Changing the World - Go and Tell - Acts 8 - December 26,2010

Bible Study – Changing the World – Go and Tell – December 26, 2010
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!
This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Changing the World.”
Our scripture is Acts 8:1-39.
CHRIST makes it clear that Christians are to go and tell the Gospel of CHRIST. Christians are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. When a person is in darkness he/she seeks light.


Years ago, our young son and I were spelunking with his scout troop. We had a guide and were exploring a cave that had not been mapped. I remember clinging to a high wall with a 20 foot drop to jaggered rocks below and thinking, as I was about to go around a sharp corner of the wall, “This would not be a good time for my light to go out.” There was some light from the person in front of you until he went around the corner, then darkness. Just as I approached the corner, you guessed it, my light went out. There was a person behind me but he had not reached that section of the wall. It was dark. If you have ever been in a cave then you know what dark is. It was a tense moment for me. I did not know where to place my hands or feet to proceed around the corner. After what seemed to be a long time, the person behind me came close enough to me for their light to help me see where to place my hands and feet and continue working my way around the wall and the corner. I made it to a ledge and fixed my light.


Shortly after this incident, the HOLY SPIRIT brought this incident to my attention to remind me there are times when a Christian’s light may go out or grow dim and he/she needs the light of a fellow Christian to help him/her get to the point that their light is rekindled. Those without CHRIST are in darkness and a Christian is often the only Spiritual light he/she can see. Let the light of CHRIST shine through you, not to draw attention to yourself but for others see the light of CHRIST in you and to encourage them to seek HIM.


We know that salt adds flavor to food but also it can be used as a preservative, melt ice and can help heal. As CHRIST taught, Christians are the salt of the earth. Salt can make you thirsty. Christians should so live that others will thirst for what they have. They should thirst for truth and that truth is found in CHRIST.


Christians come in all sorts of packages and are often poor representatives of CHRIST. If you have encountered a poor Christian representative, do not toss CHRIST out because of the way he/she may have acted. You are responsible for your sins. Do not let something or someone prevent you from putting on the garments of righteousness and truth by asking CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and for HIM to come into your life. Experience the wonder of a changed life, the renewing of your mind and build a loving, intimate relationship with HIM.


Christians are to go and tell as they are called and led by the HOLY SPIRIT. When we get up, every day is a day of opportunity to serve the LORD as HIS children, as HE leads.


GOD provides opportunities to serve HIM in many ways. Our scripture today will give us an example of how GOD works to get the message of salvation to others. Will we, as Christians, agree to go or choose to stay?


GOD called Philip to go and tell. Philip was not the Apostle Philip but he was one of the seven deacons commissioned as we learn in Acts 6:1-6:


Seven Chosen to Serve
1 In those days, as the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint by the Hellenistic Jews[1] against the Hebraic Jews[2] that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution. 2 Then the Twelve summoned the whole company of the disciples and said, “It would not be right for us to give up preaching about God to wait on tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we can appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the preaching ministry.” 5 The proposal pleased the whole company. So they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a • proselyte from Antioch. 6 They had them stand before the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.[3]

This scripture speaks to the character of Philip. He was chosen to serve because he was a man who would serve without bias and prejudice. So GOD called him to serve among those who believed they were being discriminated against.

The Jews began persecuting the Christians. Notice that Stephen was listed first in the group of seven which could indicate that he was the leader or certainly the first chosen to serve. Philip was listed as the second chosen. The Jews chose Stephen to stone.


Notice in verse 1, that Saul was present at the stoning of Stephen. This was Paul before his conversion to CHRIST on the road to Damascus. The stoning of Stephen resulted in the scattering of all Christians except the apostles. Philip scattered like the others. But did he hide or go and tell? Let’s explore.


First some background. Let’s read Acts 8:1-25:
Saul the Persecutor (As mentioned above, this was Paul before his conversion to CHRIST.)
1 Saul agreed with putting him to death. On that day a severe persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout the land of Judea and Samaria. 2 But devout men buried Stephen and mourned deeply over him. 3 Saul, however, was ravaging the church, and he would enter house after house, drag off men and women, and put them in prison.


Philip in Samaria (As you may recall, the Jews hated the Samaritans.)
4 So those who were scattered went on their way proclaiming the message of good news. 5 Philip went down to a[1] city in Samaria and preached the • Messiah to them. 6 The crowds paid attention with one mind to what Philip said, as they heard and saw the signs he was performing. 7 For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed, and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city.


Notice, when the Christians scattered, they spread the Gospel of CHRIST wherever they went. Philip went to the Samaritans, who the Jews despised and preached the message of CHRIST. Remember, he was a man of character and was not prejudiced so he went to Samaria to minister without hesitation. GOD manifested HIS power through Philip.


The Response of Simon (The sorcerer)
9 A man named Simon had previously practiced sorcery in that city and astounded the • Samaritan people, while claiming to be somebody great. 10 They all paid attention to him, from the least of them to the greatest, and they said, “This man is called the Great Power of God!”[2] 11 They were attentive to him because he had astounded them with his sorceries for a long time. 12 But when they believed Philip, as he proclaimed the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized. 13 Then even Simon himself believed. And after he was baptized, he went around constantly with[3] Philip and was astounded as he observed the signs and great miracles that were being performed.


Simon the Sorcerer became a Christian or did he? What was Simon’s motive for becoming a Christian? Did he want the power that he saw being manifested through Philip without his heart being changed? Many people have a variety of reasons why they become a Christian. Some people may get into trouble and say they are a Christian. This works to their advantage so they can tell a judge or parents or girlfriend or boyfriend that they have seen the light. But their hearts have not been changed.


Simon’s Sin
14 When the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had welcomed God’s message, they sent Peter and John to them. 15 After they went down there, they prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For He had not yet come down on[4] any of them; they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 When Simon saw that the Holy[5] Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power too, so that anyone I lay hands on may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 But Peter told him, “May your silver be destroyed with you, because you thought the gift of God could be obtained with money! 21 You have no part or share in this matter, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.” 24 “Please pray[6] to the Lord for me,” Simon replied, “so that nothing you[7] have said may happen to me.” 25 Then, after they had testified and spoken the message of the Lord, they traveled back to Jerusalem, evangelizing many villages of the • Samaritans.


