (the phrase which is used, by the way, 9 times) to help them find assurance of personal salvation.

When you're assured of your salvation, you can have fellowship with God and God's people.

You can experience joy and have victory over sin.

John also wrote to warn believers about false teachers.

Both Peter and John were concern about the purity of the doctrine of the church, and you and I should be concerned about that same thing today too.

Chapters 1 and 2 focus on fellowship and contrast saying and doing.

It's easy to talk the Christian life, but God wants the walk, not just the talk.

John emphasizes son-ship in chapters 3 through 5.

The phrase 'born of God' is used several times there and gives 3 marks of the true child of God –

I. Doing God's will.

ii. Loving the brethren, &

iii. Believing the truth.

God is light and His children should walk in the light.

God is love and His children should walk in love.

The Spirit is truth and God's children should believe and obey the truth.

1 John 1

God wants you to have a living fellowship with Him and His children in Jesus Christ.

He has revealed what true life really is.

Even though you cannot see Him and touch Him as the apostles did many centuries ago – He can still be real to you as His Holy Spirit opens the Word to your heart.

He wants you to have a joyful fellowship.

It's not the fellowship of the slave with the master, but that a child with the parent.

God delights in His children, and longs to share His love with them.

When you're happy in the will of God, you are ready to live for Him and serve Him.

He wants you to have an honest fellowship as well – that means walking in the light and dealing honestly with sin.

Salvation is a matter of life or death.

But fellowship is a matter of light or darkness.

If you lie to God, to others and to yourself – you will lose your fellowship with God and your character.

The Godly character does not develop in the darkness.

1 John 2

In Jesus Christ, you have an advocate – representing you before God's throne.

When you sin, confess it to Him and receive His faithful forgiveness.

In Him, you also have an example, and you should walk just as He walked.

Ask the indwelling Holy Spirit to make you more like Jesus Christ and saturate yourself with His light as you read the Gospels.

From Jesus Christ you have a commandment to love God's people.

The Father gave this commandment to Israel, and the Son to His disciples and the Spirit enables us to obey it.

You see, because of Jesus Christ, you have a family: the members are at different stages of spiritual development, but all can receive the Word and grow.

How wonderful it is when the little children become young men and then fathers.

You'll also have some enemies – the world and the false teachers.

Christians who love the world, lose the enjoyment of the Father's love and the desire to do His will.

We overcome the world with God's love and the liars with God's truth.

And then of course, you have a wonderful hope, a sure and steadfast hope – the coming of Jesus Christ.

So abide in Him and you will not be ashamed when He comes.

April 28th, Tuesday: 2 Peter 2 - 3

2009-04-27T23:45:00.002+08:00

2 Peter 2

The description of the false teachers is clear enough to help you detect them and vivid enough to make you want to avoid them.

It's not enough to reject their false teachings - you must also avoid their way of life and the hypocrisy behind it.

Their tool is deception - so you must know God's Word and exercise discernment when you hear their impressive language and their alluring promises.

They fellowship with you only to find out what they can get from you, and then they will leave you in worse shape than when they found you.

They are deceptive and destructive – so beware!

Their purpose is personal pleasure and financial gain, and their destiny is judgment.

Like Balaam, they caused others to sin by using religion for personal gain.

They're not God's sheep – they're pigs and dogs in sheep's clothing.

And eventually they'll go back to their natural habits.

True sheep keep themselves clean because they follow the shepherd

2 Peter 3

When false teachers cannot accomplish their devious purposes with lies, they start to scoff and ridicule the Word of God.

They want you to forget that the very Word they deride is in control of God's universe.

God created everything by His Word, and His Word holds it together.

His Word caused the flood, and His Word will one day bring a judgment of fire to the ungodly world.

Whoever robs you of God's Word - robs you of your future!

People who have no future hope have no motivation for life today.

No wonder Peter closes with 'Beloved, be diligent!' and 'Beloved, beware!'

We live in dangerous days, my friend.

But the opportunities have never been greater.

God is patiently waiting for the lost to trust Christ, but He needs you to share the Gospel with them.

April 27th, Monday: 1 Peter 5 - 2 Peter 1

2009-04-27T23:40:00.001+08:00

1 Peter 5

Even apart from the end time suffering the church will experience, believers must face their 3 great enemies:

i. The world.

Christian leaders are tempted to act like the world and kind of lord it over God's people; but leaders are shepherds, and sheep must be led, not driven.

Our service must be willing and humble.

We must be eager to help others.

ii. The flesh.

By nature we do not want to submit to others.

The phrase 'clothed with humility' reminds us of our Saviour when He wore a towel and washed Peter's feet.

If we are submitted to the Lord, we will submit to His people.

Humility leads to honour; pride leads to shame.

Iii. The devil.

The devil is an adversary – not a friend.

He is a roaring lion – not a playful pet.

He wants to devour you and you had better be on guard.

Peter thought that he is well able to defeat the enemy so he did not heed the Lord's warning.

The results were failure and shame.

You can resist Satan by faith if you're wearing the armour and trusting the Spirit.

2 Peter 1

Brief Overview

When the apostle wrote this book, he was conscious that death was near and that the church was in danger for false teachers were creeping in.

He urged the believers to hold to the precious Word and grow spiritually, and to identified and shun false teachers, and to keep the promise of Christ's return uppermost in their hearts.

He stressed spiritual knowledge that comes from God's Word.

2 Peter 1

You'll have power for the present.

When you trust Christ, He will give all you need for life and Godliness.

All you have to do is appropriate what you need from His resources.

His Word feeds the divine nature within.

And you can grow in knowledge and in grace.

This is not automatic – you must be diligent to use the means of grace that god has provided.

You'll have assurance from the past.

Peter would be martyred soon, so he took occasion to remind readers that they could trust the Word of God.

Although Peter's experience on the Mount of Transfiguration was wonderful – my friend, experiences are not a substitute for the unchanging Word of God.

And you'll have hope for the future.

The Word is a light in this dark world, pointing to the return of the Lord.

Private interpretation means no prophecy should be isolated from the rest of Scripture, or interpreted apart from the leading of the Spirit who gave it to us.

The Spirit wrote one book and it must be understood as a whole.

Believers may differ on individual matters of prophecy, but they all agree on the one hope – and that is Jesus is coming again!
And He's coming soon.

April 26th, Sunday: 1 Peter 3 - 4

2009-04-25T00:02:00.000+08:00

1 Peter 3

Peter compared believers to sheep.

And sheep are gentle animals.

He then called for Christians to practice gentleness in several areas of life.

Gentleness In the home.

Christian wives with unsaved husbands should seek to win them to the Lord with true spiritual beauty, and not with artificial glamour or nagging.

Husbands should live as though their wives were priceless porcelain vases and treat them with gentle love.

Gentleness in the church.

Imagine having to remind Christians to show one another love and courtesy!

But as James chapter 4 shows us – not every local assembly is a place of peace; not every local church is a place of safety and refuge.

Gentleness in the world.

Anybody can suffer for doing wrong, but Christians must learn to suffer for doing what's right.

Of course, Jesus is the example for us to follow.

We witness not by making noise and fighting back, but by showing meekness and fear.

A gentle witness can make a big difference in a violent world.

1 Peter 4

Do not be controlled by the past.

People who have been born again through faith in Christ, should not allow the old life to control them.

The past has been buried and they are new creatures in Christ.

Furthermore, life is too short to waste it on Godless living, especially when you realise that one day we will all stand before God.

Be serious about the present no matter how difficult life may be.

There is a job to do and we must be faithful.

Take time to pray.

Show love to the saints.

Use your gifts and talents to serve others.

The Lord who gave you the ability will also give you the strength to use it for His glory.

Just ask Him for energy from on high.

Be prepared for the future.

A fiery trial was about to come to the church.

Peter told his readers to expect it and use it as an opportunity to witness for Christ, and in all things seek to glorify God.

The trial came under the Roman emperor Nero, who accused the Christians of burning Rome.

The Church today faces persecution – are you prepared?

April 25th, Saturday: 1 Peter 1 - 2

2009-04-25T00:01:00.002+08:00

1 Peter

The apostle Peter was chosen to be the first to take the Gospel to the Gentiles.

But his ministry was primarily to the Jews.

He wrote these two letters, 1 & 2 Peter to believers scattered in 5 areas of the Roman empire – 2 of which Paul had not been allowed to enter.

And in writing these letters, Peter fulfilled the commission given him in Luke 22 and in John 21.

The theme of the first letter is the grace of God, and Peter tells us how to live as aliens in a hostile world.

The theme of the second letter is spiritual knowledge.

He uses the word knowledge 7 times in the letter, and he warns us about false teachers.

Peter opens his first epistle by reminding his readers of what God's grace had done for them in saving them.

He then points out that God's grace helps them out in various relationships of life, and in the coming time of persecution.

Peter sums up the themes of both letters in his benediction over in 2 Peter 3:18: 'But grow in grace, and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.'.

That is the only way to succeed in these last days.

1 Peter 1

Salvation is a calling.

We're chosen by the Father, who gives us the new birth.

We're set apart by the Spirit, who gave the Word and enables God's servants to declare it.

And gives sinners the faith to believe the Promise.

We've been purchased by the blood of God's Son, who died for us, rose again and is coming for us to give our inheritance.

No wonder Peter opened his letter with a song of praise!

Salvation is a birth.

This is the spiritual birth Jesus tried to explain to Nicodemus.

When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, you are born from above – you receive hope and love for Christ and His people.

Because we're God's children – we want to obey Him.

Salvation is a redemption.

The apostle is referring to the Passover feast.

Jesus is the Lamb slain for us and His blood was sprinkled to shelter us.

The Jews in Egypt had to be ready to depart, and we must have the same attitude.

When Jesus comes again, we will make our exodus from this world.

And all of this was for you.

Are you praising Him for it?

1 Peter 2

Growing.

You know – just as a baby has an appetite for the mother's milk, so the child of God has an appetite for the Father's Word.

If you lose that appetite and stopped growing – check to see if any of the sins listed are infecting your life.

Building.

God is building a temple out of a living stone – as a matter of fact, several living stones.

And we privileged to be a part of it.

We're built on Jesus Christ, so there is no way the temple can be destroyed.

Sacrificing.

Each believer is a priest before God and can bring sacrifices to the Lord Jesus Christ and through Jesus Christ.

