Recognizing the Savior - Isaiah 52:12-15 and 53:1-12 - December 2, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Recognizing the Savior – December 2, 2007

This is lesson one (1) of a new series of study entitles “The SAVIOR of Christmas.” There are five (5) lessons:

December 2 - How can we be sure JESUS is the Messiah GOD sent? Isaiah, Chapter 53 was written about 681 BC prophesying about the Messiah.

December 9 – We will study Luke, Chapter 1. Isaiah, Chapters 52 and 53 gave the prophesy about the coming Messiah. Luke gives the prophesy being fulfilled.

December 16 – Continue in Luke, Chapter 1. JESUS is coming to earth.

December 23 – Luke, Chapter 2 tells us about the birth of JESUS.

December 30 – Mathew, Chapter 2 GOD sends others to confirm, worship and protect HIS SON.

We begin our series with the over 600 year old prophesy by the Prophet Isaiah foretelling the coming of the Messiah. The picture GOD paints for the Messiah, through Isaiah, is not very enticing. We as humans want to worship a superstar. We want to follow a natural leader with charisma, very intelligent, powerful, physically handsome, no faults and the list goes on and on.

But GOD reveals a different picture for the prophet Isaiah.

We will begin with Isaiah 52:13-15 because many Bible scholars believe this scripture to be the beginning of the five-stanza prophesy. Verses 13-15 seem to be a summary of the other four stanzas to follow.

We need to keep in mind that the Prophet Isaiah is revealing this prophesy to the nation of Israel and then to all nations. We have the privilege of looking back at all the events surrounding the birth, life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of JESUS the MESSIAH. All believers have the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell them and reveal all truth to them. How privileged we are as Christians.

Let’s read Isaiah 52:13-15:
The Servant’s Suffering and Exaltation
13 See, My servant[6] Tg adds the Messiah will act wisely;[7] Or will be successful He will be raised and lifted up and greatly exalted.[8] Php 2:9–11 14 Just as many were appalled at You[9] Some Hb mss, Syr, Tg read Him — His appearance was so disfigured that He did not look like a man, and His form did not resemble a human being[10] Mt 26:67; 27:30–31; Jn 19:1–5 — 15 so He will sprinkle[11] As the blood of a sacrifice is sprinkled on the altar on behalf of the people [12] Heb 10:22; 12:24 many nations.[13] LXX reads so many nations will marvel at Him Kings will shut their mouths because of Him, For they will see what had not been told them, and they will understand what they had not heard.[14] Rm 15:21

Verse 13 - depicts the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of JESUS.

Verse 14 - however depicts before HE is exalted, HE is humiliated and rejected. This verse does not mean that the Messiah was ugly or deformed but HE will not be what the people had expected the Messiah to be. The “You” is GOD. (Some translate "You" as My people or translate "You" as Him.)The Israelites turned their backs on GOD and rejected HIM. They will also reject the Messiah.

Verse 15 - the purpose of HIS humiliation and rejection is to pay for the sins of all nations and its people.

GOD does not paint an appealing picture for the Messiah. Why didn’t GOD send a flamboyant, powerful Messiah into the world?
We have just completed the study of the Sermon on the Mount. We know that GOD wants our worship, service and obedience to HIM to come from a pure heart. HE wants our motives to be pure.

When we come to JESUS HE wants us to come for the right reasons and not because of any motive except the recognition of our need for salvation. Therefore, GOD did not send a super rock star or a powerful, charismatic, suave individual, as the world classifies people, as the Messiah. Instead HE sent an unassuming, suffering servant who was born not of earthly nobility but birthed by an ordinary, obedient, virgin, poor, young girl. Yet this ordinary, virgin young girl’s heritage traced back to King David.

In the eyes of the world, JESUS was a loser because HE did not prove Himself as man wanted HIM to be. The Israelites wanted a military Messiah to deliver them from their oppressors. They wanted physical deliverance which would have been useful for their life upon earth. But GOD wanted them and all people to be delivered from a greater bondage, sin and death. Deliverance from sin and death would give all believers the freedom to serve HIM on earth, as well as, in heaven. HIS deliverance is eternal.

I have often thought if I were JESUS, I would have come down from the cross to prove to all WHO I was. I would have failed to complete the mission. Taking matters into HIS own hands was likely a temptation of JESUS. HIS flesh nature wanted to survive. But HE remained faithful to the FATHER and was obedient to the very end. HE gave up HIS life at the moment HE thought the FATHER had abandoned HIM. At that dark moment, HE trusted the FATHER with HIS life to pay for the sins of the world and to obtain salvation and eternal life for all who believe in HIM.

When we come to JESUS, we do so for no other reason than salvation. We do not come to JESUS because of HIS popularity, charisma, good looks, charm or any other reason. No where in the scripture does GOD paint a picture of a life of ease for believers. HE does not entice people to come to HIM for ease and luxury but for salvation and to have an intimate loving relationship with HIM.

Considered Unacceptable

Let’s read Isaiah 53:1-3:

1 Who has believed what we have heard?[1] Or believed our report And who has the arm of the Lord been revealed to?[2] Jn 12:38; Rm 10:16 2 He grew up before Him like a young plant and like a root out of dry ground. He had no form or splendor that we should look at Him, no appearance that we should desire Him. 3 He was despised and rejected by men,[3] Jn 1:10–11 a man of suffering who knew what sickness was.[4] Heb 4:15 He was like one people turned away from;[5] Lit And like a hiding of faces from Him He was despised, and we didn’t value Him.

The Prophet Isaiah is revealing this prophesy to the nation of Israel. Verse 1 tells us that even though GOD has revealed HIS plan, who believed it? The Israelites had preconceived notions about the Messiah. They could not accept a Messiah coming from unassuming circumstances, being ordinary and coming from an ordinary background. The Messiah subject to being crushed like a young plant and coming from a heritage (root) that was not spectacular would never be considered by those watching and looking for the Messiah. The religious leaders would look for and expect nobility. Yet GOD revealed the attributes of the true Messiah, a suffering servant.

JESUS came from a physical background to which all people can relate.

The Disciple John refers to Isaiah 53 in John 12:37-43.

John12:37-43:

37 Even though He had performed so many signs in their presence, they did not believe in Him. 38 But this was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet, who said:[12] Lit which he said Lord, who has believed our message? And who has the arm of the Lord been revealed to?[13] Isaiah 53:1 39 This is why they were unable to believe, because Isaiah also said: 40 He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, so that they would not see with their eyes or understand with their hearts, and be converted, and I would heal them.[14] Isaiah 6:10 41 Isaiah said these things because[15] Other mss read when he saw His glory and spoke about Him. 42 Nevertheless, many did believe in Him even among the rulers, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, so they would not be banned from the • synagogue. 43 For they loved praise from men more than praise from God.[16] Lit loved glory of men more than glory of God; v. 41; Jn 5:41

The Apostle Paul reveals that if the rulers of this world had known that JESUS was the Messiah, they would have never crucified HIM. The promised Messiah had to die for the sins of the world.

1 Corinthians 2:6-8:
Spiritual Wisdom
6 However, among the mature (Christians) we do speak a wisdom, but not a wisdom of this age, or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 On the contrary, we speak God’s hidden wisdom in a • mystery, which God predestined before the ages for our glory. 8 None of the rulers of this age knew it, for if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.[3] Ps 24:7

When we make up our minds how GOD will do something, we often are headed for a disappointment. GOD tells us in the scripture that HIS ways are not our ways and HIS thoughts are different from our thoughts. We all form opinions and notions about GOD throughout our lives based upon the sermons we hear, Bible studies, assumptions, people we interact with, etc. This is normal. It is critical that all our notions and assumptions be checked against the Bible. Are they sound from a biblical point-of-view? Does the HOLY SPIRIT confirm truth in our hearts? We must not let stubbornness blind us to truth. The Israelites had made up their minds and all the miracles, signs and wonders would not change the minds of most of the religious leaders regarding JESUS.

