Trials Test Our Faith

“When I consider my crosses, tribulations, and temptations, I shame myself almost to death thinking of what they are in comparison to the sufferings of my blessed Savior, Jesus Christ.”   - Martin Luther

We live an existence in which trials and troubles are unavoidable. And, they seem to come at us from every direction. There’s just no avoiding or escaping them. But, have you ever stopped to consider why this is so? 

The renowned preacher Charles Spurgeon had this to say about the subject, “Trials teach us what we are; they dig up the soil, and let us see what we are made of.” In other words, they show us our true selves.

Neither are they discriminating with whom they affect. You’ve probably heard that a tree is only as strong as its roots. Deep, well-situated roots will hold up better when the winds blow hard. The same can be said about us (John 16:33 ).

Trials test our faith, plain and simple. How we handle them determines if our faith is built on sand, or stone. Each successive trial in life serves to develop and strengthen us (Philippians 4:13). 

The untested life is feeble and weak; unable to "roll with the punches," as they say. Besides strengthening it, trials cleanse and purify our faith. They help us to purge the things that may be hurting our faith; keeping it from growing (Psalm 34:19).

All this points to the heart of our Christian life. Trials force us to turn to the One true source of assistance, in both, turbulent, and tranquil waters. They serve to draw us closer to Christ, but only if we allow them to (Acts 14:22).

Scripture: James 1:12; Romans 12:12; Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 34:17-18; 1 Peter 1:7 

Prayer: "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed."  - 1 Peter 4:12-13

Grace to all,

Marsha 

The Weekend Message: Lysa TerKeurst: Overcoming Loneliness and Setting Healthy Boundaries

 Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's my great pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week, Lysa TerKeurst, a true power woman and an amazing speaker, shares her story of overcoming loneliness and setting healthy boundaries with Bible teacher and speaker Sheila Walsh.

If you're feeling lonely or shy, then this talk is for you! Lysa shares her powerful message of overcoming loneliness and setting healthy boundaries. She explains how God has equipped her to face these challenges and she encourages you to do the same.

© Women of Faith on TBN

This powerful talk will leave you with a wealth of outstanding, and useful information!

Enjoy!

~Eve

He Has Not Changed Once!

"Consider what you owe to His immutability. Though you have changed a thousand times, He has not changed once."  - Charles H. Spurgeon

Few things in "life" remain the same, or constant. You've probably noticed the special emphasis I've placed on the word "life." Living things, or organisms have the susceptibility to change, or develop. 

Our own lives, by their very nature, are subject to change(s). None of us are the same persons we were 10, 20, 30 years or more ago. There's nothing strange or unique about that. It's simply nature's way.

Taking this a step further, even inanimate objects, though not actually living, are subject to change over the course of time (mountains, for example) . Naturally, it happens at a different rate in comparison to living things.

One might ask, "Is there anything that is totally unchanging?" The answer to that inquiry is a resounding, "Yes, there is!" Scripture has many references to the One who is unchanging in heaven and on earth.

The Book of Hebrews contains one of the most well-known verses pertaining to this topic, "Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). In other words, unlike the world, He does not change in any way. Jesus is "unchanging."

We've all experienced disappointment, broken promises, and betrayal at some time or other in our lives. Friendships come and go, jobs are secured and lost, opportunities present themselves then disappear. 

Temporal assurances are only temporary, if at all. We've seen advertisements touting the "reliability" or "trustworthiness" of some product, or result. Jesus, however, is the "real deal," as they say. 

He alone offers constancy, faithfulness, dedication , devotion, and steadfastness to the life of the believer. How can we be so certain that His immutability is real and verifiable? Because the truth is in the Scriptures themselves!

For example, Malachi 3:6; Psalm 102:25-27; Psalm 33:11; Isaiah 46:10 communicate God's Word of Honor that what He says is eternally valid. God always keeps his promises. 

You see, because of His unchangeableness, God is perfect. And as such, he isn't subject to the flaws and defects that affect our corruptible lives. This is what made Jesus Christ the perfect Savior. 

There is no sin, suffering, or problem that would cause Him to ever cast You or I aside. His love for us "was," "is," and "will be" forever and always the same. I challenge you to find anything else with a better, binding declaration than that!

Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:29; Isaiah 40:28; 1 Timothy 6:20; 2 Timothy 4:3; John 1:1

Prayer: God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?  - Numbers 23:19

God bless you!