As we worship the Lord, we proclaim His virtues to a lost world.

That is what God called Israel to do.

And they failed.

What about us?

Are we willing, or are we also failing?

Submitting.

Peter's counsel is that Christians be good citizens and employees, so that God will be glorified.

The example for us is to follow Jesus Christ who submitted even to the point of death.

April 24th, Friday: James 4 - 5

2009-04-24T23:59:00.000+08:00

James 4

Of the early church, it was said, 'Behold, how they loved one another!'

Today, people might say, 'Behold, how they compete with one another!'

Why is it sometimes so difficult for God's people to get along?

Well, one thing is selfishness.

The wars among us are caused by the wars within us.

We want to please ourselves – even if it hurts somebody else.

If we're not careful, even our prayers can become selfish.

And then there is the problem of worldliness.

Because Abraham was separated from sin, he was the friend of God.

But Lot was the friend of the world.

And of course, there's pride.

Satan knows how to use pride to defeat you, as he defeated Eve.

Are you laughing, when you should be weeping over your sins?

Are you resisting the devil or resisting the Lord?

Then there's criticism.

One of the easiest ways to hide our sins is to expose the sins of others.

Gossip and slander grieve the Spirit, and divide the family.

God called us to be witnesses, not judges.

And there's boasting.

Life is short and the future unknown – so do the will of God today.

When you make plans, always say, 'If the Lord wills.'

James 5

Now in these last days, before the coming of the Lord – what does God want in our lives?

Let's talk about priorities.

To live only to get wealth is to rob yourself of true riches.

It is to worry instead of worship.

God knows you have needs and He will meet them if you practise what it says in Mathew 6:33.

And we need patience.

If you've sown the right seed, you will eventually reap a harvest of blessings, so be patient.

If others have exploited you – be patient.

The Judge is at the door.

God has the final say, and God has a plan for your life.

All life is lived in seasons.

Perhaps God is preparing you for the next season.

Be diligent!

If you're going through trials, be patient!

God is still on the throne.

Don't forget prayer.

Many kinds of prayer are named here – prayer for the sick, prayer for forgiveness, prayer for the nation, even prayer about the weather.

There's no need that prayer cannot meet and no problem that prayer cannot solve.

Personal concern.

Once again, James emphasizes ministry to individuals.

Can you detect once a fellow believer starts to stray?

Are you truly concerned?

Will you try to help?

Will you wait too long?

April 23rd, Thursday: James 2 - 3

2009-04-18T23:41:00.002+08:00

James 2

If you have true saving faith, you will practice impartiality.

And see people in terms of character, and not clothing, or possessions, or positions.

You will not cater to the rich or ignore the poor.

But you will love each person for the sake of Jesus Christ.

Christian love simply means treating others the way the Lord treats you and doing it in the power of the Spirit.

True saving faith is also seen in activity.

Faith is not something you only talk about – it's something that motivates your life, so that you think of others and serve them.

Abraham was saved by faith, but he proved that faith by obeying God and offering his son.

Rahab the harlot was saved by trusting God, but she showed the reality of her faith by protecting the spies.

James and Paul do not contradict each other – they complement each other.

We're justified – that is declared righteous before God by faith.

But we're justified before men by works.

God can see our faith, but men can see only our works.

James 3

Now the believers James wrote to had problems with their tongues.

Of course, the tongue is not the problem – it is the heart.

But before you say anything, ask yourself some questions.

1.Who's in control?

If your tongue is under God's control, you will take what you say seriously and your whole body will be under His discipline.

2. What would the consequences be?

Are you starting a fire that may get out of control and do a lot of damage?

See, once your words are spoken, you cannot take them back – so look ahead!

3. What are my motives?

Is there bitterness in your heart or envy?

Are you speaking from God's wisdom or the wisdom of the world?

Are you a peacemaker or a troublemaker?

If your heart is right before God, He will use your words to produce the right kind of fruit.

April 22nd, Wednesday: Hebrews 13 & James 1

2009-04-18T23:40:00.001+08:00

Heb 13:

Lest we get the idea that we can run the race successfully alone – the writer closes his letter by reminding us to follow our spiritual leaders.

If we do, we will love the brothers and sisters, we'll help the strangers and prisoners, live above lust, and we'll deal with covetousness and not be lead away by false doctrines.

'Remember them' (v. 7 & 8)

This may refer to leaders now dead, but their ministry goes on.

Remember what they taught you, how they lived, and what they lived for.

Church leaders and ministry leaders may come and go, but Jesus is the same.

And they, the leaders must fix our eyes on Him.

Obey them.

If they are faithful to care for your soul and teach you the Word - well, you have the responsibility to obey.

A spiritual leader is not a dictator who drives you from behind.

No, he's a shepherd who goes before and leads the way.

So pray for them.

When you come to the throne of grace, ask God to make His shepherds faithful and fruitful.

Pray that the great Shepherd will use them to make you complete in every good work.

And greet them.

You should know your leaders personally and be on good terms with them.

Let nothing come between you that could create problems in the fellowship.

James 1

The man who wrote this letter was the half-brother of our Lord and the leader of the church in Jerusalem.

He was a devout Jew and wrote to Jewish believers scattered throughout the Roman world.

They were troubled by trials and testings as well as by problems in their assemblies.

And James wrote to help them mature in their faith.

The epistle of James is a practical book that discusses living the faith.

It contains echoes of the Sermon on the Mount and the book of Proverbs, both of which are very practical.

If we truly practice our faith, it will be seen in how we face trials, in the way we treat people, in what we say and how we deal with sins in our lives and it will be seen in our prayer life.

When you trust God, trials will work for you and not against you.

But be sure that your heart is wholly yielded to Him.

If your heart and mind are divided, trials will tear you apart.

The goodness of God.

When you realise how good God is to you, you'll have no interest in the temptations the Enemy puts before you.

When you're tempted, count your blessings, and soon you'll have strength to say no!

The Word of God.

It is a mirror that helps us examine ourselves and cleanse our lives.

We must DO the Word of God, not just read it or study it.

The blessing is in the doing.

April 21st, Tuesday: Hebrews 11 - 12

2009-04-18T23:37:00.000+08:00

Heb 11

Faith is confidence in God that leads to obedience to God.

True faith is based on what God says and is demonstrated in what we do.

People with faith do things for God, and God does things for them.

Faith is not a luxury – it is a necessity.

It is for common people and not just great leaders.

You see – we need faith for worshiping as well as for working.

And even walking.

And waiting.

And warring.

In any area of life where you ignore faith – you'll end up sinning.

John Calvin defined faith as 'A steady and certain knowledge that the divine benevolence towards us, which being founded on the truth of the gratuitous promise in Christ, is both revealed to our minds and confirmed to our hearts by the Holy Spirit. '

Note that faith is founded on divine truth – that's God's promise.

And is witnessed to by the Spirit in the heart.

It has both objective and subjective aspects, and both are essential.

The phrase 'still others' reminds us that we can live by faith and appear to be defeated!

See, not everybody who trusted God was delivered or protected.

But the most important thing is not God's deliverance – it is God's approval!

Faith and God gives you the ability to endure when others are giving up.

D.L. Moody said, 'Faith makes all things possible. Love makes all things easy.'

Heb 12

Runners.

The people listed as the 'cloud' that witnesses to us.

'God can be trusted' – that's what these witnesses are saying to us.

'Put your faith in His Word, and keep running the race – don't give up!'

'Don't give up – don't stop!'

When you read the Old Testament, your faith should grow.

For the account shows what God did in and through people who dared to trust His promises.

When you read the Gospels, you see the greatest example of endurance in Jesus Christ.

Tertulian said, 'You can judge the quality of their faith from the way they behave.'

Discipline is an index to doctrine.

Children.

Chastening refers to child training – helping the child prepare for adulthood.

It does not necessarily mean punishment for disobedience.

No – although that might sometimes be included.

The successful runner must exercise discipline and submit to training.

Never fear the chastening hand of the Lord – it's controlled by a loving heart.

God's goal is your maturity.

The people of Israel had a frightening experience of Law at Mount Sinai.

But our experience at Mount Zion is one of grace and glory.

We are citizens of the heavenly city.

And will one day fellowship with Patriarchs and angels, and God Himself.

But this does not means we can ignore His solemn voice to us.

If God is shaking things in your life – listen to His Word.

You'll discover the things that cannot be shaken, and you will run the race to the end.

G.W. Campbell wrote, 'We cry too often to be delivered from the punishment, instead of the sin that lies behind it.'

We're anxious to escape from the things that causes us pain, rather than the things that cause God pain.

April 20th, Monday: Hebrews 9 - 10

2009-04-18T23:33:00.001+08:00

Heb 9

A better sanctuary.

In every way, the present heavenly sanctuary is better than any sanctuary on earth, including the temple in Jerusalem.

In the earthly temple, the furnishings were only symbols, the work was never finished.

And the ministry could never change the human heart.

You can be grateful for the price Jesus paid to make His heavenly ministry possible.

A better service.

The Jewish high priest could deal only with externals, but Jesus deals with the heart and conscience.

He can purify us and perfect us.

So that we can serve God in an acceptable way.

Do you come to Him daily and ask for His ministry?

A better sacrifice.

The blood that purchased your eternal redemption is not from unwilling animals, but from the Son of God who willingly laid down His life for you.

The spotless Lamb of God had to die only once.

The sacrifice need not be repeated,

Have you trusted that blood to save you?

Heb 10

Forgiveness.

The sacrifices under the old covenant brought a reminder of sin, not a remission of sin – big difference!

The blood of God's own Son took care of sin once and for all.

Now because there is no more offering for sin, there's also no more remembrance of sin.

And we can rejoice that we have a righteous standing before God.

That, my friend, is real good news!

April 19th, Sunday: Hebrews 7 - 8

2009-04-16T21:37:00.000+08:00

Heb7

The writer begins to explain the better priesthood of Christ.

And it begins with the better order – the order of Melchizedek.

Jesus Christ is both King and Priest.

And His throne is a throne of grace.

As King He can control circumstances around you.

As Priest He can change attitudes within you.

You'll experience righteousness and peace as you yield to Him..

Because He's a priest forever, He saves forever.

'To the uttermost' means completely, perfectly.

You're secure as long as He lives.

And guess what – He lives forever.

And you can live by the power of His endless life because you're in Christ.

The perfect salvation should lead to a life of growing maturity.

