Good Morning “Forgiven Sinners.”  Today we are in Mark 3.

Is there any limit to the Mercy and Grace of our God through the Blood of Jesus?  Is there any particular sin, or amount of sin that is unforgivable?  We read about one sin here in Mark. Check it out:

“Truly I tell you, people can be forgiven all their sins and every slander they utter, but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; they are guilty of an eternal sin.” Mark‬ ‭3‬:‭28‬-‭29‬ ‭NIV‬‬

So what exactly is blaspheme against the Holy Spirit?  In this context Jesus is addressing the “Teachers of the Law” that were accusing Him of performing miracles by the power of Satan.  In other words, not only denying the Holy Spirits power, but suggesting He was possessed by Satan.  They were attributing the Holy Spirits power to demons.  They didn’t BELIEVE Jesus was who He said He was.  Jesus clearly proved who He really was, the tomb is empty, and He is Risen.  So… committing this sin in the way the religious leaders did here - is no longer possible.  At least not in the same way.  

Creation clearly points to a Creator, The Truth of God is written on our hearts (Romans 1-2), the finished work of Jesus is apparent through all of Scripture and the conviction of the Holy Spirit within us.  

So what constitutes unforgivable sin today?  Is there any?  Yes - UNBELIEF - denial or resistance to the Call of Jesus to REPENT and BELIEVE the Good News (Acts 3:19, Romans 10:9). Persistent and unremitting resistance to the Spirit’s work as He brings conviction of sin and reveals the need for repentance and faith - simply says no to Jesus and thus forgiveness.  

Its simple - just say yes!  It’s that easy!  If you have said yes to Jesus, and received the forgiveness provided by His Blood shed on the Cross, you have already demonstrated you BELIEVE!  You need not worry about “the unforgivable sin” (Psalm 103:12, Colossians 2:13-14). For you - it doesn’t exist. It’s a heart issue. The issue is, He wants your heart! The real question is does He have it?  

There’s more in Mark 3!  Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Mat Lower-ers.”  Today we are in Mark 2.

Everywhere Jesus went, crowds followed.  Some were religious leaders seeking to trip Him up.  Some were simply seekers wondering what it was all about.  Some already believed and wanted to learn.  Some wanted healing so badly they would do ANYTHING to get to Jesus - to receive healing for themselves, their friends, or their loved ones.  

If we truly pay attention when we read Scripture - sometimes you just gotta laugh!  The people we read about were real humans!  Real guys!  The story of the 4 friends with their buddy on the mat remind me of the men in some of those “Why women live longer” videos.  Imagine their conversation.  “Bro, Jesus is in town, we’re gonna get you healed.  Awe man, the crowd is too big, we can’t get close.  Wait I got an idea… it’s gonna work I promise.”  It takes me back to my childhood days when we would hook our wagon to our bicycle and one of us would get in it.  Or, when we would jump out of trees on to a mattress or bean bag we drug outside, or… when we would make bike ramps out of boards and cinder blocks, then ride full speed into it.  

What do these things have to do with the 5 guys in our story today?  Childlike faith (Matthew 18:3).  We all had total faith it would work!  The men in our story today, absolutely believed Jesus could and would heal their buddy and would do anything to get him to Jesus!  

Read or reread this whole chapter!  It holds many lessons and applications for us!  “It’s not the healthy who need a doctor but the sick” Mark 2:17.  

“So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.””
‭‭Mark‬ ‭2‬:‭28‬ ‭

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Call Answerers.” Today we are in Mark 1.

You will likely notice some similarities as Matthew, Mark, Luke and John share their accounts of what they witnessed with Jesus.  Don’t get irritated at the repetition, pay attention to them.  Note the differences.  If God thought it was important enough to inspire more than one writer with the same message, it's probably important for us to be reminded.  

What do you do to prepare for a big event?  Preparation is key! John the Baptist was all about preparing the way for Jesus to come.  He was preaching and baptizing - and even baptized Jesus!  Jesus was making last minute preparations as well.  He got baptized and then was sent by the Spirit to the wilderness to be tempted for 40 days.  All part of being prepared to seek and save the lost!  Are you prepared to get to work?  Are you prepared to see Jesus?  We might want to get there!

After the desert Jesus returns, recovers, and gets to work Preaching!  “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” Mark‬ ‭1‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Think about this - if that was the message more than 2000 years ago, the kingdom of God is much  closer now.  Repent and believe was the message then - repent and believe is still the message now.

Repentance is much more than being sorry.  It's this idea of coming into agreement with God regarding your sin and then turning the other way from it - making adjustments so you don't sin in that way again.  “If your eye causes you to sin pop it out”. Matt. 5:29

Jesus builds His team by calling the disciples - note their response is immediate.  That's what you do when Jesus calls - you respond immediately.  

Do you have sin you need to repent of?  We all do, so likely you do too.  Is He calling you?  I got news for you - He is!  Either to salvation, or to join Him in His work - He's calling.  The two go together.  He calls with good work already prepared for us to do - Ephesians 2:8-10 He calls us to salvation and that comes with the expectation that we’ll get to work!  Let’s do it!