Verse 3 says HE knew what sickness was. Nothing has been written about JESUS being sick. But if we look at verse 4 we see that sickness is referred to again. In this context “sickness” means that HE knew the consequences of sin. Therefore, it seems reasonable to conclude, verse 3 could refer to JESUS knowing what the consequences can do to peoples lives. One does not have to experience something in order to know about it. This awareness of the consequences of sin in people’s lives was the incentive for JESUS to willingly come to earth to deliver mankind from the bondage of sin. John 3:16 captures this absolute love for all of mankind “for GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten Son that whosoever believes in HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life.”

Punished for others’ sins

Let’s read Isaiah 53:4-6:

4 Yet He Himself bore our sicknesses, and He carried our pains; but we in turn regarded Him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted. 5 But He was pierced because of our transgressions, crushed because of our iniquities; punishment for our peace was on Him, and we are healed by His wounds. 6 We all went astray like sheep; we all have turned to our own way; and the Lord has punished Him for[6] Lit with; or has placed on Him the iniquity of us all.[7] 1 Pt 2:24–25

As mentioned earlier “sickness” as used here means to suffer the consequences of our sins. JESUS suffered for us on the cross by bearing all of our sin. Many of us rejected HIM for years until we came to the foot of the cross, recognized our spiritual poverty and asked HIM to forgive us and to come into our hearts.

Our sins put every wound and every stripe on HIM. All of us have gone astray, yet while we were in the weeds, JESUS had already made the provision for our salvation.

So what did the Israelites think about their Messiah being sickly? They thought sickness and bad things happening to people was a sign that they had done something wrong and GOD was punishing them. When JESUS was arrested and punished they thought if JESUS is the promised Messiah then GOD will not allow HIM to be abused, punished or die.

Many of us think the same thoughts today. We think that bad things should happen to bad people and good things happen to good people. Life just does not necessarily work that way. GOD was with JESUS through the good and bad times of HIS life. HE will be with us through all circumstances in our lives. As JESUS trusted the FATHER, we, as believers, must trust HIM. GOD is sovereign. We can only accept GOD’S sovereignty when we have the intimate, loving relationship with HIM and trust HIM.

JESUS was obedient to all the FATHER wanted HIM to do. HE died and through HIS death HE paid for the sins of all people. This included those since Adam and Eve until the end of time. The gift of salvation awaits every person in the world 24/7 but each person must reach out and accept that gift. Salvation is only the beginning of a life long journey of spiritual growth and maturity.

Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:21 that GOD allowed JESUS to become the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world.

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

HE bore sins of mankind, so that all believers can be cleansed of their sins, escape spiritual death and made righteous. Why do believers need to be righteous? So GOD can indwell us with the HOLY SPIRIT and we can approach GOD directly and intimately. Believers can call GOD Daddy. JESUS suffered for each of us.

It is all clear and understandable now as we look back but then it could only be understood through revelation as JESUS walked upon earth. Hebrews 9:11-28 captures the essence of what JESUS has done for believers.

Hebrews 9:11-28:
New Covenant Ministry
11 Now the • Messiah has appeared, high priest of the good things that have come.[3] Other mss read that are to come In the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands (that is, not of this creation), 12 He entered the holy of holies once for all, not by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood, having obtained eternal redemption. 13 For if the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling those who are defiled, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, 14 how much more will the blood of the Messiah, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse our[4] Other mss read your consciences from dead works to serve the living God? 15 Therefore He is the mediator of a new covenant,[5] The Gk word used here and in vv. 15–18 can be translated covenant, will, or testament. so that those who are called might receive the promise of the eternal inheritance, because a death has taken place for redemption from the transgressions [committed]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. under the first covenant. 16 Where a will exists, the death of the testator must be established. 17 For a will is valid only when people die, since it is never in force while the testator is living. 18 That is why even the first covenant was inaugurated with blood. 19 For when every commandment had been proclaimed by Moses to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats, along with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll itself and all the people, 20 saying, This is the blood of the covenant that God has commanded for you.[6] Ex 24:8 21 In the same way, he sprinkled the tabernacle and all the vessels of worship with blood. 22 According to the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. 23 Therefore it was necessary for the copies of the things in the heavens to be purified with these [sacrifices]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , but the heavenly things themselves [to be purified]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. with better sacrifices than these. 24 For the Messiah did not enter a sanctuary made with hands (only a model[7] Or antitype, or figure of the true one) but into heaven itself, that He might now appear in the presence of God for us. 25 He did not do this to offer Himself many times, as the high priest enters the sanctuary yearly with the blood of another. 26 Otherwise, He would have had to suffer many times since the foundation of the world. But now He has appeared one time, at the end of the ages, for the removal of sin by the sacrifice of Himself. 27 And just as it is appointed for people to die once—and after this, judgment— 28 so also the Messiah, having been offered once to bear the sins of many,[8] Isaiah 53:12 will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but[9] Lit time, apart from sin, to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him.

If you have not asked CHRIST to forgive you of your sins do so right now and ask HIM to come into your life.

Silent in HIS own Defense

Let’s read Isaiah 53:7-9:

7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth. Like a lamb led to the slaughter and like a sheep silent before her shearers, He did not open His mouth.[8] Mt 26:63; 27:12–14; Ac 8:32–33 8 He was taken away because of oppression and judgment; and who considered His fate?[9] Or and as for His generation, who considered [Him]? For He was cut off from the land of the living; He was struck because of My people’s rebellion. 9 They[10] DSS; MT reads He made His grave with the wicked, and with a rich man at His death,[11] Mt 27:57–60 although He had done no violence and had not spoken deceitfully.[12] 1 Pt 2:22–23

Again, the Israelites thought if one was blessed of GOD all things went smoothly. Here is a picture of a helpless lamb being led around. Not the picture they had in mind for GOD’S Messiah.

Verse 8 states that the Messiah died at an early age because of oppression and judgment. HE was innocent and no one came to defend HIM. Long life was an indication of the blessings of GOD. Yet the Messiah would die at a young age. This was hard for the Israelites to comprehend.

Look at the wisdom of GOD. If JESUS had lived to a ripe old age, some would question HIS death on the cross. GOD allowed JESUS to die when HE was young and healthy so no one would question the fact that HE gave HIS young life for the sins of the world. HIS life was not taken from HIM nor did HE die of old age.

We know that JESUS died between two (2) criminals and that Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent, wealthy Jew, took the body of JESUS and placed it in the tomb he had made. Bible scholars think the tomb was large enough to walk into.

GOD reminds Isaiah that the Messiah is not guilty of any wrong doing.

Willing to Fulfill GOD’S Plan

Let’s read Isaiah 53:10-12:

10 Yet the Lord was pleased to crush Him, and He made Him sick. When[13] Or If You make Him a • restitution offering,[14] 2 Co 5:21; 1 Pt 2:24 He will see [His]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. • seed, He will prolong His days, and the will of the Lord will succeed by His hand. 11 He will see [it]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity.[15] DSS, LXX read see light out of His anguish, and He will be satisfied with His knowledge. My righteous servant will justify many,[16] Rm 3:24,26; 4:25; 5:9,16,18 and He will carry their iniquities.[17] 1 Pt 2:24 12 Therefore I will give Him[18] Or Him with the many as a portion, and He will receive[19] Or receive with the mighty as spoil,[20] Ps 2:8; Jn 13:3; 1 Co 15:27–28 because He submitted Himself to death,[21] Php 2:6–8 and was counted among the rebels;[22] Mt 27:38 yet He bore the sin of many and interceded for the rebels.[23] Lk 23:34

Reading this would cause one to think that GOD is cruel. What father would be pleased to see their son crushed or sick?

Look back at 2 Corinthians 5:21 where it says “GOD made JESUS to be sin.” This fits our understanding that sick and sickness refers to sin.

JESUS knew what was in store for HIM yet HE willingly came to earth to die for the sins of mankind. As stated earlier JESUS knew the burden of sin in the lives of all mankind. HE willing gave HIS life that mankind could experience the abundant life because all believers would experience forgiveness of sins, eternal life and freedom from the burden of sin and death.

