Bible Study - Miracle - Satisfaction Found - John 6 -October 30, 2011

Bible Study – Miracle – Satisfaction Found – October 30, 2011

This is our final lesson in our series entitled “It’s a Miracle.”

Our scripture is John 6:5-13, 35-40.

We have examined the authority of JESUS over the physical and spiritual worlds. That was then but what about today? JESUS is still the authority upon earth. So many people search for truth through various religions, even the Christian religion. One must keep in mind that true Christianity is not a religion but CHRIST in you and not you being a member of a certain church.

How does CHRIST indwell you? You ask HIM to forgive you for your sins, believing that HE died upon the cross for your sins. Ask HIM to come into your life. The instant you ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life, HE does and you experience the miracle of salvation, which is the rebirth of your spirit. You are born anew into GOD’S family with all the rights, privileges and eternal benefits GOD provides as HIS Son or Daughter. The Holy Spirit indwells your life to confirm the fact that CHRIST has come into your life and that you are GOD’S child. Romans 8:16 - 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children.

Christians are GOD’S Sons and Daughters through the miracle of rebirth and they are being made into the image of CHRIST through the process of sanctification. Just because a person becomes a Christian, he/she still maintains the freedom to choose who he/she will serve, the flesh or GOD. Choosing to serve GOD through his/her relationship with CHRIST equals the abundant life that JESUS promises. A Christian no longer has to wonder where he/she will go when he/she dies. A Christian’s eternal destiny is secured. At the instant the Christian dies he/she is present with the LORD. This abundant life upon earth is not necessarily a life of ease but a life of assurance. More often it is a life of difficulty with the indwelling Holy Spirit providing the power, wisdom, leadership, enlightenment, assurance and strength to live each moment secure in CHRIST.

In this final lesson in this series, we will study the sufficiency of CHRIST and HIS understanding of the physical as it relates to the Spiritual needs of humans. Let’s explore.
For the setting of our scripture let’s read John 6:1-4:
The Fourth Sign: Feeding 5,000
1 After this, Jesus crossed the Sea of Galilee (or Tiberias). 2 And a huge crowd was following Him because they saw the signs that He was performing on the sick. 3 So Jesus went up a mountain and sat down there with His disciples. 4 Now the • Passover, a Jewish festival, was near.

JESUS had healed the man who had been waiting near the pool of Bethsaida or Bethesda. The people had been watching JESUS. The Jewish religious leaders had been questioning JESUS.

Sometime after HIS discourse with the Jewish religious leaders, JESUS and HIS disciples got into a boat and crossed to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. (The Romans referred to the Sea of Galilee as the Sea of Tiberias and after 70 A. D. the Roman name became more prominent.)

The mention of the fact that it was near Passover was important because as GOD delivered the Israelites from the bondage of Egyptian slavery, JESUS would deliver all who would believe in HIM from the bondage of sin and death.

When you look at the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery and their journey to the Promised Land, compare it to your journey as a Christian. Salvation delivers you from the bondage of sin and death, as you flee from your old life and you face many challenges, even the desire to return to your old life. Often Christians wander in the wilderness and then they continue their journey to the Promised Land after they yield their lives to CHRIST completely. They face giants along the way but with the confidence and assurance that HE will lead them safely to their destination.

Let’s read John 6:5-13:
The Fourth Sign: Feeding 5,000
5 Therefore, when Jesus looked up and noticed a huge crowd coming toward Him, He asked Philip, “Where will we buy bread so these people can eat?” 6 He asked this to test him, for He Himself knew what He was going to do. 7 Philip answered, “Two hundred • denarii worth of bread wouldn’t be enough for each of them to have a little.” 8 One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, 9 “There’s a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish—but what are they for so many?” 10 Then Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, so they sat down. The men numbered about 5,000. 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, and after giving thanks He distributed them to those who were seated—so also with the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 When they were full, He told His disciples, “Collect the leftovers so that nothing is wasted.” 13 So they collected them and filled 12 baskets with the pieces from the five barley loaves that were left over by those who had eaten. 14 When the people saw the sign[1] Other mss read signs He had done, they said, “This really is the Prophet[2] Dt 18:15 who was to come into the world!” 15 Therefore, when Jesus knew that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He withdrew again[3] A previous withdrawal is mentioned in Mk 6:31–32, an event that occurred just before the feeding of the 5,000. to the mountain by Himself.

JESUS had a huge following because of the miracles HE had been performing. HE escaped to the other side of the sea for a time with HIS disciples but the crowd followed HIM. The Apostle John revealed that Passover was near, which was a special time in the life of the Jews. They celebrated their ancestors’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. JESUS looked up and saw a vast number of people coming toward HIM.

The gospel writers tell us that there were 5,000 men. This did not include the women and children. Bible scholars estimate the crowd to about 20,000 people. JESUS was on a mountain and had a perfect vantage point to see the vast numbers coming toward HIM.

It seems that since Passover was near the FATHER revealed to JESUS this was a perfect moment to make the connection between the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and the deliverance from sin and death JESUS offered.

When JESUS saw the crowd it immediately prompted the need to feed them physically. This would deliver a powerful Spiritual message, especially for HIS disciples. It would be a sign which, again, would confirm that JESUS was the promised Messiah.

We have to keep in mind that JESUS did not do anything unless the FATHER either told HIM or showed HIM. Consider John 5:19 and 30 - 19 Then Jesus replied, “• I assure you: The Son is not able to do anything on His own, but only what He sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father[6] Lit whatever that One does, the Son also does these things in the same way. 30 “I can do nothing on My own. I judge only as I hear, and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

Dr. Henry Blackaby states in his book “Experiencing God” published by LifeWay Press, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0175 that when we see GOD at work around us, that is our invitation to join HIM. This is the example JESUS followed in HIS earthly ministry. Christians need to ask GOD to open the eyes of their hearts to see what HIS is doing around them. In this scripture, JESUS saw that the FATHER would use this moment as a teaching opportunity for the crowd and HIS disciples as they approached Passover. GOD sustained the Israelites as they journeyed to the physical Promised Land and JESUS, the living water and the bread of life will sustain Christians as they journey through life on their way to the Spiritual Promised Land.

Keep in mind that the Apostle John wrote this between A. D. 85-90. Therefore, in retrospect, he had a more complete understanding of what was taking place during the earthly ministry of JESUS. John tells us that JESUS looked up, saw the crowd and asked Philip, “Where will we buy bread so these people can eat?” John tells us that JESUS was testing Philip.