Love You All!  Dig in and live it out!  Let’s get to work!

Good Morning “Kingdom Laborers.” Today we wrap up Matthew with Chapter 28

The real Easter story - He is Risen.  Early on the 3rd day an Angel of the Lord that looks like lightning appears and rolls back the stone!  Looks like what?  Lightening it says, with clothes as white as snow.  When Moses wanted to see God, God had to stick his head in a rock Moses could only see Him from the back side as He passed by.  The light of the Lord is more than we can bare in our humanness. Ever watch someone weld?  Hopefully you didn't watch directly.  The light is so bright it'll burn your eyes... maybe like lightning. Here, the guards trembled with fear and fell like dead men!

Some really important keys in this chapter to consider:
- Jesus is Risen - Conquering sin and death - proof of Gods acceptance of the payment made for our sins!  Apart from the Resurrection we have no hope!

- Jesus didn't need the angel to roll the stone away so He could get out.  He could have done it Himself, or walked right through.  Later in Johns Gospel we read that Jesus appeared among them, when they were behind a locked door.  The stone was rolled away to reveal the evidence - the grave clothes left behind, the tomb empty as prophesied.  

- The tomb was sealed!  Anything with the "seal" of Rome meant don't touch.  Break the seal and you die.

- The religious leaders concoct a story where somehow the disciples come while the guards are sleeping, and roll back the huge, sealed stone all while not waking them.  The stone likely would have followed a slightly sloped channel with an inset resting place at the base of the tomb.  This was typical.  What's that mean?  It's way way more difficult to roll the stone up and away than in.  And what about the guards - falling asleep on the job, especially one as important as this, would have meant their lives - they would never fall asleep. Also, there is no recording of the guards being executed.

- The first two that Jesus appears to are women!  The two Mary's.  Mary Magdalene was a prostitute.  Remember the feeding of the multitudes?  They didn't count the women at that time.  They only counted the heads of the household - men.  Men were the teachers.  If the Disciples were going to make up a story they wanted someone to believe - they wouldn't write it like that.  Jesus makes a huge statement here!

 Could keep going… Within the record of the resurrection there are so many proofs, so many prophesies fulfilled that serve to bolster our faith.  Jesus goes on to walk the earth once more, for 40 days - during which He appears to hundreds!  Their accounts are recorded.  Their testimony's alone were enough to get them killed.  People generally aren't willing to die for a lie.  

What are we to do with all of this?  It's the greatest news ever known!  Share it with someone!  You're not alone - He is with is!  The Holy Spirit is in us if we know Jesus!  He provides the strength for us to witness!  Acts 1:8

 “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬-‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Let’s get to work!  Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning Jesus “Wanters”, today we are in Matthew 27.

What is the greatest act of Love the world has ever known? Jesus, going to the cross, obediently choosing it - “But for the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning it’s shame…” Hebrews 12:2

 The anti God / non Biblical movement is real!  Never confuse the will of the majority with the will of God! How much pressure are you under to go with the flow?

In this chapter we see Jesus’ mock trial and crucifixion.  Pilates wife believed He was innocent, Pilate indicated he believed Jesus was innocent - yet the pressure continued.  It was customary to release a prisoner at the Passover so Pilate brings Barabbas out assuming the crowd would choose to release Jesus instead of the notorious murderer.  Who should we release?  “Barabbas”, the crowd shouted.  Jesus claimed to be God and they didn’t like it. Ultimately the religious leaders got what they wanted.  

Get this - Pilate, who had the power - believed Jesus was innocent.  John records that even among the leaders there were those who believed.  Likely there were those in the crowd that believed He was God and knew He was innocent - yet seemingly no one spoke.  Would you have spoken up?  

Ultimately prophecy would be fulfilled.  Because of our sin we need a Savior and Jesus was it!

We are Barabbas.  Innocent Jesus, fully man and fully God, had to take our place if we are to live.  His life on the cross for ours - He became sin for us and took our punishment upon Himself (2 Corinthians 5:21).   Why does a Good God send people to hell?  Send?  We’re already on our way.  When we choose sin, it’s our default destination. On the contrary, He loves us enough that He gave us Jesus.  Salvation through the blood of Jesus is a free gift, but meaningless to you unless you believe it and receive it!  John 3:16, Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, Romans 5:8, Roman’s 10:9, Romans 8:1.  

The Truth of God is written on your heart.  Romans 2. What does that mean… it means deep down, apart from the corruption around us - we already know!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Strong”. Today we are in Matthew 26.

The plot to kill Jesus, the deal, The Passover (Last Supper) in the upper room, a little last teaching, the arrest, the beginning of trial proceedings (if you can call it that), the scattering of the disciples, and Peter’s denial.  This chapter is jam packed.

