Video - Anne Graham Lotz: While We Are Shut-In...

Anne Graham Lotz and her daughter, Rachel-Ruth, share a brief word on living in today's world as a shut-in due to the pandemic. They include several scriptural comparisons/references in their discussion. A personal, straight-forward, and informative message!    ~Eve

Why Do You Pray..?

"The greatest tragedy of life is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer."  - F.B. Meyer

As true and sincere Christians, we are to love our neighbor and have their best interest and needs at heart, as well and our own. Sounds simple enough, right?  (Matthew 22:39; Mark 12:31; John 13:34; 15:12)

To carry this directive a little further, we are also commanded to pray for our enemies, as reflected in Jesus' own words (Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28). He, or she (the Christian) especially prays for the Church at large and his own congregation.

However, as much as he does pray for everything mentioned, it would be irresponsible to leave out one more important piece of the Christian's prayer. And that is to pray for himself, particularly in matters regarding the welfare of the soul (Psalm 20:4-5).

Naturally, the question arises: "What should a Christian pray for?" The Lord tell us, "...whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you" (John 15:16). Christ speaks to His believers, those that possess His Spirit (Romans 8:9).

Therefore, it would be foolishness to ask for anything and everything whenever the inclination moves us. True faith cannot expect anything except but what God has promised us. Foolish, or ill-considered prayers are not heard (James 4:3).

The Lord speaks to believers, who pray according to His will, offering their will to God's. A Christian praying in Jesus' name will do as He did (Mark 14:36; Matthew 26:29; Matthew 26:42; Luke 22:42; John 18:11), and the leper (Matthew 8:2; Luke 5:12).

So, then, when we ask God for temporal gifts, such as health, wealth, skill, wisdom, etc., we should ask with the stipulation that He would grant them to us if they contribute to His glory and our welfare (John 15:7)

However, spiritual gifts, which are absolutely necessary for the salvation of our soul, should be asked for without any conditions, because we know the will of our Father. He wills our salvation (Philippians 4:6).

For that reason we pray for spiritual blessings, such as forgiveness, the grace of God, faith, guidance by the Holy Spirit, perseverance in faith and in adversity, without restriction; confident He will hear us because we have His promise to provide all of this, if we only ask.

Scripture: Hebrews 4:16; Matthew 6:6; Colossians 4:2; Jeremiah 33:3; Proverbs 15:29 

Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray to You, provide me with wisdom and strength, along with a fearless spirit, to face whatever obstacles or problems may arise in my life. Amen.

May God bless you,

Lainey

Scripture Study with Bibi: Genesis 18:1-21

“If God's asking you to do something, He's also promising to go with you.”  - Amanda G. Stevens, from Far and Near

Hello, and welcome back! I hope that you enjoyed a blessed Easter.

These are unquestionably troubling times in which we are living through. Even the most steadfast believer might find himself apprehensive about tomorrow, especially when employment, housing, food, and debt can be problematic.

Thankfully, we can always trust in the word of God to bring us comfort, encouragement, and spiritual nourishment whenever and wherever it is needed. For, "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak" (Isaiah 40:29).

Last time, we concluded Genesis 17. Abram is now called "Abraham," and his wife Sarai is now "Sarah" (Genesis 17:15). God also promised Abraham and Sarah a biological son of their own (Genesis 17:16). And God will establish an everlasting covenant him.

Although he would not be Abraham's promised heir, Abraham's son Ishmael, by Sarah's servant Hagar, was not forgotten by God (Genesis 17:20). Finally, Abraham and his family were circumcised, thus receiving the sign of the covenant and setting themselves apart from other families (Genesis 17:23-27).

As we begin Genesis 18, there is another encounter between God and Abraham that likely takes place not soon after the last (chapter 17). This particular occurrence was the reward for Abraham's happy compliance with the law of circumcision.

As always, I encourage everyone to read the chapter before tackling the questions. I truly believe this will help to put things into proper perspective, and aid in learning the material, which in turn will result in a more fruitful Bible study!

Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen.

Now, here's this week's study...

In an unpredictable and confusing world it is reassuring to know that God will not abandon us. He brings us confidence, support, and peace of mind when we require it the most. Without question, our faith, patience, and prayers will be rewarded in the end.