Does GOD test us by revealing a huge opportunity and asks us, “What are you going to do about this situation?” If so, where do we turn or to whom do we turn? Philip immediately went to the resource available, money. Most of us would do the same thing. If only we had more money we could do great things. Philip reported that they had two hundred (200) denarii. One (1) denarii was one day’s wage but this was only enough to feed this crowd a bite. Oh my, what shall we do? The money they had would not do the job. So what else was available?

Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother reported that a boy had five (5) barley loves and two (2) fish. Gee, what was this for such a large crowd? That was less than the money would provide. The money could provide a bite but what the boy had was not a drop in the bucket. This was just what JESUS wanted. GOD likes the impossible because when it is accomplished, we cannot think we did it. HE wants us to know that GOD did it.

JESUS instructed the disciples to have the people to sit down on the nice grassy area. They all sat down. Little did the mother who packed the boy’s snack know that so little would feed so many. When GOD is involved a little becomes sufficient.

JESUS gave thanks and HE broke the bread and distributed it to the people and did the same with the fish. The food was multiplied when placed in the hands of JESUS. Can we trust JESUS with the little we have or do we horde it?

When they were full, HE instructed HIS disciples to collect the leftovers. They collected twelve (12) baskets full of the bread so that nothing would be wasted. Apparently all of the fish was eaten. When GOD fed the Israelites in the wilderness, HE instructed them not to collect more than they needed. There were twelve (12) baskets leftover. There are twelve (12) tribes of Israel and twelve (12) disciples.

If they had not collected the leftover bread would some of the people want to collect it in hopes that it would continue to multiply? We know human nature and we see that this may have been the attitude of some later in our scripture.

When the people saw the miracle, they connected it to Old Testament scripture. They immediately tied JESUS to the prophet Moses mentioned in Deuteronomy 18:15 - Deuteronomy 18:15 - 15 “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me (Moses) from among your own brothers. You must listen to him.[10] We will address this deeper in our next scripture.

When it registered with them what JESUS had done, they were ready to declare HIM king because they were looking for a provider of peace and food. This must have broken JESUS’ heart because of their Spiritual shallowness. HE retreated to the mountains. The disciples left in the boat.

Let’s read John 6:35-36:
The Bread of Life
22 The next day, the crowd that had stayed on the other side of the sea knew there had been only one boat.[6] Other mss add into which His disciples had entered [They also knew]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that Jesus had not boarded the boat with His disciples, but that His disciples had gone off alone. 23 Some boats from Tiberias came near the place where they ate the bread after the Lord gave thanks. 24 When the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor His disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. 25 When they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said to Him, “• Rabbi, when did You get here?” 26 Jesus answered, “• I assure you: You are looking for Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate the loaves and were filled. 27 Don’t work for the food that perishes but for the food that lasts for eternal life, which the • Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal of approval on Him.” 28 “What can we do to perform the works of God?” they asked. 29 Jesus replied, “This is the work of God: that you believe in the One He has sent.” 30 “What sign then are You going to do so we may see and believe You?” they asked. “What are You going to perform? 31 Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, just as it is written: He gave them bread from heaven to eat.”[7] Bread miraculously provided by God for the Israelites [8] Ex 16:4; Ps 78:24 32 Jesus said to them, “I assure you: Moses didn’t give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the real bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is the One who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 Then they said, “Sir, give us this bread always!” 35 “I am the bread of life,” Jesus told them. “No one who comes to Me will ever be hungry, and no one who believes in Me will ever be thirsty again. 36 But as I told you, you’ve seen Me,[9] Other mss omit Me and yet you do not believe.

The crowd searched for JESUS. Little did they know about the events that had happened during the night. JESUS walked on water and got into the boat with the disciples.

The crowd searched for JESUS and found HIM in Capernaum. Those who search for JESUS will find HIM but the question is what will you do when you find HIM? What are your expectations? Are your expectations built upon truth or fantasy?

They addressed HIM as Rabbi and asked HIM how HE got there. HE knew that their hearts were focused upon their physical well-being more than their Spiritual need. They addressed HIM as Rabbi. They had missed the point and were Spiritually shallow because only the true SON of GOD, the promised Messiah could heal the sick and feed the huge crowd with so little. JESUS went to the heart of the matter.

In essence, HE told them that physical food for them took precedence over all the signs which pointed to HIM as the promised Messiah. They were interested in HIM because of the physical food HE could provide for them. They were not interested in the Spiritual food although they had recognized HIM as a prophet on the mountain.

JESUS made HIS point clearer by telling them to focus on the Spiritual food that would sustain them on earth, as well as, for eternity. But they were focused on the physical bread that would only sustain them for a short period of time. They had witnessed miracles and they should have known that was GOD’S seal of approval/endorsement that HE was the promised Messiah. Yet, it went over their heads when they viewed JESUS as the provider of physical food.

They wanted to know how they could do miracles like HIM. If they could make food multiply like HE did, they would not have to work or follow HIM around.

Notice they addressed JESUS as a prophet on the mountain in verse 14, Rabbi in verse 25. In verse 32, JESUS told them HE was not Moses and then in verse 34 they address HIM as “sir”. The crowd was moving from seeing JESUS as the promised Messiah to a mere person. They were searching for a way to identify HIM.

Let’s take a deeper look at verse 32 - 32 Jesus said to them, “I assure you: Moses didn’t give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the real bread from heaven. Let’s review Deuteronomy 18:15 - 15 “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me (Moses) from among your own brothers. You must listen to him.[10] Moses was writing what GOD was saying. This language is repeated in Acts 3:22 – 22 Moses said:[7] Other mss add to the fathers The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your brothers. You must listen to Him in everything He will say to you. and Acts 7:37 - 37 “This is the Moses who said to the sons of Israel, God[13] Other mss read ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your brothers.[14] Dt 18:15

JESUS was making it clear that HE was not Moses, HE was greater than Moses. Moses did not provide manna from heaven; it was GOD Who provided the manna from heaven. Since, it was GOD Who provided the manna (food) from heaven to feed the multitude of Israelites while they were wandering in the wilderness, GOD, in the presence of HIS ONLY SON, JESUS, just provided food from a meager source to feed such a large crowd. GOD had performed a miracle in their presence just the day before. Didn’t they make the connection? The answer was, no.

So many of us witness miracles everyday and refuse to acknowledge the presence of GOD. HIS handiwork is all around us 24/7. Ac 3:22; 7:37

JESUS told them to believe in the ONE GOD Who sent HIM. There HE was standing in front of them, yet they could not see truth. Their physical desire had blinded them to the reality of HIS presence and blocked their Spiritual eyes from seeing truth.