It’s easy for us to point the finger at Peter, but they all scattered.  How would you react - If you had been hanging with Jesus and it was all coming to a head?  Would you be able to remain faithful in the face of opposition, probable arrest, potential beating and crucifixion?  Before you answer remember they were all super close!  They spent some serious time together doing ministry and life.  They KNEW who He was first hand!  They witnessed and even participated in and performed miracles.  They all failed just like Jesus said they would. “Then Jesus told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written: “ ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’” Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭31‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We honestly face little persecution in our country, at least comparatively.  No one is getting their head sawed off for proclaiming Jesus.  However; standing for what you believe without facing opposition and consequences is fast becoming a thing of the past.  In a world where everyone gets to proclaim their own truth, and it’s valued and celebrated, it seems the only Truth that gets stifled is the REAL TRUTH, the TRUTH of Jesus and The Word of God.

So… what will you do?  Conform, be silent and watch it happen around you? Remember we’re supposed to be the salt (preservative), we’re supposed to be the light in the darkness (Matthew 5:13-16).  Don’t become like the rest of the lost world - but be transformed by renewing your mind with the Word! Romans 12:1-2  Would you stand for Jesus, or deny Him?  It’s a real question.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!  Strength comes from the Holy Spirit as He teaches you The Word.

Good Morning “Blessed”.  Today we are in Matthew 25.

Jesus is coming!  Yesterday’s passage described the “Birth Pains” leading up to The Rapture of The Church, then the Tribulation.  Ultimately we know He will return with the “Armies of Heaven” (Revelation 19:11-)!  He will judge the nations!  Are you ready for the return of Jesus?  He could return any time to gather His Church (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 1 Corinthians 15:50- 54).  

Maybe you believe we have plenty of time.  “We got time,” Pastor Jason, “to straighten up… to get it right.”  Do we?  According to His Word, it could be any time now.  Maybe you have grown weary of waiting and moved on?  This chapter is clear!  The expectation is for us to be ready!  Always!  

We are incredibly blessed.  What have we done with the many blessings He’s entrusted to us.  We are only stewards - it’s ALL His.  All means all and that’s all all means. Health, time, Spiritual Gifts, talents, job, position, popularity, money, access, opportunity, beauty, ugly, strong, weak, trials - I could go on and on.  He’s made us who we are, the way we are - apart from corruption.  He’s determined where we would live, and surrounded us with people to influence for The Kingdom (Acts 17:26-27).  

He’s blessed us with things we deem good, and things we deem bad… ALL for His Glory (1 Corinthians 4:7; Peter 3:8-9; James 1:2-5).  Everything we have, every beat of our heart and breath we take is a gift from His hand - to be used to glorify Him (Acts 17:25). Hopefully we understand that and don’t simply sit on our gifts, but we use and multiply what we have for Kingdoms sake.

When we use well, all that He has blessed us with - we become a conduit for Him to bless others through.   Think of a water hose.  He is the source Who loves and provides for others through us… if we are humbly submitted (Romans 12:1).  

In the end, He will judge the nations based on their faithfulness… specifically how did they treat His children Israel?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Recognizers of The Only One.”  Today we are in Matthew 24.

 Do you know the Real Thing well enough to recognize a counterfeit?  Government agents trained to recognize counterfeit money don’t study the counterfeits - they study the original.  They know all the details.  Every specific of our currency.  So much so that when they see a fake they know it’s fake immediately.  

The same should be true of us in regards to Jesus and the Word of God.  It’s essential we KNOW Him and His Word so we can recognize fakes.  They’re already here!  False doctrine is being preached all around the World.  False teachers are everywhere.  Distorted, watered down versions of Gods Word is widely accepted.  Some even claim to be prophets, healers, even claim they are greater than Jesus.  

Do you recognize them, do you recognize false teaching when you hear it?  Knowing The Word of God wasn’t optional then… it definitely isn’t optional now!  It’s essential.  

The end is near!  We see things happening and know the time is short!  Be alert and pay attention.  Many don’t get it - make sure you’re dialed in.

“As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24‬:‭37‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬

He’s coming like a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:2).  Where’s your heart?  Who does it belong to?  How prepared are you?  How well do you know the original?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Broken and Humble”.  Today we are in Matthew 23.

Ever been called a hypocrite?  Gets you fired up doesn’t it?  What is a hypocrite anyway?  According to Siri (the internet) A hypocrite is a person who acts in contradiction to their stated beliefs, virtues, or feelings, often feigning higher standards than they practice.

So… if we profess Jesus, and say we believe The Bible and live by it, but don’t actually - What are we?  Simply put we’re a hypocrite if we talk the talk but, don’t walk the walk.  

If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard “church’s are full of hypocrites”, I’d be a rich man.  I used to get defensive - like you would if someone called you that.  Then I realized the reality is… yes churches are full of hypocrites.  The world is a broken place full of broken people and church’s are just buildings full of the same.  Should it be different than it is… sure!  We all SHOULD follow the model of Jesus who was NO hypocrite (Romans 8:29)!

The difference, hopefully… is those within the building are submitting themselves to The Lord!  They should be humbly broken (vs 12; Luke 14:11). Purposing to let Jesus do His work in them - from the inside out (Philippians 1:6)!  Resisting their flesh and the corruption of this world and drawing near to Jesus (James 4:7-8).  

Jesus had some harsh words for those that thought they had it all figured out!  They were those that in their pride missed IT!  They lacked humility, and brokenness! He’s rebuking false teachers who were themselves unteachable!  They spread their false ideals throughout, drawing others in - and making them even more evil than themselves (vs 15).  