Simon reveals his true heart. Peter jumped him with both feet for his deceitful heart. Once Simon’s true motive was exposed, he knew he was in deep trouble. Hopefully his apparent repentance was genuine.


GOD was using Philip in a mighty way in Samaria. So he was set for the rest of his life or was he? Let’s discover. Surely GOD would leave him in Samaria where he had a thriving ministry.


Let’s read Acts 8:26-29:
The Conversion of the Ethiopian Official
26 An angel of the Lord spoke to Philip: “Get up and go south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to desert Gaza.”[8] 27 So he got up and went. There was an Ethiopian man, a eunuch and high official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of her entire treasury. He had come to worship in Jerusalem 28 and was sitting in his chariot on his way home, reading the prophet Isaiah aloud. 29 The Spirit told Philip, “Go and join that chariot.”


Philip was a busy, effective evangelist. Surely GOD would keep him in Samaria. No, HE didn’t! Why do you think GOD called Philip to leave this active ministry to go of all places to the desert? Could it be that HE knew Philip’s heart and that his desire was to do the will of GOD wherever he was called to minister? There are times a person can stay in one place to long. Philip’s ego was in proper perspective. All he wanted to do was obediently serve GOD as led by the HOLY SPIRIT. He was called to minister wherever GOD called him to serve.


GOD sent an angel to deliver Philip a message, which in essence was, “Philip leave this thriving ministry and go to the desert.” What would your reaction be? Mine would be, “LORD are YOU sure? Did I hear this message correctly?” What did Philip do?


He got up and went to the desert without hesitation.

What did he see? He saw an Ethiopian man, a black man, a Gentile, riding in a chariot, reading scripture. He was a person of importance because he was in charge of the Queen’s treasury. The queen’s name was not Candace. Candace was a title like the title of Pharaoh. The title Pharaoh was the title used for any number of kings. The Ethiopian was a eunuch. He could have been a eunuch meaning a person who had been castrated at an early age or the term also referred to a government official. The Greeks used the term to refer to the person who guarded the harems.


He had been to Jerusalem to worship and he was reading scripture from Isaiah. The HOLY SPIRIT instructed Philip to go up and join himself to the chariot. If Philip had been a prejudiced person, he may have been reluctant to go and speak to the Ethiopian. But he wasn’t and GOD knew that, thus HE called him to go and witness to the Ethiopian.


Let’s read Acts 8:30-35:
30 When Philip ran up to it, he heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you’re reading?” 31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone guides me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 Now the Scripture passage he was reading was this: He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb is silent before its shearer, so He does not open His mouth. 33 In His humiliation justice was denied Him. Who will describe His generation? For His life is taken from the earth.[9]34 The eunuch replied to Philip, “I ask you, who is the prophet saying this about—himself or another person?” 35 So Philip proceeded[10] to tell him the good news about Jesus, beginning from that Scripture.


Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the Ethiopian reading Isaiah. Philip asked him if he knew what he was reading. This was a gracious opening for the Ethiopian to reveal where he was Spiritually. This question provided the opportunity for dialogue between these two men. It is important to meet people on common ground to explore spiritual matters. The Ethiopian gave Philip the opportunity for him to reveal truth to him. GOD provided the opportunity at just the right time. The Ethiopian was reading in the exact place in scripture that was the springboard to salvation.


I have found when GOD has led me to witness to others; HE has already been working in their lives. Often, they had questions that needed answering. When GOD leads you to witness, do it.


Philip gave the Ethiopian the message of salvation through CHRIST.


Let’s read Acts 8:36-39:
36 As they were traveling down the road, they came to some water. The eunuch said, “Look, there’s water! What would keep me from being baptized?” [ 37 And Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart you may.” And he replied, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”][11] 38 Then he ordered the chariot to stop, and both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him any longer. But he went on his way rejoicing. 40 Philip appeared in[12] Azotus,[13] and passing through, he was evangelizing all the towns until he came to Caesarea.


The scripture is silent about the details that Philip passed along to the Ethiopian but we see from this scripture that he wanted to be baptized. Philip asked him if he believed in the message of CHRIST. He said, yes and Philip baptized him.


Notice that the Ethiopian questioned whether or not there was anything that would prevent him from being baptized? Had he faced discrimination as he worshipped in Jerusalem? Did he question if his national origin prevented him from being baptized and being a Christian? We do not know but this we know. CHRIST is no respecter of persons. All who believe that HE gave HIS life for them on the cross to pay the price for sin and ask HIM to forgive for their sins and ask HIM to come into their lives are born into the family of GOD.


If you have ever felt that you do not qualify to become a Christian, forget it. CHRIST gave HIS life for you. If you believe and accept CHRIST as your SAVIOR, HE will save you and come into your life at the very instant you ask HIM. The HOLY SPIRIT will indwell your life and confirm in your heart that you are a child of GOD through the miracle of rebirth.


Then what happened next is very interesting. It seems that Philip was zapped away and landed him in Azotus. Azotus is Ashdod, one of the ancient capitals. We see that as he traveled he preached the Good News.


I read a story years ago of an evangelist who had been in another city and was returning home with his wife. They were riding on a train and it stopped along the way. The preacher told his wife that GOD wanted him to get off the train. It was late afternoon and daylight was fading. She told him that GOD did not tell her to get off the train and she continued the journey home. He got off the train and it was getting dark. He told the LORD, “Here I am, now what do YOU want me to do?” The LORD led him down several streets in the city. By this time it was dark. The HOLY SPIRIT led him to a door where he could see light coming from under the door. The LORD told him to open the door and go in. When he opened the door, he saw a number of people on their knees praying. A man, located in front of the room, lifted his head and said, “Folks you can stop praying because our preacher has arrived.” He preached to them and boarded the next train home.


Just think of the blessing that Philip would have missed if he had stayed in Samaria or the preacher chose not to get off the train. Have we missed blessings by not responding to GOD’S call for us to go and tell?


Serving GOD is an exciting journey.