To show their ignorance, they asked HIM to show them a sign. JESUS must have groaned in HIS Spirit. HE must have thought, where have you people been for the last few days?

JESUS tried to reach them by bringing the conversation back to the miracle of feeding them. Moses was not the promised Messiah. GOD fed the Israelites with manna from heaven but that was for physical sustenance as they journeyed to the Promised Land. JESUS, Who came down from heaven, is the Spiritual bread sent by GOD. HE alone gives life to the world. JESUS made it plain and very clear, “I am the bread of life.”
HE attempted to get it through their heads that HE was the true bread of life and the living water, the sustainer of Spiritual life. Those who believe in HIM will never be Spiritually hungry or Spiritually thirsty any more. They had witnessed the miracles HE performed, which could only be done by GOD but they still did not believe that HE was the promised Messiah, GOD’S SON incarnate, which the scriptures foretold.

Have you been face to face with JESUS and did not acknowledge HIM as your Savior? HE gave HIS life for you because HE loved you. Accept HIM now as your Savior by asking HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life. If you did, then thank HIM for coming into your life. This makes you a Christian.

Ponder our next scripture.

Let’s read John 6:37-42:
37 Everyone the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will never cast out. 38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do My will, but the will of Him who sent Me. 39 This is the will of Him who sent Me: that I should lose none of those He has given Me but should raise them up on the last day. 40 For this is the will of My Father: that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

JESUS made it very clear that HE came from heaven to do the will of GOD, HIS FATHER. GOD’S will is for all who believe in JESUS as their Savior to be saved from sin and its consequences, death. As the result of salvation, HE will give them eternal life. All who believe in HIM will be raised on the last day to live eternally in their new glorified bodies that will be like HIS resurrected body. But since JESUS had not been crucified and resurrected from the dead as proof that HE had paid the price for sin and conquered the consequences of sin, which is death, HE did not go into that detail. The word “believe” is more than intellectual belief, but to trust and rely upon with complete confidence that HE is the true SON of GOD. When we accept CHRIST as our Savior, the indwelling Holy Spirit confirms the reality of our belief in HIM and seals us for the day of redemption.
CHRIST knew the hearts of those seeking HIM as we will see in our next scripture.

Remember the crowd went from seeing JESUS as a prophet to Rabbi, to Sir. They were trying to figure out who JESUS was and they were approaching a conclusion.

Let’s read John 6:41-42:
41 Therefore the Jews started complaining about Him, because He said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” 42 They were saying, “Isn’t this Jesus the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can He now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?”

JESUS was giving them truth but they rejected HIM as coming from heaven because they knew HIS parents and where HE lived. They did not consider the miracles that were performed were proof that HE was WHO HE said HE was and where HE came from.
Don’t we try to figure it all out? True miracles are difficult because we have been exposed to so much trickery and illusions. But GOD is still in the miracle business every day. HE watches over all of HIS children, even those who are to receive salvation.

The world, Satan, wants to humanize JESUS. JESUS is the true SON of GOD, the Messiah. You cannot figure HIM out intellectually. It requires a step of faith. Take that step of faith right now and experience the truth of HIS presence in your life now and for eternity. Blessings!

Bible Study - Miracle - Wholeness Restored

Bible Study – Miracle – Wholeness Restored – October 23, 2011

This lesson four (4) in our series of study entitled “It’s a Miracle.”

Our scripture is Mark 5:1-3, 6-13a, 15-20.

This week we will study JESUS’ authority over the spirit world. Many people today do not believe there is a spirit world – evil spirits, demons, Satan. JESUS spoke of
the spirit world in Luke 10:17-20: (My Insert)

17 The Seventy[4] (Those JESUS sent out) returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name.” 18 He (JESUS) 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.”

A word of caution, pay special attention to verse 20. Never get over confident in what GOD is doing through you. When Christians become over confident, they often lead rather than follow - I know, I have been there. GOD has HIS ways of getting your attention.

The Apostle Paul wrote about the spirit world in Ephesians 6:10-13:
Christian Warfare
10 Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics[10] of the Devil. 12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.[11] 13 This is why you must take up the full armor[12] of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand.

The good news is that JESUS is the authority over the spirit world. If you encounter evil and you are a Christian, claim the blood of JESUS out loud and speak the name of JESUS. James 4:7 - 7 Therefore, submit to God (Through JESUS). But resist the Devil, and he will flee from you. Keep in mind that JESUS is your protector. Just say “NO” in the name of JESUS. HE has defeated Satan. HE has won the victory. Keep in mind 1 John 4:1-4:

1 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to determine if they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit who confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh[1] is from God. 3 But every spirit who does not confess Jesus[2] is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist; you have heard that he is coming, and he is already in the world now.
4 You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

We will be studying about the spirit world. I have prayed that all who read this will be protected by the power of GOD and the blood of JESUS. My prayer is that all will see the truth and power in JESUS. Satan will do all he can to blind you to truth.

JESUS and HIS disciples had just encountered a terrible storm as they were crossing the Sea of Galilee. JESUS was asleep. HIS disciples woke HIM up and JESUS spoke and the storm stopped. JESUS has authority over nature. Satan was likely at work to keep JESUS from getting to where HE was going, which can often happen when Christians are called to serve GOD. It was a teaching moment for JESUS’ disciples and prepared them for what was about to happen when they reached their destination. Christians must keep in mind that JESUS has the authority over all things – the physical and the spirit worlds – things seen and unseen.

Let’s read Mark 5:1-3, 6-13a:
Demons Driven Out by the Master
1 Then they came to the other side of the sea, to the region of the Gerasenes.[1] 2 As soon as He got out of the boat, a man with an unclean spirit came out of the tombs and met Him. 3 He lived in the tombs. No one was able to restrain him any more—even with chains—

JESUS and HIS disciples arrived at their destination, which was Gentile territory called Gerasenes (GEHR uh seens). Matthew referred to the area as Gadarenes (GAD uh reens) and Gadara was one of the ten (10) cities located in the area also known as Decapolis. Most Christians refer to the area as Gadarene. Some of the old copies of Mark referred to the area as Gedarenes but most copies refer to the area as Gerasenes. There was a town located about 35 miles inland called Gerasa and a town about 6 miles inland called Gedara.

There is an interesting difference between Matthew’s account of this event and Luke’s and Mark’s account. Matthew reported that there were two (2) demon possessed men. We can only speculate why the difference. Some Bible scholars think that there were two (2) possessed men but only one spoke. But the main point is that GOD provided a teaching opportunity for JESUS’ disciples and the people who lived in that area which included some Jews but mostly Gentiles by healing the demon possessed man, which resulted in a witness to remain behind to spread the gospel of CHRIST.

