Sexual Purity Matters - Genesis 2:18-25; Proverbs 5:15-20; Romans 13:11-14 - January 29,2006

Sunday School Lesson – Sexual Purity Matters – January 29, 2006

This is our last lesson in our study of “Things That Matter.”

We have studied:
Work Matters
Money Matters
Life Matters
Character Matters
And today we study that Sexual Purity Matters

We could add many more things that matter to our list such as family matters, relationship matters, obedience matters, making good decisions matters, etc.

The most important thing that matters is asking CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our life and be born into HIS family through the miracle of rebirth in the spirit.

The next most important thing that matters is to allow THE HOLY SPIRIT to control our life and help us build a loving intimate relationship with GOD, our FATHER through our relationship with CHRIST.

Today let’s examine sexual purity. Sexual purity is important in preventing us from adulterating our relationship with CHRIST and opening ourselves to the evil spirit world around us.

Matthew 5:28 – JESUS puts sexual purity into perspective:

28 But I tell you, everyone who looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

JESUS tells us it is not just the physical act but also includes our thought life. We must keep our thought life pure.

Paul makes it clear in 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 about joining ones self to another:
Glorifying God in Body and Spirit
12 “Everything is permissible for me,”[3] The words in quotation marks are most likely slogans used by some Corinthian Christians. Paul evaluates and corrects these slogans. but not everything is helpful. “Everything is permissible for me,”[4] The words in quotation marks are most likely slogans used by some Corinthian Christians. Paul evaluates and corrects these slogans. but I will not be brought under the control of anything. 13 “Foods for the stomach and the stomach for foods,”[5] The words in quotation marks are most likely slogans used by some Corinthian Christians. Paul evaluates and corrects these slogans. but God will do away with both of them.[6] Lit both it and them The body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. 14 God raised up the Lord and will also raise us up by His power. 15 Do you not know that your bodies are the members of Christ? So should I take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Absolutely not! 16 Do you not know that anyone joined to a prostitute is one body with her? For it says, The two will become one flesh.[7] Gn 2:24 17 But anyone joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him. 18 Flee from sexual immorality! “Every sin a person can commit is outside the body,”[8] See note at 1 Co 6:12 but the person who is sexually immoral sins against his own body. 19 Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body.[9] Other mss add and in your spirit, which belong to God.

GOD intended sex to be enjoyed by one man and one woman. If someone has had multiple partners only GOD can cleans and restore. Thanks to our SAVIOR and LORD JESUS CHRSIT, when we confess our sins (agreeing we have done wrong), HE washes us clean as snow and restores us by HIS shed blood.

1 John 1:9-10 confirms this:

9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say, “We have not sinned,” we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us

Our background scripture: Genesis 2:18-25; Proverbs 5:15-20; Romans 13:11-14

Sex has been an issue with us as humans since the beginning of time. GOD made us to be attracted to the opposite sex for the purpose of populating the earth and to make us complete as a human.

We live in a world that uses sex to market many products we use and the entertainment we consume.

Sex is big business and pornography is one of the enslaving issues in our society. It is easy to consume pornography secretly through the Internet, looking or chatting. It is one of the sins many Christians have to deal with and especially ministerial staff. Pornography will devastate a family and an individual.

Often those featured in porn materials are victims and sadly many children are used to produce porn products.

Children are exploited, victimized and abused. Pornography breaks down a person’s character and opens them to perversions that lead them to commit acts they would not commit if they had not compromised their thought life.

GOD intended sex to be beautiful, complete and fulfilling intimate relationship between a man and woman committed to each other through the bonds of marriage.

Many in our society live together for years before they marry. Living together before marriage is a growing issue among both our young people and our older generation.

We have friends who lived together for about four (4) years before they married. She often said, “I do not know, what happened after he said “I do” but when he did, he stopped helping me around the house.” They had to readjust their relationship and work things out after they said “I do”.

Let’s explore.

Let’s read Genesis 2:15-25:

15 The Lord God took the man and placed him in the garden of Eden to work it and watch over it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree of the garden,[16] Gn 3:1–2 17 but you must not eat[17] Lit eat from it from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for on the day you eat from it, you will certainly die.”[18] Gn 3:5 18 Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is like him.”[19] Pr 31:11–12 19 So the Lord God formed out of the ground each wild animal and each bird of the sky, and brought each to the man to see what he would call it. And whatever the man called a living creature, that was its name. 20 The man gave names to all the livestock, to the birds of the sky, and to every wild animal; but for the man[20] Or for Adam no helper was found who was like him. 21 So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to come over the man, and he slept. God took one of his ribs and closed the flesh at that place. 22 Then the Lord God made the rib He had taken from the man into a woman and brought her to the man.[21] 1 Co 11:8,12 23 And the man said: This one, at last, is bone of my bone, and flesh of my flesh; this one will be called woman, for she was taken from man.[22] Eph 5:28–30 24 This is why a man leaves his father and mother and bonds with his wife, and they become one flesh.[23] Mal 2:15 25 Both the man and his wife were naked, yet felt no shame.

The Hebrew word for “Adam” in the original scripture text can be used for either mankind or for the first man (Adam).

GOD made man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to work it and to manage it. Then GOD formed the animals and the birds from the ground and asked Adam to name them.

According to Genesis 2:7 “7 Then the Lord God formed the man out of the dust from the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being.”

Notice that GOD formed both man and the animals (V. 19) from the dust of the ground. Eve was made from Adam’s rib.

Verse 18 tells us GOD’S objective is to make a helper “like him”.

18 Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is like him.”[

“Like him” means one that is able to meet his relational, emotional, and physical needs of his life. Someone who corresponds to and complements him because the two (2) of them will carry out GOD’S plan and purpose for life upon earth. Adam’s helper had to be someone who would be in the image of GOD and who would be equal to him and on the same spiritual, intellectual and moral level as Adam.