So what happened to Philip? Let’s fast forward a few years and read Acts 21:8-9:
8 The next day we (Paul and party) left and came to Caesarea, where we entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the Seven,[1] and stayed with him. 9 This man had four virgin daughters who prophesied.


We learn that Philip was still preaching the gospel of CHRIST in Caesarea. He had four (4) virgin daughters who prophesied. Philip was still obediently serving CHRIST and ministering to others. It is exciting to see that his daughters were also obediently serving CHRIST.


Philip’s walk with the LORD had a positive spiritual influence on his daughters who were faithful ministers for CHRIST. It is believed that Philip lived in Caesarea for about 20 years.


Our lesson is “Go and Tell.” Notice the words of the Ethiopian - 30 When Philip ran up to it, he heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you’re reading?” 31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone guides me?”


Christians are to go and share the Gospel of CHRIST as GOD leads them. Obediently respond to the call of GOD for your life. Do not hide your light under a cover but let others see CHRIST in you as you live each day. The only gospel others may read is the gospel according to you.

If you are not a Christian, ask HIM to forgive you of sins and to come into your life right now. If you are a Christian and have not been living for HIM as your should, then confess it and ask HIM to renew and restore your relationship with HIM. That your desire is to obediently serve HIM as HE leads you by the HOLY SPIRIT.

Change the World - Focus on Jesus - Luke 2 - December 19, 2010

Bible Study – Change the World – Focus on Jesus – December 19, 2010

This lesson three (3) in our series entitles “Change the World.”
Our scripture is Luke 2: 1-38.


Our lesson this week focuses on the birth of JESUS. First, we need to address the question, “Is Christmas really the birthday of JESUS?” The answer is, “Most likely December 25 is not the actual birthday of JESUS.” December 25 was the birthday of a pagan sun-god Mithra. The pagans celebrated from December 17-25. The Roman pagans converted this practice to worship of the god Saturn which included gift-giving, singing, etc. The pagan priests carried evergreen boughs to various temples in Rome during this celebration. They celebrated Saturnalia from December 17-25.


About 336 A. D., the Emperor Constantine likely converted this pagan practice into a Christian holiday. CHRIST was likely born in the spring or fall. The shepherds were keeping the sheep in the pasture. Unless it was an abnormally warm winter, sheep would have been kept inside during the winter months. But whether CHRIST was born on December 25 or some other day, the important thing is that HE was born.


Does this diminish the birthday of CHRIST? NO!!! HE was born and HIS birth was prophesied about 750 – 687 years before HE was born. The Prophet Micah stated in Micah 5:2 - 2 [2] Bethlehem Ephrathah, you are small among the clans of Judah; One will come from you to be ruler over Israel for Me.[3]His origin[4] is from antiquity, from eternity.[5]


Bethlehem means “House of Bread” and was located about five (5) miles south of Jerusalem. JESUS is the Bread of Life and born in the House of Bread. It is likely that the sheep the shepherds were watching were for sacrifice in the temple in Jerusalem.


GOD’S timing is always exciting and exact. GOD had to get Mary to Bethlehem for HIS SON to be born in Bethlehem. How GOD got her from Nazareth to Bethlehem is revealed in Luke 2:1-7: The Birth of Jesus


1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus[1] that the whole empire[2] should be registered. 2 This first registration took place while[3] Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So everyone went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David, 5 to be registered along with Mary, who was • engaged to him[4] and was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the inn.

Mary and Joseph were both of the house and family line of David. They had to register by decree. Often, GOD uses the government to unknowingly get HIS will accomplished. While they were in Bethlehem, Mary gave birth to JESUS. Because of the required registration, there were likely many people in the area, thus no room in the Inn. They were offered the place where the animals were kept, which was likely a cave type structure. It was as clean as an animal shelter could be. Mary gave birth to JESUS and HE was placed in a manger, which was a feeding trough. This was also the place where the first born animal was placed which was to be sacrificed to GOD.

JESUS, the first born of Mary, was placed in a manger and wrapped in swaddling cloth. Some relate swaddling cloth to grave clothes. JESUS was born to die to pay the sin debt for all who would believe in HIM.

Let’s read Luke 2:8-16: The Shepherds and the Angels


8 In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before[5] them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.[6] 10 But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: 11 today a Savior, who is • Messiah the Lord, was born for you in the city of David. 12 This will be the sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped snugly in cloth and lying in a feeding trough.” 13 Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: 14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people He favors![7] [8] [9]15 When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the feeding trough.

In verse 8, we learn that shepherds were “staying” in the fields and watching over their sheep. This was an indication that the season of the year was not winter thus an indication that December was not likely the month JESUS was born.

Verse 8 refers to “shepherds.” At that time, Shepherds were thought of by society as thieves and social outcasts. Shepherding, in the early days, was considered an honorable profession. Isn’t it interesting that GOD uses the least likely to be involved in HIS plans. That is an encouragement to many of us regardless of how society views our earthly status. GOD often uses the least likely to accomplish HIS plan and purpose.

The angel of the LORD stood before them and the glory of the LORD shone around them and they were afraid. The angel of the LORD was accompanied by a bright light. This was an unmistakable event that many, if not all the shepherds witnessed. There was an unmistakable voice and an unmistakable light to get the shepherds attention.


The angel put their minds at ease by telling them not to be afraid. The angel needed for them to stay calm so they could listen and comprehend the message.


Notice that JESUS is the SAVIOR, the promised Messiah for all people. HE was just born in the City of David, Bethlehem.


The angel told them how they could find the new born baby, the promised Messiah – The new born will be wrapped in cloth lying in a feeding trough. That was better than having a GPS. This message from the angel was immediately reinforced by a sudden appearance of a multitude of heavenly hosts along with the angel praising GOD. Notice, they were saying and not singing, 14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people He favors![7] [8] [9]


Once the angel and the heavenly hosts had left, the shepherds responded to what they had been told. They went and found this new born baby, just as the angel had told them. When GOD reveals truth to Christians and they respond, they confirm the truth which has been revealed. They were the first to see and rejoice in the birth of the promised Messiah, JESUS.