GOD was pleased that HIS SON was willing to suffer and pay the price for the sins of mankind. JESUS will carry out the plan of salvation for the FATHER. When we are obedient to the FATHER it pleases HIM. Being obedient to GOD does not always assure that things will go well. Obedience may cost us our lives.

Let’s look at the King James translation of Isaiah 53:10:

10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.

In the November 11, 2008 lesson, I commented about JESUS being 100% human and 100% divine. Life to every human is precious. JESUS had to decide to give up HIS human life but in doing so, HE had to trust the FATHER at the moment HE felt like the FATHER had abandoned HIM. The King James translation uses the words “make HIS soul an offering for sin.” JESUS had to give HIS human life or HIS flesh life, the most precious thing HE had, to satisfy the penalty for the sins of the world.

Verse 10 also reveals that GOD makes JESUS the restitution offering. The restitution offering means a trespass or guilt offering. When such an offering was made, the sin was forgiven by GOD, until the person sinned again. Then that person had to make another restitution offering. Refer back to Hebrews 9:11-28. JESUS became the perfect and final sacrifice for all sinners. HIS death upon the cross satisfied the sin debt for mankind, once and for all.

JESUS had to give HIS human or flesh life in death to satisfy the sin debt. But look at the next part of verse 10, “HE will see HIS seed.” This tells us that even though HE will die, HE will be resurrected. HE will live forever because HE will see the fruit of HIS obedience. HE gave up HIS human or flesh life in order to receive HIS eternal glorified body. All believers will receive their glorified bodies when JESUS comes to earth the second time.

During the life of JESUS upon earth, HE did not see an overwhelming response to HIS ministry. But GOD knew through the obedience of JESUS that the HOLY SPIRIT could now indwell all believers and many would experience the miracle of rebirth.

Can you imagine the absolute joy CHRIST has when a sinner accepts HIM as their SAVIOR? The Bible tells us that even the angels rejoice in heaven. Just think JESUS rejoiced when you either give or you gave your life to HIM.

This is why Christmas is so important. Without JESUS coming to earth, destined to die for the sins of mankind, we would still be burdened by our sin and making sacrifices for our sins on a moment by moment basis. But thanks to GOD and the obedience of JESUS, we can be set free from our sin and death. All any person has to do is to ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life.

Make Up Your Minds - Matthew 7:13-29 - November 25, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Make Up Your Minds – November 25, 2007

This is the final lesson in our series on the Sermon on the Mount.

Our scripture is Matthew 7:13-29.

JESUS began HIS sermon with the Beatitudes in Mathew Chapter 5 where HE gives the ideal qualities GOD desires for all believers. Then HE told believers that they are salt and light. Salt can become contaminated and lose its saltiness. Light can be blocked by barriers. Some contaminates or barriers can come from within by our attitude, deceitful hearts and impure hearts as we encounter circumstances and people in life situations. Equally important are the motives we harbor in our hearts when we worship and serve our LORD. Our flesh wants to be seen and recognized for the things we do. Our ego can get in our way when we worship and serve our LORD. GOD wants our hearts and motives to be pure.

GOD wants believers to be ideal disciples so they will store up treasure in heaven and not upon earth. HE wants believers to have the right attitudes. HE wants believers to cast their burdens and cares upon HIM. HE wants believers to see others as HE sees them. HE wants believers to know themselves and deal with the problems in their lives, so they can help others. Believers are to do unto others as they want others to do unto them. Most of all HE wants believers to seek HIM first.

JESUS completed HIS sermon by revealing to the crowds that HE is the final authority for determining who enters heaven.

Let’s read Matthew 7:13-14:
Entering the Kingdom
13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the road is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who go through it. 14 How narrow is the gate and difficult the road that leads to life, and few find it.

JESUS transitions from do unto others as you want them to do unto you, to making it clear that works or doing unto others alone will not get you to heaven. Many people think by working very hard they can earn their way to heaven. It is vital that we have the relationship with our LORD and let HIM direct all of our efforts.

The gate is an opening that leads us to something. JESUS tells about two (2) gates. One (1) gate leads to destruction and the second (2nd) leads to eternal life. The gate to destruction is easy to go through but the gate to eternal life is narrow and the road is difficult.

What makes the gate so narrow? Many people like to think there are other ways to heaven. Many question how can a loving GOD not allow a person into heaven? How can it be that CHRIST is the only way? Simply, when a person does not have CHRIST in their life they will be judged. The absolute good news of the gospel of CHRIST is captured in John 5:24 (Printed later in this lesson.). When we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR, we pass from death to life and will not come under judgment. We will receive our rewards or heavenly treasure based upon our obedience to GOD but we will not be judged.

Many people try to use logic or intellect to figure out their spiritual destiny. Once one finds the gate, why is it so hard to go down the road? One explanation is that the flesh wars with our spirit and does all it can to prevent us from accepting JESUS as our SAVIOR. Of course Satan is the one using every trick in the book to keep a person from accepting CHRIST as their SAVIOR. The flesh wants to rule the flesh kingdom, which is controlled by Satan.

Even when we accept JESUS as our SAVIOR the Christian journey is very difficult. JESUS tells us that the road through the narrow gate is difficult. It is impossible in our own strength. It is possible only by allowing the HOLY SPIRIT to lead and direct our lives. The HOLY SPIRIT empowers us to live for CHRIST each moment. Again, Satan does not want us to live the Christian life as GOD wants us to live it. We can only live the Christian life as GOD wants us to live it by yielding our will and control to HIM.

JESUS Himself tells us in John 14:6 that HE is the only way to the FATHER.
John 14:6:
6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

Let’s read Matthew 7:15-23:

15 “Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravaging wolves. 16 You’ll recognize them by their fruit. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 In the same way, every good tree produces good fruit, but a bad tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce bad fruit; neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. 19 Every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 So you’ll recognize them by their fruit. 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord!’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but [only]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the one who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to Me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in Your name, drive out demons in Your name, and do many miracles in Your name?’ 23 Then I will announce to them, ‘I never knew you! Depart from Me, you lawbreakers!’[9] Lit you who work lawlessness [10] Ps 6:8

JESUS warns about false prophets and false disciples. Some false prophets disguise themselves as the real thing but inside they know what they are, deceivers. The Christian jargon can be learned and regurgitated. Young believers can be misled by such false prophets because most young Christians are seeking all that JESUS has in store for them. With our current mindset most people want to be spiritually mature instantly or the easy way. There are false prophets that have all sorts of methods that, they say, can make a believer into an instant powerhouse. JESUS tells us to look at their fruit. Do not be misled by the things some have accumulated such as their gold rings, big cars or big houses. JESUS tells us to look for their spiritual fruit. What do we look for in their lives as well as our lives? Fruit. What kind of fruit?

Galatians 5:22-26 gives us a list of the fruit of the spirit and some attributes of those who belong to CHRIST:

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,[5] Or faithfulness 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. 26 We must not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

Verses 15-20 focus on false prophets. Verses 21-23 focus on false disciples. Some Bible scholars think the false prophets and false disciples are one group. Others think they are two (2) groups. Either way both sets of people are acting like Christians and speaking the Christian language but they have never gone through the narrow gate themselves. Many have deceived others so long they have even deceived themselves. They have play acted so long their hearts are hard and they cannot even be saved by the message they speak. Keep in mind that GOD’S Word is powerful and impacts the lives of those who hear it and act upon it. So it appears that these people belong to GOD.

Hebrews 4:12-13:

12 For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as to divide soul, spirit, joints, and marrow; it is a judge of the ideas and thoughts of the heart. 13 No creature is hidden from Him, but all things are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give an account.

Isaiah 55:11: (GOD’S Word produces HIS desired results.)

11 so My word that comes from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and will prosper in what I send it [to do]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. .”