It is interesting that out of all the animals formed “no helper” was suitable for Adam. Was Adam looking for a helper as he named all the animals? Is this why man has such an enjoyment and bond with the outdoors and nature? I sure am glad Adam did not find a suitable helper among the animals. Just think about being married to a _________. You fill in the blank. No comments about who you did marry.

GOD is the first anesthesiologist and performed the first surgical procedure. HE took a rib from Adam, closed the opening and made Eve. The Hebrew word used for made means “built”. “Built” means HE used materials already in existence.

So GOD “built” Eve.

Matthew Henry’s famous statement captures the essence of GOD building woman. Why did GOD use a rib? “That the woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved.”

GOD built Eve “like him” – to have emotions, intellect and to be spiritual.

Was Eve the first modified clone? Adam said she is bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh.

Now pay attention! I think this is priceless.

Picture a wedding. The music signals the grand entrance of the bride holding the arm of her father. The groom waits with much anticipation; Waiting to see his bride more beautiful than he ever dreamed.

Both parents are excited that their creation has reached this time in her life, her wedding day. They are proud and could not be happier.

Now let your mind drift back to GOD building a bride for Adam. HE completes HIS handiwork. HE is very proud and says this is very good, in fact excellent. Then GOD, THE FATHER of the bride brought her down the path in the Garden of Eden to be joined with her husband, Adam. (Note verse 22.)

Oh, what a beautiful picture every father should cherish. When the father of the bride walks down the aisle with his daughter to present her to her groom, it is a picture of GOD, THE FATHER presenting HIS beloved creation to Adam.

Adam’s reaction is equally as precious. In the original text it conveys and outburst of “WOW!!!! This is what I have been waiting for all my life. She is just what I need as my life long helper.”

GOD establishes the first wedding. Man and woman come together in complete harmony and complement each other. What GOD has joined together let no man separate.

There is a physical and spiritual bond between man and woman when they consummate their marriage. The two (2) become one.

This union is intended to be a lifetime bond.

Ephesians 5:25-33 puts the marriage relationship into perspective.
Wives and Husbands
22 Wives, submit[8] Other mss omit submit [9] Gn 3:16; 1 Co 11:3,7–9,11–12; Col 3:18; Ti 2:4–5; 1 Pt 3:1–6 to your own husbands as to the Lord, 23 for the husband is head of the wife as also Christ is head of the church. He is the Savior of the body. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so wives should [submit]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to their husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives,[10] Col 3:19; 1 Pt 3:7 just as also Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 to make her holy, cleansing[11] Or having cleansed her in the washing of water by the word. 27 He did this to present the church to Himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless. 28 In the same way, husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hates his own flesh, but provides and cares for it, just as Christ does for the church, 30 since we are members of His body.[12] Other mss add and of His flesh and of His bones 31 For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.[13] Gn 2:24 32 This • mystery is profound, but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 To sum up, each one of you is to love his wife as himself, and the wife is to respect her husband.
Notice the scripture tells us men to love our wife but it never tells the wife she has to love her husband. Men are to cherish their wife. Our wife is a gift from GOD. The wife is to respect her husband.
Every marriage gives opportunity for love. Marriage is a building process and the circumstances of life help us build a strong loving relationship when we pull together. Marriage is 100% and 100%.
Let’s read Proverbs 5:15-20:
Enjoy Marriage
15 Drink water from your own cistern, water flowing from your own well.[9] Sg 4:12,15 16 Should your springs flow in the streets, streams of water in the public squares?[10] Pr 7:12 17 They should be for you alone and not for you [to share]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. with strangers. 18 Let your fountain be blessed, and take pleasure in the wife of your youth.[11] Mal 2:14 19 A loving doe, a graceful fawn— let her breasts always satisfy you; be lost in her love forever. 20 Why, my son, would you be infatuated with a forbidden woman or embrace the breast of a stranger?

Proverbs was written by King Solomon. Our scripture are instructions from a father to his son regarding being faithful to his wife.

Son, drink the water from your own well or in other words, don’t be unfaithful to your wife. Should you get the notion of looking for another water source, forget it. Your wife is for you alone and do not look any further. There is no greater bond and relationship you can ever have than the one you have with the wife of your youth.

Your first true love is always the most pure and strongest bond.
So cherish and protect this relationship with every ounce of fight you have in you.

This is in the Old Testament, so what does Paul tell us?

Let’s read Romans 13:11-14:
Put On Christ
11 Besides this, knowing the time, it is already the hour for you[6] Other mss read for us to wake up from sleep, for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over, and the daylight is near, so let us discard the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us • walk with decency, as in the daylight: not in carousing and drunkenness; not in sexual impurity and promiscuity; not in quarreling and jealousy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no plans to satisfy the fleshly desires.

In verse 10, Paul tells us “10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor. Love, therefore, is the fulfillment of the law.” Then he continues with verse 11, “Besides this”, that is “loving your neighbor as yourself is very important but do not forget THE LORD could return at any moment.”

Paul was looking for the eminent return of THE LORD JESUS CHRIST at any moment. So Paul says be ready for HIS return. Do not let anything divert your attention. You need to take off the old life and put on your new life in CHRIST.

Paul identifies some of the things we need to remove from our life in the flesh. He links them together:
Carousing (Partying) and drunkenness (Letting loose; acting without inhibition) – Being at the wrong place in a condition such that your judgment is impaired.

Sexual impurity (Translates the word for bed) and promiscuity (Shameless, unbridled intercourse) – this says it all.

Quarreling (Stems from self-centeredness, the need to have it ones way) and jealousy (Envy, wanting the benefits, recognition or material things others have)

These are examples of the things that show we are walking in the dark. We as humans are still drawn to the forbidden fruit. Paul tells us we have to get rid of such old natures or characters and put on CHRIST.

So how is this accomplished? Verse 14, tells us to “put on the LORD JESUS CHRIST.”

The words used here are the same as if you put on your clothes. First take off your old fleshly desires and put on the righteousness of CHRIST. Let CHRIST have full control of your life.