Once they confirmed this major event which was promised by GOD through HIS prophets over hundreds of years, what did they do with this Good News? Let’s find out in our next scripture. This is major news!!!


Let’s read Luke 2:17-20:


17 After seeing [them]* , they reported the message they were told about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary was treasuring up all these things[10] in her heart and meditating on them. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard, just as they had been told.


The shepherds could not contain the Good News and had to tell it to others who were amazed. Mary treasured what had happened to the shepherds in her heart and meditated on them. What had happened to the shepherds confirmed to her and Joseph that this child born to them was truly GOD’S SON.


Mary and Joseph remained in Jerusalem so that JESUS could participate in the religious rites. JESUS had to be named, dedicated to GOD, circumcised and an offering made to GOD.


Let’s read Luke 2:21-32: The Circumcision and Presentation of Jesus


21 When the eight days were completed for His circumcision, He was named JESUS—the name given by the angel before He was conceived.[11] 22 And when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were finished, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23 (just as it is written in the law of the Lord: Every firstborn male[12] will be dedicated[13]to the Lord[14]) 24 and to offer a sacrifice (according to what is stated in the law of the Lord: a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons[15]).


Simeon’s Prophetic Praise
25 There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation,[16] and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, he entered[17] the • temple complex. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took Him up in his arms, praised God, and said: 29 Now, Master, You can dismiss Your • slave in peace, according to Your word. 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation. 31 You have prepared [it]* in the presence of all peoples— 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles[18] [19]and glory to Your people Israel.[20]


Simeon had been waiting a long time to see the promised Messiah. Some think Simeon was a priest but the important point to me is that GOD had promised him that he would see the promised Messiah before he died. This was the day. Timing again is vital when serving the LORD. Simeon had to respond to the prompting of the HOLY SPIRIT the day that Mary and Joseph took JESUS to the temple. He may have not felt good that day and wanted to stay home but he went and was blessed by GOD.


Often, Satan uses our feelings to discourage Christians from receiving blessings. I do not know whether or not Simeon had any problems that day but knowing how circumstances go at times, it would not surprise me. The important thing is that Simeon went to the temple that day and encountered the promised Messiah. Do we miss a blessing by not responding to the promptings of the HOLY SPIRIT?


Let’s read Luke 2:33-38:
33 His father and mother[21] were amazed at what was being said about Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary: “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed[22]— 35 and a sword will pierce your own soul—that the thoughts[23] of many hearts may be revealed.”


Anna’s Testimony
36 There was also a prophetess, Anna, a daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well along in years,[24] having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage,[25] 37 and was a widow for 84 years.[26] She did not leave the temple complex, serving God night and day with fastings and prayers. 38 At that very moment,[27] she came up and began to thank God and to speak about Him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.[28] [29]


Simeon blessed them and gave them a message regarding JESUS. Mary was amazed. Did she comprehend all that was being said? Likely not but she knew that JESUS was special. I recommend an interesting book “The Jesus You Can’t Ignore” written by Dr. John MacArthur, Published in Nashville, TN, by Thomas Nelson, Inc. JESUS either had to compromise HIS message or teach the truth. HE chose to be obedient to HIS FATHER and teach the truth. This angered the religious leaders, which resulted in HIM being sentenced to death. But HIS death was HIS mission. Mary had to deal with the good and bad times of HIS ministry which culminated in HIS cruel death upon the cross. But all became clear after HIS resurrection and indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT.


Simeon told them that JESUS would:
- Be destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel. This can be interpreted several different ways. Likely referring to the failure of people who heard HIS message and rejected it, thus falling and those who responded positively to HIS message rose to salvation.


- Be a sign that will be opposed. The use of the word “sign” carries the idea of a target. Like an archer has a target to shoot at. JESUS was a target the religious leaders took aim at to defeat since HE would not see things their way.


- A sword will pierce your own soul—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. This carries over from the idea of CHRIST being a target and snide remarks culminating with the actual piercing of HIS side with a spear while HE hung on the cross.


This was a lot for Mary and Joseph to comprehend for their new born baby.


Then Mary and Joseph encountered the prophetess, Anna. She was about 104-107 years old because she had been widowed for 84 years. Let’s say she was married at the age of 13-16. She was married for 7 years. This made her 20-23 years old when her husband died plus the 84 years would make her 104-107 years old. She lived at the temple. She like Simeon recognized JESUS and spoke about HIM being the redemption of Jerusalem.


The question we must ask ourselves, “What do we see in JESUS?” Is HE our SAVIOR and LORD, a prophet who lived during that period or someone who had serious delusions of grandeur? Bible knowledge will lead a person to one or more of these conclusions. Heart knowledge will confirm that HE IS KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. Rejoice for HE has risen and lives. Christmas was HIS birth but it was HIS death that broke the barrier of sin and allows all who believe in HIM salvation from sin and eternal death. It is HIS gift to all who believe. Ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and for HIM to come into your life. Receive the best gift anyone can receive.

Change the World - Go and Do - Luke 10 - December 12, 2010

Bible Study – Change World – Go and Do – December 12, 2010

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Change the World.”
Our scripture is Luke 10:25-37.


Our lesson is “Go and Do” which CHRIST told the expert in the law to do. Bible studies are great to help us glean knowledge. Many people who teach the Bible, lead Bible studies and attend Bible studies have a wonderful relationship with CHRIST. They have experienced or are experiencing the wonders of walking with CHRIST through difficult, as well as, wonderful times. However, Christians need to be careful to be an outlet for the things the LORD in leading them to do. They are a wonderful reservoir of Spiritual knowledge. I will quote a statement Rev. David Crim, Pastor of Lanai Baptist Church in Hawaii wrote in the “Advanced Bible Study Commentary” published by LifeWay, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0175. Rev. Crim wrote, “Why do many Christians fail to act on the Bible knowledge about serving others? Are we like a spiritual “Dead Sea,” collecting knowledge but having no outlet to the world around us?”