1.) Abraham was resting near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron. According to custom, he was sitting at the entrance to his tent around mid-day in order to cool himself off when something happened. What was it and who did it involve? (Genesis 18:1-2)

2.) It was also customary to offer hospitalities to weary travelers so that they may be rested and refreshed before continuing on their journey. In what manner did Abraham extend his hospitality, and what did he offer? (Genesis 18-3-5)

3.) The three men accepted Abraham's hospitable invitation. What sequence of events took place from that point? (Genesis 18:6-8)

4.) Abraham carefully tended to his guests while they ate, as any gracious host should. What did they ask Abraham about Sarah? Where was she? What did one of the men tell Abraham regarding her? (Genesis 18:9-10)

5.) What the man told Abraham was wonderful news, but there were a couple of things about Abraham and Sarah that were not in their favor. What were they?  (Genesis 18:11)

6.) Sarah had been listening to the conversation between Abraham and the men. What was her reaction to what she heard said about her? (Genesis 18:12)

7.) Sarah was promptly admonished for her reaction. She even tried to deny it. What was said to her, and by whom? (Genesis 18:13-15)

8.) After the guests had finished their meal they got up to leave. Abraham walked outside with them. What did the men do? (Genesis 18:16)

9.) As was also customary for a host to do, Abraham walked with the men for a while. During the course of this walk something was revealed to Abraham. Who revealed it? What was Abraham told? (Genesis 18:17-19)

10.) God also makes known to Abraham about another concern He had. What was it? How was He going to verify it? (Genesis 18:20-21)

Next time, we will conclude Genesis 18. Here we shall see Abraham as he intercedes for Sodom in the face of God's wrath. We all know where God stands on the subject of those who are righteous and unrighteous, but here we will begin to Him in action.

Until then, have a blessed and safe week!

Scripture: Psalm 89:34; Romans 4:21; Hebrews 10:23; Luke 18:27; Numbers 23:19

Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with hope of my salvation and the many other blessing You provide with Your presence in my life. Amen.

May you be generously blessed!

Bibi

He Comforts Us in All Our Troubles

"The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,"  - Nahum 1:7

Given the current state of our world today with the pandemic crisis, many of us are feeling as if we've had the floor literally knocked out from under our feet. We are living in scary, unsettling times, not knowing if and when normalcy will return.

I hope this encouraging verse from Scripture will help ease and assure anxious and troubled minds; that daylight always follows the darkest night. The strongest and oldest trees in the forest became so by weathering many storms. Our faith in God grows stronger with every trial in life.

The verse above is both experience and prophecy. The prophet and people have experienced an extended blessing by the goodness of the Lord. The nation Israel's history is completely tied into the story of His purpose and care.

And although the current moral state of the people is such that God's love must employ brutal disciplinary methods, He hasn't changed. His mercy is still secure over all His works, and His character the solid foundation upon which His people may always build.

However, the fact that they are unremorseful and unresponsive to those hints of His Will, that have already presented themselves in tragedy and suffering, have cemented their painful punishment. Darker days loom on the horizon for them.

They will find themselves embroiled in a conflict of nations in which it will appear that their national life is utterly destroyed. Nothing that they have previously experienced will compare to the misery that will arrive upon them.

Yet, through it all the goodness of God will not diminish. The future will repeat the past to those who sincerely seek Him. In such a way does the prophet encourage the faithful few in the land by guiding their thoughts to the source of their life.

Thus, we must always bear in mind that believers are never immune from trouble, but they are free from fear and despair. And that no matter what, God remains constant and the shelter of His love is always available to them.

Whenever faith is tested, and life is obscured by difficulties and uncertainties, as it is now, we can always find His strength and light for the support of our confidence. It would be unwise to pass through these troubled times without God's help.

Scripture: Philippians 4:13; Isaiah 41:10; 1 John 5:4; 1 Peter 5:7; James 1:12

Prayer: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. Amen.  - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Joyfully in Christ!

~Eve

Whoever Believes...

"Since no man is excluded from calling upon God the gate of salvation is open to all. There is nothing else to hinder us from entering, but our own unbelief."  - John Calvin

Why are there so many unbelievers among the knowledgeable and well-educated? Certainly, their level of intelligence doesn't have much to do with it, instead it is a denial of the truth. They're prepared to accept almost any idea that disagrees with religion, yet they defy the Gospel. Why?