Paul said in Galatians 2:20:

20 and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh,[10] The physical body I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

Remember when CHRIST was crucified for our sins, our sin was poured into HIM but HIS righteousness was poured into us.

2 Corinthians 5:21
21 He made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Just as we choose to put on our clothes at the beginning of each day, we also can choose to walk with our LORD each moment and to be obedient to HIS commands during that same day or not. We choose whether or not we want to put off our flesh or put on HIS righteousness.

We must not let anything divert us from having a loving intimate relationship with our FATHER and our LORD by beginning each day putting on THE LORD.

Impure thoughts, opening ourselves up to pornography or allowing evil thoughts to dwell in our minds will lead one to compromise their relationship with their spouse and their LORD.

Only a loving intimate relationship with our LORD and hiding HIS WORD in our hearts can keep our minds focused upon the things of THE LORD and control our thought life.

Character Matters - Matthew 15:1-20; Proverbs 6:16-19; 4:20-27 - January 22, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Character Matters – January 22, 2006

This is lesson four (4) in our series of study “Things That Matter.”

The focus of our study is on our character.

Our background and focus scripture: Matthew 15:1-20; Proverbs 6:16-19; 4:20-27.

The character of a person is so important. I lobbied in Washington, DC for many years and although Washington is a large metropolitan area it has a small town network. Your reputation and character precedes you when you go to visit a member of Congress or one of the Federal Agencies. If your reputation or character becomes questionable, your effectiveness is finished or certainly compromised.

Flonnie and I were discussing this lesson and talking about people in general and the effect our genetic make-up and environment has on the development of our character. The conversation got complicated.

Then THE LORD revealed one of the reasons we need to be born-again is for us to receive the foundation of our FATHER’S character along with a new heart and a new mind. GOD needs to develop our character in a manner that best suites HIS plan and purpose. That takes a willing and committed heart.

The scripture considers the heart to be the very center of our being, not the organ that pumps blood. It is the most secret place within us. This is the place where we know who we really are and how we really think. I like to think of this place as the “eyes of our heart”, as stated in Ephesians 1:18, 18 [I pray]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the glorious riches of His inheritance among the saints.

We all have character; it comes with us being human. To have the character that pleases GOD, we need to belong to GOD through the rebirth and let HIM build character within us.

I think of Abraham and his walk with THE LORD. It was 25 years before GOD gave him and Sarah the gift of their promised son Isaac. GOD was building character in Abraham during this 25 year period; preparing him to be a father to Isaac and be the father of nations.

Then it was roughly another 25 years before GOD, in my opinion, gave Abraham the ultimate test for any father, sacrificing his only son as a burnt offering. Abraham knew what offering Isaac as a burnt offering meant; Isaac would died and be burned to ashes. But because of the character GOD had built in Abraham over the years, Abraham had faith in GOD such that even though Isaac would be reduced to ashes; GOD was all powerful and would raise Isaac from those ashes and restore him as a human.

To me, only GOD-built character can pass this test and such character does not come over night. GOD wants to build this type of character within each of us to serve HIM. The size of our character determines the size of what GOD calls us to do for HIM. HE wants us to have such character that regardless of what GOD asks of us we will respond.

Such character building requires our commitment to building the right relationship with GOD. We must know GOD, trust HIM and have confidence in HIM to do whatever HE asks us to do. Our relationship with GOD determines what we will do next when GOD asks us to do something.

For some of us this is a tough struggle because we need a lot of character development. For others it seems to be minor adjustments. This is why we must be careful not to become overly critical of fellow Christians who seem to struggle with life’s circumstances more than we may have to struggle.
GOD is developing character within each of us and HE often uses circumstances to develop and mold character within us.

There will likely be a time HE will test our character during this development process to let us see how we measure up. Passing a test gives us confidence. Failing a test identifies areas we need to bring under GOD’S control. GOD already knows how we will respond to a test. We need to see how we measure up.

Let’s read Matthew 15:1-20:
The Tradition of the Elders
1 Then • Pharisees and • scribes came from Jerusalem to Jesus and asked, 2 “Why do Your disciples break the tradition of the elders? For they don’t wash their hands when they eat!”[1] Lit eat bread = eat a meal 3 He answered them, “And why do you break God’s commandment because of your tradition? 4 For God said:[2] Other mss read commanded, saying Honor your father and your mother;[3] Ex 20:12; Dt 5:16 and, The one who speaks evil of father or mother must be put to death.[4] Ex 21:17; Lv 20:9 5 But you say, ‘Whoever tells his father or mother, “Whatever benefit you might have received from me is a gift [committed to the temple]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. ”— 6 he does not have to honor his father.’[5] Other mss read then he does not have to honor his father or mother In this way, you have revoked God’s word[6] Other mss read commandment because of your tradition. 7 Hypocrites! Isaiah prophesied correctly about you when he said: 8 These people[7] Other mss add draws near to Me with their mouths, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. 9 They worship Me in vain, teaching as doctrines the commands of men.”[8] Isaiah 29:13 LXX
Defilement Is from Within
10 Summoning the crowd, He told them, “Listen and understand: 11 It’s not what goes into the mouth that defiles a man, but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” 12 Then the disciples came up and told Him, “Do You know that the Pharisees took offense when they heard this statement?” 13 He replied, “Every plant that My heavenly Father didn’t plant will be uprooted. 14 Leave them alone! They are blind guides.[9] Other mss add for the blind And if the blind guide the blind, both will fall into a pit.” 15 Then Peter replied to Him, “Explain this parable to us.” 16 “Are even you still lacking in understanding?” He[10] Other mss read Jesus asked. 17 “Don’t you realize[11] Other mss add yet that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is eliminated?[12] Lit and goes out into the toilet 18 But what comes out of the mouth comes from the heart, and this defiles a man. 19 For from the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, sexual immoralities, thefts, false testimonies, blasphemies. 20 These are the things that defile a man, but eating with unwashed hands does not defile a man.”