An earthly priesthood can make nothing perfect.

Nor can the Law of God.

Or the sacrifices.

But Jesus can lead you into spiritual maturity as you walk by faith.

He invites you to come to His throne and He understands you better than you understand yourself.

Heb 8

Finality.

There were no chairs in the Jewish tabernacle or temple because the priests' work was never finished.

But Jesus finished the work of redemption and sat down on the throne.

It gives us cause to rejoice.

Reality.

The Jewish priest in the temple minister with copies and shadows, but Christ in heaven ministers in the original sanctuary from which the things on earth were copied.

When you trust Christ you enter a life of reality and you're forever finished with substitutes.

Another cause to rejoice.

Maturity.

The Law of Moses was given to the children of Israel as a tutor to help them grow up and be prepared for their Messiah's coming.

They were like children.

God had to take them by the hand and lead them.

But the new covenant with its heavenly priesthood leads us to spiritual maturity.

God puts His Word in our hearts and transforms our character.

Rejoice and be exceedingly glad!

April 18th, Saturday: Hebrews 5 - 6

2009-04-15T22:35:00.000+08:00

Heb 5

Just as the Jewish high priest was appointed by God, so our great High Priest was appointed by the Father.

And He alone is worthy to serve.

Never allow anyone to come between you and God.

For Christ is the only mediator.

The order of Melchizedek refers to Genesis.

Being from the tribe of Judah, Jesus could not serve as priest on earth but he can serve as Priest in heaven.

He is there ministering for you today right now.

Being perfected.

Jesus had to prepare for His priestly ministry by experiencing the trials His people experience as they walk by faith.

Because of the life He lived, the death that He died – He is able to identify with your needs and give you grace to see you through.

In other words, He understands and He helps.

Being neglected.

The milk of the Word represents the first principles of the Christian life.

That is what Jesus Christ did for us when He was on earth.

The meat of the Word is the teaching – what Jesus is doing for us now in heaven.

His ministry is high priest.

How sad it is when Christians neglect God's Word and stop growing in grace.

Heb 6

The impossible.

The ABCs of the Christian life is important, but they must be a launching pad and not a parking lot.

For the challenge is 'let us go on to maturity.'

If we get sluggish and dull toward the Word, we may fall by the wayside and stop being fruitful.

As long as disobedient believers are bring shame to Christ, it is impossible to bring them to repentance.

And God must deal with them.

The improbable.

The writer did not believe that his readers were in that condition.

Although they did have a long way to go in their Christian experience.

The fruit was there!

The diligence, faith and patience are required to live the Christian life – no doubt about it!

Maturity though is not automatic.

The immutable.

The chapter ends with one of the greatest statements on security found anywhere in Scripture.

God's promise and God's oath assure us that we are His.

And God's character backs up His words.

Instead of drifting, we're anchored heavenward, where Jesus ministers in the very presence of God.

And that anchor will not fail.

You can bet your life on it!

We're anchored so we can make progress.

April 17th, Friday: Hebrews 3 - 4

2009-04-15T22:33:00.001+08:00

Heb 3

Consider Him!

Hebrews focuses on Jesus Christ.

The writer wants us to see Him, consider Him and keep our eyes of faith fixed on Him.

Whenever you're tempted to look at your circumstances, or at yourself – look at Jesus by faith.

And rejoice in His faithfulness.

Obey Him!

The writer uses the failure of Israel as a warning against a hard heart.

How does a believer's heart become hard?

By refusing His words, despising His works and being ignorant of His ways.

Sin is deceitful – you think you're getting away with it!

But all the while, it is hardening your heart and robbing you of blessing.

Believe Him!

The fact the the Jews were delivered from Egypt was no guarantee that they will claim their inheritance.

Because of their unbelief, they fail to enter the land.

An evil heart of unbelief will rob you of what God has planned for you in your Christian life.

So pay attention to God's Word as Paul wrote, 'Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.'

Heb 4

His rest.

3 different rests are in view.

God's Sabbath rest after creation, Israel's victory rest of Canaan, and the believer's rest of faith today.

Israel was delivered from Egypt but a whole generation failed to enter Canaan and claim their promised inheritance.

Why?

Because of their unbelief.

Let us fear.

His sight.

God sees the heart and uses His sword to help us see our true spiritual condition.

Spend time daily reading the Word and meditating on it.

Always applying its truths to your hearts.

One day you would give account to God on what you've done with His words.

So be faithful

His throne.

You see – you cannot claim your inheritance in your own power or wisdom.

But you have a great High Priest who can give you the grace and mercy you need just when you need them.

He lives to intercede for you and to help you do His will.

April 16th, Thursday: Hebrews 1 - 2

2009-04-15T22:31:00.003+08:00

Hebrews 1

God has spoken to us!

What a tremendous statement.

And what a great responsibility it brings to you if you have heard His voice through His Word.

'See that you do not refuse Him who speaks,' it says.

What you do with the Word of God determines what you will enjoy of God's will and claim of your inheritance.

Jesus Christ is the Father's last Word.

In Him, divine revelation is seen and heard in its fullness.

And in Him, God's revelation is complete.

When we see Him, we see the Father.

Through Christ, we understand where everything came from, where it's going, and what keeps it going, and why it's here.

We'll also understand what He has done for us.

He died for us.

Today He's enthroned in glory, ministering to us and for us.

He wants to mature us and teach us how to walk by faith, and empower us by His grace to just do that.

One day He will defeat all His enemies and bring in His righteous Kingdom.

What a Saviour!

Why look for a substitute?

Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the prince of preachers who wrote, 'Other men had the threads of truth, but Christ took the threads and wove them into a glorious robe, put it on and came forth clothed with every truth of God.'

Heb 2

Hear Him!

This is the first of 5 solemn admonitions believers are to pay attention to what God says in His Word.

During Old Testament times, God dealt with those who disobeyed His Word.

In these last days, we have a greater obligation to obey because we have the complete Scriptures and the full revelation of God in Jesus Christ.

Are you serious about what God says to you?

See Him!

There is a world to come and how you live today will help to determine your place in the future kingdom of Christ.

Today we see man fallen in Adam, but by faith we see Christ and His victory.

Because He is glorified, we shall be glorified in Him.

Trust Him!

Persons who trust Christ are God's children, on their way to glory.

The Redeemer has defeated death and the devil.

And He understands how His people feels as they face the temptations and trials of life.

When you come to Him by faith, you come to a sympathetic High Priest who can meet your every need.

So run to Him and trust Him.

April 15th, Wednesday: Titus 3 & Philemon

2009-04-15T22:24:00.001+08:00

Titus 3

We all need frequent reminders.

Remember what you should do.

Christians are citizens of earth as well as citizens of heaven.

And we should be the kind of people described in these 2 brief verses.

Remember what you were.

God has forgotten our sins and we should to.

But it does us good to remember what it was like to be a lost sinner.

And remember what God did for you.

Did you deserve to hear the Gospel and receive the gift of eternal life?

No!

it all happened because of God's kindness, love and grace.

He saved us.

We did not save ourselves.

Cannot save ourselves.

He has washed away our sins.

We stand justified in His sight.

And we face the future confidently because we are the heirs of God.

Remember what God expects of you.

Warren Wiersbe says, 'A major theme in this letter is good works. People who are busy for the Lord simply do not have time for useless arguments.'

Philemon

Providence.

While a prisoner in Rome, Paul met Onesimus, which means 'unprofitable,' - a runaway slave who belonged to Philemon, a friend Paul had led to Christ

Paul won Onesimus to Christ and sent him back to his master in Colosse.

Now the providence of God is quite amazing that Paul and Onesimus should meet in the great city of Rome.

Perhaps Philemon's prayers brought them together.

Friendship.

Paul had so much good to say about Philemon.

He was a beloved friend, a man of faith and love, a refreshing Christian, a praying man, a man who obeyed God's will.

Can your friends say the same things about you?

Reconciliation.

According to Roman law, Onesimus could have been executed for his crimes.

But he had become a brother in Christ.

And Philemon had to forgive him and take him back.

A true reconciliation, my friend, is not cheap.

It never is.

There is a price to pay.

Paul knew this and was willing to pay the price himself.

Can God use you as a reconciler?

Are you willing to pay the price?

April 14th, Tuesday: Titus 1- 2

2009-04-13T00:20:00.001+08:00

Titus 1

Titus wanted another assignment from Paul because he was having a hard time ministering in Crete.

When you feel like quiting, follow the counsel Paul gave to Titus.

Focus on the privileges of ministry.

God declares His truth through dedicated people.

And it is a joy to share the Word with others.

The angels in heaven love to change places with us.

So we should never cease to marvel that God would use us.

Obey the Word.

Sometimes there are problems because unqualified people get into places of leadership.

Or because of places of leadership have not been filled.

The Greek word translated 'set in order' is a medical term that means to set a broken bone.

Well, the church body suffers when we avoid facing and solving serious problems.

And finally, face the enemy.

Perhaps like Timothy, Titus was too timid to confront the enemy.

But it had to be done.

Sound doctrine means healthy doctrine – teaching that contributes to the spiritual health of the church.

Just as a physician must attack infection and disease, so local church leaders must attack false doctrine

Titus 2

Living.

Whether we're young or old, married or single, we are all needed in the local church.

And God has a job for us to do.

One test is spiritual fellowship.

It is the ability to accept and minister to a variety of people.

How we live either blasphemes the Word, or beautifies.

And those who minister should set the example.

Learning.

God's grace not only save us but also teaches us how to live the Christian life.

Those who use God's grace as an excuse for sin have never experienced its saving power.

The same grace that redeems us also renews us – so that we want to obey His Word.

Looking.

What starts with grace will lead to glory.

The return of Jesus Christ to His people is more than a blessed hope.

It is a joyful hope.

It is a unifying hope and a living hope.

And it is a stabilizing hope.

And also a purifying hope.

G. Campbell Morgan wrote, 'I never begin my work in the morning without thinking that perhaps he may interrupt my work and begin His own. I'm not looking for death, I'm looking for Him.'

April 13th, Monday: 2 Timothy 3 - 4

2009-04-13T00:07:00.001+08:00

2 Tim 4

Christ is coming.

In view of this, we must know our task and be faithful to do it.

Apostasy is also coming.

Indeed, it is here now.

Many professed Christians have no ear for the Word of God.

They prefer religious entertainment and sermons that tickle their ears, instead of cut their hearts.