Check it out for yourself.  Oh, and if someone calls you a hypocrite, don’t get all testy - simply look in the mirror and take inventory.  Ask yourself, “Do I really know The Word I say I believe?”  “Does my life reflect IT?”  If not… well, maybe I am a hypocrite.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “God Lovers”.  Today we are in Matthew 22.

Imagine being invited to a royal wedding feast and choosing not to show.  Maybe that’s a big deal, maybe not… but what if you’re the Bride?  Or if you’re the Groom and your Bride doesn’t show?  As we dig in to Matt 22 Jesus is once again using a parable to get His point across.  We all know He’s not talking about an actual wedding feast.  Who is the King?  Who is the Son?  Who are the servants, and the prospective guests?  What about the man who shows up without wedding clothes?  What’s his deal, and why is he thrown out in the street?

Should I pay taxes when I don’t agree with what the government does with my tax dollars? There’s the million dollar question!  Check out what Jesus says.  

Let’s say someone has been married more than once - for whatever reason.  Maybe they are a widow or widower and then they get remarried.  Who will they be married to when they get to Heaven?

So many parables - referring to so many laws / expectations.  Can’t you simplify it for me?  An expert in the law comes to Jesus, really trying to back Him into a corner and asks which commandment is the greatest.  Jesus answers summing up the whole thing!  

You gotta check this stuff out for yourself!  The answers are in there.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Rejoicing in Salvation.”  Today we are in Matthew 21.

When our students return as champions, from a state competition - Eaton honors them with a parade, and maybe even fireworks.  When the President travels, he does so with a grand motorcade.  Anytime one of the Royals does anything -  it’s grand.  Surely when Jesus arrived in Jerusalem, The King of the Jews, Lord of Lords, Savior of the world - it was BIG!   Check it out and see (vs 1-11).  You might be surprised.  

Jesus was the master of meekness.  What is meekness?  It surely isn’t weakness (Matthew 5:5; 11:29).  Meekness is simply “Power under control”.

Jesus arrives at the Temple and discovered that they have basically turned it into a market for organized crime - taking advantage of people anyway they could.  There were some making a profit selling unfit animals for sacrifices. There were also “money changers”. Tyrian silver shekels were required to pay the annual half-shekel Temple tax.  Those arriving at the Temple needed to exchange their (typically Roman) money for money with no human image on it. It was typical for money changers to charge a fee - even excessive fees.  

This kind of nonsense, taking advantage, especially in the Temple wasn’t permitted!  John 2:15 says Jesus made a whip out of cords - then He got to work!  My question is this… No one resisted Him?  These were people not afraid to rip others off - they were salty!  What kind of Holy Authority must have Jesus displayed that when their livelihood was overturned no one stood up against him?  Ever meet someone you just knew you would never want to cross?  The look in their eye, the confidence in their step and voice made it clear… you don’t want any!  I believe that was Jesus! (Vs 12-17)

Jesus goes on to remind us all that Faith in Jesus can move mountains… literally.  There’s more here in this section we need to apply.  

The end of the chapter reminds me of a story. One year while on a Mexico Mission Trip, we went to the beach on our last day.  We had a couple students get caught in the rip tide and get drug out a bit far.  They were way out!  Far enough that the lifeguards had to swim out and save them.  The students were obviously pleased to see them and have the help.  Could you imagine being in their situation, then rejecting the salvation?  

Because of our sin, we all are on our way to death - eternal separation from God.  Why would anyone reject Salvation through Jesus?  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Compassionate”.  Today we are in Matthew 20.

Have you ever looked at someone who lives their entire life selfishly, seemingly only for themselves?  If a good tree doesn’t bare bad fruit and a bad tree good fruit (Matthew 7:17-18) then it would seem they are a bad tree.  Have you ever heard someone say, well maybe they turned to Jesus on their death bed?  Maybe like the thief on the cross (Luke 23:39-43)?  Does that seem fair?  That’s the funny thing about the Mercy and Grace of God through Jesus.  We don’t get to decide who it’s for and who it isn’t!  It’s also not about fair.  We don’t want fair… if it was all about fair, WE would never receive life in Jesus!  We would have no hope for eternal life in heaven!  

Fair and Justice = eternal separation from God.  Our sin has earned us death (Romans 3:23, 6:23).  Hell is our default destination.  It’s not about being good enough, or even good enough long enough.  It’s ALL and ONLY about Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24; Ephesians 8-9) Checkout how Jesus reminds the Disciples of just that.

Did you, do you - have a helicopter mom?  Are you a helicopter mom?  A mommas love wants the best, so moms get involved… maybe sometimes too much.  Have you ever had to tell your mom to stay out of it?  Or even worse have you secretly had your mom do your bidding for you?  However it went down, James and John’s mom has something important to ask Jesus.  You gotta read this (vs 20-28).  

Everywhere Jesus went He had compassion on those that were hurting - and took time.  Hmmmm, something more we could learn and apply (Romans 8:29).

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Rich Men and Women.”  Today we are in Matthew 19.