The Scribes and Pharisees came from Jerusalem to confront JESUS about a very important and serious religious matter. In verse 2, “Why do Your disciples break the tradition of the elders? For they don’t wash their hands when they eat!”

They had JESUS where they wanted HIM. JESUS and HIS disciples did not wash their hands before they eat. It wasn’t that they didn’t wash their hands; it was that they did not wash their hands in the traditional or ceremonial manner. When the truly religious Jews washed their hands they washed all the way to their elbow. No chance of any thing unclean getting into their mouth to defile them.

The Jews during JESUS ministry were so steeped in tradition handed down from their forefathers. They emphasized tradition over the instructions revealed in the scripture.

The Jews had over 900 rules and regulations they were to follow. Most were not based upon scripture but upon tradition handed down over the years. They had missed the whole point of GOD leading their lives, they followed their tradition.

JESUS makes this clear to them when HE charged them with hiding behind man-made traditions. There was a tradition if one’s parents needed help and the adult off-spring did not want to help them, all he had to say was, “I cannot help you because all my wealth and resources are dedicated to GOD.” This was called in Corban.

The sad part is that even though all their resources were dedicated to the temple, they still had full control and use of these dedicated wealth and resources any way they chose. It was a contrived way for them not to do something they did not want to do and yet seem pious in not doing it. They hid behind their religion. We still do this today.

JESUS did not mince words. HE told them they had a serious problem and it was with their heart. The very core of their character was corrupt.

JESUS tells the crowd to think for one second, it is not what goes into your mouth that defiles a person but what comes out of one’s mouth. So do not get hung up on following man-made traditions but be concerned with the attitude of your heart and follow GOD.

Those making such statement are the religious leaders of the Jewish religion. As such, JESUS’ comments should have caused them to examine themselves and repent of placing such importance on tradition.

Notice the disciples tell JESUS that HE upset the religious leaders. JESUS said so? Just because someone claims to be religious does not mean they are. GOD knows the heart of each one of us and there will be a day of reckoning. The phonies will be pulled up by their roots and cast aside.

JESUS again hits the nail on the head. These religious leaders are blind guides and when the blind follow the blind they both fall into the pit.

Peter asks JESUS to explain the parable to him. JESUS seems to be provoked with Peter but I think this is why Peter is in the inner circle with JESUS. When we do not understand, ask a question so we will understand.

In verse 19, JESUS lists seven (7) things that spring from the heart and reveal the character of the person.

We have to be very careful even today about who we follow and about following tradition. The gift of discernment will sound an alarm when we hear someone putting a twist on the truth. Always examine everything against the scripture. When scripture fails to support a stated fact beware. This is true of every thing I say to you in these lessons. No one is exempt; any of us can be led astray. Who better to be led astray than a teacher or preacher?

It is often easier to follow a ritual than to follow the leading and prompting of THE HOLY SPIRIT.

To me this is the heart of the study. The remaining scripture supports how our character is revealed by things that spring from our inner-most being, our heart.

Let’s read Proverbs 6:16-19:
What the Lord Hates
16 Six things the Lord hates; in fact, seven are detestable to Him: 17 arrogant eyes,[17] Pr 21:4; 30:13; Ps 18:27 a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,[18] Pr 1:16; Isa 59:7 18 a heart that plots wicked schemes, feet eager to run to evil, 19 a lying witness who gives false testimony,[19] Pr 12:17; 14:5,25 and one who stirs up trouble among brothers.[20] Pr 6:14; 16:27–28; 28:25

We are challenged to embrace GOD’S values.

Scholars say the manner in which verse 16 begins “there are six (6) things THE LORD hates; in fact, seven (7) are detestable to HIM”, is a poetic device to get readers to pay special attention. This is a sample of the things GOD hates and is not intended to be a complete list.


The first five (5) things listed in verse 17 are expressions of an ungodly character – eyes, tongue, hands, heart and feet and the last two (2) describe certain kinds of people – false witnesses and troublemakers. Notice the list goes from head to toe. It takes in our complete being.

Arrogant eyes – reflect self-exalted and self-centered attitude of pride. GOD wants us to view the world and others through HIS eyes. Look to see the needs of others.

Lying tongue – A lying tongue is a destructive tongue. GOD wants us to use our tongue to bless others - to encourage, to challenge, to build up, to instruct, to warn, to speak truth.

Shed innocent blood – Those who willfully bring harm and death to others. GOD wants our character to reflect healing, helping and not destroying.

Heart that plots wicked schemes and feet that run to evil – These are people who sit around trying to figure out how to con others. These are the folks we say, “You know if these people would use their time, energy and talents in the right way they could do well in the world. But they sit around trying to think how they can make a quick buck. No scruples. GOD wants people who plot to plot good and help others.

Lying witness – This is just what it states. Jewish law required two (2) witnesses to support an accusation. GOD wants us to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Credibility is important for all Christians.

Stirs up trouble – One who likes to keep something stirred up among people. GOD wants us to promote unity. This is not promoting unity at all costs and it is not nitpicking and rolling over to embrace something false.

These are reminders to us today. We have THE HOLY SPIRIT within each of us to prick our conscience and help us discern when we have drifted from the truth.