Departure is also coming.

Paul the apostle saw his approaching death as the offering of sacrifice to God, the ending of a difficult race and the gaining of a glorious crown.

This is the victor's crown given to winners at the Greek Olympic games.

And help is coming.

The apostle Paul was greatly disappointed when the people he had ministered to turned away from him, and were ashamed of his bonds.

He asked Timothy to come as soon as possible, and to bring Mark with him.

But best of all – the Lord came to Paul and encouraged him.

No matter what people may do, Jesus will never leave you or forsake you.

April 12th, Sunday: 2 Timothy 1 - 2

2009-04-12T07:41:00.000+08:00

2 Tim 1

Perhaps some of the so-called enemies that attacked Timothy are attacking you, and making you want to give up.

Beware of self-pity.

Timothy was having a hard time in Ephesus and wanted to leave.

Perhaps that caused his tears.

When you start to feel sorry for yourself, remember that others are praying for you.

And that God still honours your faith.

We'll also read about neglect.

Be careful of that in your life.

Timothy had neglected his spiritual life.

And the flame was low on the altar of his heart.

No wonder he needed to exercise himself.

Also watch out for carelessness.

Paul committed the message to Timothy and Timothy's responsibility was to guard it, and share it with others.

Again – the Spirit of God enables us to be faithful.

oct22

2 Tim 2 & 3

God's grace strengthens us and enables us to be faithful teachers and soldiers, athletes, farmers, workers, vessels and servants.

The world looks on us as evil-doers, but we are God's elect, willing to live and die for Jesus Christ.

God's grace enables us to overcome our 3 great enemies: the world, the flesh and the devil.

God's grace enables us to endure hardship.

We fight the Lord's battles, so that we do not deny the Lord.

It helps us do the work to which we were called, the work that we need not be ashamed of.

And deal with the problem of people of whom we are not afraid.

Jonathan Edwards wrote, 'Grace is but glory begun, and glory is but grace perfected.'

April 11th, Saturday: 1 Timothy 5 - 6

2009-04-09T21:59:00.000+08:00

1 Tim 5

What causes problems in churches?

Often it's people not getting along with each other.

Brothers and sisters do not always dwell together in unity, even though it's God's will.

Paul suggests that we treat other people the way we would treat members of our own family

If the older people complain about things – deal with them as you would your father or mother.

And accept the younger believers as brothers and sisters.

This is simply a call to love others as God loves you.

Not everybody who asks for help should receive it.

That's right.

Charity should begin at home and church leaders must exercise discernment, lest they create more problems than they solve.

Sometimes troubles come because we believe reports that cannot be verified,

or we show partiality,

or we make decisions before getting the facts.

Not every church member has a character as good as his or her reputation, so take care.

1 Tim 6

Watch your motives.

Be obedient, so you do not bring reproach on the Word.

Or show disrespect for persons in authority over you.

Never take advantage of fellow believers, rather do all you can to help them.

Watch your attitudes.

Do you enjoy arguing about the Bible?

Then search your heart to see if any of these sinful attitudes are hiding there.

You can never debate people into the kingdom, or into a more sanctified life.

Watch your values.

Are you content with the necessities of life?

Or must God give you luxuries?

God wants you to enjoy His gifts, and employ them for the good of others.

But beware when your heart is set on getting rich.

Watch your testimony.

Know the things you should flee, follow and fight.

And do not confuse them.

When you think it is too difficult to stand up for the Lord – remember how He stood up for you.

Watch your stewardship.

You have a deposit of spiritual truth to guard and invest.

And the enemy wants to take it away from you.

Beware of those who want to give you so-called 'new knowledge,' beyond what God says in His Word.

April 10th, Friday: 1 Timothy 3 - 4

2009-04-09T21:58:00.000+08:00

1 Tim 3

Being a leader of God's people is a serious task.

And no one should accept an office who is not qualified and willing to use that office to help the church.

Watching.

Note the title 'bishop' means overseer, and describes the work of the elder.

It's all outlined in the book of Acts chapter 20.

God's people are like sheep – they need shepherds to watch over them, protect them and lead them.

Pray for your spiritual leaders that they might more and more be what God wants them to be.

Working.

The word 'deacon' means servant.

The deacons assist the elders to carry out the work of the church.

As with the elders, the deacons should be qualified spiritually and set the right example in their homes.

Worshiping.

You know, a church is more than a group of like-minded people who assemble from time to time.

No - the living God is in their midst!

And the truth of God has been deposited with them.

They worship the Son of God who alone is worthy of praise.

Yes - it is a serious thing to be part of a local church.

Let me ask you – do you take it seriously?

1 Tim 4

We are exhorted.

Watch yourself – Satan is at work spreading false doctrine.

He never gives up.

And his ministers are already in the church.

God's servants must preach the truth and fight the devil's lies.

Declaring war may not make us popular, but it will keep us faithful.

We have God's approval.

Exercise yourself.

You see, if believers would put as much effort into the spiritual life as they do their recreation and hobbies – what a difference it would make.

Physical exercise is important, but spiritual exercise is even more essential.

Both discipline and devotion are needed to make a winning athlete and an effective Christian.

So give yourself!

It takes real effort to grow in the Christian life and be successful in Christian service.

God asks for our whole hearted surrender, no matter what the cost.

Ponder these admonitions that Paul wrote to Timothy.

See how they apply in your life.

April 9th, Thursday: 1 Timothy 1 - 2

2009-04-09T21:56:00.001+08:00

1 Tim 1

The work in Ephesus was not easy.

And Timothy wanted a new assignment.

But Paul urged him to stay where he was and get the job done.

The next time you want to abandon your assigned place, consider the arguments Paul gave for Timothy for staying where he was.

Stay at your post, God will empower you as you pray.

Stay there for the work's sake.

What Paul warned the Ephesian elders about, had come true.

Paul's teachers were in the church.

The pastor's job is to warn them and teach the people the truth.

If he abandoned the flock, Timothy would be a hireling and not a shepherd.

And do it for the Lord's sake.

Jesus died to save sinners, and He lives to equip and enable His servants to do the work of the ministry.

The same God who empowered Paul would empower Timothy.

And can empower us today, because God is faithful.

And do it for our own's sake.

You see – God has equipped Timothy, called him and gave him a solemn charge.

There was a battle to fight and he dare not run away.

If we flee the post of duty, we rob ourselves of opportunities to grow, to serve and to glorify God.

When the winds of adversity blows, set your sails in the right direction.

And let Christ handle the rudder.

Otherwise you maybe shipwrecked.

1 Tim 2

What is the most vital ministry in the local church?

Well, according to Paul, it is prayer.

Prayer moves the Hand that govern the world.

We must pray for government leaders that the doors of ministry will be kept open, and souls would be won to Christ.

Because God's people do not pray for people in authority, wars close mission fields, officials do not grant needed visas, and the work of the Lord suffers.

Vance Hafner wrote, 'A good woman is the best thing on earth. Women were last on the cross, and first at the open tomb.'

The church owes a debt to her faithful women which she can never estimate.

Say nothing of the debt we owe in our homes to Godly wives and mothers.

Paul reminds Christian men that Christian women are important to the Lord and the work of the church.

The Gospel brought freedom to the women in the Roman empire, but some of them do not know how to handle it and went to extremes asserting their liberty.

Hence the reminder about the spiritual leadership of the men in the church.

Modesty, true spiritual beauty, godliness and good works – these will characterize the woman God blesses.

April 8th, Wednesday: 2 Thessalonians 2 - 3

2009-04-06T23:27:00.001+08:00

2 Thes 2

Satan wants to shake the saints and make them lose their confidence.

And one of his chief weapons is deception.

As a matter of fact, that's just about the only weapon he has.

Someone claimed to have a letter from Paul saying that the day of the Lord was present, and others said they had messages from the Spirit.

The believers had forgot what Paul had taught them.

So they got trapped by the lies of the enemy.

The times and seasons of God's prophetic plan are in God's hands.

The Spirit of God in this world is keeping God's program on schedule.

You can count on that.

You can believe in that.

Beware the so-called prophets who contradict what God has already said in His Word.

2 Thes 3

Conflict.

Anyone who seeks to live for the Lord will have enemies.

You can count on that.

The weapon we use is prayer.

And the purpose for which we pray is the sharing of the Word of God.

Not everyone in the church at Thessalonica was devoted to the Lord – like our churches today.

But Paul still asks for their prayers.

Confidence.

God's faithfulness to us is the basis for our faithfulness to Him.

If we love Him, He will keep His Word.

And we will be patient in times of trial.

Command.

Warren Wiersbe says the word 'command' means a military order.

Some of the Christian soldiers in the church were breaking rank and disobeying orders.

And Paul had to admonish them.

Those who cannot work must be cared for by others.

But those who will not work must be disciplined.

Never let the bad examples of others keep you from being a good example.

April 7th, Tuesday: 1 Thessalonians 5 - 2 Thess 1

2009-04-06T23:22:00.001+08:00

1 Thes 5

False peace.

The day of the Lord is that time when the Lord will pour out His wrath on the world.

It is coming.

God's people have been saved from wrath, so they need not worry.

But the lost world will be caught at a time when they think they are secure.

You be ready for Christ's coming?

God's people must be sober and live and walk in the light.

Family peace.

The local church fellowship should reflect God's peace.

And it will if God's people obey authority.

Minister to one another and submit to the Spirit of God.

Verse 21 emphasizes the positive, and verse 22 the negative.

And both are important.

Faithful peace.

Holiness and peace go together, for the God who quiets the heart also cleanses the heart.

A disturbed heart is sometimes evidence of unconfessed sin.

God is faithful.

Let Him bring purity and peace to your heart.

2 Thes 1

Along with persecutions on the outside, the church was facing problems on the inside.

Some people were suffering great trials for their faith.

Others had quit working and were idlers.

Still others were harboring the wrong idea that they were experiencing the day of the Lord.

Paul wrote this letter to encourage the suffering, enlighten the confused, and warn the careless.

In times of trial, the essential thing is your faith.

God will see you through.

So trust His promises.

Remember that others are watching you, and you can encourage them.

You may be tempted to fight back.

But leave that to the Lord.

The lost will be eternally separated from God's glory, while the saved will bring glory to the Lord.

Meanwhile, be sure that God is glorified by your life today.