When false prophets and false disciples read the Bible, spiritual results can be manifested in the lives of others, because it is the power of the Word. But then the false prophets or false disciples interpret the Bible to suit themselves which can deceive and confuse those seeking truth. Genuine believers need discernment in order to separate the truth from a variation of the truth.

Discernment is a gift from GOD. Ask GOD for it and then act upon it when the alarms go off. It may be as simple as an uneasy sense when you hear a certain person present spiritual things. It is important that every believer know the Word themselves. Test all spiritual matters against the Word. Test what I tell you against the Word. No one is exempt.

In verse 23, JESUS tells the false prophets and false disciples that they are lawbreakers. The only way for us not to be judged by the law is to ask JESUS to forgive us of our sins and to come into our lives. Otherwise all people are breakers of the law. JESUS knows our hearts and those who have not accepted HIM as their personal SAVIOR are still under the law. HE tells them they have missed the mark because they have broken the law. GOD expects “perfection.” Close does not cut it with GOD. That is why every human must have CHRIST. HE is perfect in all ways. HE has overcome the world.

We, as Christians, still break the law. Does that mean we bounce in and out of heaven? No! Once we were conceived, we can nothing to change the fact that we are and always will be the child of our parents. The same is true when we are born-again we are GOD’S child and nothing will ever change this fact. But GOD wants us to confess our sins on an ongoing basis. HE knows we will sin and HE wants us to recognize, acknowledge and confess that we sin to maintain a healthy relationship with HIM.

Christians have come through the narrow gate by accepting JESUS as their SAVIOR. The Christian road is difficult and Christians sin. This is why 1 John 1:9 is important for every Christian to know and practice as we journey down the road of life.

1 John 1:9-10:
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.

When we accept JESUS as our SAVIOR several things happen:

CHRIST fulfills the law for all believers. It is impossible for any person to fulfill the law as GOD demands. Remember JESUS told us that GOD looks upon our hearts. To hate is the same as killing or to lust is the same as committing adultery. This is why we need JESUS. We cannot measure up to GOD’S requirements in our own strength. JESUS paid the price for the penalty for all sin by shedding HIS blood and giving HIS life that all who believes in HIM will be saved from eternal death. The believers reward is eternal life and much more:

Matthew 5:17: (JESUS is speaking)
17 "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.

Pass from death to eternal life.

John 5:24: (JESUS is speaking)
24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

Made Righteous.

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

Inherit eternal life.

John 3:16:
16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 1 Jn 4:9–10
Receive the HOLY SPIRIT.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20:
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.

Sealed by the HOLY SPIRIT – A Holy Guarantee or Warranty.

Ephesians 1:13-14:
13 In Him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—in Him when you believed—were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. 14 He is the down payment[12] Gn 38:17–18,20; 2 Co 1:22; 5:5 of our inheritance, for the redemption of the possession,[13] the possession could be either man’s or God’s to the praise of His glory.

Become GOD’S child.

Romans 8:16-17:
16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] Or provided that we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

Grace – We are saved by grace and GOD’S grace sustains us as we journey down the narrow difficult road. Grace is unmerited favor. It is something we cannot earn or even deserve but GOD gives it to us freely when we accept JESUS as our SAVIOR.

Ephesians 2:8:
8 For by grace[5] Rm 3:24; 6:14; 11:6; Gl 2:21; 2 Tm 1:9 you are saved through faith,[6] Rm 3:28; 5:1 and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— 9 not from works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are His creation—created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them.

These are just a few assurances of the miracle of the rebirth in our spirit.

Once we become GOD’S children through the miracle of the rebirth nothing will ever change the fact we are GOD’S children. We can honor HIM by being obedient or we can follow our own desires and dishonor HIM. When we are obedient to HIM, we receive heavenly rewards. When we serve as we wish, then we do not earn heavenly rewards. Believers get to heaven but by the skin of our teeth.

Paul gives insight to heavenly rewards in 1 Corinthians 3:10-16:
10 According to God’s grace that was given to me, as a skilled master builder I have laid a foundation, and another builds on it. But each one must be careful how he builds on it, 11 because no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid—that is, Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each one’s work will become obvious, for the day[4] The Day of Christ’s judgment of believers will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire.[5] Lit yet so as through fire 16 Don’t you know that you are God’s sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 If anyone ruins God’s sanctuary, God will ruin him; for God’s sanctuary is holy, and that is what you are.

In verses 21, 22 and 23 JESUS is telling the crowds that HE is the final authority and judge for anyone to get into heaven. They may have understood this by the end of HIS sermon when the crowds stated in verse 28 and 29 that JESUS spoke with authority.

The Apostle John records the words of JESUS when HE speaks about believers producing good fruit. Simply, believers must be grafted into the vine. HE is the vine and we are the branches.

John 15:5-8:

5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me. 6 If anyone does not remain in Me, he is thrown aside like a branch and he withers. They gather them, throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be[1] Or and become My disciples.

We must remain in HIM through an abiding relationship to continue to produce fruit. When we allow our flesh to lead us to do our own will, then we are of no value to HIM as fruit producers. True Christians maintain their status as GOD’S children but they are not obedient children. Disobedience costs them their heavenly treasure but not heaven.

In previous lessons, I have stated that those acknowledging JESUS or GOD as SAVIOR have done so with the expression, LORD. We see in this scripture that some call JESUS LORD but HE says depart from ME I never knew you. Again the LORD looks upon the heart. The expression of words does not save one but it is the attitude of the heart when those or many others words are spoken as a surrender of ones self to GOD. I have read of people simply saying “I give up.” Those simple words spoken resulted in their salvation. It is not the words. It is a matter of the heart and GOD knows our hearts.

If you have not made the decision to accept CHRIST, do so right now by asking HIM to come into your life. When you mean it, HE will.

Let’s read Matthew 7:24-29:
The Two Foundations
24 “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them will be like a sensible man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain fell, the rivers rose, and the winds blew and pounded that house. Yet it didn’t collapse, because its foundation was on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of Mine and doesn’t act on them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 The rain fell, the rivers rose, the winds blew and pounded that house, and it collapsed. And its collapse was great!” 28 When Jesus had finished this sermon,[11] Lit had ended these words the crowds were astonished at His teaching, 29 because He was teaching them like one who had authority, and not like their • scribes.

JESUS finishes HIS sermon talking about two (2) buildings. The buildings are identical and both are built strong. One building is built on a solid, well established foundation of a rock. The other foundation is built upon sand. Both function as a house until they are tested. The house built upon a foundation other than CHRIST, as depicted by the sand, collapses when tested. Often in life GOD allows us to be tested to let us see what we have built our foundations upon. It is better to know if our foundation is rock solid while we are on earth than to find it out that we built upon sand when it is too late.

The vital part of the two (2) buildings is obedience. Notice in verse 24, JESUS begins with “Everyone” who “hears” and “does” what I have just told you about in the Sermon on the Mount is like the wise person. Many of us can hear the Word but we fail to act on what we hear. Belief is faith in action. GOD does not want secret believers.

Notice how JESUS is establishing HIS authority, when HE says “these words of Mine” in verses 24 and 26.

The rock foundation represents CHRIST. When believers come before HIM we will not come under judgment because we have been saved by the Blood of the Lamb. We enter into heaven on HIS credentials.

The crowds were amazed because they had never heard anyone teaching with such authority. When you are the source, you do not have to second guess your statements. JESUS spoke with authority and it showed.

JESUS was saying be careful when you choose the gate you will enter. Build your life on the rock of CHRIST and not upon the sands the world has to offer. Choosing to journey with CHRIST is not easy. In fact the road is very difficult but HE says HE will walk with you each step of the way. Seek first the Kingdom of GOD and all the things will be given to you.

The goal of our FATHER is for us to be made into the image of HIS ONLY SON. The obedience of JESUS resulted in HIM sitting at the right-hand of the FATHER. Our obedience results in heavenly treasure being stored for us in heaven.

The choice is left to each individual. If you have not chosen CHRIST as your SAVIOR, ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life now.