Let’s read Proverbs 4: 20-27:
The Straight Path
20 My son, pay attention to my words; listen closely to my sayings. 21 Don’t lose sight of them; keep them within your heart. 22 For they are life to those who find them, and health to one’s whole body. 23 Guard your heart above all else,[6] Or heart with all diligence for it is the source of life.[7] Mt 15:19; Mk 7:18–23 24 Don’t let your mouth speak dishonestly, and don’t let your lips talk deviously. 25 Let your eyes look forward; fix your gaze[8] Lit eyelids straight ahead. 26 Carefully consider the path[9] Or Clear a path for your feet, and all your ways will be established.[10] Pr 5:21 27 Don’t turn to the right or to the left;[11] Dt 5:32–33; 28:13–14; Jos 23:6 keep your feet away from evil.
Guard your heart is the message in this scripture. GOD never violates our right to choose. So we are to keep our eyes fixed upon HIM and watch very carefully where we step. Remember when Peter was walking on water with JESUS? As long as Peter kept his eyes fixed on JESUS he walked on the water. But once he took his eyes off JESUS and saw the waves he began to sink. JESUS reached out to him and saved him. Keep your eyes upon JESUS when you go through troubled times.
1Kings 8:39 – Tells us GOD knows every human heart.
39 may You hear in heaven, Your dwelling place, and may You forgive, act, and repay the man, according to all his ways, since You know his heart, for You alone know every human heart,
1 Samuel 16:7 – Tells us GOD sees our heart.
7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or his stature, because I have rejected him. Man does not see what the Lord sees,[6] LXX reads God does not see as a man sees for man sees what is visible,[7] Lit what is of the eyes but the Lord sees the heart.”[8] 1 Kg 8:39; Jr 17:10; Jn 2:24–25
We still have to guard our hearts and decide what we allow to fill our minds. It is rare that all of a sudden, we find ourselves in the weeds but compromise is a slow baby step process. We compromise and allow this little thought and then before we know it we are off course.
We are blessed to have THE HOLY SPIRIT, WHO guards our heart. But we have to look and pay attention to the promptings of THE HOLY SPIRIT when we begin to compromise. It is important that we commit our lives to our FATHER and allow THE HOLY SPIRIT to guide us in every aspect of our life. We must stay in GOD’S WORD on a daily basis.
As I have said many times, it is all about relationship. But we must maintain our commitment to that relationship. LORD here I am test me, check me, reveal to me areas in my life where I may be compromising my relationship with YOU.
When we try to navigate the journey of life ourselves, it is easy to stray from the course THE LORD has set for us.
There is a story of a young pilot training to be a fighter pilot in World War 2. His instructor stressed that they must always check and rely upon their instruments. He did this over and over telling the students to always check and trust your instruments and not rely solely upon flying by the seat of their pants. One of the cadets asked him why he emphasized this so much.
The instructor told him he was flying in bad weather one night. He could not see but it felt to him that the left wing was low, so he corrected it. He continued to feel that the left wing was low so he corrected again. He was flying by the seat of his pants, which means he was not checking his instruments and relying on what his body was telling him about the position of the plane. This goes on for several more times and then he felt his shoulder straps cutting into his shoulder. He thought that was strange so he decided to check his instruments. To his shock he was flying upside down and in the wrong direction.
This is why we need to be in GOD’S WORD and allow THE HOLY SPIRIT to guide us along life’s journey. The Bible is our instrument panel and THE HOLY SPIRIT is our instructor.

Life Matters - Matthew 9:18-38 - January 15, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Life Matters – January 15, 2006

Our background scripture: Matthew 9:18-38

This is lesson3 in our study of “Things That Matter.”

The gift of life is precious. The human body is masterfully designed by GOD and each of us has the joy and experience of living in a body. Just think about how we are equipped so that we can see, hear, feel, taste, smell, eat food that turns into energy, think and do incredible feats using our body. I often thank our LORD for this experience. Of course when we age and the aches and pains come along, we sometimes wonder how joyful it is. But GOD has given us the gift of medicine to help ease the pains of living.

It is a greater joy to know that our birth is not an accident and as born-again into the family of GOD we have eternal life. The Bible tells us before GOD made the world HE knew us.

Ephesians 1:3-6:

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens,[2] Eph 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ; 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5] Or In His sight in love 5 He predestined[6] Ac 4:28; Rm 8:29–30; 1 Co 2:7; Eph 1:11 us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, 6 to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved.

Flonnie and I attended the annual dinner for the Pregnancy Crisis Center and heard a young lady speak whose mother decided not to abort her through the counsel of a friend. She rejoiced in the gift of life and how precious life is to her.

Our scripture explores the gift of life, the gift of health, the gift of sight and the authority of JESUS over the physical and spiritual world.

Our background scripture is Matthew 9:18-38.

Our focus scripture is Matthew 9:18-31; 32-34; 36-38.

Let’s read Matthew 9:18-19:

18 As He was telling them these things, suddenly one of the leaders[10] A leader of a synagogue; Mk 5:22 came and knelt down before Him, saying, “My daughter is near death,[11] Lit daughter has now come to the end but come and lay Your hand on her, and she will live.” 19 So Jesus and His disciples got up and followed him.

JESUS is speaking to a group when all of a sudden one of the synagogue leaders (Jairus) rushed to JESUS and interrupted HIM; knelt down saying “My daughter is near death.” The original scripture text says “My daughter is dead.” Either way it is obvious Jairus has an urgent need and respected JESUS such he knelt down to ask HIM for help.

Mark 5:21gives us the man’s name, Jairus. JESUS did not get upset with Jairus interrupting HIM but listened and responded to his request.

We know JESUS only did as THE FATHER instructed HIM. So HE had permission from THE FATHER to go and do as GOD instructed HIM. THE FATHER has a plan and a purpose for every life. Some people are healed, some are brought back from death, and some have to go through the process of disease and death.

GOD is sovereign and we have to trust that our FATHER knows which fits into HIS plan.

On the way to Jairus’ house there is a lady who needs a special touch from JESUS. She has had a bleeding problem for 12 years and has visited many doctors to find a cure. This is likely a female minstrel condition. In this condition she was considered unclean and could not participate in public worship at the synagogue or come in contact with fellow Jews.

Let’s read the circumstances in Matthew 9:21-22:
20 Just then, a woman who had suffered from bleeding for 12 years approached from behind and touched the • tassel on His robe, 21 for she said to herself, “If I can just touch His robe, I’ll be made well!”[12] Or be delivered 22 But Jesus turned and saw her. “Have courage, daughter,” He said. “Your faith has made you well.”[13] Or has saved you And the woman was made well from that moment.[14]

She violates the requirement of not touching anyone when she secretly reaches out and touches the tassel on JESUS’ garment. She touches the tassel which adorned HIS prayer shawl.