Perhaps the fault lies within their own sinful heart, which cannot own up to the truth. Ever since sin came into the world man is prone to place himself over his Creator. So, again, "Why are there so many who don't believe in Jesus?" (James 4:17)

Isn't it because they are so self-righteous that they expect to get to heaven by their own good works and righteousness? Or they detest the Lord's grace? Why don't they believe in the Lord Jesus? Is it  their integrity and uprightness, or their own thinking that doesn't allow them to believe in Him? (Romans 10:3)

No. His sinlessness, divine works, and precious Gospel is staring them in the face. They can't contradict it because it is affirmed by evidence more overwhelming than any historical facts they do believe in. In all honesty, they don't want to believe; they're too proud of themselves and filled much arrogance, and smugness (John 12:48). 

Why are there so many that don't believe in the Bible? Why are they close-minded to this divine guidebook of men? Is it because they know better? Is it because their intelligence surpasses that of God? No. Our meager human minds cannot in any way supply the answers we need to secure our salvation (Acts 1:7).

Through the ages the greatest intellects of this world have tried to find the answers to the soul's welfare. How have they done so far? Have they been successful in finding any real solutions? Not even close! 

When it comes to things of heavenly origin, one must take a reasonable pause and sincerely listen to what God has to say in His Word (Job 33:14). Only then can the Word of God be accepted with an open and believing heart.

"And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us. The one who keeps God's commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us."  (1 John 3:23-24)

Scripture: John 14:6; Mark 9:23; Hebrews 11:6; Acts 4:12; 1 Peter 3:18

Prayer: Dear God, strengthen me that I may be firm and unwavering in my faith to the end. Amen.

May God always bless you!

Judith

His Resurrection is the "Firstfruits" of Ours

"Christ is the Son of God who died for the redemption of sinners and resurrected after three days. This is the greatest truth in the universe. I die because of my belief in Christ."  - Watchman Nee

Much has been mentioned about the Resurrection of Jesus Christ these past few weeks. Still, I would like to briefly mention one more thing about it; and that, being the importance of His resurrection.

And although the importance of the Resurrection of Christ cannot be overstated, it still is, from all points of view, of vital interest to us all.

His resurrection was the crowning achievement; establishing beyond debate, His deity. After this earth-shaking occurrence, sufficiently convincing any sincere investigators, to contradict or doubt the declarations of Christ is foolishness.

Jesus spoke about His own body, and His resurrection, saying: "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days" (John 2:19).

He was put to death, and did raise His body on the third day. Few would argue that nothing less than divine foresight, and the retaining of divine power can justify such a claim, and achieve such results.

On different occasions He foretold his resurrection, such as in Matthew 16:21; 20: 18-19; Mark 9:31; 14:27-28; John 10:17. Obviously, His resurrection produced the ultimate validation of His statements. It proved without question that He came from God.

Jesus' Resurrection firmly establishes Christianity, and the inspiration and validity of the Bible as the word of God. It brings integrity and a strong foundation to biblical doctrine.

By the inspiration of God in the Bible, we can rest assured of their truth, and live in full hope of the fulfillment of: its prophecies, promises, and extraordinary depiction of creation, the fall and corruption of the human race, the salvation made possible through Jesus Christ, the life to come, and the home that lies beyond.

Scripture: Mark 16:6; Romans 6:5; Isaiah 53:5; Romans 6:9; 1 John 3:2 

Prayer: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Amen  - 1 Peter 1:3

Love and blessings,

Melanie

The Proof is In His Resurrection!

"It takes more information to make you believe something you don't want to believe than something you do."  - Peter Ditto

There are certain agents whose sole purpose is to sow seeds of distrust and skepticism in order to mislead and manipulate others from authenticating their claims.

Certainly this is nothing exclusive to our time and place, but it can and does cause confusion and mistrust in our ability to discern what is truthful, or not.

During the time of Jesus' burial and Resurrection this same type of deceptive behavior was used by Pontius Pilate, the chief priests, and the Pharisees.

The Crucifixion of Jesus took place on the Day of Preparation (Matthew 27:62; Mark 15:42; Luke 23:54; John 19:14, 31, 42). 

On this day, preparations had to be made for the Sabbath; food had to be made ready ahead of time because the next day was the Sabbath, which began after sundown.

Due to this, Jesus' body was laid to rest in the personal tomb of Joseph of Arimathea until His body could be properly prepared for burial after the Sabbath,.

Joseph then had the tomb's entrance blocked with a large stone, sealing it from any unwelcome visitors until then (Matthew 27:57-61; Mark 15:42-47).