We know the “Dead Sea” is a rich resource of minerals which it has collected over thousands of years. Most Christians have gone to more Bible studies than we can shake-a-stick at. But are we putting into action that which we have learned as the HOLY SPIRIT has taught us? It is easy to absorb knowledge but it is hard to put it to work. Again, I am not saying “Don’t just sit there, do something” but allow GOD, through the HOLY SPIRIT, to lead you to the action HE wants you to take. Recognize it, acknowledge it and confess that you have not been putting into action what the LORD has been leading you to do. GOD will help you and strengthen you to reach out in HIS name to others. Help takes on many different forms – financial, prayer, getting involved, giving a cup of cold water, supporting others as they go and do. Allow GOD to lead you to what HE desires for you in the world that you travel in every day.


Many of us are hesitant to get involved, if that is your situation, confess it to our LORD. Ask HIM to help you because you want to obediently serve HIM wherever HE leads you and opens the doors of opportunity. You may have to confess that you are hesitant or concerned about serving HIM but you are willing. Ask HIM to lead you to the ministry HE has for you. In fact, you may be already doing it and HE needs to open your Spiritual eyes to see it. HE will and HE will equip and empower you. Will it be easy? Most likely not but it will have eternal rewards. Let’s explore!


An expert in the law was asking JESUS a question. But some background first. JESUS sent seventy (70)/seventy-two (72) of HIS disciples on a mission trip. Let’s read Luke 10:1-20:


Sending Out the Seventy (Other scripture states that 72 were sent. This would have been 36 pairs sent.)


1 After this, the Lord appointed 70[1] others, and He sent them ahead of Him in pairs to every town and place where He Himself was about to go. 2 He told them: “The harvest is abundant, but the workers are few. Therefore, pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest. 3 Now go; I’m sending you out like lambs among wolves. 4 Don’t carry a money-bag, traveling bag, or sandals; don’t greet anyone along the road. 5 Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ 6 If a son of peace[2]is there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. 7 Remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they offer, for the worker is worthy of his wages. Don’t be moving from house to house. 8 When you enter any town, and they welcome you, eat the things set before you. 9 Heal the sick who are there, and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near you.’ 10 When you enter any town, and they don’t welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘We are wiping off [as a witness]* against you even the dust of your town that clings to our feet. Know this for certain: the kingdom of God has come near.’ 12 I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town.
Unrepentant Towns
13 “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes! 14 But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 15 And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? No, you will go down to • Hades![3] 16 Whoever listens to you listens to Me. Whoever rejects you rejects Me. And whoever rejects Me rejects the One who sent Me.”


The Return of the Seventy (Seventy-two)
17 The Seventy[4] returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name.” 18 He said to them, “I watched Satan fall from heaven like a lightning flash. 19 Look, I have given you the authority to trample on snakes and scorpions[5]and over all the power of the enemy; nothing will ever harm you. 20 However, don’t rejoice that[6]the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”


We see that the disciples were called and empowered by JESUS to prepare the way for HIM to go and teach the Gospel in neighboring towns, villages, etc. JESUS had the authority to empower them and for them to depend upon the leadership of the HOLY SPIRIT. They went and they saw the hand of GOD at work. They returned rejoicing that demons had submitted to them in the name of JESUS. Take special note of the caution that JESUS gave them in verse 20 - 20 However, don’t rejoice that[6]the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Christians serve a sovereign GOD, WHO manifests HIS power and grace through them. It is easy for us to get the big head and think it is our power because we are such faithful followers and when we get this attitude, we abuse what GOD has entrusted to us. Christians are sinners saved by grace and empowered by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.


This leads us into our next scripture.

Let’s read Luke 10: 25-28:
The Parable of the Good Samaritan


25 Just then an expert in the law stood up to test Him, saying, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 “What is written in the law?” He asked him. “How do you read it?” 27 He answered: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.[13]28 “You’ve answered correctly,” He told him. “Do this and you will live.”


JESUS had sent seventy (70) – Seventy-two (72) of HIS disciples on a mission trip. They had gone and returned, rejoicing. In verse 25, the words “Just then” imply that the lawyer had heard what the returning disciples had been saying. Other Bible translations use the words “On one occasion” which implies this event occurred at a different time but likely following the return of the disciples. Either way “an expert in the law” asked a question to test JESUS. An expert in the law or lawyer was skilled in the interpretation of the Law of Moses combined with the teachings of the better known rabbis. Lawyers and scribes were, in essence, in the same group. Lawyers were the advocates of the Law of Moses.


This lawyer’s motive was to test JESUS. If he had witnessed the return of the disciples, then what they had experienced did not intrigue him. The lawyer is gracious when he addressed JESUS as “teacher.” He asked JESUS “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Notice he wanted to know what “he” had to do. This could indicate that JESUS just might tell him that he had done all that he needed to do. JESUS challenged him to answer his own question, which he does. JESUS told him he had it correct, now put what you know into action. The lawyer should have followed up with a question, “How do you do that in your own strength?” Because it seems clear that no human can love the LORD with all your heart, soul and mind, plus love your neighbor as yourself in their own strength. But instead he wanted JESUS to explain who his “neighbor” was. We must keep in mind JESUS knows our hearts. HE knew the heart and needs of the lawyer. So HE told him a parable to help him understand who his neighbor was.


Let’s read Luke 10:29-32:
29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus took up [the question]* and said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him, beat him up, and fled, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down that road. When he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 In the same way, a Levite, when he arrived at the place and saw him, passed by on the other side.


JESUS responded to the lawyer’s question. By the lawyer asking the question implied that he had his own definition of who his neighbor was. Likely his neighbor was a fellow Jew.


JESUS told the parable about “A man” was going down from Jerusalem. The “man” could have been a Jew, Gentile or Samaritan. JESUS chose not to identify the nationality of the man. The man could have been in Jerusalem on business, worshipping, visiting friends or relatives and he was going down to Jericho. The important point was the man was on the road and robbers attacked him and stripped him of all he had, plus they beat him and left him to die. The man needed help.


A priest was on the same road going from Jerusalem to Jericho. Priests served in the temple and lived in Jericho. Priests were a branch of the Levites who were descendants of Aaron. Priests officiated in the worship service by offering various offerings and by leading people to confess their sins. The priest saw the condition of the man and moved to the opposite side of the road and passed the dying man. The priest may have had good reason not to go to the man. If he was on duty then he could not touch a dead body. If he did he would be unclean and could not perform his priestly duties.