People possessed by a demon or evil spirit can have extraordinary strength and perception. This man could not be restrained even with chains. People controlled by drugs can have similar behavior. In fact, various addictions can possess a person and cause them to lose all the ability to control their behavior. They can open themselves to be controlled by evil. This is not to say that all people with addictions are possessed but it can be a form of possession which is referred to as oppression. Things that control the mind can open people, including Christians, up to being oppressed or possessed by evil spirits. Oppression is just short of possession.

Christians must be very careful when dealing with people oppressed and especially those possessed. Always bathe situations where you suspect oppression or possession in prayer. I mean have a group of prayer warriors praying before, during and after you interact with such a person. Never approach a person you suspect of being oppressed or possessed alone. Two (2) or more Christians should go when encountering such a person and during the encounter those not speaking must be praying along with a group that is elsewhere praying during the period you are encountering such a person.

Some Christians try to deliver a person from either oppression or possession. This is an area where you need to know what you are doing. JESUS gives us some insight into delivering people from evil spirits in Matthew 12:43-45: (JESUS is speaking)

An Unclean Spirit’s Return
43 “When an unclean[15]spirit comes out of a man, it roams through waterless places looking for rest but doesn’t find any. 44 Then it says, ‘I’ll go back to my house that I came from.’ And when it arrives, it finds [the house]* vacant, swept, and put in order. 45 Then off it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and settle down there. As a result, that man’s last condition is worse than the first. That’s how it will also be with this evil generation.”

When a demon or evil spirit is cast out of a person with nothing to replace it, mainly the Holy Spirit, the person is subject to being invaded by many other demons/evil spirits. There is another insightful event recorded in Acts 19:11-20 regarding delivering those possessed with demons and evil spirits:

11 God was performing extraordinary miracles by Paul’s hands, 12 so that even facecloths or work aprons[1] that had touched his skin were brought to the sick, and the diseases left them, and the evil spirits came out of them. 13 Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists attempted to pronounce the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “I command you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches!” 14 Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish • chief priest, were doing this. 15 The evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I recognize—but who are you?” 16 Then the man who had the evil spirit leaped on them, overpowered them all, and prevailed against them, so that they ran out of that house naked and wounded. 17 This became known to everyone who lived in Ephesus, both Jews and Greeks. Then fear fell on all of them, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. 18 And many who had become believers came confessing and disclosing their practices, 19 while many of those who had practiced magic collected their books and burned them in front of everyone. So they calculated their value, and found it to be 50,000 pieces of silver. 20 In this way the Lord’s message flourished and prevailed.

So many Christians dabble in the occult and think it harmless – horoscopes, fortune tellers, tarot cards, rabbit’s foot, lucky wearing apparel, reading tea leaves, palm reading, séances and the list goes on and on. Christians DON’T DO IT!!! And teach your children not to do it. The spirit world is real and it is designed to enslave and destroy.

Christians, JESUS is the authority over your life, do not compromise. Notice in our next scripture that the spirit world acknowledges the authority of JESUS.

Let’s read Verses 6-13a:
6 When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and knelt down before Him. 7 And he cried out with a loud voice, “What do You have to do with me,[2] Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg[3] You before God, don’t torment me!” 8 For He had told him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” 9 “What is your name?” He asked him. “My name is Legion,”[4] he answered Him, “because we are many.” 10 And he kept begging Him not to send them out of the region. 11 Now a large herd of pigs was there, feeding on the hillside. 12 The demons[5] begged Him, “Send us to the pigs, so we may enter them.” 13 And He gave them permission. Then the unclean spirits came out and entered the pigs, and the herd of about 2,000 rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned there.

The spirit world knows GOD and JESUS. In James 2:19 - 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. The demons also believe—and they shudder. Believing that GOD exists is one thing but do you believe in HIS ONLY SON, JESUS. JESUS is your way to salvation, eternal life, the miracle of rebirth, the abundant life, citizenship in heaven, being GOD’S child and protection as long as you do not remove yourself from HIS circle of protection due to bad choices, to name a few of the benefits that are out of this world.

The possessed man ran to JESUS and knelt. The demons knew that JESUS was the Son of the Most High GOD. They knew that HE would judge them and that HE had not completed HIS mission upon earth so HE had not come to judge them. They knew that HE had the authority over them. So they begged HIM not to torment them and ask that HE not send them out of the region. We know for whatever reason, demons seem to like dry places.

JESUS had told the demons to come out of the man but they kept pleading with JESUS. It could be that JESUS wanted HIS disciples and any other onlookers to know the gravity of the situation.

JESUS asked for the demon to reveal his name. The demon obeyed JESUS’ request, which revealed the authority of JESUS over the demons. The demon complied and revealed that his name was legion because they were many. We can speculate that in the spirit world that there is a hierarchy and the demon speaking to JESUS was the lead demon. Keep in mind this is speculation.

We know that a Roman legion contained 5,000 to 6,000 soldiers. The demons know that a herd of swine was feeding near-by and they asked JESUS to send them into the swine. Notice that JESUS had total authority over them, they were subservient to HIM. JESUS spoke and the demons left the man and went immediately into the swine. The power and authority of JESUS over the spirit world was revealed and confirmed. JESUS has this same power today. Do you trust HIM to deliver you from the bondage of things that control your life and keep you from obediently serving JESUS?

Why the swine? It would be a visual demonstration of the magnitude of the demons involved and it would reveal JESUS authority over the demons to the disciples of JESUS and all who were observing. It was a dramatic event, as well as, an economic loss for those who owned the pigs, which would spread the story like wildfire.

Does this mean there were about 2,000 unclean spirits? What we know is that there were enough pigs for the demons to occupy and confine them to a watery grave.

Let’s read Mark 5:14-17: (My Insert)
14 The men who tended them[6] (The swine) ran off and reported it in the town and the countryside, and people went to see what had happened.
15 They came to Jesus and saw the man who had been demon-possessed by the legion, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 16 The eyewitnesses described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and [told]* about the pigs. 17 Then they began to beg Him to leave their region.
Those who tended the pigs ran to town to tell the owners of the pigs what had happened. As they ran, they told people along the way, as well as, the town’s people what had happened. So an entourage goes out to meet JESUS and see what on earth took place. They saw JESUS and the man who had been demon-possessed sitting together. The man was dressed and sane. Rather than rejoicing, they were afraid. Who was this man called JESUS who had the power to make a crazy man sane and destroy 2,000 pigs.
Those who witnessed what had happened told the town people what happened. Rather than rejoicing that a demon-possessed man had been healed and made whole, they beg JESUS to leave. So often we want to reject that which we do not understand or threaten our economy.