Later, Pontius Pilate assigned guards to "seal" the tomb (with a public seal) and stand watch over it (Matthew 27:62-66).

"Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead" (Matthew 27:54).

Their greatest fear was the wider influence Jesus would have if it was presumed that He had actually risen from the dead by His missing body. They could not afford that kind of publicity!

It didn't matter how hard they tried to suppress it, not even death itself had the power to keep Him from His triumphant and glorious victory for all believers.

Christians today know how this story turned out. According to the Scriptures, Jesus Christ died, was buried, and rose the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Jesus Christ’s resurrection, as substantiated by a good number of eyewitnesses, provides undeniable evidence that He is indeed the Savior of the world (1 Corinthians 15:3-8)!

Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3; Hebrews 11:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 5:1; Romans 8:11

Prayer: Dear LORD, help me to remember that a little thoughtful prayer every day, nourishes and protects the soul. Amen.

Love and blessings,

Cynthia

Therefore, I Have Hope!

"When we have struggles in this life, just knowing that God has a plan that is for our good can give us hope for the future."  - Crystal McDowell

The world is struggling through a grave crisis at this moment. The loss of human life, livelihood, security, and to some extent, freedom, has shaken the core of everything we had known only a short time ago.

Uncertainty lies heavily on every mind, and rightly so. There is, however, one thing we can count on with reasonable certainty: when all of this is over, the world will be changed. How different will it be, no one can say for sure. But change is coming.

You could compare this to how it must have felt for the followers of Christ who had watched Him tried, beaten, then die on the Cross. To put this into modern terms, they must have felt like it was time to "turn out the lights because the party's over."

Due to the horrific and lightning fast chain of events, Jesus' disciples had little time to think (Matthew 25:56; Mark 14:50). Keeping low profiles, they hunkered down until they could figure out their next move.

In all honesty, the disciples were just plain scared. A large part of this was because they didn't understand when Jesus was telling them what would happen to Him (Mark 9:31). And they were probably too embarrassed to ask (Mark 9:32).

In addition, maybe they felt somewhat disappointed because Jesus' arrest meant that their hopes of overcoming the Roman government and installing a new kingdom were now dashed, along with their own futures.

It's not too difficult to see that we are in a similar situation today. Our planet is reeling from a pandemic and no one is totally certain about how it will all turn out. We're all feeling the same sense of loss, fear, and anxiety about what lies ahead.

Most of us live in the present, giving little thought about tomorrow. Think about how strange it must have felt for the disciples to hear Jesus talk about dying and then coming back to life (Luke 13:33; Matthew 16:21; Matthew 17:22; Mark 8:31).

But as Proverbs 23:18 (ESV) tells us, "...there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off." It is important that we try to "be strong and courageous" (Deuteronomy 31:6) even though every fiber of our being is strained to do so.

Many are wondering how they will pay bills, keep their homes, and feed their families. But we must remember that our lives here are not guaranteed, even in the best of times. We must also consider that for millions around the world this is their normal.

I do not know how dire your personal situation is, or how great your need. What I can tell you is that God will supply what He thinks we need. He is a glorious giver. And there is nothing too big to ask of Him (Philippians 4:19).

By His mercy and grace the world and life will continue on. If Jesus' resurrection has taught us anything at all, it proves that He will not forsake or desert us, especially when we need Him most (Deuteronomy 31:6).

Scripture: Jeremiah 17:7; Psalm 33:22; Titus 2:13; Mark 9:23; Micah 7:7

Prayer: Sustain me, my God, according to your promise, and I will live; do not let my hopes be dashed. Amen.  - Psalm 119:116

May God bless you,

Lainey

Video - Billy Graham: He Is Risen (Easter Message)

In this 1960 video clip filmed in Jerusalem, Billy Graham shares the triumphant message of the Resurrection (taken from John 19-20 and 1 Corinthians 15). From all of us here at the Coffeehouse Bible Ministry, we wish you and your family a safe and blessed Easter!  ~Eve

Passion Week - Holy Saturday

Following Jesus' crucifixion, He was laid in a tomb belonging to Joseph, a rich man from Arimathea, and a member of the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem (the supreme council of the Jewish people),

Joseph of Arimathea was also a secret disciple of Christ, who did not go along with the decision to crucify Him. (Matthew 27:57-60; Mark 15:43-46; Luke 23:50-53; John 19:38-42).