Along came a Levite. A Levite was a descendant of Levi. The Levite was an assistant priest. He took care of the tabernacle, the Temple and performed tasks such as providing music, preparing sacrifices for the priest to offer in behalf of the people. Other scripture tells us that the Levite went over and looked at the man but like the priest, passed the dying man by crossing to the other side of the road and continued on his journey home.


JESUS identified two (2) religious Jews who pass the dying man by crossing to the other side of the road. The priest and the assistant priest could be compared to the pastor and an associate pastor or chairman of the deacons or elders. Both saw the man’s dire condition but chose to walk on by.


Let’s read Luke 10:33-37:
33 But a • Samaritan on his journey came up to him, and when he saw [the man]* , he had compassion. 34 He went over to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 The next day[14]he took out two • denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, ‘Take care of him. When I come back I’ll reimburse you for whatever extra you spend.’ 36 “Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?” 37 “The one who showed mercy to him,” he said. Then Jesus told him, “Go and do the same.”


A Samaritan was traveling on the same road and saw the man who had been robbed, beaten and near death. The Samaritans were considered half-breeds or a mixed race by the Jews. Samaritans were part Jew. They had intermarried with non-Jews when they were in exile. Some Jews remained pure, tracing their lineage back to Abraham. Those who did not intermarry looked down on those who did. Those who intermarried married those who worshipped pagan gods. Therefore, they were not only considered a “mixed race” physically but also spiritually. Jews would go out of their way to avoid Samaria. The Jew did not even want to walk on the soil that a Samaritan had walked upon. So of all people to help the dying man was a despised Samaritan.


The Samaritan not only went over to the man, risking his life because the robbers might be in waiting to ambush him, he administered first aid. He likely consoled the man by telling him that he was there to help him. He bathed his wounds with wine. Wine having alcohol was an antiseptic and the oil was for soothing and healing. He placed the injured man on his animal and took him to an inn. This meant the Samaritan had to walk. Not only did he take him to an inn, he took care of him during the night and gave the innkeeper enough money to continue to care for the man until he was well enough to travel. The Samaritan told the innkeeper that he would pay for any extra cost.
I team teach with Nancy Babb and she presented the lesson today. She shared this with our class and I thought it was excellent:
The robbers took what belonged to the man.
The religious leaders kept what was theirs.
The Samaritan shared what was his.
Which one do we represent?

JESUS then asks the lawyer to answer the question he had asked. The lawyer responded with “The “one” who showed mercy to him.” Notice the lawyer would not even say the word “Samaritan.” JESUS responded by saying “Go and do the same.”


That meant the lawyer had to drop all of his prejudice and reconsider that every human was his neighbor including the despised Samaritans.


This is a message to every Christian today. Prejudice is a major barrier to being obedient to GOD. When Christians are in right relationship with CHRIST, they will see others through the eyes of JESUS and can respond to the needs of others, as HE leads them. Prejudice takes on many forms – race, weight, height, physical defects, speech impediments, accent, where a person was born, the family that a person comes from, those involved or previously involved in drugs, alcohol abuse, prostitution, abusers of children, abusers of a spouse, stealing and the list goes on.


I was talking to a friend about ministering to such people, especially child abusers and he said something that stuck with me. He said, “You can pray for and with others who have or had issues but keep your eyes open.” Christians must be wise when reaching out to others. There are people who prey upon the good heart of Christians. Pray and seek the leadership and wisdom of the LORD. Go and do but in the name and power of the LORD. It is time for Christians to put into action what they have been learning.


Also, be careful not to become an enabler. It is better to teach a person how to fish than to give them a fish every day. There is a balance between helping and making a person dependent upon your help.


As I heard from a wonderful visiting pastor years ago, Dr. Vance Havner, “Practice in the dark what you have learned in the light.” Folks, I believe we are in dark times and they may even get darker. We must keep in mind that GOD is sovereign. Go and do as HE leads you.

Change the World - Value What God Values - Isaiah 61 - December 5, 2010

Bible Study – Change the World – Value What God Values – December 5, 2010.

This lesson begins a new series of study entitled “Change the World.”
Our scripture is Isaiah 61: 1-11.
This is a fitting study to come on the heels of our series on apologetics. Building a relationship with GOD through CHRIST brings a Christian’s heart in tune with the heart of GOD. When the things that break GOD’S heart break a Christian’s heart then he/she is in right relationship with GOD and ready to obediently serve HIM, as HE leads. This requires a Christian to release his/her will to GOD and allow HIM to lead and direct his/her life. It is time for action. The world is in a mess and those of us who know the truth must share that truth as GOD leads.


This is easy to say but hard to do because Christians do not want to give up their will. Their flesh wants to rule. The process of sanctification will help those having the desire to obediently serve GOD to do so when accompanied with the empowerment and leadership of the HOLY SPIRIT. There will be many ups and downs but rejoice in the ups and confess the downs then press on toward the high mark of HIS calling. HE will shape you and prepare you for an awesome journey with HIM.


Our scripture is taken from the Book of Isaiah. Isaiah was a prophet and his wife was a prophetess. In the beginning of his ministry he was liked by the people but he soon became very unpopular. The first 39 chapters deal with judgment for sin. The last 27 chapters deal with forgiveness, comfort and hope. The message of hope looks forward to the coming of the Messiah. Isaiah describes the Messiah as a suffering servant and sovereign LORD. He describes the ministry of CHRIST. Isaiah was written between 700 and 681 B. C.


Let’s read Isaiah 61:1-7:
1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is on Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent Me to heal[1] the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and freedom to the prisoners; 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor, and the day of our God’s vengeance; to comfort all who mourn, 3 to provide for those who mourn in Zion; to give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, festive oil instead of mourning, and splendid clothes instead of despair.[2]And they will be called righteous trees, planted by the LORD, to glorify Him. 4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins;[3]they will restore the former devastations; they will renew the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations. 5 Strangers will stand and feed your flocks, and foreigners will be your plowmen and vinedressers. 6 But you will be called the LORD’s priests; they will speak of you as ministers of our God; you will eat the wealth of the nations, and you will boast in their riches. 7 Because your shame was double, and they cried out, “Disgrace is their portion,” therefore, they will possess double in their land, and eternal joy will be theirs.