The Christian journey is not easy but the rewards are heavenly and serving HIM is an absolute JOY. JESUS told us to stack up our treasure in heaven.

20/20 Vision - Matthew 7:1-12 - November 18, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – 20/20 Vision – November 18, 2007

This is lesson three (3) in our series of study. We continue our study in Matthew 7:1-12. JESUS continues to teach HIS disciples about relationships to GOD, believers and non-believers.

Our relationship to GOD, as a believer, shapes our relationship and attitude toward others. JESUS began the Sermon on the Mount with the foundational qualities that GOD wants every believer to have in their lives. Believers must know themselves by knowing their hearts or knowing their true nature. As believers interact with people they like and those that are not so likable, how do they respond? This gives believers insight into their growth and maturity.

We as humans cannot change our physical features just by thinking. Our human destiny is determined by genetics, nutrition, exercise, environment and other factors. Our physical development is determined by certain physical parameters.

Our spiritual growth and maturity is determined by our relationship with our FATHER through JESUS and the degree we allow the HOLY SPIRIT to direct our lives. The HOLY SPIRIT is the internal power that shapes our spiritual growth and guides us to the spiritual parameters we need. Our flesh wars against our spiritual development. That is why believers must yield and seek first the relationship. As believers grow and mature, GOD gives them assignments to develop his or her obedience. Obedience is faith in action, which in turn builds trust, confidence and a deeper relationship with GOD. Through obedience believers get to know GOD in an intimate and personal way. The key word is to “know.”

Let’s read Matthew 7:1-6:
Do Not Judge
1 “Do not judge, so that you won’t be judged. 2 For with the judgment you use,[1] Lit you judge you will be judged, and with the measure you use,[2] Lit you measure it will be measured to you. 3 Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye but don’t notice the log in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and look, there’s a log in your eye? 5 Hypocrite! First take the log out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye. 6 Don’t give what is holy to dogs or toss your pearls before pigs, or they will trample them with their feet, turn, and tear you to pieces.

JESUS uses the term “Judge.” Judge can mean to gather the facts and render a decision or it can mean to be critical of others based upon our opinions. It is the latter that JESUS tells us as believers not to do.

We are all growing and maturing as believers. As we grow and mature as believers, we see ourselves as GOD sees us, sinners saved by grace. As we yield to the working of the HOLY SPIRIT in our lives, we are being made into the image of HIS SON JESUS. This is sanctification.

JESUS is saying for believers not to judge others based upon their beliefs involving matters which GOD has not spoken. But on matters where GOD has spoken in HIS WORD, we can judge.

When we judge others just know that we will also be judged by the same measuring stick. So it is a clear wake up call to be very careful when we judge others. When GOD has spoken on an issue, HE has already judged the matter. Believers must be very careful not to get caught in the same trap that a fellow believer has. Galatians 6:1-5 captures this caution. Judging others can come from genuine concern or from a believer being spiritually arrogant. Those who are spiritually arrogant are spiritually immature.

Galatians 6:1-5:

1 Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you won’t be tempted also. 2 Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone considers himself to be something when he is nothing, he is deceiving himself. 4 But each person should examine his own work, and then he will have a reason for boasting in himself alone, and not in respect to someone else. 5 For each person will have to carry his own load.

JESUS gives a vivid illustration regarding judging others by comparing a log in the eye of the judging believer to the speck in the eye of a fellow believer. This is the very heart of the Sermon on the Mount. All believers must know themselves and first seek the right relationship with GOD. It is during the process of knowing ourselves and our relationship with GOD, through CHRIST, that we discover the logs in our own eyes. Then when we deal with the logs in our own eyes, we know how to assist fellow believers with the specks in their eyes. We can assist them with a helpful attitude and not a condemning attitude.

All that JESUS has said through verse 5 has been directed toward believers. Verse 6 switches to non-believers. The dogs referred to were not like our pets of today but they were wild dogs that ran in packs. They destroyed and ravaged the things with which they came into contact. Pigs were considered unclean to the Jew. The reference to the dogs and pigs seem to be those who were enemies of the gospel. The pearl is the gospel of CHRIST.

We must keep in mind that after HIS crucifixion and resurrection, JESUS gave the Great Commission to take the gospel to all nations, just before HE ascended into heaven. HE is not saying not to take the gospel to all people but HE is saying that once believers have obediently presented the gospel and it has been rejected, then they should leave.

Many of us as believers have loved ones and friends that we want to accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR. Once we are led to present the gospel and it is rejected, we need to back off lest we are attacked as a pack of wild dogs or wild boars. Bottom line, further talk becomes counterproductive. But we should continue to pray for them and follow up when led by the HOLY SPIRIT to do so. This is where we must have discernment to know when to back off.

Let’s read Matthew 7:7-11:
Keep Asking, Searching, Knocking
7 “Keep asking,[3] Or Ask and it will be given to you. Keep searching,[4] Or Search and you will find. Keep knocking,[5] Or Knock and the door[6] Lit and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door[7] Lit knocks, it will be opened. 9 What man among you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

JESUS follows HIS caution regarding presenting the gospel with the need for persistent prayer. In life, believers will encounter difficult people, circumstances, situations and matters. We are to pray and keep on praying. Pray for those who reject the gospel. Pray for ourselves as we deal with the logs in our eyes. Pray for others as we help them remove the specks from their eyes. Pray as we go through everyday life as we encounter others. Pray when we watch or hear the news. Pray, pray, pray!

Asking, searching and knocking all deal with prayer. Bottom line, do not give up. When we are this persistent in prayer we stay focused on GOD WHO is the ONE WHO has the power to bring about our request. HE is he ONE that can bring understanding and comfort as we wait on the answer or understanding. We are not to loose hope no matter how long it takes for the answer to come.

JESUS follows being persistent in prayer with encouragement. We know that earthly fathers, being evil when compared to GOD, give good things to their children. We must keep in mind when GOD, WHO is our heavenly FATHER, answers our prayers with no or in a different manner than we ask; we know HE has our best interest in mind. HE is not in the business of tricking us or harming us by giving us things that will harm us. GOD is sovereign and HIS ways are not our ways, HIS thoughts are higher than our thoughts and HIS vantage point is perfect. This boils down to trust. Trust comes with having confidence in our LORD to give us what is best in all situations, circumstances and matters.

Let’s read Matthew 7:12:

12 Therefore, whatever you want others to do for you, do also the same for them—this is the Law and the Prophets.[8] When capitalized, the Law and the Prophets = the OT

This verse is considered the “Golden Rule” of the Bible. It is do unto others as you want them to do unto you. This concept is reflected in the Law and the Prophets regarding human relations.

JESUS was asked about the greatest commandments. HIS answer is given in Matthew 22:34-40 and focuses on our relationship with GOD and our fellow human beings:

34 When the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees, they came together in the same place. 35 And one of them, an expert in the law, asked a question to test Him: 36 “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?”[12] Lit is great 37 He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.[13] Dt 6:5 38 This is the greatest and most important[14] Lit and first commandment. 39 The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.[15] Lv 19:18 40 All the Law and the Prophets depend[16] Or hang on these two commandments.”

When we have the proper relationship with GOD and seek HIM first, then we can, with the empowering of the HOLY SPIRIT, love others as we love ourselves. Only through the empowering of the HOLY SPIRIT can we love the unlovely. It is then that we can do unto others as we would want them to do unto us. This goes back to the foundational qualities that JESUS addressed in the Beatitudes. (Matthew 6)

It is all about knowing ourselves, seeking to know GOD and being obedient to HIM. GOD wants all believers to see others and situations as clearly as HE sees them. This can only happen as we grow and mature in HIM by yielding our will to HIM and saying as the Apostle Paul said in Galatians 2:20:

20 "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

The Cure for Anxious Care - Matthew 6:16-34 - November 11, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – The Cure for Anxious Care – November 11, 2007

This is lesson two (2) in our series of study. Our scripture is Matthew 6:16-34.