At that point, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary wanted to embalm Jesus' body with fragrant oils and spices, but they ran out of time before the Sabbath arrived (Luke 23:54-56).

According to the custom of their nation, Saturday is the Sabbath, or holy day of rest. Thus, the women would have broken the law had they prepared Jesus' body on that day (Luke 23:55-56).

They then waited, or rested until the following morning (Sunday) when Sabbath ended at dawn. In Luke 24:1-10 we see the glorious miracle made manifest on that morning, confirming His promise of rising again (John 2:19-21).

Joyfully in Christ!

~Eve

Video - When He Died

Pastor John Lindell shares a powerful Good Friday sermon titled, "When He Died."  This sermon calls on us to reflect on Jesus' death, and discusses three aspects of every Christian's life that died with Christ.  ~Eve

Video - Q & A: What Is Maundy Thursday?

Maundy Thursday (the day before Good Friday) is the day when Jesus ate the Last Supper with His disciples in celebration of Passover (Matthew 26:17-30; Mark 14:12-26; Luke 22:7-39; John 13:1- 17:26). Jesus' washing of His disciples feet also occurred here, too.

This video clip will better explain what it is and the lessons we should learn from it. I believe that you will be better informed about Maundy Thursday after you watch it.  ~Eve

Video - Passion Week Events

This short, informative video explains the events of Passion Week using a time-line format with maps. It's simple and quite understandable. Nicely done!  ~Eve

Passion Week - Holy Tuesday

"For many are invited, but few are chosen."  -Matthew 22:14

Early Tuesday morning, Jesus returned to Jerusalem. He was met there by a large assembly who had come to the Temple to hear him speak (Luke 21:38). But they weren't the only ones who showed up. A delegation of priests and scribes arrived, as well.

The Jewish authorities were not there to commend Jesus. They demanded to know by what authority had he taken lordship over the Temple (Matthew 21:23; Mark 11:28; Luke 20:2).

Catching them off guard, Jesus countered their question with one of his own. They realized that no matter their reply, it would lead to either their entrapment or ridicule, so they played ignorant instead (Matthew 21:23-27; Mark 11:29-33; Luke 20:3-8).

Even though He had dismissed their question, He was not quite finished with them, yet. Jesus proceeded to deliver a stinging indictment of their rejection of God's Son in the manner of some parables:

The Parable of the Two Sons: (Matthew 21:28-32)

The Parable of the Bad Tenants: (Matthew 21:33-46; Mark 12:1-12; Luke 20:9-19)

The Parable of the Wedding Feast: (Matthew 22:1-14; Luke 14:12-24)

Realizing that Jesus was speaking against them, the priests and scribes became even more intent on luring Him into saying something that could get Him arrested and tried. They were very complimentary to Him at first, but then came their sharp inquiries and Jesus' response:

Paying Taxes to Caesar: (Matthew 22:15-22; Mark 12:13-17; Luke 20:20-26)

The Sadducees Ask About the Resurrection: (Matthew 22:23-33; Mark 12: 18-27; Luke 20:27-40)

The Great Commandment: (Matthew 12:28-34; Mark 12:28-34)

Thus, Jesus had met the interrogators with so much wisdom and thoughtfulness that no one else dared to approach Him with any further questions (Mark 12:34; Luke 20:40).

Then, while they were still in amazement at His skillful answers, Jesus posed another question to them (Matthew 20:41-44- Mark 12: 35-37; Luke 20:41). To this they had no reply because Jesus Himself was the answer.

He was from the lineage of David as Son of Man, still He was David's Creator, but they were unable to see this. He followed their silence with a discussion about the hypocrisy of the Jewish leaders (Mark 12:38-40; Luke 20:45-47).

As Jesus and his disciples passed through the Court of Women, where the treasure chests were, he saw and praised a widow's devotion as He saw drop two mites (a few cents), which was all that she had, into the Temple treasury (Mark 12:41-44; Luke 21:1-4).

Also, it is mentioned in John 12:20-26 that there were some Greeks, who had traveled to worship at the Passover feast, that requested to meet with Jesus while there (John 12:20-26).

After leaving the city for the Mount of Olives, Jesus then sat with His disciples and looked back upon the city in the bright, radiance of the setting sun. There He pronounced His prophecy of Jerusalem's destruction and the many events to follow.