GOD instructed the Israelites “to make tassels for the corners of their garments and put a blue cord on the tassel at each corner.” (Numbers 15:38) These tassels were a reminder to obey all of GOD’S commands and not become unfaithful.

Immediately HE knows someone has touched HIM with purpose. “Who touched ME?” The disciples are puzzled because JESUS is in the middle of a large crowd and many people are touching HIM. The woman confesses.

JESUS does not want secret followers and HE wanted to assure her that it was her faith in HIM that cured her and not her touching the garment HE wore.

Sometimes we as humans place more faith in an artifact than in GOD or JESUS because an artifact is something tangible.
Faith is not what is seen but what is hoped for. Our faith in JESUS is confirmed by THE HOLY SPIRIT after we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR, not before.

JESUS’ words to the lady are, “Your faith in ME has made you whole.”

JESUS continues HIS journey to Jairus’ house.

Let’s read Matthew 9:23-26:

Lit hour 23 When Jesus came to the leader’s house, He saw the flute players and a crowd lamenting loudly. 24 “Leave,” He said, “because the girl isn’t dead, but sleeping.” And they started laughing at Him. 25 But when the crowd had been put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. 26 And this news spread throughout that whole area.

The original scripture text leads us to believe the girl is already dead and Jairus knows it but comes to JESUS anyway. This makes sense to me because we see when JESUS and HIS disciples arrive at Jairus’ house the flute players and mourner(s) are already there.

The mourning has already begun. JESUS tells them to leave for she is not dead but sleeping. Sleeping means she is dead but HE alone is THE ONE WHO has authority over death.

Why did JESUS tell the mourners to leave? Several reasons come to my mind. (1) It shows confidence that there is no question in HIS mind that the little girl will be raised from the dead. If HE had let the mourners stay some could have thought HE was not sure she would be raised from the dead. Therefore HE told the mourners to leave. (2) The mourners are convinced the girl is dead, they laugh at the thought that the girl is only sleeping. There are times GOD chooses not work in an environment of disbelief.
JESUS takes the girl by her hand and raises her from the dead showing HE has authority over death. Oh the touch of JESUS, how precious. HE is sufficient in life and in death.

Let’s go back to verse 19. HIS disciples get up and go with HIM. Mark names these disciples as Peter, James and John. These three are referred to as the inter-circle. JESUS uses this journey as a teaching opportunity for HIS disciples. They need to see JESUS has authority over death. They also see HE has authority over health and disease the doctors could not heal with the lady who has a female problem. They will see that JESUS has authority over blindness and demons with the next encounters of the group after leaving Jairus’ house.

Let’s read Matthew 9:27-31:

27 As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed Him, shouting, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” 28 When He entered the house, the blind men approached Him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I can do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they answered Him. 29 Then He touched their eyes, saying, “Let it be done for you according to your faith!” 30 And their eyes were opened. Then Jesus warned them sternly, “Be sure that no one finds out!”[15] Lit no one knows 31 But they went out and spread the news about Him throughout that whole area.
Two (2) blind men encounter JESUS and ask HIM for mercy. They shout, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” The term “Son of David” referred to THE MESSIAH. JESUS had to be very careful about representing HIMSELF as THE MESSIAH because many Jews were looking for a political/military messiah. The Jews were looking for a messiah who would come in on a white charger and free them from Roman rule. JESUS knew HIS mission is to deliver mankind from the bondage of sin and to deliver mankind from the penalty of death. HIS mission was for an eternal solution not a temporary solution.
JESUS was fulfilling prophesy, keeping the law and preparing for HIS death upon THE CROSS. All the Romans needed to hear is that a political/military Jewish leader was on the scene to deliver the Israelites. They would have reason to spring into action.
JESUS enters the house with the two (2) blind men and heals them because of their faith in HIM. Then HE warns them not to tell anyone. This in my opinion is why HE took them into the house to heal them.
But how can one keep the good news of once I was blind but now I see? All of us at one time in our life were spiritually blind but when we encounter JESUS and HE touches us we see HIM as THE MESSIAH. HE brings healing to our spiritual eyes.
In each of the encounters JESUS had there was an expression of faith. Jairus had faith, the lady had faith and the blind men had faith in JESUS.
When faith brings us to JESUS for salvation it is ALWAYS granted. Once we are born into GOD’S family, faith brings us to JESUS with our requests as a child of HIS – FATHER I need guidance or healing or strength to deal with this problem or any number of requests. We understand and acknowledge that all things are possible through JESUS when we make our requests; however our FATHER determines the disposition of our requests. When the solution is different for our request, we have to trust in the sovereignty of GOD.
As JESUS continues his journey, HE encounters a demon-possessed man who is unable to speak.

Let’s read Matthew 9:32-34:
Driving Out a Demon
32 Just as they were going out, a demon-possessed man who was unable to speak was brought to Him. 33 When the demon had been driven out, the man[16] Lit the man who was unable to speak spoke. And the crowds were amazed, saying, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel!” 34 But the Pharisees said, “He drives out demons by the ruler of the demons!”

JESUS shows HE has authority over the spirit world but the Pharisees want to discredit JESUS so they say JESUS’ power comes from demons not from GOD.

JESUS continues HIS journey, teaching, preaching and healing as we see in Matthew 9:35-38:
The Lord of the Harvest
35 Then Jesus went to all the towns and villages, teaching in their • synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every[17] Or every kind of disease and every sickness.[18] Other mss add among the people 36 When He saw the crowds, He felt compassion for them, because they were weary and worn out, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is abundant, but the workers are few. 38 Therefore, pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.”

JESUS was trying to get the people to open their eyes to see that HE is the promised MESSIAH as revealed in the scriptures. The Jews were going to the synagogues to learn what the scripture has to say about the coming of THE MISSIAH. The Jewish leaders knew the scripture and should have known that JESUS was fulfilling prophesy regarding THE MESSIAH. The idea is for the people to see the truth as revealed in the scripture and not how scripture was being interpreted in light of Roman rule.