Human life is all about meeting life’s necessities. GOD made us to care for ourselves and our children. Caring for ourselves and our children is part of our nature. So it is natural for us to be anxious about food, clothing, shelter, medical care and financial care.

JESUS is addressing the very basics of human existence. Again we must keep it all in proper perspective. As children of GOD, the HOLY SPIRIT helps us to keep the proper perspective and yes again it is all about our relationship with GOD through CHRIST. It is all about our heart, motives and priorities.

JESUS is not telling believers to fold our hands and wait until GOD provides all of life’s necessities. GOD provides all the things believers need to sustain life. But we need to take action just as the birds of the air seek and find what GOD has already provided.

Let’s read Matthew 6:19-24:
God and Possessions
19 “Don’t collect for yourselves treasures[14] Or valuables on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But collect for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don’t break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. So if the light within you is darkness—how deep is that darkness! 24 “No one can be a slave of two masters, since either he will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot be slaves of God and of money.

JESUS tells believers to store their treasure in heaven and not upon earth. In fact JESUS is saying pile up or hoard much treasure in heaven. HE is giving sound eternal heavenly financial advice to all believers. All humans die and leave behind all their earthly possessions including their own body.

JESUS tells us that we can send treasure to the heavenly treasury while we are on earth and it will be waiting for us when we arrive in heaven. Not a bad deal.

JESUS did not say anything against wise stewardship or ownership of property or possessions. But it is clear that HE is very concerned with us placing greater value on earthly things. It is all about our attitude toward earthly stuff.

Our relationship with our LORD helps believers to stay focused, balanced and in the center of HIS will and purpose for our lives.

Some believers may get discouraged and think they do not have a lot of treasure to send to heaven. I have to remind you that GOD looks upon our heart. The example of the widow’s mite I think is fitting. She gave what she had. JESUS said she had given far more then those who were putting very expensive gifts into the temple treasury. With GOD – Little with the right attitude, motive and heart equals much!!!

So how do we send a deposit to our heavenly treasure? Obedience! The very key is captured in verses 33 and 34. Seek the relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Then let CHRIST through the HOLY SPIRIT direct your lives. This is the growth and maturing process called sanctification or being set apart to serve our LORD. But we must have trust and confidence in HIM to obediently serve HIM. But when we are obedient then the rewards are out of this world. In fact they are stored in the heavenly treasury waiting for us when we get to heaven.

1 Corinthians 3:10-17:
10 According to God’s grace that was given to me, as a skilled master builder I have laid a foundation, and another builds on it. But each one must be careful how he builds on it, 11 because no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid—that is, Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each one’s work will become obvious, for the day[4] The Day of Christ’s judgment of believers will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire.[5] Lit yet so as through fire 16 Don’t you know that you are God’s sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 If anyone ruins God’s sanctuary, God will ruin him; for God’s sanctuary is holy, and that is what you are.

WOW!!! Check out verse 17. As a believer you are special. You are HOLY because the HOLY SPIRIT indwells you.

This scripture is about the heavenly treasure waiting for us. We accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR and all believers are building on the foundation of CHRIST. We are using various materials based upon who rules our kingdom the flesh. When we serve the dictates of the flesh, we build materials which will not stand the test of fire. They will be burned up. But when we are obedient and serve our LORD as HE directs us, then we build with precious materials which will stand the test of fire and survive. All believers will enter heaven but as the scripture tells us, some will enter by the skin of their teeth, as one leaping from a burning house.

Again, this entire lesson is summarized in verses 33 and 34. It is all about our relationship to our LORD. We as humans try to control and direct our own lives and many of us find it very difficult to commit our lives to our LORD. I know I have been there and still find it hard to yield my will to HIM. But do we want to store treasure in heaven? Then we must seek the relationship first.
JESUS discusses the eye. A sound eye sees things the way they are supposed to be seen and not the way we think they should be seen.

Ephesians 1:18-19 are some of my favorite verses.
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, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength.

This scripture mentions the eyes of our heart. I had never thought about the center of our being having eyes. But this to me is the most secret place within each of us. It is where can meet with GOD and discuss the most intimate things. It is where we know whether or not we are truly Christians. It is the place where GOD enlightens or reveals truth to us. In the eyes of our heart we can discern our true relationship with our LORD. This is where we need to discuss with GOD our relationship with HIM and ask HIM to reveal to us how we can improve our relationship.
We cannot serve two (2) masters. We cannot serve the flesh and the spirit. When we allow the flesh to rule our lives we cannot serve GOD as HE wants us to serve HIM. We are compromised. Therefore we must make a choice. Shall we serve ourselves or GOD? We need to examine the barriers that prevent us from serving HIM completely.

Let’s read Matthew 6:25-32:
The Cure for Anxiety
25 “This is why I tell you: Don’t worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Isn’t life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the sky: they don’t sow or reap or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you worth more than they? 27 Can any of you add a single • cubit to his height[15] Or add one moment to his life-span by worrying? 28 And why do you worry about clothes? Learn how the wildflowers of the field grow: they don’t labor or spin thread. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was adorned like one of these! 30 If that’s how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and thrown into the furnace tomorrow, won’t He do much more for you—you of little faith? 31 So don’t worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 For the idolaters[16] Or Gentiles, or nations, or heathen, or pagans eagerly seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.

We all know that there are certain things we must do to exist in this world. JESUS is not saying that we just sit and let GOD provide all things. HE is saying do not be anxious.

JESUS uses an example of GOD’S care when HE tells about the birds of the air. True GOD feeds the birds but the birds also search for the food and build their nests. They are active. I think HE expects us to be active by allowing HIM to direct our efforts as we search for employment, food, clothing, shelter, etc. GOD knows we need the basics for sustaining our lives and caring for our family.

I know of friends who the LORD has directed to go buy groceries and then told to go this way, turn here and stop at a certain house. Guess what? The family living at that house had no food. GOD works through HIS children to meet the needs of others. But those in need also have to be active in seeking the things they need. Mobile Meals does an outstanding job in providing food for those in need. Many other organizations do the same for food, clothing and shelter.

Let’s read Matthew 6:33-34:

33 But seek first the kingdom of God[17] Other mss omit of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. 34 Therefore don’t worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

First means no lip service but saying no to the flesh and yes to the complete leadership of GOD. Our relationship, motives and heart before our LORD will be pure and honest.

When we have the proper relationship when “things” are provided, they will not harm or hurt us. GOD will not give us something that will harm us, just as we do not give our children things that will harm them. When they are mature enough to handle them, then we will let them have some things.

I recall a number of years ago the LORD gave me a clear example of this principle. I was upset with the LORD about not getting something I wanted. I was on the LORD’S case and we were having a heart-to-heart discussion. In fact, I said I am better to my children than YOU are to me. The still small voice of the LORD asked me a question. You have two (2) sons. I said yes. And you have a shotgun. I said yes. Would you give your shot gun to your young son, Brad? (Who was about nine years old at that time.) I said, No! Would you give it to your oldest son, Ted? I said, Yes! Then HE asked, do you love Ted more then you do Brad? I said No! HE said but you would give your shotgun to Ted but not to Brad, why? I said because Brad has not been trained on gun safety but Ted has. So I would be concerned that Brad might hurt himself or someone else. The still small voice asked, “Is there a time you will let Brad use the shotgun?” I said, Yes when he is properly trained and knows gun safety, then I will let him use it. The still small voice said, now think on this. I love all my children and give them good gifts but only when they are mature enough to handle them.

I then prayed a prayer. “LORD make me mature.” Now we think GOD sprinkles magic Holy dust over us and we are instantly made spiritually mature. No! It does not happen that way. But it is a long process of just encountering life and walking with our LORD through the good times and the not so good times.