Mary

Video Lesson: The Caller and the Called - Part 1 of 4 | Beth Moore

In this first installment of a four-part series, Bible teacher Beth Moore encourages us to awaken, or reawaken. a sense of divine calling. 

Perhaps you need some clarity, maybe you've felt dullness in your heart, or you need a fresh direction....explore what God has for you! 

She says: "If you've been serving him for years or if you've had this mentality for years, I believe there's something really fresh God wants to do. I believe there's a new season ahead for arrival of a holy calling or a revival of a holy calling."

© Presented by Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Key verses: 2 Timothy 1:1-10; John 4:10

You'll find yourself considering things that you might not have thought were possible in your life. Beth, as always, leaves you wanting more! 

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:2)

Enjoy!

~Eve

"From Faith to Faith" with Tessa - Don't Worry, God Can Handle It!

"The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all;"   - Psalm 34:19 

Honestly, when things are going great and troubles are few, it’s easy to carry on through life without scarcely missing a beat. But, what happens when things take a turn, the skies darken, and distress confronts you?

Things such as family, health, financial, marital and personal problems can take their toll. They can make us feel as if the walls are closing in, and there's nothing, or no one that can help. 

It's situations like these that really test our spirt and fortitude. Anxiety and worry produce fear, paranoia, and uneasiness. Indeed, this is the time when some turn to temporary relief in substances or practices that they normally wouldn't. 

Mercifully, it doesn't have to be so for the Christian believer. You might be asking yourself, "Wait a minute, why not!?" The answer is fairly simple. We, as believers, have the benefit of being able to speak directly with God.

And, who is better to take our problems to than God, creator of heaven and earth. There is no one (or nothing) else who possesses the power and authority to take control of any situation. 

When tribulation comes knocking at the door, believers are to humbly and thankfully come to Him with their troubles and anxieties. This includes our mature prayers in which we thank God for what he has done, and requesting help.

Allow me to share some Bible verses with you that reinforce what we have been discussing; that is, asking God for his help:

• John 14:13-14
• Matthew 7:7
• Psalm 121:2
• James 1:5
• Isaiah 41:10 
• Philippians 4:6-7
• 1 Peter 5:7
• Nahum 1:13
• 1 Chronicles 16:11 
• Hebrews 4:16

A caveat or warning is needed here, however. Following the Christian directions to diminish anxieties does not guarantee an untroubled life. Neither does it imply that supplementary help won't be needed.

What it does demonstrate, is the power of prayer when we approach God with our problems. Anyone who desires to draw near to God should always begin with prayer. It is a good way to help focus on our needs, and express our respect.

The late Jerry Bridges, a Christian author and speaker, put it well when he said, "The great antidote to anxiety is to come to God in prayer. We are to pray about everything. Nothing is too big for Him to handle, and nothing is too small to escape His attention."

God may or may not change the state of affairs, but He will alter our way of thinking about it so that it does not cause inner conflict or anguish. If we keep proper attention on the positive, we can know peace through the strength of the all-powerful God.

Scripture: Philippians 4:19; Psalm 37:4; Isaiah 40:31; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; John 14:14

Prayer: "Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you."  - Jeremiah 32:17 (ESV)

Grace and blessings,

Tessa

The Weekend Message: Lisa Harper: How God is With You in the Midst of Fearful and Hard Times

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's my great pleasure to introduce quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video can vary, but whatever the topic is, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This weekend, speaker and author Lisa Harper reminds us of our need to trust God, and remember that He is with us in difficult seasons. I hope that you will accompany us as we explore the transformative power of faith, and God's love in overcoming life's challenges.

- presented by Women of Faith on TBN

Enjoy!

~Eve

Bible Study: 2 John 1:1-13

"And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another."  - 2 John 1:5

I'm thrilled to be here with you as we embark on a new study! During our last meeting, we finished our lessons on The First Epistle of John. This time we will explore The Second Epistle of John.

Interestingly, The Second Epistle of John consists of only one (1) chapter, but don't let that fool you. This cautionary writing by the apostle John emphasizes the threats of false teachers, and speaks out on themes of truth, and love.

The early church rejoiced in its amazing growth as it increased by leaps and bounds throughout the world during the 1st century A.D. And though many things played a part in this, one factor, in particular, stood out from the rest.