Scripture: John 1:14; 1 Corinthians 8:6; 1 Timothy 2:5; Colossians 2:9; 1 John 4:9 

Prayer: Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. Amen.  - Psalm 150: 2, 6

Be blessed!

Naomi

Passion Week - Holy Monday

"Since no man is excluded from calling upon God the gate of salvation is open to all. There is nothing else to hinder us from entering, but our own unbelief."  - John Calvin

Skipping breakfast, Jesus and his disciples departed from Bethany early in the morning. While on the way to the city (Jerusalem), Jesus noticed a fig tree with a full canopy of leaves, which was unusual for this time of year. This sign meant the promise of an early crop of figs.(Mark 11:13).

Approaching the tree they found no figs, only leaves. Jesus then cursed the fig tree for the hypocrisy it symbolized (in relation to Israel's spiritual deadness), before he and the disciples continued along along their way.

Upon entering Jerusalem again, Jesus repeated his cleansing of the Temple (the first cleansing occurred in John 2:11-16). The first cleansing took place at the beginning of Jesus' ministry. However, the abuses had slowly made their way back.

Under the guise of following the letter of the law, a system of money exchange was established where the Roman coin could be exchanged for the Jewish half shekel in one of the outer courts. This provided an opportunity for fraudulent and oppressive behavior toward the poor.

In addition, greedy dealers had been permitted set up stalls and cages within the Temple area to conveniently offer doves and other sacrificial animals there. Jesus proceeded to drive them out unchallenged, popular moral sense being on his side (Matthew 21:12; Mark 11:15; Luke 19:45).

The people "hung upon his words" (Luke 19:48) as he taught to them, the extremely active day slowly drawing to a close, finding Jesus still Master of the Temple. When evening came, he returned to Bethany with his disciples, spending the night with friends.

Interestingly, the following morning, on their way back from Bethany, they saw the fig tree had already withered. Jesus used this occasion of the Temple cleansing and the cursing of the fig tree to teach a lesson (Mark 11:20-25).

The useful piece of practical information here was that Jesus was announcing His impending judgment of Israel while showing His power to deliver on it. It also makes clear that just being religious, without producing the fruit of real salvation in our lives, is not enough to guarantee it.

Finally, a quick note about the placement of the cursing of the fig tree, and the cleansing of the Temple in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. The fact is, some parts of the Gospels were written in topical order instead of chronologically.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:16 ; Romans 10:17; Colossians 1:20; John 14:1; Ephesians 2:8

Prayer: Dear LORD, may we be nourished and sustained through Your goodness, and may we receive everything that is necessary and useful to us by Your hand. Amen

Be blessed!

Naomi

Palm Sunday 2020 - The Triumphal Entry

"When Christ entered into Jerusalem the people spread garments in the way: when He enters into our hearts, we pull off our own righteousness, and not only lay it under Christ's feet but even trample upon it ourselves."  - Augustus Toplady

All four of the Gospels recount the "Triumphal Entry" (Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–44, and John 12:12–19). It occurred on the Sunday before the crucifixion (John 12:1, 12).

Jesus and his disciples left Bethany accompanied by a group of friends, whose delight was heightened by the Master's preparations to ride into the city. The prophet Zechariah had spoken of the King as coming "Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey" (Zechariah 9:9).

The disciples regarded the act of Jesus as the fulfillment of that prophecy. However, before the procession had traveled further, it encountered another party that was primarily made up of Galileans, who were coming out from Jerusalem to meet him. As Jesus and his company approached, they gave him a royal greeting.

Following the road leading over the southern shoulder of the Mount of Olives (Olivet), the city of Jerusalem came into view, with the Kidron valley in between. From this vantage point the sight of Jerusalem is truly impressive. Jesus, taking pause, looked down on the city and wept over its sin and its approaching tragedies.

The procession quickly moved on from there, growing both in numbers and enthusiasm. Some of the disciples tore off branches from the trees, as others carpeted the road with their clothing. In this way, escorted by a happy and expectant crowd, Jesus entered Jerusalem and the temple.

His sudden, public appearance surprised his enemies, and brought great joy to his friends. The Pharisees asked him to quiet the multitude, be he refused. He stayed in Jerusalem until evening, when he left the city, and traveled to Bethany with his disciples where he spent the night there.