Verses 33 and 34 summarize this entire series of lessons. The number one most important thing we as believers must do is to seek the relationship with GOD through CHRIST. CHRIST is the earthly manifestation of GOD. HE became flesh and lived among us. HE was tempted in all ways as we are, yet without sin. HE knows what we are experiencing as humans living in a sinful world. HE knows what it feels like to have HIS humanity clash with HIS spirituality. When HE hung on the cross, HE cried out, MY GOD why have YOU forsaken ME. I think at that moment when the sin of mankind was placed upon JESUS, HIS FATHER had to turn HIS head from HIM. HE knew that the FATHER had turned HIS head from HIM and felt abandoned. HIS flesh must have cried out, take matters in YOU OWN HAND and come down from that cross because the FATHER has abandoned YOU!!! JESUS has a choice to make. HE chose to trust the FATHER in the darkest hour of HIS life. HE had to trust the FATHER with HIS human life to secure eternal life for all believers.

There may come a time in our lives when we too have to make a choice in the darkest hour of our lives. Do we trust GOD when it seems as if HE has abandoned us? That is exactly what HE wants us to do. Having the relationship with HIM and knowing HIM is vital as we serve HIM.

How do we get to know HIM? Just like we do when we want to get to really know anyone. We spend time with HIM. We talk to HIM. We read about HIM. We are obedient to HIM and serve HIM. It is a spiritual growth and maturing process.

The only moment we have is the moment we are in at this exact time. JESUS says not to worry or be anxious about tomorrow because we have enough to trouble in the now. Simply take life a day at the time and trust GOD to help you though each day.

1 Peter 5:7:
7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

The only way to overcome worry or anxiety is to trust in GOD and HIS resources by placing your cares upon HIM.

Seeking Your FATHER'S Approval - Matthew 6:1-18 - November 4, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Seeking Your FATHER’S Approval – November 4, 2007

Our scripture for the month of November will be Matthew Chapters 6 and 7. Our study this week continues to examine our motives. It focuses on our motives for our worship and service to GOD as believers.

Our scripture is Matthew 6:1-18.

In Matthew Chapter 5, JESUS laid the foundation for the qualities that GOD wants the ideal disciple to possess in the Beatitudes. HE followed it with the fact that believers are salt and light. There are things in the world that will cause a believer to loose his or her saltiness or become barriers to letting his or her light shine.

Therefore, believers must know themselves by knowing their hearts to ensure they are not deceiving themselves. GOD expects believers to follow the spirit of the law as well as the law. Believers encounter all sorts of people in the world around them. When others do not treat us as we think they should, as believers, how do we respond? How we respond gives us a glimpse of our hearts toward the unlovely.

The HOLY SPIRIT is the ONE WHO helps us to grow and mature such that we will have all the qualities and character that GOD wants us to have in our lives. So what is our part? We have to yield our wills to CHRIST and allow the HOLY SPIRIT to control our lives. This is extremely hard to do. Our flesh wants to rule our flesh kingdom and it will fight hard to maintain that control. I know I have been there and still fight it daily to regain control and often it does. But that is also part of the process of sanctification or our lives being set aside to be obedient to GOD.

This week JESUS wants HIS disciples to consider their motives when they worship and serve GOD.

Our motives for serving GOD are very important and cast light on our heart. GOD wants us to be honest when we serve and worship HIM. Our motives give us a clue about where our heart is. Do we want the praise of others or do we want to be obedient to GOD?

The question comes to mind, why is it important for us to know our motives when we serve and worship GOD? One reason is that when we serve to please others and want to be seen by others, it can suggest that our faith in GOD is compromised. In other words, we do not hold GOD in the place of esteem and honor in our lives. It is an indication that we want to please others who we can see rather than to please GOD who we cannot see. I think it highlights a faith or heart problem. It is a warning sign to us to ask GOD to show us our heart and put HIS finger on barriers that are preventing us from having an intimate, loving relationship with HIM.

JESUS addresses three (3) areas of serving and worship – giving, prayer and fasting. There is a presumption that believers will give, pray and fast because JESUS uses the words “when (in some translations) or whenever (in this translation) you give, pray or fast.”

Let’s read Matthew 6:1-4:
How to Give
1 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness[1] Other mss read charitable giving in front of people, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2 So whenever you give to the poor, don’t sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the • synagogues and on the streets, to be applauded by people. • I assure you: They’ve got their reward! 3 But when you give to the poor, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.[2] Other mss read will Himself reward you openly

JESUS says not to serve such that our motive is for others to see what we are doing. Believers can serve for the wrong motives but there is no reward. When we give, we should be so discrete that our left hand should not know what your right hand is doing. Do not make a show. Serve through giving in a quite way.

JESUS is coming from the point-of-view that we will serve when HE uses the “when”. We need to keep in mind when we serve and give as GOD leads us for the right reasons, we are rewarded by GOD. The reward may be while we are still on earth or waiting for us in heaven.

GOD wants our motives for giving to be for the right reason. GOD knows our human nature. It is natural for us to seek approval of others. When we give to be seen, then we give as we choose rather than as GOD led us to give. GOD wants to be the ONE WHO guides us in our giving. When we seek the guidance of the LORD, it shows that we recognize that GOD has provided the resources we have to share and we seek HIS guidance because HE has a plan for all things in life. It is all about obedience.

Let’s read Matthew 6:5-15:
How to Pray
5 “Whenever you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites, because they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by people. I assure you: They’ve got their reward! 6 But when you pray, go into your private room, shut your door, and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.[3] Other mss add openly 7 When you pray, don’t babble like the idolaters,[4] Or Gentiles, or nations, or heathen, or pagans since they imagine they’ll be heard for their many words. 8 Don’t be like them, because your Father knows the things you need before you ask Him.

JESUS again addresses the intent and motives of our heart. Our flesh gets in our way. Our ego is powerful and we want to be seen and for others to recognize and be aware of what we are doing.

Again it is to seek the praise of others.

JESUS is saying know your heart and if you discover your motives are tainted then, confess it. When our motives are askew, it is an indication that our relationship with GOD is also askew. Our relationship with JESUS is vital and critical in serving, giving, praying and fasting.

JESUS is not attacking our posture when we pray but our motive. There is a place for public prayer and also a place for private prayer. We can go to a secret place such as a closet or an out-of-the-way place if we need to pray aloud or we can simply pray to ourselves. When we see others as we go about our daily business, we can utter a prayer for them. When we hear a siren, someone is in need. We can pray for those going to meet that need. We can pray and no one except us will know that we are praying. We should pray about all things at all times. Constant communication with our LORD is vital in our daily walk with HIM.

JESUS tells us that GOD already knows what we need. Some may ask, if HE already knows, then why pray? HE wants us to keep our minds focused on HIM. All things come from HIM. HE does not want us to be presumptuous.

I had an interesting experience just yesterday. I was shopping and my back was hurting. I needed to make one more stop. I considered not making the stop but really needed to do it. I thought I would see if there was a parking spot near the door. I also thought, “There is never a spot there so why even bother?” But I thought I would at least check it out. Well, guess what? There was a parking spot as close as possible to the door I needed to enter. As I pulled into the spot the still small voice of the LORD said, this is what it means when I know your needs before you ask. GOD met my needs.

Now, what does my human nature begin to expect? My human nature wants GOD to provide a parking spot for me every time. When we begin to anticipate and expect GOD to perform in a certain way, we will be disappointed. We are to pray about all things but be careful about concluding how HE will provide the solution. The next time I need a parking spot it may in the boonies because, HE knows I need the exercise.

The Model Prayer
9 “Therefore, you should pray like this: Our Father in heaven, Your name be honored as holy. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread.[5] Or our necessary bread, or our bread for tomorrow 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And do not bring us into[6] Or do not cause us to come into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.[7] Or from evil [For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. • Amen.][8] Other mss omit bracketed text 14 “For if you forgive people their wrongdoing,[9] Or trespasses your heavenly Father will forgive you as well. 15 But if you don’t forgive people,[10] Other mss add their wrongdoing your Father will not forgive your wrongdoing.[11] Or trespasses

Often we hear this prayer referred to as the LORD’S Prayer. But it is a model for prayer. JESUS is telling HIS disciples here is a model but it is not the only prayer you need to pray.