JESUS saw the people as just plain tired and weary.

A scene comes to my mind that they seem to be tossed about like a person caught in a riptide and has been struggling with all their might to get to safety. They are helpless and being tossed about by the ocean waves. They have lost all hope and have just given up. They will be lost unless someone comes to their rescue.

They were lost and wandering about without any leadership.

It broke HIS heart.

JESUS tells HIS disciples to pray and ask GOD to send forth workers into the field that is ripe for the harvest. This is a call for the called. We are to pray that GOD will send those ready to do the work necessary.

It seems to me that when we encounter an overwhelming situation as JESUS had encountered, the solution is to pray and ask for help.

Farmers, who have a bumper crop that is ready for harvest and the crop will spoil unless it is harvested, ask for and seek help.

When we encounter hopeless situations we are to pray.

FATHER help each of us to be so in tune with YOUR SPIRIT that we will see the needs around us, as YOU see them. Help us never to consider a situation hopeless because of size because all things are possible with YOU. But help us to become involved according to YOUR will and purpose and for us to pray that workers will be called, prepared and sent to accomplish YOUR plan.

Our FATHER has given us life to serve HIM. Life is precious to HIM! May we serve HIM with our time, resources and being.

Money Matters - Luke 12:13-48 - January 8, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Money Matters – January 8, 2005

This is lesson two (2) in our study of “Things That Matter.”

This lesson is a natural follow-up to last week’s lesson “Work Matters.” We work to earn money to get things, provide for ourselves, family, education for our children, recreation, retirement, houses, etc. These are worthy ambitions.

For many of us men and some ladies obtaining is tied to our ego. Our self esteem and sense of worth comes from achieving and gathering money and things. Our study opens with such a person.

Our background scripture: Luke 12: 13-48.

Luke 12:13-21: Material wealth is temporary, only what we do, as GOD leads us, will last.
The Parable of the Rich Fool
13 Someone from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 “Friend,”[4] Lit Man He said to him, “who appointed Me a judge or arbitrator over you?” 15 He then told them, “Watch out and be on guard against all greed because one’s life is not in the abundance of his possessions.” 16 Then He told them a parable: “A rich man’s land was very productive. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What should I do, since I don’t have anywhere to store my crops? 18 I will do this,’ he said. ‘I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones and store all my grain and my goods there. 19 Then I’ll say to myself, “You[5] Lit say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods stored up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.” ’ 20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your • life is demanded of you. And the things you have prepared—whose will they be?’ 21 “That’s how it is with the one who stores up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”

JESUS had been teaching to a crowd of people on a variety of subjects such as religious hypocrisy, GOD knows you, even to the number of hairs on you, cares for you and acknowledging CHRIST in one’s life.

Then someone from the crowd asks JESUS a question in an effort to settle a dispute regarding inheritance. JESUS does not answer the question directly because the answer to his question is a matter of the heart of both people, who are brothers. Greed was the basis of the question. Greed can cause problems in families when it comes to money and the distribution of possessions after the death of a loved one.

JESUS uses the question to teach a very important lesson and to give the persons who are the source of the question something to consider, the attitude of their heart. Both need to consider where their heart is.

JESUS gives a parable about a rich farmer. Notice the farmer in the story is already considered rich but he has just reached what he has always dreamed for, a huge windfall.

The farmer has a decision to make regarding his new found wealth. Notice the number of times I, my, himself, he, myself and yourself are used. He never once considered consulting GOD about how he should use the excess. His solution, tear down the existing barns and build larger ones, not so others could share in his prosperity but so he could stop worrying and enjoy it for himself.

GOD has the final word in all things. We think having wealth protects us from tragedy but often it brings heartache. When we have the proper relationship with GOD, we realize all things belong to HIM and HE allows us to be stewards of those things.

This by no means, means we are not to work and prosper. We are to do all things as unto THE LORD. We need to keep what THE LORD has blessed us with in proper perspective. Also, keep in mind that it is not the amount of the wealth we accumulate but allowing GOD to direct us how, when and where it should be used. It is the attitude of the heart.

Remember the widow’s mite. Notice she gave little compared to the wealth others were giving but CHRIST said she had given more than all the others. Mark 12:41-44:
The Widow’s Gift
41 Sitting across from the temple treasury, He watched how the crowd dropped money into the treasury. Many rich people were putting in large sums. 42 And a poor widow came and dropped in two tiny coins worth very little.[23] Lit dropped in two lepta, which is a quadrans; the lepton was the smallest and least valuable Gk coin in use. The quadrans, 1/64 of a daily wage, was the smallest Roman coin. 43 Summoning His disciples, He said to them, “• I assure you: This poor widow has put in more than all those giving to the temple treasury. 44 For they all gave out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she possessed—all she had to live on.”

The heart of the parable, to me, is verses 20 and 21. Moses had warned the Israelites about leaving GOD out of their business life as expressed in Deut. 8:17-19, “17 You may say to yourself, ‘My power and my own ability have gained this wealth for me,’ 18 but remember that the Lord your God gives you the power to gain wealth, in order to confirm His covenant He swore to your fathers, as it is today. 19 If you ever forget the Lord your God and go after other gods to worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will perish.”

JESUS puts it very plain in verses 20 and 21:

20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your • life is demanded of you. And the things you have prepared—whose will they be?’ 21 “That’s how it is with the one who stores up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”

Let’s read Luke 12:22-28: Trust GOD to meet your needs.
The Cure for Anxiety
22 Then He said to His disciples: “Therefore I tell you, don’t worry about your life, what you will eat; or about the body, what you will wear. 23 For life is more than food and the body more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens: they don’t sow or reap; they don’t have a storeroom or a barn; yet God feeds them. Aren’t you worth much more than the birds? 25 Can any of you add a • cubit to his height[6] Or add one moment to his life-span by worrying? 26 If then you’re not able to do even a little thing, why worry about the rest? 27 “Consider how the wildflowers grow: they don’t labor or spin thread. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was adorned like one of these! 28 If that’s how God clothes the grass, which is in the field today and is thrown into the furnace tomorrow, how much more will He do for you—you of little faith?