April 6th, Monday: 1 Thess 3 & 4

2009-04-03T23:40:00.001+08:00

1 Thes 4
More and more should be the desire of the dedicated Christian.

More holiness.
Your body belongs to God and His will is that you use it for holy purposes.
Christ purchased your body and the Father has called you to holy living.
Disobey, and the penalties are great.

More love.
We're taught to love by the Father, and the Son, and the Spirit.
Love is the one outstanding and true mark of the true believer.
Love – our God is love.

More quietness.
Now, because they expected the Lord to return any day, some believers had quit their jobs and become idlers and meddlers.
What kind of testimony would this be to the lost?

More hope.
Christians sorrow because God made us to weep.
But it is not the hopeless sorrow of the world.
See – Jesus is coming again.
That means reunion and eternal rejoicing.

April 5th, Sunday: 1 Thess 1 & 2

2009-04-03T23:34:00.001+08:00

1 Thes 1
Paul's description of the believers in Thessalonica suggest that they typify a pretty ideal congregation.
Ask yourself these questions:
Are others thankful for me?
Paul was grateful for their faith, hope and love, and that these Christians and Christian qualities they were showing revealed themselves in work, labour and practice.

Now, can others tell that we belong to God?
Are they thankful for our spiritual growth?
Is God's power seen in my life?
This comes when you receive the Word of the Lord by faith, and allow the Spirit of God to minister to your heart.
This also involves suffering for the Lord and letting Him give you His joy.

Do I make it easier for others to talk about Jesus?
Some believers are such poor examples as Christians that their lives give unbelievers an excuse for rejecting Christ.
But the Thessalonian Christians made it easy for Paul to preach the Gospel.
Their testimony have gone before him and met him wherever he went.

1 Thes 2 & 3
Faithfulness.
Paul's suffering in Philippi might have made him hesitate to minister in Thessalonica, but he was a steward who wanted to be faithful to the Lord.
His message and motive were pure, and God blessed his ministry.
It's better to be approved by God and suffer, than to be applauded by men and prosper.
When you feel like quiting, keep going!

Blamelessness.
How important it is to be good and to be a good example before young believers?
The children do what we do, not what we say.
Does your example as a Christian make it easier for others to grow?
When Jesus comes, will you rejoice in His presence because of people you have influenced for Christ?

April 4th, Saturday: Colossians 3-4

2009-04-02T00:20:00.000+08:00

Col 3
Having laid the doctrinal foundation, Paul now makes the personal application.
For truth is something to live as well to learn.

'Put to death.' he says.
In Christ you've died to the old life and then raised to a new life.
So make the new life the focus of your attention.
Set your mind on it.
Seek to experience all that you can have in Christ.

And then we are to put off.
Like Lazarus, you must get rid of the grave-clothes that belong to the old life.
By faith, put off the old sins that bound you.
Christ has set you free!

And finally put on.
God wants you to wear the grace-clothes, not the grave-clothes.
If your focus is on things heavenly, you will obey God and things on earth, especially in your relationship with others.

Col 4
Praying.
Prayer involves a persevering will, an alert mind and a grateful heart.
Our requests should be specific and related to the ministry of the Word.
Paul asks not for an open prison door, but for an open door for ministry.

Witnessing.
The unsaved are outside the family of God, and it is our task to bring them in.
Effective witness involves walking wisely – being alert to every opportunity and being careful in what we say and how we say it.

Informing.
Paul did not hesitate to share his needs with others, because he depended on their prayer support..
Do you pray for Christian leaders in places of importance?
Well, they need it.

Serving.
Paul names 6 men who were working at his side and encouraging him in the Lord.
See – even an apostle cannot get the job done alone.
And how grateful he was for the saints serving faithfully in Colosse.

April 3rd, Friday: Colossians 1-2

2009-04-02T00:19:00.000+08:00

Col 1
It was a fellow by the name of Ephaphras, one of Paul's converts who founded the church in Colosse.
Paul had never been there personally.
While in prison in Rome, Paul heard that false doctrines were being introduced in the church.
So he wrote this letter to warn the believers and to establish them in their faith.

In Colossians 1, we'll see the hope before you.
These people were going to heaven.
They've heard the Word and trusted the Saviour.
And given evidence of their love for God and God's people.
So God qualified them.
They did not save themselves.

We'll read about the hope beneath you.
Hope is the foundation on which you stand when all else around you is shaking.
The city of Colosse was located at an earthquake area.
So Paul's admonition was especially meaningful to them.
The false teaching and the false teachers wanted the saints to shift their foundation.
But Paul pointed the church to Jesus Christ as Saviour and to the eternal God Creator and to the Head of the church.
What a perfect foundation for your hope!
Your hope is placed in the right foundation.

The hope within you.
You know, heaven is more than a destination.
It is a motivation because Christ lives within.
It is a living hope that affects how we think and act all day long.
Because Christ is within us, we need not fear what is ahead.

Col 2
Paul wrote to the Colossians: 'You must never allow anyone to come between you and Christ. In Him is all wisdom and knowledge, and all the fullness of God.
And you're complete in Him.
So why accept a substitute?'

Let no one deceive you.
Religious systems seems so inviting and their leaders seem so persuasive, aren't they?
But if you follow them, you will substitute man's ideas for God's truth.

Let no one cheat you.
Here the thief is man-made philosophy and tradition – pleasing to the world but rejected by the Lord.
If you have all fullness in Christ, why substitute man's empty philosophies?

And let no one judge you.
Legalism is the robber here.
Stealing your liberty in Christ and making you live by religious regulations instead of by God's grace.

And then let no one defraud you.
Here the culprit is religious mysticism, that replaces spiritual nourishment from Christ with empty but exciting religious experiences.
You have in Christ all that you need.
So beware of substitutes.

April 2nd, Thursday: Philippians 3-4

2009-04-02T00:11:00.002+08:00

Phil 3
Rejoicing.
If you cannot rejoice in your circumstances, you can always rejoice in the Lord who controls your circumstances.
So fix your attention on Him.
He may not change your situation, but He will change you – and that's even better!

Counting.
What's important to you?
You feel you've made sacrifices to follow the Lord?
Paul the apostle did not feel he had lost anything worthwhile by trusting Christ.
Instead he gained everything really worth having.

Reaching.
Christians are like runners who refuse to look around or look back, but keep running with their eyes on the prize, on the goal.
See, to look back at past success or failures, or to look around to see what others are doing or saying is to invite defeat.
Watch out!

Weeping.
This is the only mention of tears in a letter devoted to joy.
Paul wept over professed Christians who lived to please themselves.
Instead of having the mind of Christ, they thought like the world, and these people are with us today of course.

Looking.
Paul looked up and eagerly anticipated the return of the Lord.
Christ has taken care of his past and He would also take care of his future.
And as for Paul's present, his confidence was knowing that He is able!

Phil 4
The message of our ministry is the Gospel of Christ.
The model for our ministry is the example of Christ.
The motive of our ministry is the reward of Christ.
And the means of our ministry is the provision of Christ.
He provides unity when we disagree with our fellow Christians.
And peace when we're prone to worry.
If we pray as we ought to pray and think as we ought to think, the peace of God will guard us.
And the God of peace will go with us.
He provides the power we need for life and service.
And the material needs we have as well.
Paul did not have a wealthy organization giving him support.
But he did have a great God who enabled generous friends to meet his needs.
Paul saw their gifts as a fragrant sacrifice to the Lord and he rejoiced in the Lord for what they did.

April 1st, Wednesday: Philippians 1- 2

2009-03-31T13:37:00.001+08:00

Phil 1

Paul writes, 'For me to live is Christ.'

But he did more than write that statement – he lived it!

Jesus Christ is mentioned 18 times in this chapter and is seen involved in many aspects of Paul's life.

We'll read about his friends.

Paul loved the saints in Philippi.

He thought about them, pray for them, and longed to see them.

Christ made this fellowship possible.

We'll read about his circumstances.

He was a prisoner not of Rome, but of Jesus Christ.

And his chains were in Christ.

Paul was practicing what he was preaching and it worked.

You think first of Christ when circumstances are difficult?

Put him first even at the hard times of life.

We'll read about his future as well.

Paul's life was definitely in danger.

If he lost the trial, he could be killed as an enemy of Rome.

But listen – when Christ is your life, death is not your enemy.

And you have the assurance to being with Christ when this life ends.

Phil 2

We'll read about his enemies.

When you suffer, you suffer for Christ's sake.

And you need not fear your enemies.

The vital thing is that God's people unite in Christ and oppose the enemy, not one another.

Look out – Christ is the model for Christians and the life that we live and the service because He thought first of others, not of Himself.

He's our model.

Do you look out for the interest of others?

Or do you only think of yourself?

Be honest!

Do you have the servant attitude of Jesus Christ – willing to sacrifice for others?

Will you empty yourself that others might be filled?

We'll read about being poured out.

The image is that of a drink offering poured out on the altar.

Paul was willing to pour out his very life for the sake of the Lord and His church, and to do it joyfully.

Timothy and Ephaproditus had the same attitude of service and sacrifice - giving themselves for others.

FB Myer wrote, 'I used to think God's gifts were on shelves one above the other. And the taller we grew in Christian character, the more easily we could reach those shelves. I now find that God's gifts are one shelves one beneath the other. And it's not a question of growing taller, but of stooping lower to serve others.'

March 31st, Tuesday: Ephesians 5- 6

2009-03-31T13:36:00.000+08:00

Eph 5

As he encourages us to live Godly lives, Paul takes us to the temple and reminds us of the sacrifice Jesus made for us.

If we walk in love, our lives will be living sacrifices, a fragrance to the Lord which is pleasing.

Sin is ugly and a stench in God's nostril.

Then Paul goes to the field and reminds us that walking in the light produces spiritual fruit.

If we walk in the light, we cannot have fellowship with the darkness.

And he also takes us to the marketplace and exhorts us to be like good merchants, who know how to buy up an opportunity.

You see, when you walk in wisdom, you use your time wisely.

And then we follow him to the banqueting hall and learn to walk in the Spirit and be joyful, thankful and submissive to one another.

Eph 6

Spirit-ful Christians will manifest Christ-likeness in the home, on the job and on the battlefield of life.

Listen – the bottomline here is that if we don't learn to obey at home, we're not likely to be obedient on the job, or in the army of the Lord.

In the same way, if we've not learned to take orders, we will not be too successful at giving orders, either as parents or as employers.