So let’s look at it.

Our FATHER in Heaven – We are to direct our prayers to the true GOD, WHO we can call FATHER.

I was thinking of this prayer several weeks ago and got excited about it, when, for the first time, I noticed that JESUS began with “Our FATHER.”

It had never hit me before. JESUS could have said MY FATHER but HE said our FATHER.

JESUS begins the model prayer making it clear where our prayer is to be directed. It is not our earthly father but our FATHER WHO is in heaven. GOD can only be our FATHER through the miracle of rebirth. We can only call GOD our FATHER if we have been born-again into HIS family through JESUS our SAVIOR.

HIS disciples only put all this together after JESUS was crucified, buried, resurrected and ascended. Then JESUS sent the HOLY SPIRIT back to indwell them as well as all believers. It was then that they understood what JESUS was saying about GOD being “Our FATHER.”

YOUR name be honored as HOLY. This tells us that our FATHER is HOLY and HIS name is also HOLY.

JESUS continued that we are to show our heavenly FATHER respect and honor by acknowledging and keeping HIS name HOLY. In today’s society how often do we hear GOD’S name used in disrespect or in a flippant manner? About everywhere - Especially on television, certain books and some magazine articles.

YOUR Kingdom come. Our FATHER is the ruler of heaven and HIS Kingdom will come to earth where HE will also rule.

JESUS wants all believers to stay focused on the fact that once HE ascends to heaven, HE can return at any moment to fully establish the rule of GOD in the universe.

JESUS brought the Kingdom of GOD to earth when HE was born as a human. GOD’S Kingdom will be established in the hearts and lives of all believers when CHRIST fulfills the first part of HIS mission. Then all believers should be constantly looking for HIS return which will begin the steps necessary leading to the final judgment.

YOUR will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

JESUS acknowledges that GOD’S will is done in heaven. This statement can only be said by ONE WHO has been there.

GOD’S desire is for HIS will to be done on earth but all people including believers have the freedom to choose. The ultimate goal is for all believers to be obedient to GOD here upon earth as everyone is completely obedient to HIM in heaven. There is recognition of the universal authority of GOD. In essence when we pray the model prayer we are saying let GOD’S will reign in my life here upon earth just as it would if I were in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

JESUS has established the authority of GOD both in heaven and upon earth. GOD is the ONE WHO provides all things for us, as humans, to be able to live upon earth. Food is essential to sustain human life. Spiritual food is essential to sustain our spiritual life. JESUS acknowledges that we need to ask GOD to provide our daily bread to sustain us.

The word JESUS uses carries the ideal of GOD providing food for today as well as the next day.

Forgive our debts as we have also forgiven our debtors.

JESUS then addresses forgiveness. We, as sinners saved by grace, have been forgiven so much. The debt of our sin has been paid by the blood of JESUS. It is a debt we can never repay. When we understand that we have been forgiven so much, we should forgive others accordingly. This is a reminder that we are to forgive others each time we pray. Remember JESUS says when we worship, if we recall that someone has something against us, we need to leave and settle the matter before we continue to worship.

Do not bring us into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.

Next JESUS addresses temptation. GOD never tempts anyone. In essence JESUS is saying do not let us be tempted by our own human desires. But give us the strength to look for, see and take action when temptation comes our way. But help us to keep our minds and hearts so focused upon YOU that we will not be lured into temptation. The Bible tells us that HE always provides a way to escape when temptation comes our way. But we must choose to escape.

GOD will allow us to be tested. Testing is not for GOD to see how we will measure up but for us to see where we are spiritually. So if our human nature opens us up to allow the devil a foothold in our lives then come to our rescue/deliver us. Do not let us be consumed by the world because we know YOU are our deliver but we also know we are subject to our human nature, the flesh.

It seems to be an awareness of our vulnerability as humans when we take our eyes off of JESUS. It can and does happen to the best of believers. If you ever think you are above being led astray, then that is when you are most vulnerable. All Christians are targets of the enemy. We are always on the front lines.

For YOURS is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever.

JESUS ends with an acknowledgement that GOD is the power. We are in HIS care and we depend upon HIM for all things. This statement is not in the earlier manuscripts.

Forgiveness revisited.

JESUS then revisits forgiveness. Forgiveness is critical. An unforgiving heart can be detrimental to our physical as well as spiritual health. It robs us of the abundant life in CHRIST.

Let’s read Mathew 6:16-18:
How to Fast
16 “Whenever you fast, don’t be sad-faced like the hypocrites. For they make their faces unattractive[12] Or unrecognizable, or disfigured so their fasting is obvious to people. I assure you: They’ve got their reward! 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head, and wash your face, 18 so that you don’t show your fasting to people but to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.[13] Other mss add openly

JESUS addresses fasting. Fasting is something I have only done a few times in my life.

JESUS uses the word “When” you fast. So there is an expectation that HIS disciples will fast.

JESUS told HIS disciples about the importance of fasting in Matthew 17:14-21:
The Power of Faith over a Demon
14 When they reached the crowd, a man approached and knelt down before Him. 15 “Lord,” he said, “have mercy on my son, because he has seizures[10] Lit he is moonstruck; thought to be a form of epilepsy and suffers severely. He often falls into the fire and often into the water. 16 I brought him to Your disciples, but they couldn’t heal him.” 17 Jesus replied, “You unbelieving and rebellious[11] Or corrupt, or perverted, or twisted; Dt 32:5 generation! How long will I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring him here to Me.” 18 Then Jesus rebuked the demon,[12] Lit rebuked him or it and it[13] Lit the demon came out of him, and from that moment[14] Lit hour the boy was healed. 19 Then the disciples approached Jesus privately and said, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” 20 “Because of your little faith,” He[15] Other mss read your unbelief,” Jesus told them. “For • I assure you: If you have faith the size of[16] Lit faith like a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. [ 21 However, this kind does not come out except by prayer and fasting.]”[17] Other mss omit bracketed text; Mk 9:29

This man had brought his son to JESUS’ disciples. They could not heal him. Notice what JESUS says in verse 21.

I know a missionary friend of mine was in the hospital very ill. She asked a local pastor to pray for her healing. The Pastor told her that he would pray about it. He came back to her and told her that the LORD had given permission to pray for her healing. But he along with his church had to fast and pray for her. He said they would fast and pray for her, as I recall, on that Wednesday. The church did and she was healed.

I have to admit when I fasted, I did so trying to manipulate GOD. I fasted for the wrong reason. I have never been, to my knowledge, led to fast and pray.

I have met people who have said they could not eat or partake of certain food or drink because they were fasting. JESUS says when we fast keep it to our selves.

I think. Now watch out when I say “I think” because this is my opinion. I think we need to be led into fasting. I say this only based upon where I am coming from. My nature has been to fast to manipulate GOD into doing something I wanted. Therefore I am very cautious. Also some people should be cautious about fasting because of existing health conditions such as diabetes.

Yes fasting is something we are called to do. It causes us to focus on the subject of concern and to focus our attention on GOD WHO is the ONE WHO can provide the solution or comfort.

This brings to mind (Nothing to do with fasting but someone must need this) another dear missionary friend who is now with our LORD, Miss Bertha Smith. What a cricket! We talked about the gift of healing. She said her sister had the gift of healing and people would come to her and ask her to pray for their healing. She would tell them to wait because she had to go and check. Miss Bertha said that meant she had to go and pray and ask the LORD how she should pray for that person. She would come back with one of two (2) possible answers (1) Yes, the LORD has given me permission to pray for you. She would and they would be healed. (2) No, the LORD has not given me permission to pray for your healing because this is something you need to go through but HE has given me permission to pray for your comfort as you go through this.

In summary, giving, praying and fasting are all about our motives. GOD wants us to have an intimate relationship with HIM. When we have the proper relationship, we will have the proper motives as we worship and serve HIM. So seek the relationship first by yielding your life to HIM and the rest will fall into place.