JESUS does not embrace unbelief. So HE honored their request and prepared to leave but HE left them with a powerful message. JESUS casting out demons was a sign that JESUS spoke of in Luke 11:20 - 20 If I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you. There were Jews living in this area and they likely knew the scriptures. They were likely the owners of the pigs in spite of the fact that pigs were not kosher. GOD wants the message of salvation to reach all people regardless of nationality or profession.
Let’s read Mark 5:18-20:

18 As He was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed kept begging Him to be with Him. 19 But He would not let him; instead, He told him, “Go back home to your own people, and report to them how much the Lord has done for you and how He has had mercy on you.” 20 So he went out and began to proclaim in the • Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and they were all amazed.

The man who had been demon-possessed begged JESUS to let him go with them but JESUS told him that he needed to stay. It was “no” with a purpose. JESUS had a plan and a purpose for the man. So often when Christians encounter JESUS, they want to spend their time with HIM, which is good. But once they encounter JESUS and have been made whole, it is time for them to put into action what they know about HIM. This is not saying not to study and build a relationship with JESUS. But there comes a time when Christians are called to leave their comfort zone and spread the Good News of JESUS to others. The man had a powerful story to tell to others about the power of JESUS. HE had authority over demons and HE was the true Son of GOD, the promised Messiah. The man was obedient and stayed back and witnessed to others and they were amazed.
Your personal testimony is the most powerful witness for CHRIST. Tell others how you came to know CHRIST as your Savior.

CHRIST makes all who believe in HIM whole and HIS desire is for Christians to tell others about HIM where they live. Some are called to go to other places but all are called to witness at home. We are in spiritual warfare every day. The Apostle Paul wrote how Christians are to be prepared to do battle every day in Ephesians 6:13-17:
13 This is why you must take up the full armor[12] of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. 14 Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, 15 and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace.[13]16 In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word.

Has JESUS made your life whole? If not, now is the time to ask HIM to take charge of your life and to make you whole. Obediently serving HIM is the most exciting and hardest thing you will ever do but the most rewarding. Ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to deliver you from that which prevents you from obediently serving HIM. Then rejoice that your name is written in the book of heaven, the Lambs Book of Life. Blessings!

Bible Study - Miracle - Hope Discovered - Luke 17 - October 16, 2011

Bible Study – Miracle – Hope Discovered – October 16, 2011

This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “It’s a Miracle.”

Our scripture is Luke 7:1-17.

Hope is a wonder attribute to have. Christians hope in the care, power and leadership of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Hope can be in a Christian’s relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Paul captured this relationship in Philippians 4:13 - 13 I am able to do all things through Him[2] who strengthens me.

This gives Christians tremendous hope but that hope must be combined with Spiritual growth and maturity. It is not testing GOD to prove that HIS power is in you. It is knowing that HIS power is in you and that you will take that step of faith when you are asked to take it. It is trusting not to act unless prompted to act by the Holy Spirit. Waiting and trusting, as well as, responding are embodied in hope.

Do you believe that GOD can heal others through you, if led to do so? Do you believe that GOD can raise the dead through you, just as CHRIST did, if led to do so? Keep in mind that GOD’S goal for Christians is for them to be made into the image of HIS ONLY SON, JESUS. Keep in mind that JESUS was 100% obedient.

So far in this series of study, we have considered the authority that JESUS had over material things when HE turned water into wine. It was a miracle with a purpose. There were six (6) large pots for the purpose of cleansing and at that time there were six (6) disciples. The servants filled the six (6) pots with water and drew out wine. JESUS’ disciples witnessed this miracle and their faith in JESUS grew. But also the servants witnessed this miracle. Miracles touch the lives of many.

Then we explored the authority of JESUS over sin and disease. JESUS honored the faith of the man who was paralyzed and his friends by forgiving the paralyzed man’s sins. The proof that he was healed Spiritually was confirmed when he was healed physically. GOD was establishing the fact that JESUS had the authority to act and prove that HE was and is the SON of GOD incarnate.

This week, we study the authority of JESUS over sickness which could result in death and HIS authority over death. We will see the authority of JESUS’ spoken word. If JESUS can heal the physically sick and raise the physically dead, HE can certainly heal and raise the Spiritually sick and Spiritually dead. Which is more important - to be raised from the physically dead to live a few more years on earth or to be raised from being spiritually dead to live eternally as a child of GOD? Let’s explore.

Let’s read Luke 7: 1-10:
A Centurion’s Faith
1 When He had concluded all His sayings in the hearing of the people, He entered Capernaum. 2 A • centurion’s • slave, who was highly valued by him, was sick and about to die. 3 When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to Him, requesting Him to come and save the life of his slave. 4 When they reached Jesus, they pleaded with Him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy for You to grant this, 5 because he loves our nation and has built us a • synagogue.” 6 Jesus went with them, and when He was not far from[1] the house, the centurion sent friends to tell Him, “Lord, don’t trouble Yourself, since I am not worthy to have You come under my roof. 7 That is why I didn’t even consider myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be cured.[2] 8 For I too am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under my command.[3] I say to this one, ‘Go!’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come!’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this!’ and he does it.” 9 Jesus heard this and was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following Him, He said, “I tell you, I have not found so great a faith even in Israel!” 10 When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the • slave in good health.

This miracle touched the lives of a number of people – the Jewish religious leaders, followers of JESUS, Gentile soldiers, a Gentile slave and a Gentile centurion to name a few. It is exciting to see GOD work in the lives of people. Miracles are exciting but they often fade with time.

This event is also recorded in Matthew 8:5-13. Matthew wrote his gospel to the Jews and concentrated on the faith of the Gentile centurion. Luke wrote his gospel to the Gentiles. He was giving details which emphasized the interaction and good relationship between the Gentile centurion and the Jewish religious leaders.

JESUS had concluded HIS sermon referred to as the “Sermon on the Plain” (Luke 6:17-49). This sermon was similar to the “Sermon on the Mount” (Matthew chapters 5-7). HE entered Capernaum in Galilee and encountered some Jewish elders sent by a centurion. A centurion commanded 100 soldiers in the Roman army. It could have been less than 100 or more than 100 but the title gave him military status. He was highly regarded by soldiers and officers but feared by the people for whom he was responsible. He was charged with the responsibility to keep matters under control. The centurion and the soldiers he commanded were Gentiles who served in Jewish territory. This centurion had built good relationships with the Jewish community and some believe that he was possibly a Jewish proselyte. He had not been confirmed as a Jew but possibly studying to become a Jew.