“…for this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭19‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬ This is Gods design for marriage, originally from Genesis 2:24 and repeated here.

Ok, so then what did Jesus say about divorce?  It’s all here… that’s the beauty of His Word!  He’s given us the answers! Also check (Matthew 5:32; Mark 10:11-12; Corinthians 7:10-11, 15)

So is it better not to marry?  Here Jesus has a Word about remaining single.  Paul taught a similar Word, repeated in 1 Corinthians 7.  He addresses staying single in 7:8

How can I get to heaven? “Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” Matthew‬ ‭19‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Check out Jesus’ answer.

He wants our heart, ALL of it!  Above all else!  Jesus asks the man to give up the thing that was most valuable to him - his money. He couldn’t!  What or who is the thing that is most valuable to you? Could you give it up?

What do camels and needles have to do with money and riches (vs 23-24)?  Compared to most of the rest of the world… we’re all rich!  How easy would it be for you to give it all up?

With God all things are possible.  It’s ALL His!  Every good gift comes from Him (James 1:17)!  Why do we act as thought it’s ours?  Hold it ALL loosely.
“many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.” Matthew‬ ‭19‬:‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Like Children.”  Today we are in Matthew 18.

There is sooo much here, we could do a whole series of messages just on this chapter.  

Sing it with me… “Jesus loves me this I know… for The Bible tells me so.”  In their humility children just accept and believe.  In our prideful arrogance, we argue the Truths of Scripture, pick and choose, and look to somehow justify our flesh instead of taking The Word of God at face value. We compare ourselves with others instead of Jesus.  Humility  and a teachable spirit is what Jesus seeks in us.  

“And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Someone is always watching.  We’re all leading someone… the question is how, where and to whom are we leading?   Jesus reminds them of their responsibility to others - especially little children.  We dare not live in a way that causes others to sin.  Paul recognizes this concept even as it relates to what we eat or drink (Romans 14:21).  Does the way we live draw people closer to Jesus or lead them away (Matthew 5:16)?

We’re in this thing together.  He’s given us each other for a reason.  We’re to do life together, holding one another accountable - checking one another up on sin areas that need addressing (vs 15-17)  Remember Matthew 7:3-5?

We are sinful people and as a result we are going to hurt each other.  How many times am I expected to forgive my brother?  Why?  You’ll have to dig in and read to find out!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Jesus See-ers”.  Today we are in Matthew 17.  

Buckle your seat belt… here we go!  Jesus takes Peter, James and John up to a high mountain and there before them He is transfigured!  Trans whated?  Transfigured!  His clothes became white as the light and His face as bright as the sun!  Yeah!!! Super cool!!! He gave them a little glimpse of Himself as God.  Yup, they answered correctly back in vs 16, you are the Christ, the Son of the Living God - here, they get to see.  We can see Him working in and around us too… “If we have eyes to see”.

What’s more Moses and Elijah come back and are talking to Jesus.  What a privilege it would have been to be on that mountain.  Peter is so pumped about it, he wants to set up camp and stay!  

I’ve heard some ask, “What will we do when we get to Heaven?  Sit around and worship God?  Sounds boring.”

Anyone who’s ever experienced an incredible worship service, one that you wish would never end - has experienced a little taste!  It won’t be boring, and you WON’T want it to end!  The good news is, it won’t!  This was a taste of that!  The question is do you love Jesus enough that you want to experience eternity with Him?  

Then - they hear the voice of God The Father.  “When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” Matthew‬ ‭17‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Faith is a powerful thing.  Able to move mountains with just a little.  Don’t take my word for it!  Read on!  

Keep at it.  You’re growing from the inside out whether you realize it or not.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Living Stone’s.” Today we are in Matthew 16.

Give us a sign.  As if healing the lame, the blind, casting out demons, walking on water are not enough - they want a sign? A wicked generation cannot see The Truth right in front of their eyes.  We’ve seen miracles.  We ourselves, like all life, are miracles from His hand. He has revealed Himself to us ALL universally - through creation, so that we are without excuse (Romans 1:20).  Maybe they’ll believe once Jesus conquers death and walks out of the grave (sign of Jonah)?

Oh man… we forgot to bring something to eat!  Mark 8 records the Disciples fear in a bit more detail.  Seems like a valid concern.  They set out across the water and brought very little to eat.  Why does Jesus rebuke their fear (vs 8-11)?

It’s easy to get off track when we believe false teaching that spreads like yeast.

Who do you say I am, Jesus asks? (Vs 15) This is an important question ALL must answer.

“Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”” Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“…this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭17-18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

This exchange is the topic of much controversy.  One thing is sure… Jesus is not saying, “On you Peter - I will build my church.”

Some argue Jesus was referring to Himself and Peter was simply a “rock” (The name Peter means rock).  Peter himself taught that we are just living stones… he did not believe himself to be the “rock” of the Church. In fact Jesus is the “Cornerstone” (Matthew 21:42; 1 Peter 2:4-7)

Others argue that what Jesus was referring to, in Peter, was His faith!  The Church is made up of those who “Believe”, collectively we are the Temple of The Living God who dwells in us - individually (2 Corinthians 6:16), and corporately making up The Church (1 Corinthians 3:16).  