The danger in the home is parents who are authoritarian, but do not exercise loving spiritual authority.

The danger on the job is the employee who's a clockwatcher and does not obey from the heart, and the boss who forgets he is second in command and must one day give an account to the Lord.

And the danger on the battlefield is that we do not take the enemy seriously and so fail to put on the full armour.

By faith you put on the armour through prayer, which must be done at the beginning of everyday.

Hey, have you got your armour on right now?

Listen – never underestimate the strategy and strength of the devil!

March 30th, Monday: Ephesians 3- 4

2009-03-31T13:35:00.002+08:00

Eph 3

The purpose for this reason.

Refers to what Paul wrote at the end of chapter 2 – the building of the church.

Now that was the reason behind his praying and his ministry.

Jesus said, 'I will build my church.'

But He uses people – you and me to help get the job done.

Is the building of the church your motivation to pray and serve?

And the word 'Gentiles' put Paul in prison.

God gave him a special commission to evangelize to the Gentiles and to explain to Jews and Gentiles, God's mystery, sacred secret in Christ.

Believing Jews and Gentiles are one and share the same spiritual riches.

He builds His church in this world.

God is putting things together.

Are you helping Him?

Are you involved?

Prayer.

This prayer is for spiritual vision – to see and lay hold of the greatness of God's love and power.

God wants you to be concerned about the whole building, the whole family that is, the whole body and all the saints.

Is narrowness in your life leading to shallowness and weakness?

Eph 4

To give place to the devil is to allow unconfessed sin in your life that gives opportunity for Satan to take over.

Some sins to avoid are discussed here.

One is disunity.

Believers are all one in Christ Jesus.

But we must endeavour to make that spiritual unity a practical reality in our daily lives.

Satan uses people who like to have their own way.

We'll also learn about immaturity.

Spiritual birth must lead to spiritual growth as we become more like Jesus Christ.

If we are maturing in Christ, we'll show it by being able to speak the truth in love.

Satan is a liar and a murderer.

And have a difficult time being successful when believers practice truth and love and unity.

And we'll also read about impurity.

You've been set free from the old life.

So why live in those old sins anymore.

Anything evil from the old life that is brought into the new life will give the devil a beachhead.

Paul names such things as lying, losing your temper, stealing, corrupt speech, bitterness and an unforgiving spirit.

These sins invites Satan into your life.

And they hurt you, they harm the church and grieve the Spirit of God.

Is it worth it?

Of course not!

March 29th, Sunday: Ephesians 1- 2

2009-03-31T13:35:00.001+08:00

Eph 1

Salvation being from God.

Man does not save himself, for salvation is of the Lord.

You receive spiritual blessings from the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.

And in Jesus, you have all you need for life and service.

Salvation being all of grace.

Paul emphasizes this point throughout the letters, especially in chapter 2:1-10.

Grace is God's favour bestowed on people who do not and cannot deserve it.

Salvation is for God's glory.

God saves sinners not to solve their problems but to bring glory to Himself.

The church will glorify Him for all eternity.

Salvation reveals God's greatness.

Ask God to open your spiritual eyes to see the greatness of His power.

You know, He will!

Jesus is alive and He has conquered every enemy.

You may draw on His power to meet every need in life.

Eph 2

Death to life.

Lost sinners are not simply sick people needing help.

No.

They are dead people needing life.

The Son of God died that we might receive life through faith in Him.

We move from bondage to freedom.

Lost sinners are in bondage to the world, the flesh and the devil, and cannot free themselves.

In Christ, you have true freedom.

Now God is working in you and through you to accomplish His great purposes.

Tomb to the throne.

God did not give you life and leave you in the cemetery.

He lifted you up to sit on the throne with His victorious Son.

Separation to reconciliation.

In Jesus Christ, believing Jews and Gentiles are now one.

The barriers have been removed.

The believers are members of one body, citizens of one holy nation and living stone in one temple.

All of this is of God – His marvelous love and His grace and kindness.

No wonder Paul opened this letter with a doxology.

March 28th, Saturday: Galatians 5- 6

2009-03-25T23:51:00.001+08:00

Gal 5

Are you standing free?

Your freedom in Christ is a costly thing.

It cost Jesus His life.

In Him you stand free.

The yoke of the Law has been removed.

Are you falling?

The fall from grace does not mean to lose one's salvation.

It means to move out of the sphere of grace into the sphere of law.

It means to substitute regulations for a personal relationship with the Lord.

Are you running on course?

Or false teaching has got you on a detour of some kind?

Are you being leavened?

Jesus used leaven to picture sin.

Like yeast, false teaching is introduced quietly.

It grows secretly, and soon it affects every part of your life.

Are you serving others?

Freedom brings with it the responsibility to serve.

Love motivates us to fulfill the law of God.

Are you walking in the Spirit?

Life, not law, changes behaviour.

As you yield to the Spirit, Christ's life is manifested in the fruit of the Spirit.

Law works by compulsion from without, but grace works by compassion from within.

Gal 6

We'll be able to see others humbly.

You know, your response to another's fall reveals your own walk - whether it's spiritual or not.

Pride will make it impossible for you to help the fallen.

But humility will bring blessing to you and them.

You'll see yourself honestly in this passage of Scripture.

Do you use somebody's fall to make yourself look better?

Or do you know yourself, accept yourself, and seek to please God alone?

You'll be able to see leaders appreciatively.

When you give to others whose ministry blesses you, you're sowing seed that will bear fruit.

When you use your resources for sinful purposes you sow to the flesh and will reap a sad harvest.

You'll see the cross clearly.

The false teachers wanted the world's praise, so they avoided the cross.

But the true believer will glory in the cross, even if it means suffering the world's enmity.

March 28th, Saturday: Galatians 5- 6

2009-03-25T23:51:00.000+08:00

Gal 5

Are you standing free?

Your freedom in Christ is a costly thing.

It cost Jesus His life.

In Him you stand free.

The yoke of the Law has been removed.

Are you falling?

The fall from grace does not mean to lose one's salvation.

It means to move out of the sphere of grace into the sphere of law.

It means to substitute regulations for a personal relationship with the Lord.

Are you running on course?

Or false teaching has got you on a detour of some kind?

Are you being leavened?

Jesus used leaven to picture sin.

Like yeast, false teaching is introduced quietly.

It grows secretly, and soon it affects every part of your life.

Are you serving others?

Freedom brings with it the responsibility to serve.

Love motivates us to fulfill the law of God.

Are you walking in the Spirit?

Life, not law, changes behaviour.

As you yield to the Spirit, Christ's life is manifested in the fruit of the Spirit.

Law works by compulsion from without, but grace works by compassion from within.

Gal 6

We'll be able to see others humbly.

You know, your response to another's fall reveals your own walk - whether it's spiritual or not.

Pride will make it impossible for you to help the fallen.

But humility will bring blessing to you and them.

You'll see yourself honestly in this passage of Scripture.

Do you use somebody's fall to make yourself look better?

Or do you know yourself, accept yourself, and seek to please God alone?

You'll be able to see leaders appreciatively.

When you give to others whose ministry blesses you, you're sowing seed that will bear fruit.

When you use your resources for sinful purposes you sow to the flesh and will reap a sad harvest.

You'll see the cross clearly.

The false teachers wanted the world's praise, so they avoided the cross.

But the true believer will glory in the cross, even if it means suffering the world's enmity.

March 27th, Friday: Galatians 3- 4

2009-03-25T23:49:00.000+08:00

Gal 3 & 4

Examination.

It does us good to examine ourselves to make sure our spiritual experience is valid.

Do you have the Spirit living within?

If you began in the Spirit (which by the way is the only way to begin), are you now trying to continue in the power of the flesh?

We can get offtrack if our communication with the Lord is not continued each day.

Like Abraham, were you saved by faith?

And are you now like Abraham, walking by faith?

Explanation.

The Judaizers wanted the Galatians to go back to Moses.

But that is not far enough, we must go back to Abraham, where the promise started.

You see, the Law did not annul the promise.

The Law was given to reveal sin and prepare the way for Christ to come and fulfill the promise.

The law is a tutor, not a saviour.

A mirror, not a cleanser.

Exhortation.

Beware of false Gospel – robs you of salvation and of membership in the family of God, where all believers are one in Christ.

It robs you of your spiritual riches as an heir of the promise.

Are you rejoicing in the freedom you have in Christ?

March 26th, Thursday: Galatians 1- 2

2009-03-25T23:47:00.000+08:00

Gal 1

To Paul, the Gospel is much more than a message he preached – it was a miracle he had experienced himself!

The Gospel is the power of God to salvation and it brings freedom.

You see, Christ died that He might deliver us.

When Paul trusted Christ, he became a free man!

The shackles of sin and legalistic religion were broken.

But the Gospel was also a treasure that Paul guarded.

Paul did not invent the Gospel or learn it from others – God gave it to him.

There is no other Gospel.

To dilute this Message or substitute another message is to destroy it.

No wonder Paul attacked those who attack the Gospel.

Because when you lose the Gospel, my friend, you lose everything.

The Gospel is a tie that binds God's people together.

Saul the enemy became Paul the brother.

And he was able to fellowship with people he once had persecuted – only the Spirit of God could do that.

Christians may disagree on minor matters of interpretation and organization, but they agree on the message of the Gospel.

Paul Reese wrote, 'The Gospel is neither a discussion, nor a debate – it is an announcement!'

Gal 2

The runner,

Paul saw himself as a man running a race.

And he was absolutely certain he was on the right track and headed for the right goal.

The Judaizers were trying to move the church into bondage and get them on a detour course.

The steward.

God has committed the Gospel to His people.

And we must guard it and share it with others.

God is not looking for popular celebrities, He is looking for faithful stewards.

The watchmen.

Paul was not afraid to confront the apostle Peter when Peter moved away from the truth of the Gospel.

'Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty' said Wendell Phillips, and that applies to our spiritual liberty as well.

March 25th,Wednesday: 2 Corinthians 12- 13

2009-03-22T23:47:00.000+08:00

2 Cor 12

Permission.

Just as God permitted Satan to test Job and Peter, so He permitted Satan to attack Paul.

God wanted to keep Paul humble after his exciting visit to heaven.

In the loving will of God, suffering has a purpose that can be fulfilled in no other way.

Accept it, and it will become a heavenly blessing.