The centurion’s slave was sick and about to die. The centurion had heard about JESUS. He sent some Jewish elders to request JESUS to come to save the life of his slave. The slave was alive but barely and needed immediate attention. Apparently this was strictly the idea of the centurion.

This was a bold request on behalf of the Gentile centurion. JESUS being a Jew could refuse to come. If JESUS had been a fraud, HE could have hidden behind the fact that HE was a Jew and could not go to a Gentile; most especially a Gentile’s home. But the fact that JESUS responded positively to the request revealed that JESUS was going to heal the slave and nationality did not matter. When the centurion heard that JESUS was coming, he knew that JESUS would heal his slave. A fraud would have stayed away.

So what do we know so far?

The centurion was a powerful military leader in a Jewish community. He had a slave that was sick and was about to die. Some slave owners could care less about their slaves but not this master. This reveals the centurion’s heart. He had heard about this man called JESUS, Who could heal people.

Notice that the centurion made the decision to send Jewish representatives to ask JESUS to come and heal his servant. Apparently, his servant had no input into asking JESUS to come heal him. The faith of the Gentile centurion in JESUS as a genuine man of GOD is the focus of this miracle.

We learn more about this centurion from these Jewish representatives. Even though he was a powerful military leader, he had endeared himself to the Jews in that community. They spoke well of him and all that he had done for the community. He was likely interested in the Jewish religion. How he heard about JESUS we do not know.

JESUS agreed to go to the centurion’s house. However, as they approached the house, the centurion sent friends to give JESUS an important message. The fact that JESUS had responded to his request, he knew that JESUS was genuine and he knew that Jewish religious leaders would defile themselves if they entered in the home of a Gentile. He did not want JESUS to compromise HIS religious vows and render Himself unclean and have to go through some purification process before HE could go to the aid of another person. The willingness of JESUS to go to the house of a Gentile sent a powerful message to both the Gentiles and the Jews as the facts are revealed in the following scripture:

“Lord, don’t trouble Yourself, since I am not worthy to have You come under my roof. 7 That is why I didn’t even consider myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be cured.[2] 8 For I too am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under my command.[3] I say to this one, ‘Go!’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come!’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this!’ and he does it.” 9 Jesus heard this and was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following Him, He said, “I tell you, I have not found so great a faith even in Israel!” 10 When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the • slave in good health.

The centurion acknowledged the authority of JESUS over the Spiritual realm just as he had authority over his area of responsibility. JESUS’ authority over the Spiritual realm also included the physical realm and acknowledged the union of GOD with this person called JESUS. Did the centurion’s connection reveal truth to the Jewish religious leaders?

If JESUS can heal the physically sick, can HE heal the Spiritually sick? Oh YES but be careful that you do not use the healing of a sickness to test GOD. We are tempted to tell GOD, if YOU will do so-and-so, I will give my life to YOU. Remember GOD knows your heart and the heart is deceitful. GOD honors faith and faith honors GOD. The faith of the centurion was evident and very impressive to JESUS.

But is faith in JESUS always mandatory? Let’s explore in our next scripture.

Let’s read Luke 7:11-15.
A Widow’s Son Raised to Life
11 Soon afterwards He was on His way to a town called Nain. His disciples and a large crowd were traveling with Him. 12 Just as He neared the gate of the town, a dead man was being carried out. He was his mother’s only son, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was also with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said, “Don’t cry.” 14 Then He came up and touched the open coffin,[4] and the pallbearers stopped. And He said, “Young man, I tell you, get up!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.[5]

After healing the centurion’s slave, JESUS left Capernaum and traveled to Nain which was about a day’s journey or 20 miles from Capernaum. After the miracle in Capernaum, JESUS had HIS disciples and a large crowd accompanying HIM. Notice that as HE neared the gate of the city a dead man was being carried out to be buried. The gate of the city was the main gathering place for people and this was no exception because a widow’s son had died.

Soon after the healing of the centurion’s slave GOD provided JESUS with another opportunity to confirm that JESUS was the promised Messiah. It is one thing to heal a person that is near death but quite another to resurrect a person already dead.

In those days and in that area, embalming was not practiced. Due to the weather conditions a dead person was buried quickly. It is likely that this widow’s son had died that day. A large crowd from the city was accompanying the widow. Mourners were hired to weep and wail to express the grief of the family. JESUS also had a large crowd accompanying HIM.

Notice that faith or a request for help in this incident was absent from anyone, except for JESUS. JESUS saw her and HIS heart was moved with compassion for her loss. She had lost her husband in death and now she had lost her son in death. We know that JESUS never disobeyed the commands of HIS FATHER. Did the FATHER tell HIM to act or did HE ask the FATHER if HE could help this poor widow? We do not know but it does give us insight into situations Christians often encounter.

We are moved with compassion to go to the aid of someone. There is the human response and there is the response prompted by the Holy Spirit. There are times when GOD is moved to work in our behalf in hopeless situations, when we do not ask or do not have the faith to ask. HE cares for us and has compassion for HIS children and those who are to become HIS children.

JESUS approached the mother and told her not to cry. That must have hit her like a bucket of cold water. Our minds fly quickly when we hear insensitive remarks. She likely thought, who is this man that is telling me not to cry? Does he not know that this is my only son in this coffin? My situation is dire and he tells me not to cry. Little did she know that she had just encountered the resurrection and the life, JESUS the Promised Messiah.

JESUS approached the coffin and the pallbearers stopped. HE touched the coffin and spoke. He said, “Young man, I tell you, get up!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.[5]

The young man responded. He sat up and began to speak. I wonder what he said. We do not know. But we can only imagine the thrill and excitement that shot through the mother and the crowd. There was great excitement as we will see in our next scripture.

Let’s read Luke 7:16-17:
16 Then fear[6] came over everyone, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen among us,” and “God has visited[7] His people.” 17 This report about Him went throughout Judea and all the vicinity.

Remember we have two (2) large crowds of people, the funeral procession and those accompanying JESUS. Everyone responded with, not fear as being afraid but in reverential fear or amazement or in awe of what they just witnessed. They likely thought, did my eyes deceive me or did my ears not hear what I think I just heard? Then they put two and two together and concluded this was the hand of GOD at work and they had witnessed a miracle. They saw JESUS as a prophet and that GOD had visited them and manifested Himself through JESUS. They glorified GOD. The news of what happened spread like wildfire.