Both arguments include True statements.  Which was Jesus referring to? Or neither? Don’t get so caught up in the arguments you miss the application!  Who is He?  That part you must settle!

Jesus then moves to begin explaining to them what is going to happen to Him.  When He refers to His arrest, beating, and crucifixion, Peter responds “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!”” Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭22‬ ‭NIV‬‬.

“Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭23‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Peter wasn’t thinking Big Picture!  Peter, like us, was primarily concerned with immediate circumstances and comfort.  Peter was looking at Jesus death’ much like we look at death ourselves.  But truly “For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain”, according to Paul in Philippians 1:21.  Read on in Matthew 16 to see why Jesus responds so harshly.  

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Humbling ourselves, denying what we (our flesh) want, and living in obedience to Jesus is what He asks of us (Romans 12:1; John 14:15). Living with a heavenly perspective, the big picture - is our goal!  We should be more concerned about Glorifying Him, each day; and our FOREVER, where and how we will spend it, than we are our temporary comfort here on earth (Matthew 6:19-21).  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Clean Hearts.”  Today we are in Matthew 15.

Wash your hands before you eat, or… or what?  Wait, are the religious leaders seriously checking Jesus up over He and the Disciples not washing their hands - yup they are.  Jesus responds by putting them right back in their place!

“What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.” Matthew‬ ‭15‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Here He again reminds us of the thread we’ve seen through Matthew thus far.  Our mouth tells on our heart!  

Remember this one from Matt 12 “You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭12‬:‭34‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Feeding the 5000, or really 15-20k wasn’t an isolated incident.  The people were hungry then, and guess what?  They’re hungry again.  This time only around 4,000 men, but the miracle unfolds very similarly!  The disciples had literally just witnessed and been a part of Jesus performing the very same / similar miracle, yet here they seem to doubt.  They could use some of the Faith the Canaanite women demonstrates.

How many times do they need to see Him miraculously provide for them to get it?

Tough question!  How many times do we?  He proves Himself faithful every day, yet we worry !(Matthew 6:33).   He proves Himself worthy / enough and yet we pursue world stuff more (2 Corinthians 12:9). He has shown us His way is best - yet we choose our own way (Matthew 7:13-15).  

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
‭‭James‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Water Walkers.”  Today we are in Matthew 14.

Horrible tragedy - incredible miracles!
- John the Baptist’s head on a platter.  That’s right - a crummy end for the one who heralded the arrival of The Saviour of the World.

- Jesus feeds way more than 5k (they only counted the men) with a kids lunch (John 6:9.) John records a boy was there - a boy willing to give all he had for the Kingdom!  Jesus used it miraculously.  I love that!!!

- Then after - Jesus makes the disciples get in the boat and head across the lake.  Evening comes, He’s all alone and they’re a considerable distance out.  No biggie, just walk out to meet them.  They freak, “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” Matthew‬ ‭14‬:‭28‬-‭29‬ ‭

I LOVE this story!!! First, if Jesus feeding maybe 15-20k or more from a willing kids lunch isn’t enough - He walks out in the storm to meet the disciples.  He meets us in the midst of the storm!  There is something very interesting about His response to Peter though!  Check out what Jesus doesn’t say! Peter says if it’s you, tell me to come to you.  Jesus doesn’t respond by saying “ok, come on Peter. “ He simply says “Come”.  

So what?  Walk with me here - Salvation, through Jesus is there for the taking.  “God gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him would have eternal life.”  John 3:16. WHOEVER.  The Word of God taught by the Spirit of God for whoever is humble enough to accept it.  “He who has ears let him hear” Matt. 13:9.    What am I getting at?  I think the fact that Jesus didn’t address Peter specifically by saying “come Peter”, matters.  I believe He left the door open - so that any one of them could have got out of the boat and walked on water that night.  Only Peter had enough faith to do it!  Only Peter got to experience that miracle.  

The chapter finishes with many with that kind of faith being healed - simply by touching the hem of his garment.  

Where are you at?  Got enough faith to step out of the boat?  Got enough discipline to keep your eyes on Jesus?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Spirit Filled.” Today we are in Matthew 13.

Jesus begins speaking in parables.  Those with a humble, open, teachable heart will understand those with hard unrepentant hearts will not.  

We read the parable of the sower and soon realize Jesus isn’t REALLY talking about sowing crop seed.  He speaks about those who are humbly accepting what Jesus is teaching, those who are learning, applying and living it… and those who aren’t.  

He continues with several other parables, some He explains in detail, others He doesn’t.  He refers to the spiritual battle we’re in, the value of the Gospel and the Good Word He is sharing, and even speaks of spreading that Good News.  

It would have been awesome to walk with Jesus in the flesh, but we have the opportunity to have Jesus in us!  When we receive Jesus, The Holy Spirit comes and dwells in us!  He is our teacher - from the inside out!  

John 14:26
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.”