In verse 1, Isaiah refers to “me.” The “me” could be Isaiah or the Messiah. JESUS quoted verses 1 and 2 when HE was in HIS hometown. HE read this scripture in the synagogue as recorded by Dr. Luke in Luke 4:16-22:


16 He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. As usual, He entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day and stood up to read. 17 The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to Him, and unrolling the scroll, He found the place where it was written: 18 The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me[12]to proclaim freedom[13]to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free the oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.[14] [15]20 He then rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. And the eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 He began by saying to them, “Today as you listen, this Scripture has been fulfilled.” 22 They were all speaking well of Him[16] and were amazed by the gracious words that came from His mouth, yet they said, “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?”


The hometown folks were pleased until they wanted HIM to prove Himself. They wanted HIM to perform a miracle or do something to show that HE was the promised Messiah. HE was not a showman. HE only did what HIS FATHER told HIM to do. CHRIST told them that HIS ministry included the Gentiles and his hometown folks turned on HIM quickly and were ready to kill HIM.


When we study the New Testament and the life of CHRIST we see that JESUS fulfilled prophesy recorded by Isaiah regarding the ultimate Servant, who Christians know as CHRIST. GOD anointed CHRIST with HIS SPIRIT. This is the first mention of the trinity – GOD, THE FATHER, GOD, THE SON and GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT. The ONE anointed with the SPIRIT would obediently serve GOD, THE FATHER and would accomplish certain tasks:


- Bring Good News to the poor. Those poor in Spirit and living in spiritual darkness. This includes all people who are poor in Spirit. Notice that HE was anointed to bring the Good News to all poor in Spirit. Oil was used to anoint priests and kings. Oil is a symbol for GOD’S SPIRIT. Christians have been anointed with the oil, the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, to obediently serve their LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST. Being anointed with the HOLY SPIRIT sets the Christian aside and sanctifies him/her to serve as led by the HOLY SPIRIT. Anointing with oil was an outward symbol of the inner dwelling of the GOD’S SPIRIT which empowers Christians to go as directed by GOD.


- Heal the brokenhearted, to free those captured by sin and enslaved to sin. Those who suffer from the weight of sin. It is a person whose spirit has been crushed. This is more than a broken bone which can be set and it will mend itself because of the natural healing process but a broken spirit can only be mended by GOD. CHRIST’S shed blood delivers those who believe in HIM from the captivity and enslavement of sin. When sin has been dealt with, healing can begin. This is true for the Christian who has fallen back into sin as well as the non-Christian who needs to be delivered from the bondage of sin.


- To proclaim liberty to the captives and freedom to the prisoners. Liberty carries the idea of “flowing and free to run.” CHRIST liberates those who believe in HIM from the shackles of sin and anoints them to obediently serve HIM. Freedom means to “open eyes wide.” CHRIST saves all from sin and Spiritual death who ask HIM and believes that HE died for them upon the cross and that GOD raised HIM from the dead. CHRIST is the light of the world. As Christians, we have the light of salvation and we are liberated from the ravages and bondage of sin. When liberated and free from the bondage of sin our hearts are filled with the joy of our salvation and we want to share this Good News with those bound in the shackles of sin. Christians know what it is like to live in darkness and discover the marvelous light of salvation.


- To proclaim the year of the LORD’S favor and the day of our GOD’S vengeance. The LORD’S favor is salvation and all who have CHRIST are in GOD’S favor. Those without CHRIST will experience GOD’S vengeance because of the consequences of sin. GOD’S favor is patient but HIS vengeance is swift. GOD’S desire is for no one to perish. HIS hand is long enough to reach the vilest sinners.


- HE has sent ME to comfort all who mourn, to provide for those who mourn in Zion. Zion, in Biblical terms, refers to the city of Jerusalem, a reference to Solomon’s temple, the nation of Israel or the city of GOD in the New Age. The Gospel of CHRIST comforts all who seek salvation. The form of worship does not bring salvation. Those born-again into the family of GOD, through the shed blood of CHRIST, find that which comforts when religion fails. What does salvation bring? Isaiah gives us a clue in the next verse.


- To give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, festive oil instead of mourning, and splendid clothes instead of despair.[2]And they will be called righteous trees, planted by the LORD, to glorify Him. GOD’S favor is being in right relationship with HIM through CHRIST. GOD gives those who have received salvation a crown of beauty instead of sackcloth and ashes. HE delivers those who mourn and anguish over their lost condition and live in darkness. The Jewish people wore sackcloth, sat in ashes, covered their heads with ashes and fasted when they mourned. Whereas during a festive time they wore bright clothes, splashed on perfume, had an abundance of food, music and dance. Being born-again into GOD’S family through CHRIST is a time of celebration. So we read the contrasts – Instead of mourning, sackcloth, ashes and despair, those receiving salvation form sin and death through deliverance by CHRIST, receive a crown of beauty (salvation), festive oil (THE HOLY SPIRIT) and splendid clothes (righteousness). Born-again Christians are Spiritually planted by GOD to be well rooted, righteous trees who glorify HIM. HIS children are to stand out because of HIS righteousness.


- They will rebuild the ancient ruins;[3]they will restore the former devastations; they will renew the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations. 5 Strangers will stand and feed your flocks, and foreigners will be your plowmen and vinedressers. A life changed by receiving CHRIST is a rebuilding process. This is the process of sanctification. CHRIST makes a difference to the individuals, to communities and nations. Rebuilding is a process that impacts generations. Many Christians have neglected bringing up their children in the ways of the LORD. They have not been the examples that GOD desired for them to be to their families. As a result, we have a generation not seeing the value of Christianity. It will be a long rebuilding process and it requires Christians living as GOD desires for them to live. Christian parents, grandparents and all who call themselves Christians are to practice what they preach. This scripture is also prophesying about the future of Israel. Israel would be taken into captivity and their land would be occupied by others but they would rebuild their country.