JESUS heals today and people are raised from the dead today. We often try to explain them away. I had an experience many years ago. It was no near death experience but a wide awake experience. This is the shortened version.

We had been praying for a lady’s mother who had cancer. I had never met this lady’s mother, Mrs. Green. I had a business trip to Washington. DC and stayed overnight. I flew out of and back into Charlotte, NC. When I left for my meeting in DC, this lady’s mother was at home and doing okay. As I drove from Charlotte to Spartanburg, SC, all of a sudden I saw a clear picture to my right, outside of the car, high in the sky of a man and a woman walking down a path that curved to the right. A loud booming voice as I have never heard before or since stated “Mrs. Green has just passed away but she is walking with the LORD!” I began to sing and I was excited. It was a moment of being in awe of what just happened. The voice spoke again and stated, “I told you she is walking with the LORD, you pray for the family.” I did pray. I also looked at my watch. It was 3:45 PM. When I got to the plant about 4:00 PM, I asked about Mrs. Green. I was told that she was in the hospital that morning and she was resting. I told several colleagues what I had seen and their response was, “If she had died we would know about it.” About 4:30 PM Mrs. Green’s pastor’s wife called to tell us that Mrs. Green had passed away. The doctor had pronounced her dead at 4:10 PM. I chuckle when I recall this event and think but she was walking with the LORD at 3:45 PM.

As a Christian to be absent from the body is to be present with LORD. A Christian's hope is in CHRIST. HE gave HIS life that all who believe in HIM will experience the abundant life here upon earth and for all eternity.

I know of many folks who have lost their loved ones in death and long for them to be united again like this mother and son were reunited. The son that JESUS raised from the dead, died later, just as Lazarus and others who were raised from the dead. GOD had a plan and purpose for all HE does and the miracles HE allows to take place. Christians must trust in HIS sovereignty. I know it is very difficult to do but we must keep in mind that GOD did not make us for time but for eternity. Christians will be reunited in heaven for eternity.

Yes, miracles happen every day. You are a miracle. If you have never asked JESUS to forgive you for your sins and to come into your life, then do so right now. Experience the miracle of Spiritual rebirth in CHRIST. The proof that HE is the resurrection and the life is HIS resurrection. HE conquered sin and death so that all who believe in HIM will have life eternal.

Bible Study - Miracle - Forgiveness Offered - Luke 5:17-26,29-32 - October 9, 2011

Bible Study – Miracle – Forgiveness Offered – October 9, 2011

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “It’s a Miracle.”

Our scripture is Luke 5:17-26, 29-32.

Forgiveness is easy to say but hard to do. In the model prayer JESUS spoke of forgiveness in Matthew 6:12 - 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. A debt is something we owe to someone. In the model prayer, commonly referred to as the LORD’S Prayer, debt refers to areas in our lives where we don’t measure up to GOD’S standard. We want HIM to forgive us in the areas where we do not measure up to HIS standard but forgiveness is a two-way street. Our attitude toward GOD must extend to our attitude toward our fellow human being – “As we forgive others.” GOD’S message to a world of people lost who are lost in sin is forgiveness, through the love of CHRIST. The word for forgiveness in our scripture carries the idea of letting go of sin, confessing it and GOD sending it away. First John 1:9 - 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Our lesson deals with forgiveness as a means for healing Spiritually and physically. Forgiving can heal broken relationships and repair broken hearts. In last week’s lesson JESUS revealed HIS authority over physical matter by changing water into wine. This lesson reveals HIS authority over sin and disease.

Luke, who wrote the book of Luke, was a physician. He was commissioned by Theophilus to give an accurate account of the life of JESUS. Theophilus wanted truth – Luke 1:1-5:

The Dedication to Theophilus
1 Many have undertaken to compile a narrative about the events that have been fulfilled[1] among us, 2 just as the original eyewitnesses and servants of the word handed them down to us. 3 It also seemed good to me, since I have carefully investigated everything from the very first, to write to you in orderly sequence, most honorable Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the certainty of the things about which you have been instructed.[2]

I am sure Dr. Luke, being a physician, found investigating the miracles of JESUS exciting and inspiring.

Let’s read Luke 5:17-20:
The Son of Man Forgives and Heals
17 On one of those days while He was teaching, • Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea, and also from Jerusalem. And the Lord’s power to heal was in Him. 18 Just then some men came, carrying on a stretcher a man who was paralyzed. They tried to bring him in and set him down before Him. 19 Since they could not find a way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on the stretcher through the roof tiles into the middle of the crowd before Jesus. 20 Seeing their faith He said, “Friend,[9]your sins are forgiven you.”

JESUS was teaching in a house in Capernaum. It was likely Peter’s house. People had come from the surrounding area to come hear HIM teach and to seek HIS help and healing. The need for healing can be physical, Spiritual or both. But the focus in this scripture seems to be upon a special group of skeptics who came to evaluate HIM and a small group of faithful believers on a mission. GOD always does HIS part in revealing truth to the faithful and to the skeptics.

There was a special group of religious leaders in the audience listening to JESUS teach. It was none other than the Pharisees and doctors of the law, the scribes. They were seeking truth as revealed in the scriptures. They knew the scriptures but would reality coming from a person they were trying to discredit penetrate their prejudice? GOD provided an excellent opportunity to penetrate their hard hearts. Are you a skeptic? What has GOD done to reveal truth to you?

The setting for this scripture was that a paralyzed man had a group of friends who had apparently heard of JESUS and HIS ability to heal. They had picked up their paralyzed friend and his bed and carried him to the house where HE was teaching. The crowd was so large that they could not get to JESUS who was inside the house teaching. Notice that the crowd would not move out of the way of those carrying the paralyzed man. Some people trying to help the paralyzed person might say, “Well, we just could not get our friend to JESUS,” but not these determined friends. Their determination revealed their faith in JESUS’ ability to heal their friend.

Houses were constructed with an outside stairs which led to the roof. The roof was made of tree branches, mud which would dry and some houses had tile on top of the dried mud. The man’s friends took him up the outside stairs and began tearing away the roof to form a hole large enough to lower their friend down to JESUS.

Can you imagine, JESUS was teaching and all of a sudden HE hears a noise above HIM and stuff begins to fall around HIM from the ceiling? I think HE knew that something HIS FATHER had planned was taking place. When the hole was large enough, they lowered their paralyzed friend down to JESUS. JESUS was impressed with their faith and determination.