It was the generous hospitality of the early Christians that encouraged and promoted that growth. For example:

• providing shelter and support enabled the apostle Paul to move about during his journeys  (cf. Philemon 1:22).
• Paul motivated the Christians to promote the teachers of good things (Galatians 6:6).
• the apostle John praised and inspired those who opened their homes to traveling missionaries (3 John 5:8). 

Even so, this same hospitable atmosphere also made it inviting for false teachers to take advantage of the situation and spread their doctrine, as well. Therefore, it was imperative to inform and guide Christians in how to determine the difference.

This very problem is approached in the single chapter that comprises all of The Second Epistle of John.

Background: 2 John does not actually come right out and mention who wrote it. Many have speculated over the years that perhaps some other disciple of Jesus, also named John, was its author. However, according to church tradition, and much gathered evidence, the apostle John is usually identified as the author.

Date: The estimated date differs widely, but the time of its writing would likely be around the same period as the apostle John's 1st and 3rd epistles; that is, sometime between  A.D. 85-95.

Points to Ponder: Briefly, the intention of this letter is:

• To stimulate and inspire brotherly love, and persevere with the commandments of God (2 John 5-6); and
• To give cautionary advice against sustaining or promoting false teachers (2 John 10-11).

As you shall see, The Second Epistle of John is an urgent appeal to the readers of John's letter to demonstrate their love for God and His Son, Jesus, by embracing the commandment to love one another, and abide in obedience to the Scriptures.

The letter also serves as a strong admonition, or warning, to always be observant for liars and scammers who promote false teachings that deny the Incarnation of Christ.

We now should have sufficient background information to begin our study. I remind you that this particular letter is only one chapter in length. Therefore, we will be completing the entire study in this session.

Synopsis: The Second Epistle of John, Chapter 1, commences with a brief introduction directed to "the elect lady and her children." This was likely a local church and the believers, therein. The term "elder" is referring to the elderly, apostle John (vv. 1-3). He praises those who are walking in the truth, and asks that they continue to love each other (vv. 4-6). Paul then issues a reminder to beware of deceivers, or antichrists, who reject the Incarnation of Christ (vv.7-11). The letter closes with greetings from the church where Paul is situated, to those fellow Christian recipients of this letter (vv.12-13).

Helpful Information: The answers will be found within the numbered verses that are shown. If you have trouble with a question, continue on and return to it later. Re-read the verse(s) as often as needed.

Opening Prayer: Dear LORD, as I prepare to study Your Word I pray for an open and accepting heart and mind; may it also restore, replenish, and nourish my soul, and spirit. Help me to learn and apply Your teaching to my life. Amen.

Study Questions:

1) Name the four (4) phrases used by John in his salutation that are referring to truth. (2 John 1:1-3)

2) What was it that prompted John's tremendous elation? What request did he make? (2 John 1:4-5)

3) How does John define the kind of "love" he speaks of in this verse ? (2 John 1:6)

4) Who does John characterize as "a deceiver and an antichrist?" (2 John 1:7)

5) Why did John recommend to "watch yourselves," or to perform a self-reflection? (2 John 1: 8)

6) What happens if one does not abide, or remain, in Christ's teachings? ( 2 John 1:9)

7) Describe the relationship one has if they "do not" abide, or remain in the teaching of Christ; and if they "do." (2 John 1:9)

8) How was one directed to respond to those who did not abide, or remain, in Christ's teaching? (2 John 1:10)

We've now completed our study of The Second Epistle of John. Our next study will be on the last, or Third Epistle of John. I look forward to meeting with you then!

Remember to, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."   -1 Corinthians 16:13

Scripture: 2 Peter 2:1; Matthew 7:15; 1 Timothy 6:3; Acts 20:29; Ephesians 4:14

 

Prayer: "Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience."  - Ephesians 5:6  (ESV)

Joyfully in Christ,

Bridget

Video Study Series: Lisa Bevere - How to Navigate Culture as a Christian | Part 1 of 6

Internationally acclaimed Christian speaker and author Lisa Bevere says, "I feel like, as Christians, we haven't known how to do truth and love well. If people speak the truth, they are seen as hateful or judgmental—so they run to the love side and end up ignoring the truth that sets people free."

Therefore, the challenge we face today is trying to embrace the tension between both of these. If Our God is love, but Jesus is also the truth. how do we live in this tension and live out a love without compromise?

In this six-part study based on her book "Adamant: Finding Truth in a Universe of Opinions," Lisa discusses how to not only abide in God's unshakeable truth and love, but to become "adamant," or people who are unmovable, determined, and steadfast; thereby establishing a strong foundation on which to build their lives. 