Fight it, and it will become a heavy burden.

Prayer.

Like our Lord in Gethsemane, Paul prayed three times for God to deliver him.

But the Lord did not answer that prayer as Paul wanted.

However God did meet the need and gave His servant the grace he required.

Paul did not simply make the best of it.

No, he made the most of it!

And grace – God's empowering presence can do that for you as well.

Perplexity.

Paul was more concerned about the sins of the saints than about his own physical problems.

Like a loving father, he wanted to go to Corinth and enjoy his dear children.

But they were forcing him to discipline them.

Yet even discipline is an evidence of love.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote, 'We must form our estimate of men less from their achievements and failures, and more from their sufferings.'

2 Cor 13

As Paul planned his trip to Corinth, envision the different kinds of people he would meet there.

The disobedient – that is one group.

Why would God's people wanted to disobey Him and create problems for Paul and grief for the Lord, not to speak of problems for their church?

Disobedient children must be dealt with.

And Paul intended to be a faithful and loving father.

Another group was the disqualified.

Some church members have never been born again.

And that is why they create problems.

Paul urges us to examine our hearts to be sure we're in the faith.

And the other group was the devoted.

These are the true believers – the true brothers and sisters in the Lord.

The 'set apart ones', the saints, the people who love one another and promote the peace and purity of the church.

They are the mature ones in the fellowship who encourage spiritual growth.

To which of these 3 groups do you belong?

March 24th,Tuesday: 2 Corinthians 10 - 11

2009-03-22T23:46:00.000+08:00

2 Cor 10

Satan seeks to blind minds to God's light. fortify minds against God's truth, and seduce minds from God's love.

Paul gives some practical counsel for victory in spiritual warfare.

1. Be Christlike.

Boldness must be balanced with meekness.

For God's power is experienced in humility.

Satan is our enemy, not people held by his power.

2. Use spiritual weapons.

See Paul may have in mind Joshua's victory at Jericho when the walls came tumbling down because of Israel's faith.

Be sure you're wearing your whole armour.

3. Keep your eyes on the Lord.

That the Corinthians accused Paul of inconsistency gave Satan an opportunity to work in their lives.

4. Accept the sphere of service God gives you.

Every Christian soldier has a place to fill.

If we're all following His orders, the church will win the battle.

5. Remember to seek God's glory alone.

How can we boast in victories that God alone can give?

Well Paul quoted Jeremiah 9:24 to remind us where the glory belongs.

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2 Cor 11

Paul compares himself to a father with obligations to his spiritual children.

There is protection.

Spiritual leaders must protect the church from false teachers, who are like suitors trying to seduce the church from devotion to Christ.

Beware losing your love for Christ and for those who helped you trust the Saviour.

Provision.

Paul had the right to receive financial support at Corinth.

But he laid it aside and sacrificed for them in love.

They did not appreciate it.

But do you appreciate the sacrifices others make for you?

Are you willing to sacrifice for others?

Even when they do not thank you?

Suffering.

Paul mentioned his sufferings only to defend the Gospel and the authority of his ministry.

The false teachers bragged about their triumphs, but Paul boasted about his trials.

William Temple wrote, 'The principle of sacrifice is that we choose to do or to suffer what apart from our love, we would not choose to do or suffer.'

When love is returned, the sacrifice is the most joyful thing in the world and heaven is the life of joyful sacrifice.

But in a selfish world, it must be painful.

And the pain is the source of triumph.

March 23rd, Monday: 2 Corinthians 8 - 9

2009-03-22T23:44:00.001+08:00

2 Cor 8 - 9

Chapters 8 & 9 focused on the offering Paul is taking for the needy believers in Judea.

The Corinthian church had agreed to share in the collection but had been remiss in doing so.

Paul had to remind them of their promise, and at the same time explain some principles of Christian giving.

It begins with surrender to the Lord.

And it requires faith.

A thousand ways to please God, not one without faith.

The example of the manna in Exodus shows that God always provides what we need.

Bottomline – God's promises can be trusted!

Faithfulness is required of those who handle the Lord's money.

They should be dedicated and faithful - making certain that everyone is honest and honourable.

It is a testimony to others.

A year before, the zeal of the Corinthians had stirred others to give.

Now Paul had to stir up the Corinthians.

We must not give to be praised by people.

But we also must be good examples before others.

If we make promises - we should keep them.

Things must be done gladly – especially giving.

If you want spiritual enrichment from your giving, you must practise enjoyment and be glad for opportunities to give.

Look at God's promises to faithful givers.

How can you lose?

George Sweeding wrote, 'For the Macedonian churches, giving was not a chore but a challenge. Not a burden but a blessing. Giving was not something to be avoided, but a privilege to be desired.'

March 22nd, Sunday: 2 Corinthians 6 - 7

2009-03-20T00:18:00.000+08:00

2 Cor 6

Acceptance.

Often those in the church who cause problems, are people who have never truly been born again.

They may think that they're saved, but they are not.

NOW is the time to accept God's grace.

Tomorrow maybe too late.

Appreciation.

It's easy to forget the sacrifices others have made so that we can know the Lord.

Paul never spoke about his sufferings unless his words helped to protect the ministry.

Do you take your church fellowship for granted?

Have you thanked those who came before you, and made it possible?

Agreement.

Dr Edmund Lewis Cole said that, 'Agreement is the place of power.'

Believers in the church were compromising with the world, and not walking in a separated way.

Big mistake!

God longs to have a close fellowship with us.

But He will not share the yoke with the world.

2 Cor 7

We have to be cleansed.

It's one thing to ask God to cleanse you.

And quite something else to cleanse yourself and put away things that defile.

Separation sometimes demands surgery.

The same people who give you joy can also cause you sorrow.

When Titus reported that the church had disciplined the offender, the apostle was overjoyed.

Have you ever been the answer to someone else's prayers, as Titus was?

Clearing.

Listen if you're serious about repentance.

We will do everything we can to clear things up.

Remorse and regret do not go far enough.

There must be repentance followed by restitution.

Caring.

Both Paul and Titus cared about the believers in Corinth.

And this love finally won the day.

It's true you do take a risk when you love others, for they may hurt you.

But it's worth the risk to be like Jesus Christ, and live a life of love.

March 21st, Saturday: 2 Corinthians 4 - 5

2009-03-20T00:15:00.000+08:00

2 Cor 4

The glory of salvation.

Unlike the legalist who have invaded the church, Paul had nothing to hide.

The Jewish religious system veiled the Gospel.

But Paul sought to reveal the Gospel.

The image is taken from Genesis 1 and transferred from the old creation to the new creation.

The glory of service.

Paul paid a price for his ministry.

But the legalist went about collecting honours.

We are vessels.

The treasure of the gospel life within is important.

As vessels we must be clean and available for his use.

The glory of suffering.

Jesus suffered and turned that into glory.

By faith we can do the same thing.

It's not wrong to care for the outward person, so long that you recognize that it's perishing.

Concentrate on the inner person.

It's the invisible that is imperishable.

The best is yet to come!

2 Cor 5

We know!

This building is our new body that we'll receive when we see the Lord – because God saves the whole person.

We know that.

And then we groan.

Creation is groaning and God's people also groan – yearning for the Lord Jesus to come again.

We do not want to die and leave our 'houses.'

We want these bodies to be clothed with the glory of God from heaven.

Paul longed to see Jesus come in his lifetime.

And we're confident.

God's Word gives us the truth about death and beyond.

And God's Spirit guarantees God's children will go to heaven.

We claim this by faith and walk with confidence.

And what peace it gives!

And we aim to please Him.

Paul's spiritual motivation for service include the judgment seat of Christ, the love Christ, the power of the Gospel and the Commission of the Lord.

So the question for you and me – 'What motivate us to do His will?'

March 20th, Friday: 2 Corinthians 2 - 3

2009-03-20T00:13:00.001+08:00

2 Cor 2

Feelings.

From a heart of love touched with pain, Paul wrote a severe letter to the church, hoping to correct the problem.

He brought grief to his dear friends and that brought grief to Paul.

But they had disciplined the man who had caused the trouble.

You see, Paul was not afraid to share his feelings with others.

When you are out of touch with your feelings, you are out of touch with reality.

Forgiveness.

In Warren Wiersbe's Bible commentary, he said, 'When sinners truly repent, we should forgive them and reaffirm our love to them. Otherwise they might become discouraged and give Satan an opportunity to accuse and attack.'

Love does not condone sin.

But it does cover sin when God has washed it away.

Fragrance.

Paul described a Roman triumph - the official parade given to a victorious general when he returned to Rome.

The incense carried by the priest meant life to the Roman soldiers, but death to the prisoners who would end up in the arena with the wild animals.

You know Christ has conquered and we're privileged to march in His triumphal procession,.

2 Cor 3

The legalist who caused trouble in both Antioch and Jerusalem had come to Corinth and had enticed some of the believers into living by the law of Moses.

Paul refuted their position by showing the wonders of the new covenant ministry.

The background is Exodus chapter 34.

Change hearts is the new covenant.

The Law only revealed sin.

It cannot renew the inner person.

The Spirit wants to write a new version of His Word on your heart.

Will you let Him?

Warren Wiersbe says it gives life.

The Law kills but grace gives life and sustains that life.

God's children have a living relationship with Him through the Spirit of life.

By the way, it gets more and more glorious.

The glory of the law is gone. The Temple, the priesthood, the ceremonies and the awesome revelation of God's power – it's all gone.

But the glory of God's grace remains and grows more and more glorious.

And it brings freedom!

The law brings bondage, but grace gives glorious freedom, that makes us more and more like Jesus Christ.

Each day, you can have your own personal transfiguration, as you worship the Lord and yield to the Spirit.

March 19th, Thursday: 1 Corinthians 16 - 2 Cor 1

2009-03-20T00:11:00.002+08:00

1 Cor 16
Love for the needy.
These instructions concern the offering Paul was taking up from the churches to help the needy believers in Judea.
The principles involved may be applied to Christian giving in general.
Our giving should be voluntary, in proportion to God's blessing, systematic and handled honestly.

Love for leaders.
We have the privilege of encouraging God's work as we pray for His servants.
Even men like Paul, Timothy and Apollos needed the help and encouragement of God's people.
Are you praying for leaders?

Love for the church.
Love, steadfastness and submission make for a strong church.
When you have people who are devoted to the work of the Lord, people who refresh you in the Lord – well, God is going to bless them!
And you're gonna be blessed in the process.
What a joy to be a part of a church family that ministers in love.