- But you will be called the LORD’s priests; they will speak of you as ministers of our God; you will eat the wealth of the nations, and you will boast in their riches. 7 Because your shame was double, and they cried out, “Disgrace is their portion,” therefore, they will possess double in their land, and eternal joy will be theirs. [ Verse 7 from the NIV Bible may help better understand this verse – “Instead of shame my people will receive a double portion and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs.”] GOD’S desire for Israel was for them to reach out to other nations and represent GOD to them. GOD’S desire is for HIS chosen to be a light to those in darkness. This is GOD’S desire for all Christians. HE does not want HIS children to hide the light of salvation. When GOD’S people realize they have not obediently served GOD, as HE desires, their shame is double but because of this recognition and repentance by the people, their joy will be double.


The key point is the “me” in verse 1 refers to anyone who is anointed with the Spirit of the LORD by GOD to serve HIM - Isaiah, CHRIST, Christians. GOD calls HIS chosen to serve specific tasks. HE does the calling and HE empowers through the anointing and indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT. A Christian’s part is to respond. Hopefully, the born-again believer will respond positively but as always, the choice is his/hers to make.


Let’s read Isaiah 61:8-9:
8 For I the LORD love justice; I hate robbery and injustice;[4]I will faithfully reward them and make an everlasting covenant with them. 9 Their descendants will be known among the nations, and their posterity among the peoples. All who see them will recognize that they are a people the LORD has blessed.


GOD is speaking in these verses. GOD told Isaiah that HE loves justice. What is justice? Some think it is punishment. Some think it is mercy. Some think it is merciful punishment. Justice boils down to wise judgment after considering all the facts. Justice considers both the wrongdoer(s) and the victim(s). GOD hates injustice and robbery. Any time a person violates another person GOD hates it and will take action. GOD’S justice has an element of mercy but it is not a get-out-of-jail free card. Justice carries consequences just as sin carries consequences. Because of sin, we all deserve to be punished but GOD extends HIS mercy to all who believe in HIS ONLY SON, JESUS. As GOD extends justice to Christians through CHRIST, HIS desire is that Christians will extend justice to others. That is, Christians should not show prejudice and discriminate. But justice needs to be meted out as GOD would do it. Christians need GOD’S wisdom when considering justice. Wisdom is knowledge applied to GOD’S plan. This can only come from GOD to Christians through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. Again, it is all about having the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST.


GOD hates wrongdoing and injustice. GOD makes an everlasting covenant with all who show justice. Those who obediently serve GOD, as HE leads them to correct injustices, will be rewarded. GOD’S blessings will extend to subsequent generations and people will recognize that GOD has blessed them for faithfully thwarting injustice.


Let’s consider “robbery” for a moment. Robbery can be the unlawful taking of something of value from a person. GOD hates this kind of wrong doing. Let’s consider another form of robbery. When those of us who have the knowledge of CHRIST do not share it, when led by the HOLY SPIRIT, it is a form of robbery. Do not rob others of the joy of salvation by remaining silent when GOD gives you the opportunity to share HIM with those in darkness.


Let’s read Isaiah 61:10-11:
10 I greatly rejoice in the LORD, I exult in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness,[5]as a bridegroom wears a turban and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. 11 For as the earth brings forth its growth, and as a garden enables what is sown to spring up, so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all the nations.

Isaiah used “rejoice” and “exult” which express joy and gladness. Why was Isaiah joyous and glad? He stated it in the next phrase, “For HE has clothed me with the garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness.” Isaiah compared this to a sacred day between a man and a woman, their wedding day. It is a day of celebration and the union of two (2) to become one, never to be separated again. Isaiah links being clothed in these special garments for the wedding to being clothed in salvation and righteousness that only GOD can provide. He knows that only GOD has brought this about just as HE brings forth life to what is planted in a garden for all to see. As a result, GOD will reveal Himself through the righteousness and praise of HIS children as they are seen by others. Others will see the hand of GOD at work in their lives.

This is a beautiful example of what happens when a person accepts CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR. Paul says it well in 2 Corinthians 5:21:
21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us (those who would believe, Christians), so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him (JESUS).

This is GOD’S plan. Isaiah stated in Isaiah 64:6a:
6 All of us have become like something unclean, and all our righteous acts are like a polluted[5] garment;


CHRIST gave HIS life to pay the penalty for sin. Had there been another way, CHRIST would not have had to give HIS Life. HE took upon Himself sin. In essence, our sin was poured into HIM and HIS righteousness was poured into us as represented by the HOLY SPIRIT. At the instant a person asks CHRIST to forgive him/her of his/her sins, believing that CHRIST died for him/her, he/she receives salvation, righteousness, eternal life and is born into the family of GOD. Just as the bride takes on a new name at the wedding so do those receiving salvation. They also are indwelled and sealed by the HOLY SPIRIT and sanctified (set aside for the purposes of GOD) to name a few other things.


Isaiah was experiencing what Christians experience at the moment of salvation. The eyes of his heart were opened to the wonderful truth and plan of GOD through the promised Messiah.


GOD’S desire for Christians is to share, as HE leads and guides them, the fact that they were living in Spiritual poverty until they accepted CHRIST as their SAVIOR and made HIM the LORD of their lives. Earth has billions of people and through the HOLY SPIRIT, GOD must lead and guide HIS children to those who are ready to receive salvation. You may plant a seed or add a piece to their Spiritual puzzle but be obedient and share as GOD leads you.


Some may be called to go, some may be called to stay, pray and provide support in any number of ways to those who are called to go. We are all called to share CHRIST wherever we are, as GOD provides the opportunity.


Christians are clothed with salvation and righteousness. They are planted by GOD to represent HIS glory. Christians are indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT and fully equipped to obediently serve GOD as HE leads them to change the world. As a Christian, let your light shine because you are GOD’S child and your home is heaven; therefore, share the Good News of CHRIST with those who live in Spiritual darkness and poverty. GOD valued each person such that HE sent HIS ONLY SON to die for those who would accept HIM as his/her SAVIOR. Our time on earth is very short and GOD did not make us for time but for eternity.