JESUS is using this opportunity to teach HIS disciples. JESUS is not saying be passive and do nothing, HE is saying do not worry or be anxious. Do what you know you need to do and trust GOD to provide what is needed. The key word is needed, not what is desired or what is excessive.

JESUS uses the animals to illustrate HIS point. I used to tell THE LORD, “I know you are going to feed these animals but why does it have to come from my garden or flower beds?” Of course, this was in jest.

The point seems to be when we allow GOD to guide and develop us as HE desires, we will have a natural beauty to which we cannot attribute to anything we have done. The grass controls erosion and feeds animals. Wildflowers have a beauty of their own and give off a fragrant odor. At the end of their useful life, they even continue with purpose because they provide fuel to cook food to sustain life. Grass and wildflowers seem so insignificant but they have a purpose and we are more important to GOD than grass or wildflowers. GOD produced them and in contrast Solomon had wealth but all of his wealth could not match the beauty of an insignificant wildflower or blade of grass. So do not worry, bloom where you are planted; GOD will take care of you. Again this is not passive but active.

Philippians 4:6-7

6 Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Let’s read Luke 12: 29-34: Strive for relationship not possessions.

29 Don’t keep striving for what you should eat and what you should drink, and don’t be anxious. 30 For the Gentile world eagerly seeks all these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 “But seek His kingdom, and these things will be provided for you. 32 Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Make money-bags for yourselves that won’t grow old, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

JESUS continues to emphasize the need to get your priorities in order, seek GOD. If possessions get in your way, sell them and give them to the poor. Do not let anything keep you from seeking and knowing GOD in a loving intimate way. Do not have the attitude of accumulating but an attitude of giving. You can only keep what you give away.

Your attitude toward possessions gives you a clue where heart is.

Let’s read Luke 12:35-40: Keep alert because THE LORD can come at any moment.
Ready for the Master’s Return
35 “Be ready for service[7] Lit Let your loins be girded; an idiom for tying up loose outer clothing in preparation for action; Ex 12:11 and have your lamps lit. 36 You must be like people waiting for their master to return[8] Lit master, when he should return from the wedding banquet so that when he comes and knocks, they can open [the door]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. for him at once. 37 Those • slaves the master will find alert when he comes will be blessed. • I assure you: He will get ready,[9] Lit will gird himself have them recline at the table, then come and serve them. 38 If he comes in the middle of the night, or even near dawn,[10] Lit even in the second or third watch and finds them alert, those slaves are blessed. 39 But know this: if the homeowner had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. 40 You also be ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect.”
Our human nature tells us we have plenty of time so why worry. We need to get what we can while we can. There is some truth to this; however the key is not to leave GOD out. JESUS is telling us to be ready because we do not know the moment we will either meet HIM or HE will come back to earth.
Let’s read Luke 12: 41-48: Be good stewards.
Rewards and Punishment
41 “Lord,” Peter asked, “are You telling this parable to us or to everyone?” 42 The Lord said: “Who then is the faithful and sensible manager his master will put in charge of his household servants to give them their allotted food at the proper time? 43 That • slave whose master finds him working when he comes will be rewarded. 44 I tell you the truth: he will put him in charge of all his possessions. 45 But if that slave says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and starts to beat the male and female slaves, and to eat and drink and get drunk, 46 that slave’s master will come on a day he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know. He will cut him to pieces[11] Lit him in two and assign him a place with the unbelievers.[12] Or unfaithful, or untrustworthy 47 And that slave who knew his master’s will and didn’t prepare himself or do it[13] Lit or do toward his will will be severely beaten. 48 But the one who did not know and did things deserving of blows will be beaten lightly. Much will be required of everyone who has been given much. And even more will be expected of the one who has been entrusted with more.[14] Or much

JESUS did not answer Peter’s question directly. Did Peter ponder JESUS’ comment about being a faithful steward, managing THE MASTER’S household and feeding fellow slaves after the crucifixion, burial, resurrection and ascension of CHRIST? Peter had denied CHRIST three (3) times. After the resurrection of JESUS, Peter likely felt unworthy to serve CHRIST. After the resurrection and after breakfast, JESUS asked Peter in John 21:15,

15 When they had eaten breakfast, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John,[11] Other mss read Simon, son of Jonah; Jn 1:42; Mt 16:17 do you love[12] Two synonyms are translated love in this conversation: agapao, the first 2 times by Jesus (vv. 15–16); and phileo, the last time by Jesus (v. 17) and all 3 times by Peter (vv. 15–17). Peter’s threefold confession of love for Jesus corresponds to his earlier threefold denial of Jesus; Jn 18:15–18,25–27. Me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said to Him, “You know that I love You.” “Feed My lambs,” He told him.

Peter asked, “Are You telling this parable to us or to everyone?” I think it was for everyone. Many of us have done things we feel unworthy about serving THE LORD and we could decide, “What is the use I am not worthy to serve THE LORD, therefore I will just not even try.” But when we confess our sin, HE forgives us and restores us. HE has invested HIS message in each of us and appointed us to be faithful and continue to serve HIM until HE comes. JESUS forgave and restored Peter, who denied HIM; HE will do the same for us, regardless of what we have done.

The key to me seems the disciples and all of us who are Christians have been entrusted with the spiritual food to feed others. We need to be focused on our calling at all times. Then when either THE LORD comes or we go to meet HIM, HE will find us faithfully working as HE has directed us.

As a teacher of the Bible, this emphasizes my responsibility to our LORD because I cannot plead innocent of not knowing. As I present what HE has revealed, it is with understanding. So keep me in your prayers that I will always remain faithful, rightly divide THE WORD and communicate it with understanding and comprehension.

We, who have been given much, much will be required. This is with all the gifts and message GOD has entrusted to us.

Be good stewards of your time, resources, talents and abilities.