An inspiring study series by a God-inspired teacher!

Enjoy!

~Eve

Who Do You Say That I Am?

“I and the Father are one.” - John 10:30 

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16:15; Mark 8:29; Luke 9:20). Jesus had never directed this question to his disciples before. However, a critical point had now been reached. 

Up to this point, everything was left up to their own insight and awareness; yet, through the somber shroud of His humanity, they caught a glimpse of his glory and radiant divinity.

Even so, it was time for a definite, clear-cut Christian admission. By first examining the above passage, we see that it puts forward for consideration ideas of Christ’s superior character. 

We know that people were talking about him. The disciples told Jesus that they were saying he was John the Baptist, Elijah, or even one of the old prophets. What this shows is that he was becoming known, and his work recognized  (Matthew 16:13-14; Mark 8:27-28; Luke 9:18-19).

But it wasn't enough to just have an opinion of Jesus. Something more specific was needed. Peter's reply to Jesus, "You are the Christ," was exactly what was called for. This was the very first time such a confession had ever been made (Matthew 16:16; Mark 8:29; Luke 9:20).

It demonstrates the importance of honest and sincere beliefs and ideas about Him. We cannot overemphasize the fact that we are saved by this understanding of Christ. He was truly the Son of God; and he was Divine (Colossians 1:15-17).

On a final note, how would you answer the question, “Who do you say I am?” Your reply is what really matters in the end, after all. Many would respond, "Isn't he a Savior?" To this, I would then ask, "Yes, but is he your Savior?"

Scripture: John 1:14; John 17:3; 2 Corinthians 4:4; 1 John 5:20; 1 Peter 1:13

Prayer: " I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."  - Galatians 2:20

Prayerfully yours,

JoAnna

The Weekend Message: Tara-Leigh Cobble: Look For God and Not Yourself in Scripture | How to Properly Study the Bible

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

We hope to bring you useful, and informative material to help inspire, and enrich you in your walk with Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV) tells us, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness," 

Scripture and verse such as this stirs many individuals to become active readers of the Bible, but have no idea how to get started, or what their next move is after they do. They may start out like gangbusters, then gradually fizzle out. Does that sound familiar? It's a pretty common dilemma.

This week, speaker, author, teacher, and podcaster Tara-Leigh Cobble (@TheBibleRecap) joins host Raj Nair on @CanITrusttheBible to explain how to properly study the Bible. 

They share lots of really helpful advice, and clarify some things that you might be wondering about. So, get comfortable, watch. listen, and learn. And remember, read the Bible to fall in love with God!

- presented by Women of Faith on TBN

Enjoy!

~Eve

Jesus Is the Way: To Eternal Life (Conclusion)

"Time is short. Eternity is long. It's only reasonable that this short life be lived in the light of eternity."   - Charles Spurgeon

"What is eternal life..?" For humans, that is a timeless, and perplexing question. Whenever the word “eternal” is brought up, it naturally brings to mind the endless length of time.

Our existence here on earth, our lives, are governed by the rhythms of time and seasons. What we know is what we can see, touch, hear, and taste. Anything more than that tends to try, or strain our finite minds.

On that note, we've now arrived at the final installment of our study "Jesus Is the Way." Before we launch into this lesson, I think it's only fitting to briefly reflect on where our study has taken us, thus far.

We have learned that Jesus is:

• the way to a better life; an abundant life in that we have an adoring, generous Father in Heaven who offers plentiful provision for those who are ready and eager to follow Him. (John 10:10; Matthew 6:31-33; Mark 10:29-30)
• the way to forgiveness of our sins; in that He is the only remedy for it; and that is because God provides forgiveness of sins through Jesus. (Romans 3:23, 6:23; 1 John 4:9-10; Ephesians 1:7; Luke 24:46-47; Mark 16:16)
• the only way to God; Jesus came to reconcile our broken relationship with God; "eternal life" would not be possible otherwise. (2 Corinthians 5:17-20; John 14:6, 17:2-3)
• the way out of religious turmoil and division; caused by conflicting doctrines and the myriad of different churches; Jesus desires unity, not confusion and discord. (Matthew 12:25, 16:18; John 17:20-21)

Now, let me draw your attention to the fact that Jesus is the Way to Eternal Life! The word "eternal" raises thoughts of something that is: everlasting, never-ending, endless, perpetual, without end, etc. 