Love for Christ.
'O come, Lord come!' is a prayer that reveals Paul's daily anticipation of the return of the Lord.
He made his plans included the blessed hope.
Do you love Him and love His appearing?

March 18th, Wednesday: 1 Corinthians 14-15

2009-03-17T00:05:00.001+08:00

1 Cor 14

Why go to church?

God's people assemble for one purpose – worship God.

They worship Him by their praying and singing, teaching and preaching.

Worship should result in glory to God, blessings for God's people, and fear and conviction for sinners.

But for these things to happen, Jesus Christ must be Lord of our lives.

And we must yield to the Holy Spirit.

If we come to church to display our spirituality, we'll not only missed the blessings ourselves, but also cause others to miss the blessing.

You see, we come to honour Him, not show ourselves off.

A key word in this chapter is edification, which means 'building up'.

A worship service should lift up the Lord and build up the saints, not puff up the participants.

1 Cor 15

We have a living Lord.

Jesus is alive and the Gospel message is true.

Witnesses who saw Him have passed along their testimony to us.

When you trust Him you receive resurrection life, eternal life!

Death can hold you no more.

We have a living hope.

Jesus Christ will come again.

And the dead in Christ will be raised.

We will have glorified bodies like Christ's body.

Now keep in mind that resurrection is not reconstruction.

God does not reassemble the original body that has turned to dust.

Like fruits and flowers from the planted seed, the glorified body is related to the planted body, but quite different from it.

We have a living dynamic.

See, we have no reason to give up, because Jesus has conquered sin and death.

If you really believe in the resurrection and return of Jesus, well this will characterize your life.

The best is yet to come, so let us give Him our best now - right now, today!

March 17th, Tuesday: 1 Corinthians 12-13

2009-03-17T00:03:00.001+08:00

1 Cor 12

Overview of this chapter

The Corinthian believers were specially gifted by God.

But some of them were creating problems by using their spiritual gifts in unspiritual ways.

Paul reminded those people of three basic truths.

There is one Lord.

The Spirit glorifies Christ, not Himself.

The Spirit gives us gifts so that we can serve Christ and His church for the profit of all, and not for our own selfish enjoyment.

Have you discovered what the Spirit has given you?

Have you thanked God for it?

And are you using your gifts under Christ's Lordship?

There is one Body.

As members of the same body, we belong to one another and we need one another.

The believers you think you can do without are maybe the ones you need the most.

We must minister to one another and care for one another as one body.

There is one danger.

Where a part of your physical body declares independence from the other parts, it starts to die.

And you have to visit the doctor.

Division in the local church brings weakness and pain, because no Christian can go it alone and be successful.

You thank God for fellow Christians and seek to care for them?

None understand better the nature of real distinction than those who have entered into unity.

1 Cor 13

A very famous chapter in the Bible.

This so-called hymn to love was Paul's prescription for solving the sickness in the church body in Corinth.

The believers have spiritual gifts, but they lack spiritual graces and needed to be reminded why love is so important in the Christian life.

Love puts quality into service.

When you have love, your words and actions amount to something and they actually help other people.

Love also puts maturity into character.

The Corinthians were impatient with each other, suing each other, tolerating sin in the church, and creating problems, because they did not have love.

See, whatever qualities you may have, they are nothing without love.

That's why Christ said, 'Apart from me, (the God who is love,) you can do nothing.'

See, love puts eternity into life.

Love lasts.

And what love does, will lasts.

Love is the greatest and does the greatest because God is love.

March 16th, Monday: 1 Corinthians 10-11

2009-03-17T00:01:00.001+08:00

1 Cor 10

if you insist on using your rights, you may cause a weaker believer to stumble.

And you may also bring trouble on yourself.

When you face difficult decisions, take some of these factors into consideration – factors like God's blessing.

The parallel to God's people today is obvious.

We've been redeemed from the world, identified with Jesus Christ and nourished by spiritual food and drink, but these blessings are no guarantee that we would be successful.

Another factor is God's judgment.

When Israel sinned, God disciplined them and He would do the same to His people today.

Do you practise and tolerate in your life any of the sins that are named here?

You know, God gave His children freedom, but the freedom to sin is definitely not included.

Another factor is God's promise.

God knows how much we can take and provides the way of escape.

Sometimes the smartest thing we can do is just to flee.

Always look for the open door and the blessing on the other side.

And the final factor is God's glory.

Two extremes must be avoided – practicing license in the name of Christian freedom, and being so fussy that we cannot live in a real world and make rational decisions.

When you seek to edify others and glorify the Lord, you will know what to do.

Hey, when you flee from temptation, be sure you do not leave a forwarding address behind

1 Cor 11

Some matters discussed in this chapter may have only local significance, but the spiritual principles apply to us today.

When it comes to sharing and public worship, we must ask ourselves some serious questions.

One of those questions is 'Do I dishonour authority?'

We got to be careful not to dishonour the Lord no matter what the cultural standards may be.

God has established headship in creation and in the church.

And He intends for us to respect it.

Do I despise the church?

We're one in Christ and in love must honour one another.

That's one of the lessons we will learn in this chapter.

By the way they ate their love feast, the rich embarrassed the poor and brought shame to the church.

Do I discern the bodies?

When we need to celebrate the communion service, we must examine ourselves and not one another.

And we must be honest with the Lord as we confess our sins.

We discern His body in the bread but we also discern it in the members of the church who eat with us.

The Lord's Supper is a family feast.

While it must be personal, it must not become so individual that it becomes selfish.

It should be a means of promoting the unity of the church.

March 15th, Sunday: 1 Corinthians 8-9

2009-03-16T23:29:00.000+08:00

1Cor 8

Life is controlled by conscience.

Conscience is the judge within that commends us for doing right and condemns us for doing wrong.

If we sin against our conscience, we do terrible damage to the inner person.

Conscience is strengthened by knowledge.

Your spiritual knowledge can either a weapon to hurt people or a tool to build people.

Love knows when and how to yield to others without compromising the truth.

William Cowper wrote, 'Knowledge is proud that he has learned so much. Wisdom is humble that he knows no more.'

1 Cor 9

You know, we do not have the right to give up our freedom – well, that was purchased by Christ.

But we do have the freedom to give up our rights.

For the sake of winning the lost, Paul gave up his right to receive financial support.

And he begged the Corinthians to give up their rights for the sake of the saved.

Christian ministry is like fighting a war.

Caring for a vine, a vineyard, tending a flock, and cultivating a field – meditate on these images and see what they teach you about serving the Lord.

Ministry is stewardship, and the servant must be faithful.

Ministers of Christ are also like runners who must keep the rules or be disqualified.

A few of these verses calls for courtesy and wisdom in witness, not for compromise.

“I have become all things to all men.” does not mean Paul had no personal convictions. No, not at all.

It means he used his convictions to build bridges, not walls.

If he seemed inconsistent. It was only because people did not look deep enough.

His one overriding and great desire was to win the lost – and that governed his every decision.

It was Howard W. Newton who wrote, 'Tact is the art of making a point without making an enemy.'

March 14th, Saturday: 1 Corinthians 6-7

2009-03-13T23:14:00.001+08:00

1 Cor 6

Not only were the Corinthians believers compromising with the world, but they were also losing their testimony before the world by taking each other to court before pagan judges.

So the apostle Paul repeatedly asked, “Do you not know?”

They were ignorant of some basic truths of the Christian life.

Some of those truths were, “We will judge angels.”

If God entrusts that great responsibility to His people, can't He help us with our petty decisions today?

Can't He help solve our disagreements today?

We have been changed.

We were not what we once were.

So why should we live as we once lived?

It is a matter of not what is lawful, but of what is helpful.

That is important because we belong to the Lord.

He made the human body.

He dwells in believers by His Spirit.

And He purchased us at the cross.

The believer's body belongs to God and must be used to glorify Him.

1 Cor 7

Marriage is a gift and not everybody has the same gift.

Some people have more self control than others.

People remain unmarried for different reasons.

And each one must know the will of God.

Marriage is in fact a ministry.

He addressed people who had been converted after marriage, and who wondered if they should remain with their unsaved spouses.

“Yes!” said Paul - because you might win them to Christ!

But even Christian spouses can have a wonderful ministry to each other as they grow in the Lord and love each other.

Marriage is a calling.

When you become a Christian, that does not annul which you were before you trusted Christ

Jews are still Jews.

Slaves are still slaves.

And married people are still married.

But now with the Lord's help, you can now fulfill that calling in a greater way.

Marriage is a challenge.

Paul does not deny the blessings of marriage, but he does remind us of the burdens that marriage can bring, especially when times are tough.

Building your Christian home is a great ministry.

But nobody should enter into it lightly or carelessly.

It's been said that success in marriage involves much more than finding the right mate.

It also requires being the right mate.

March 13th, Friday, 1 Corinthians 4&5

2009-03-09T23:39:00.001+08:00

1 Cor 4
Life is a stewardship, so be faithful.
We judge ourselves and others judge us.
But the final judge is the Lord.
So live to please Him alone.

Life is a gift, so be humble.
Your abilities and blessings come from God – you cannot take credit for them.
They're God's gift to you, and your use of them is your gift to God.
It is sinful to contrast various Christian workers, because only God knows their hearts.

Life is a battle, so be courageous.
If the apostles who were the greatest Christians who ever lived – and they were the filth and the scum of the earth, where did that leave the boasting Corinthians?

Life is also a school, so be teachable.
Paul saw himself as a father in the Lord who had to instruct and discipline his children.
Our Father in heaven uses many hands and voices to teach us.
And we must be willing pupils as we go through life.

1 Cor 5
Separation.
The background of the chapter is the Passover Feast.
The presence of the immoral man should have turned the feast into a funeral.
But the church was boasting about the sinner instead of weeping over him.
Tolerating known sin in the church is like putting leaven into the Passover Feast – it does not belong.

Celebration.
Paul saw the Christian life as keeping the feast – that is feeding on Christ, being ready to move, and being sure we're not defiled by sin.
The Lamb has set us free, and we're on our way to our promised inheritance.

Isolation.
Sin in the life of the believer is far worse than sin in the life of the unbeliever.
We cannot isolate ourselves from the world.
But we can separate ourselves from disobedient believers, so that God can discipline them.