Notice “their” faith in verse 20. “Their” referred to both the paralyzed man’s friends’ faith and the paralyzed man’s faith. JESUS went to the heart of the paralyzed man’s problem by saying “Friend your sins are forgiven.”

The word “forgiven” carries the idea of the sinner letting go of his/her sin and GOD sending it away. We must keep in mind that JESUS knows our hearts and HE knew the heart of the paralyzed man. The man wanted to come to JESUS. He came in faith. He came as a repentant sinner. The most important healing of a person is the healing of his/her heart. When JESUS uttered the words “your sins are forgiven – gone – taken away,” a burden was lifted from him and Spiritual healing came before physical healing. Physical healing to follow was the assurance of Spiritual healing. I must quickly say that because someone has an illness, disease or infirmity does not necessarily mean that he/she has sinned. When Adam and Eve sinned it resulted in an imperfect world, which results in death and decay.

When we ask JESUS into our hearts and receive salvation, we receive Spiritual healing. All of our sins are washed away and we are made whiter than snow. Joy usually fills our hearts and a great burden is lifted. Often, it also results in physical healing and produces a new lifestyle empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

What a day of rejoicing when salvation and healing come to a person. When the paralyzed man was healed, was it a day of rejoicing to all who witnessed this miracle? Let’s explore.

Let’s read Luke 5: 21-26:
21 Then the • scribes and the Pharisees began to reason: “Who is this man who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 22 But perceiving their thoughts, Jesus replied to them, “Why are you reasoning this in your hearts?[10] 23 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? 24 But so you may know that the • Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—He told the paralyzed man, “I tell you: get up, pick up your stretcher, and go home.” 25 Immediately he got up before them, picked up what he had been lying on, and went home glorifying God. 26 Then everyone was astounded, and they were giving glory to God. And they were filled with awe and said, “We have seen incredible things today!”

The religious leaders, who knew the scripture like the back of their hands, leaned unto their own understanding. Their flesh took over and blocked the Holy Spirit from revealing truth. The Old Testament is clear that rebellion and stubbornness – 1 Samuel 15:23a - 23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Their evaluation was this man JESUS speaks blasphemies.

What is blasphemy? It is speaking evil against someone. In this case, they accused JESUS for speaking as if HE was GOD.

They knew that only GOD could forgive sins and how dare JESUS speak as if HE was GOD. The trap was set. Truth was about to meet reality.

JESUS knew what they were pondering in their hearts. So HE posed a question. “Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? 24 But so you may know that the • Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—He told the paralyzed man, “I tell you: get up, pick up your stretcher, and go home.” Three (3) commands – get up - pick up – go - were followed immediately by three (3) actions - He jumped up, picked up his bed and went home praising GOD. The man praised GOD as he went home. He had good news to tell. I imagine that his friends were following along just as excited and praising GOD. Their hearts were open to the truth and found truth. CHRIST always magnified the FATHER.

This event ministered to all whose eyes and hearts were open to receive truth and they praised GOD. Those blinded to truth went away more determined to discredit CHRIST. Satan blinds people to the truth every day. Has Satan blinded you to the truth? If so, confess it and ask CHRIST to open your Spiritual eyes to truth and to place your feet upon the solid rock of CHRIST. CHRIST is the SON of GOD, the promised Messiah.

Gee, what just happened? JESUS healed a paralyzed man by saying “Your sins are forgiven.” To prove that HE had the authority over sin and that HE was the SON of GOD, HE healed the man. It never registered with these scholarly religious leaders that just maybe this JESUS was the promised Messiah.

Often, when our minds are already made up, we disregard the facts and miss truth.

Let’s read Luke 5:29-32:
Dining with Sinners
29 Then Levi hosted a grand banquet for Him at his house. Now there was a large crowd of tax collectors and others who were guests[11] with them. 30 But the Pharisees and their scribes were complaining to His disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” 31 Jesus replied to them, “The healthy don’t need a doctor, but the sick do. 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

JESUS had already called Levi, the tax collector, to follow HIM. Levi is also called Matthew, the writer of the Gospel of Matthew. When JESUS called Levi, he dropped what he was doing and followed HIM. Levi was wealthy, despised tax collector. JESUS called him and he responded. He wanted to share JESUS with his friends and business associates. When we discover truth, we want to share it with others. So he hosted this grand banquet to introduce HIM to his friends who happened to be notorious tax collectors and other questionable people. The religious leaders had dubbed them sinners.

Shadowing JESUS were the Pharisees and their scribes. They complained to JESUS’ disciples about JESUS socializing with these horrible people. JESUS responded with a stinging statement, “The healthy don’t need a doctor, but the sick do. 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
Many of us know people who are self-righteous and don’t need salvation. Some people are morally straight and refuse to acknowledge their need for CHRIST. They contend that they live more morally pure lives than so-and-so who is a certain person in the local church. They believe their goodness will earn them a place in heaven.

Here we see two (2) approaches for reaching the lost for CHRIST. Levi invited his sinner friends to meet JESUS. The Pharisees believed that those needing salvation had to come to them on their terms and jump through religious hoops to be acceptable to GOD. JESUS went to those in need of salvation. Repentance and faith in HIM equals salvation.

We can and should reach out to all who need CHRIST but we need to keep a watchful eye on ourselves. Never place yourself in a compromising situation. Always reach out in pairs or teams. Never leave someone behind in a questionable area. Always pray before, during and after witnessing to others.

I have a friend that is an alcoholic and he cannot even get around the smell of alcohol. He had to do some work at a bar when the bar was closed. He thought that would be safe but the odor brought back the desire. He disappeared and was located in a distant city drunk and had spent a lot of money they did not have to spend. So be very careful.

The title of our lesson is “Forgiveness Offered.” CHRIST offers forgiveness today. JESUS spoke those words to the paralyzed man. The paralytic heard the words “Friend, your sins are forgiven” but it took an act of faith for him to believe. He took that step of faith by responding to the words of JESUS – get up – take up - walk home. When he responded, he put his faith in JESUS into action. His salvation and healing were complete when he took that step of faith.

If you are reading this, it is not by accident but by GOD’S providence. Are you in need for forgiveness? CHRIST offers you forgiveness for all your sins. Do you believe that HE is the SON of GOD and that HE gave HIS life on the cross for your sins? If so, ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life right now. If you asked HIM to forgive you and to come into your life, thank HIM. Welcome to the family of GOD my brother or sister in CHRIST. Tell someone that you have asked CHRIST into your life. He or she might want to join you in this decision.