If you recall, eternal life isn't possible without having an intimate relationship with both, the Father and the Son. Jesus offers eternal life to us, but we must be willing to confess our sins, repent, and accept him as our Lord and Savior (Acts 3:19; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 2:8-9).

To expand on this, I refer you to John 17:3. Here Jesus explains what "eternal life" is for us. "Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." Simply put, eternal life is knowing (recognizing, perceiving) who God is. 

Everything living thing here on earth shares one commonality: death. We all will die at some point. It is inevitable. Scripture verifies this fact for us (Ecclesiastes 9:2-4; Hebrews 9:27a). 

After our death, we then will face judgement for our lives here on earth (2 Corinthians 5:10). Here, we can think of death as a portal or threshold to either "eternal life," or "eternal condemnation" (Matthew 25:46).

I realize this may sound discouraging and disheartening, but it really isn't. I mentioned earlier that Jesus offers us "eternal life." But how do we achieve it? It is vitally important that we place our trust in Jesus Christ, and no one else, for salvation.

There is no other way, but by faith alone; faith in Him. By our dying to Jesus, we die in the way to "eternal life" (John 11:25, 17:3). And as He promises he will fulfill, because Jesus is the Way to Eternal Life (John 3:16).

This ends our study into the areas of which Jesus is the Way. I would like to thank you for walking through these lessons with me. It has been my pleasure having you along! I pray that Jesus Christ will always bless you, and light your path (Psalms 119:105).

Scripture: John 5:24; 1 John 1:9; 1 John 2:25; Acts 4:12; Galatians 6:8 

Prayer: "And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life."  - 1 John 5:20 (ESV)

May God bless you!

Brandi

Video Message: Lysa TerKeurst: Rejection is Not the End of Your Story | Women of Faith on TBN

Speaker and author of Christian non-fiction, LysaTerKeurst, asks, " How many of us can navigate the rejections in our life? Either with compromise, because we're so afraid of rejection, or we derail our rejection because our reactions are totally out of proportion, and we forget."

Listen as she dives into the powerful story of Abigail in the Bible, and how she turned the pain of rejection into redirection and restoration. 

Scripture: 1 Samuel 25

Enjoy this awesome video lesson from this powerful woman of faith!

~Eve

Bible Study: 1 John 5:1-21

"Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’"  - Matthew 4:4

I hope that you enjoyed a blessed Easter with your families and loved ones, and I'm very happy to be back with you! We have been studying The First Epistle of John and have now reached chapter 5.

A few weeks have now passed since our last meeting, therefore, it's probably a good idea to review what was explored in chapter 4. So, if you're ready with your Bibles, let's get started!

The apostle John started chapter 4 by warning believers that not all teachers are true to the faith. He, therefore, urged them to carefully "test" or consider the "spirits" to discern whether they lean towards good or evil.

That is to say, one must carefully examine the Scriptures (test the "spirits"). Christians are never taught to believe for no particular reason, or just for the sake of it! (1 John 4:1)

He also revisits the concept that "God is love." John instructed that when we know God, and are born of God, that is is sign of biblical love (1 John 4:7–8). And that we are to demonstrate our love for God by loving others.

By doing this, we exemplify God's presence in our lives to the world. Since none of us can physically see God , we can perceive His presence through our "love." It also serves to provide evidence of our fellowship with Him.

This epistle gives the impression that the apostle presumes the reader has some familiarity with the gospel, and feels no urgency to reexamine it. His main concern here is confidence-building in, and encouragement of, the believers.

I feel that we are now prepared to continue our study. 1 John 5 is the last chapter in The First Epistle of John. As you shall  discover in this chapter, our "love" is the measuring stick by which we gauge whether we abide by God, or not.

Synopsis: Apostle John gives an account of faith in Christ, love of God, and of the believer prevailing over the world (vv.1-5). Then, he analyzes God's testimony that provides us with assuredness of eternal life in Christ (vv. 6-13). Finally, the chapter ends with instruction on prayer (vv. 14-17), and the sure understanding found in the Son of God (vv. 18-21).

Here are some points to consider in this study:

• The significance of faith, love, and obedience.
• The essence of eternal life as a present possession.
• Sin which does not lead to death in comparison to sin which does lead to death.

Helpful Information: The answers will be found within the numbered verses that are shown. If you have trouble with a question, continue on and return to it later. Re-read the verse(s) as often as needed.