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;”
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬


Checkout part of Jesus’ prayer the night of His arrest - praying for all true Believers:

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”
‭‭John‬ ‭17‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It starts with acceptance and repentance.  There is nothing we can do good enough to ever earn Salvation.  That’s Jesus point with the religious leaders.  We’ve all sinned and come up short Romans 3:23.  The payment required for our sin is eternal death, separation from God… only one place to spend eternity separated from God.  But the Gift of God is His Grace - Jesus.   Romans 6:23.  It’s by grace we’ve been saved - through faith, nothing we’ve done - Ephesians 2:8-9.  Still in the midst of our sin Jesus died for us Romans 5:8.  Truly believing means there is action, repentance, emotional, spiritual and physical action (Romans 10:9). Then - there is no condemnation for those in Him (Romans 8:1).

All of this stuff we’ve been talking about will mean nothing without the Holy Spirit in you!  

Receive the Greatest Gift ever given - then dig in and let the Spirit teach you!  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Sword Fighters”. Today we are in Matthew 12.

In Matthew Chapter 10 we read that Jesus came to bring the sword, not peace!  The sword against what, or who?  Evil, sin and the messed up thinking that plagues man as a result.  

Jesus flipped the script.  He turned the world on its head.  He was preaching a Gospel which seemed to run contrary to the strict rules the religious leaders had been practicing and teaching for years.  But… He did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). He demonstrated what The Law lived out looks like.  They were nearly perfect at “obeying” The Law, and felt good about that!  You can imagine their frustration when Jesus comes on the scene and starts preaching Grace, Love and forgiveness of sins.  

(1) Religion is man reaching up to God. Christianity is God reaching down to man through Jesus.

(2) Religion is all about works and trying to earn favor with God. Christianity realizes favor is only possible through Jesus.  Works don’t save us but should accompany true salvation (Matthew 7:18, James 2:17), from a humble submitted servant heart!  

What’s in it for us?  Ha ha… Only ALL that we seek to artificially fabricate with the world’s offerings.  With Jesus in us and us remaining in Him through His Word -Jesus works through us to produce real Joy, not fabricated Joy. In fact He says COMPLETE Joy (John 15:11).  

They’d become really good at the works part, but their hearts were off.  They start looking for ways to trip Jesus up and even begin plotting to kill Him.  With every new accusation, Jesus puts them in their place.  

“You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭12‬:‭34‬

He continues to remind them and us, He wants our heart - and for our sake, it’s important He has it.  The spiritual battle we are in becomes more apparent in this chapter.  It’s important for us to realize we are in a battle.  It’s a battle that first requires the Holy Spirit be in us if we are to have any strength for the battle.  We are powerless on our own.  Once we’ve received Jesus’ payment for our sins, the Holy Spirit indwells us (Acts 1:8, John 14:15-17).  He is our power!  The Sword of the Spirit is our weapon.   If we are going to choose to fight this battle, and hope to be victorious, we must put on the FULL Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18)!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Fully Committed”. Today we are in Matthew 11.

Having finished instructing the disciples, Jesus gets back at it - Teaching and Preaching.  

He points out the kind of man John the Baptist is.  Not what you would expect, yet “Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭11‬ ‭John wasn’t who the people would have expected to usher in the Savior of the world.  Yet another reminder, God uses the unlikely, the humble, the willing!  That was John!  Hey, that’s me!  Maybe it’s you too?

He reflects on the places where He performed most of His miracles - warning them.  It’s a warning we ought to pay attention to as well.  He daily cares for us!  We’ve witnessed His miracles in our midst!  How much Jesus do we need to witness before we repent of our sin, and turn fully to Him?  What will it take?

The Christian walk can be exhausting when we attempt it on our own.  Do you feel worn out, exhausted, weary? Don’t  pull away, instead press in! He is the God who sees Genesis 16:13

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬-‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬

He never promises it will be easy (John 16:33), but He does promise He’ll be there to carry our burdens - if we remain in Him (Galatians 2:20).  

Don’t take my word for it - soak it up yourself

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Cross Carriers.”  Today we are in Matthew 10.

Ready to follow Jesus?  Let’s go!  Not mature enough yet?  Neither were they!  He’ll do the work of maturing your faith until the day He takes you home (Philippians 1:6).  The real question is are you humbly submitted and willing?  Don’t take anything with you - no extra money,  no clothes.  God will provide through His people.  Go tell the people the Kingdom of God is near!  Thats the mission!  Do you accept?

You’ll be like sheep among wolves.  “You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭22‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Still in?  Bold, unashamed?

“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.” Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭32‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Can’t we ALL just get along?  

“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭34‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The Truth is the evil one is at work to divide and conquer.  He does it through even those closest to us (vs 35-37b).

“Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We are in a war, just look around.  Here, Jesus declares war on the evil that has spread throughout the land… who are the warriors?  They should be you and I.  He’s not promising His followers bunnies and rainbows, but He does promise they won’t be alone (Matthew 28:18-20 emphasis on 20n). There is no greater calling than the one that rests on all TRUE believers!  It may be tough, but it’s good, and filled with a measure of Joy this world cannot provide (John 15:9-11).  Pick up your cross - Follow Him (Matthew 16:24-26)!  

Check out all of Matthew 10 for yourself.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “ministers”.  Today we are in Matthew 9.