Scripture: Acts 2:22; Psalm 118:25; Leviticus 23:40; 1 Corinthians 15:2; Isaiah 62:11

Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with Your spirit, especially during these unpredictable times. And though I don't know what tomorrow brings, I do know that You will not forsake me. Amen.

Be blessed!

Naomi

Scripture Study with Bibi - Genesis 17:15-27

"If you know that God loves you, you should never question a directive from Him. It will always be right and best. When He gives you a directive, you are not just to observe it, discuss it, or debate it. You are to obey it."  - Henry Blackaby

In our last study we discussed Genesis 17, verses 1 thru 14. This week we will conclude chapter 17 by examining verses 15 thru 25. My reasoning for splitting the chapter was to allow us a little more time to absorb all of the information in this important chapter.

At this point in time, Abram was not a young man, by any stretch of the imagination. He was a sprightly ninety-nine years old! And, if you thought that God was going to let him quietly settle into old age, you'd be sadly mistaken.

We saw some pretty amazing things happen to Abram by the graceful hand of God in the first half of Genesis 17. We saw God's promise of many offspring (Genesis 17:4); God changing Abram's name to Abraham (Genesis 17:5).

But that wasn't all! We also saw God establish his covenant with Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 17:7); the sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, the circumcision; the age requirement of circumcision, and who was obliged to do it (Genesis 17:12-14).

Before we start, I encourage all to read the chapter prior to answering the questions. I believe this helps to put everything in proper perspective, and assists in the retention of the information. It will also benefit your study time immensely!

Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen

Now, here is this week's study...

I don't know about you, but I'm certainly not perfect. I've had my share of lapses in faith like everyone else. Abraham was certainly no different. But there's good news for believers. As we shall see, despite our mistakes, God is always faithful!

1.) Abraham (formerly, Abram) was not the only one to have his name changed by God. Who was the next subject to secure a new name by God? What was this person's old name, and what is their new name? How did this name transform their relationship with God? (Genesis 17:15).

2.) Continuing with His promises, God promised Abraham two more things that involved his ninety year old wife. What was the first promise? What was the second? (Genesis 17:16).

3.) One can certainly understand how Abraham must have felt after hearing these promises from God. This joyful news was a long time in coming, for sure! What did Abraham do after hearing God's promise?  What thoughts ran through his mind at that time? (Genesis 17:17).

4.) Up until now, Abraham thought that Ishmael (his son by Hagar) would be the promised seed. But after hearing God's promise to him he felt concern for Ishmael. What did he petition God for Ishmael? (Genesis 17:18).

5.) God understood Abraham's concern for Ishmael, but He affirms his objectives to him. What two things does he tell Abraham regarding his wife? And what will He do for Abraham? (Genesis 17:19).

6.) But what about Ishmael? Not to worry, God didn't forget about him. What did God say He would do for Ishmael? What did He have in store for him? (Genesis 17:20).

7.) God then reaffirmed a couple of things with Abraham. What was the first? What was the second? (Genesis 17:21).

8.) God was now finished talking to Abraham. What happened at this point? (Genesis 17:22).

9.) His dialogue with God now ended, Abraham prepares to obey God's command. What did Abraham do? Who was involved? (Genesis 17:23).

10.) Abraham himself was to take part in this command, including Ishmael. How old was he at this time? How old was Ishmael? (Genesis 17:24-26).

11.) Abraham and Ishmael both obeyed God's command that very day. Who else was included in fulfilling God's command? (Genesis 17:27).

Next time in Genesis 18, we shall discuss another account between God and Abraham that occurred shortly after the one just concluded. This discourse was a reward for Abraham's obedience to God's command, which includes some very fascinating occurrences!

Important Note: Next week is the Passion Week, therefore, in order to allow for messages pertaining to this important time in the earthly life of Jesus Christ, our regularly scheduled Bible study will be moved to the following week.

Until then, have a blessed and safe Passion Week! 

Scripture: Philippians 4:19; Jeremiah 29:11; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Isaiah 43:2; Proverbs 1:33

Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings You provide with Your presence in my life. Amen.

May you be generously blessed!

Bibi

Video - Sheila Walsh: The Enemy's Lies

Satan is clueless! This is a powerful truth that sometimes slips right by us. We all know that he lies to us, but he has no idea whether you're going to take the bait, or not. How does this work? What can we do about it?  Christian evangelist, author, and inspirational speaker Sheila Walsh discusses this in the short clip. Watch and learn!   ~Eve