Opening Prayer: Dear LORD, as I prepare to study Your Word I pray for an open and accepting heart and mind; may it also restore, replenish, and nourish my soul, and spirit. Help me to learn and apply Your teaching to my life. Amen.

Study Questions:

1) For one to be born of God, what is totally necessary? (1 John 5:1)

2) How can one be certain of their love for the children of God? (1 John 5:2)

3) Who is he who overcomes the world? (1 John 5:4-5)

4) What three things verify Jesus Christ? (1 John 5:6-80)

5) What does one receive if they believe in the Son of God? (1 John 5:10)

6) What has God given to us? Who has He given it to? (1 John 5:11-12)

7) What was the reason John wrote these things in his epistle? (1 John 5:13)

8) What can we be confident of in prayer? (1 John 5:14-15)

9) How may we come to know the true God and eternal life? (1 John 5:20)

We've now completed our study of The First Epistle of John. Our next study will cover The Second Epistle of John where the apostle continues his discourse on Christian love. I do hope that you can join me then!

Remember to, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."   -1 Corinthians 16:13

Scripture: Galatians 5:22; Hebrews 11:1; John 20:31; 1 Corinthians 16:14; 1 Peter 4:8

 

Prayer: "But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness."  - Psalm 86:15 (ESV)

Joyfully in Christ,

Bridget

The Weekend Message: Understanding Your Worth With Biblical Truth

In this informative teaching video presentation, author, Bible teacher, and podcaster Jess Connolly helps women understand the difference between biblical truth and worldly affirmations. 

Make yourself a cup of coffee or tea, get comfortable, and join the conversation as Sheila Walsh, Debra Fileta, Ann Voskamp and Holly Wagner join Jess Connolly to discuss knowing our value in Christ. Have a wonderfully blessed weekend!

This video by TBN Networks®.

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way, 

~Eve

What Christ Taught Us About His Death - (Part 2)

"It was to save sinners that Christ Jesus came into the world. He did not come to help them to save themselves, nor to induce them to save themselves, nor even to enable them to save themselves. He came to save them!"  - William Hendricksen

In our last discussion, "Why did Christ die?" we examined some of the prophecies that Jesus taught regarding his own death. This time, we'll concentrate on the purpose for His time here on earth. 

To start with, according to Christ's teachings, His death was "divine in its provision," or its ability to supply us with all we need at His right time. Let's investigate this a little further.

Two important, yet simple, definitions related to God are, “God is Light,” and “God is Love.” Both facts radiate brightly from the Cross. Since “God is Light,” He can't ignore sin nor allow it to go unpunished.

That "God is Love," means that He gives us what He requires in the sacrifice of Christ. I feel that a closer inspection of the two is needed here. “God is Light” and His assertions, or claims, must be met in an expiation, or atonement for sin.

Sin demanded punishment. But as sinners, we could never atone for our sin. That atonement was provided by Jesus Himself. Christ’s death was expiatory in its sacrifice, or offering. He became the "perfect" sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 10:12).

Thus, Christ has provided to God a satisfaction, if you will, for sin that we could never give on our own (Luke 18:13). Moving on to "God is Love," Jesus expounded that His death was the triumphant conclusion of God's declared love.

This was expressed by Jesus when he said, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son" (John 3:16). Paul also mentions, "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8-9).

Notice in both, it is "God" who demonstrates his love toward us by sending his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Ultimately, Jesus is what satisfies the justice of God (1 John 2:2).

We have seen that when both, God and Christ expressed their love for us, God offered His Son, and Jesus sacrificed himself. Jesus himself said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends" (John 15:13).

In this respect, lies the extraordinary love of Jesus Christ. He unselfishly gave his life for enemies and sinners alike. No one forced Jesus to do anything. He volunteered to suffer. Yet, God is glorified and we are  their heirs by that mighty death forever (Romans 8:17).

Scripture: Mark 10:45; 1 Peter 2:24; Romans 3:25; Ephesians 2:18; 2 Corinthians 5:21 

Prayer: "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace,"  - Ephesians 1:7 (ESV)

Love, peace, and happiness!

Kaitlyn

"From Faith to Faith" with Tessa - Why Was Jesus Sent to Us?

"Jesus came from Heaven to Earth to make eternal salvation possible."   - Billy Graham

Question: "Why was Jesus sent to us?" That's a fair question. For the most part, people are aware of Jesus, and can recall some things that He did while here on earth.