Matthew was a tax collector.  Tax collectors were the WORST - often demanding way more tax than was required so that they could keep some for themselves.  Jesus chooses and calls Matthew - no biggie.  Jesus can use anyone He chooses who’s willing.

Miracles, miracles, miracles.  This chapter is filled with miraculous healings!  Paralyzed man - no problem.   Unclean women bleeding for 12 years, no doubt cast out from her family as a result - no problem. Her faith drives her to touch the hem of Jesus’ robe.  Boom, HEALED!  Dead girl… Not ANYMORE!  Couple blind guys and a demon possessed mute - PIYAAAAA!  Guess what happens?  I’m gonna leave it up to you to find out for yourself.  Dig in!  

Having demonstrated His power throughout all the towns and villages, seeing the crowds of lost sheep - Jesus tells them this:
“The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭37‬-‭38‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Guess what?  It’s us!  He doesn’t save us without a plan and purpose.  We are His tools.  The only question is are we willing to be used? “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Not everyone will be a Pastor or a Missionary - but if we have Jesus - we’re called to be a minister of the Gospel in whatever we do.  Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8.  We’re all ministers… some ministers are just doctors.  Some are farmers, lawyers, professional athletes, builders, truck drivers or ???

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Immediate Followers.” Today we are in Matthew 8.

Having finished The Sermon on the Mount, Jesus comes down - followed by the growing crowd.  Let the miracle performing begin!  Having just heard His sermon, imagine being a disciple - tagging along while Jesus touches the man with leprosy.  Touching a leper was a big no no in the Jewish world.  He wastes no time turning the world on its head.  The thing is, He will soon heal others without a touch.  He could have done the same with the Leper but chooses to make a statement.  This man likely has had people steer clear of him for years - not even coming close.  To have Jesus not only come close but to touch him was huge for the leper, demonstrating an act of Love the man has been without for some time.  Did you  catch the application for us?  

Here comes the Centurion, a powerful man in the Roman Army, in charge of 100 soldiers - hence the title Centurion. Jesus is astonished with the man’s humility given his position.  He asks Jesus to heal his servant with a word - instead of coming into his home.  “The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭8‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬.  That’s big coming from a man with such power.  Humility is what He asks of us, recognizing whatever power or position we have here on earth is nothing before Jesus!  We may command men, but He commands it ALL - even the weather as we will soon see.  He is Holy and Pure, Perfect and Righteous… we are, well… us.  

Jesus asks for our hearts now.  All of us, not part.  Not when we get around to it but NOW.  “Follow me and let the dead bury the dead” (vs 22).  Jesus was answering the believer who was responding to His call by basically saying - let me get my affairs in order first.  “Let me go and bury my father first” (vs 21). His father was likely not dead yet but probably getting up there in age.

Literally as they are going about Jesus is healing left and right.  The disciples witness it all.  Then they get into a boat to cross the sea.  A furious storm comes up with waves crashing over the boat!  The disciples are freaking out and Jesus… well, He’s sleeping.  What a picture!  They wake Him, “Lord save us.”  You gotta check out the passage to see how He responds - likely not how you think!  

Jesus - our ever present peace in the midst of the storm!  

Don’t take my word for it. Dig in yourself!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Slapped”.  Today we are in Matthew 7.

This chapter is jammed packed with slaps straight in the face for all of us!  Get that plank out of your eye… then you can see clearly to remove the sliver from your neighbors eye.  We love to point the finger at others - it takes the focus off of us.  Here Jesus continues to remind us He wants our heart!  Make sure you’re squared up before you go pointing out where others are off.

He’s always there - waiting at the door.  If we knock, He’ll open.  If we seek Him, we’ll find Him.  This life isn’t easy… in fact He promises “In this world you will have trouble.”  For most it’s easier to take the wide road - but it’s the narrow road that leads to life.  

The world is full of false prophets / false teachers.  How can we possibly determine who’s who?  Be a Berean, compare  EVERYTHING with Gods Word!  Knowing it is imperative!  (Acts 17:10-15). Pay attention to them and their lives.  A bad tree doesn’t produce good fruit.  Don’t be deceived.  

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭21‬-‭23‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Talk about a slap in the face.  He’s not talking to the lost.  Those He’s talking about believe themselves to be dialed in.  They’ve been prophesying in His name, driving out demons, even performing miracles!  What’s the problem?  With each area Jesus is addressing with His Sermon on the Mount - He’s concerned with the heart.  He wants us, not our “apparent spiritual acts”.  Remember when we learned that if all we’re after is the praise of men - that’s all we’ll get?  Well… that’s all we get.

The immediate question then, is how can I be sure I’m dialed?  He gives us the answer in the very next movement.  ““Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬

In Luke’s recording of the same message we read this “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭46‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We’re pretty good at the “grand expressions” the “big things”.  In their case, they were “prophesying”, “driving out demons”, even “doing miracles in His name”… but I gotta believe they were missing the point.  Being obedient in the little things no one sees, leads to real fruit in big ways.  If He has our heart - we will long for Him and seek Him privately as well as publicly.  What good are grand expressions once in a while, without daily devotion?  

You don’t want to miss this chapter.  There is so much here…

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!