But do we truthfully know (or recognize) the "purpose" of His presence here. "Why was Jesus sent to us?"  We'll examine this question by turning to a most indisputable resource: the Bible. 

John 1:41 (NLT) provides a good starting point. Here, the verse tell us, "Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means “Christ.")*

*The NLT Bible provides this additional helpful footnote for the verse: Messiah (a Hebrew term) and Christ (a Greek term) both mean “the anointed one.”

In the Old Testament, as an act of ceremonial anointing, one had sacred oil poured, rubbed, or smeared on their head, or some object, to symbolically demonstrate that they were selected and dedicated by God for a particular, holy purpose.

Subsequently, in the New Testament, Jesus Christ discloses that He is our "anointed" King, Prophet, and Priest; the Holy and chosen Son, the "Messiah." You can see that Jesus Christ was firmly supported by God.

At the outset of His ministry, Jesus declared some reasons why he was sent (Luke 4:18: cf. Isaiah 61:1). But, it is only after His earthly mission that it becomes even more evident what He did for us and why.

As the Christ ( or "Messiah"), He:

• Died for all of us (Romans 5:8).
• Was raised for us (Romans 6:9).
• Dwells in us (Galatians 2:20).
• Has saved us (Galatians 3:13).
• Has brought us closer to God (Ephesians 2:13).
• Strengthens or reinforces us (Philippians 4:13).
• Is the end toward which our effort is directed (Philippians 1:21).

In the end, Jesus Christ (the "Anointed One," the chosen "Messiah") completed all that Old Testament prophecy had foretold (Luke 4:21). Jesus' anointing was manifested by the miracles he performed, and His life of servitude and relief of suffering (Acts 10:38).

Of course, the earthly life of Jesus concluded with the sacrifice of His life as Savior of the world. Yet, His resurrection is a strong attestation that Jesus Christ was sent by God to offer us something more; that is, eternal life with Him (John 3:16).

Scripture: Proverbs 8:35-36; John 1:1; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 5:2; 1 John 4:9 

Prayer: "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."  - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV)

Grace and blessings,

Tessa

What Christ Taught Us About His Death - (Part 1)

"Christ did not die for any upon condition, if they do believe; but He died for all God’s elect, that they should believe."  - John Owen

We've just finished exploring all of the episodes leading up to the death and resurrection of Jesus during the Holy Week. Yet, for many, there is still the lingering question, "Why did Christ die?"

The answer lies in carefully examining what Christ taught us about his death. 19th century Scottish theologian, James Denny, stated, “The last months of our Lord’s life were a deliberate and thrice-repeated attempt to teach His disciples something about His death.”

Below are some of the items that Jesus taught regarding his own death. He talked about:

• a “baptism” He must face (Luke 12:50). This “baptism” that he refers to is his own “death” (Romans 6:3);
• a "lifting up" He must experience in a short amount of time (John 3:14). This was a more civilized way of saying crucifixion;
• a mission, or objective He must accomplish within a short amount of time (Luke 13:33);
• the anticipation of His impending death (John 12:27); 
• of the torment and affliction He must go through (Luke 24:7);
• the surrendering of His own life (John 10:11); 
• a cup from which He must drink (John 18:11). Of which signifies His final sufferings;
• a pouring of His shed blood into a cup (Luke 22:20). “This cup” represented His shed blood that approved and began the New Covenant.
• how God showed His love by sending His Only Son to die for us (John 3:16). In that way, anyone who puts their trust in Him will be saved from sin.
• a compassionate act He would perform (Matthew 20:28). Jesus summons the disciples (and all who are in Christ) to adhere to the same path to greatness, that is, humble, sacrificial service to one another.
• a gift He would impart (John 6:51). The "true bread from heaven" has been sent by God (John 6:32), in the form of a person (John 6:33).
• a work He would finish (John 19:30). That which Jesus was sent to complete – as an atonement for our sin (2 Corinthians 5:21) – is now brought to a close.

It is only because of our lack of time and space that we can't possibly list, and fairly treat, all of the prophecies discussed by Jesus. We can, however, consider one from the list to further assist us with the question: "Why did Christ die?"

And that is where we will pick up our discussion the next time. I hope that you'll join me then. Until that time, may God bless you always!

Scripture: John 10:30; Colossians 1:15-17; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 1:3; John 8:24

Prayer: "Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God."  -John 3:18 (ESV)

Love, peace, and happiness!

Kaitlyn