Video Lesson | Satan Wants You, But God Won't Let You Go - Sifting Season - Part 1 of 2 | Beth Moore

What Satan intends for evil, God can use for good. This happened to Peter at the crucifixion—Satan “demanded” that he be allowed to sift the apostles like wheat. But Jesus prayed for Peter, that he would return to his faith. And boy, did Peter need some sifting!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Join us for this first of a two-part teaching series, “Sifting Season” by Beth Moore and learn about how Peter was sifted like wheat during the lead-up to the crucifixion, what it did for his faith, and how we can view the trials and sifting seasons of our own lives.

Scriptural References: Luke 22: 31-34; Ephesians 6:13

Enjoy!

~Eve

Through His Suffering, Our Salvation

"God had one son on earth without sin, but never one without suffering."  - St. Augustine of Hippo, theologian and philosopher (354-430 A.D.)

To quote the late American pastor Timothy Keller, "Suffering is actually at the heart of the Christian story." Having just observed Holy Week, we can see how especially impactful this statement truly is.

It's no secret that following Jesus Christ is not exactly a cakewalk. Broadly speaking, many good people have suffered and died because of their faith in Him. Jesus Himself suffered and died on behalf of our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3).

Our decision to follow the Lord Jesus Christ creates friction with the world (Galatians 1:10). In closely observing the teachings of the Bible, we position ourselves for non-acceptance, ridicule, isolation, even treachery (Matthew 5:10; John 15:18).

According to scripture, Jesus experienced suffering in many ways, both physically and emotionally. Apart from this, he also suffered spiritually, including being separated from His Father (Isaiah 53:4; Matthew 27:46; 1 Peter 2:23).

Many ask, "Why did Jesus have to suffer so horribly?" First, He didn't have to do anything! It was His choice and mission to do so (John 10:17-18). As far as the incredible suffering that Jesus endured, it was our collective sins that caused it. 

This, even more so than the beatings, whipping, and nails that were driven into His hands and feet on the cross. Jesus suffered and was sacrificed on our behalf so that we could have life. Suffering is an element of sacrifice, and Jesus was "the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29).

Jesus’ physical torture was part of the necessary payment for our sins. We are redeemed or rescued from the bondage of sin through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:19). This important takeaway cannot be stressed enough!

His suffering on the cross revealed the disastrous nature of sin, God's anger, the savagery of humanity, and the detestation (hatred) of Satan. It was on a skull-shaped hill (Golgotha) in Jerusalem that humanity was enabled to do its worst to Jesus.

Satan probably began to celebrate a perceived victory over the Son of Man. But it was not to be! By way of the cross that was intended to execute and destroy, God subdued sin, death, and Satan (John 12:31; cf. Colossians 2:15). His suffering and death ensured salvation for all who would believe.

Scripture: Psalm 119:50; Matthew 10:39; Romans 8:18; Philippians 1:29 ; 1 Peter 4:1 

Prayer: "Dear Lord, in times of trial, I ask for Your strength. Lift me up when I am weak, and carry me through the dismal and somber moments, Amen."

In Christ's Love,

Alissa

Easter Message | Contemplating Easter Sunday | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

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

In commemoration of the Holy Week, we are delighted to present a special Easter Sunday video message from Bible teacher, author, and speaker Beth Moore. 

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

You're probably already familiar with the events that occurred on Easter morning. Mary discovered an empty tomb, and not too long after, meets the risen Jesus. But sometimes, a familiar story can take on brand new meaning when we hear it in a different way. 

Join in as Beth Moore delves into the interaction that took place between Mary and Jesus in this brief but powerful Easter Sunday message. I encourage you to follow along as Beth refers to John 20 as the the basis of her message.

May your Easter be filled with joy and love,

~Eve

Holy Saturday | A Time of Silence and Anticipation

"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."  - Hebrews 11:1

Following Good Friday and preceding Easter Sunday is Holy Saturday. Scripture informs us that the body of Jesus rested in the tomb on this day. Holy Saturday is noted for the silent anticipation by the Christians as they awaited His resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Let's consider Holy Saturday further. As mentioned, after His crucifixion on Good Friday, Jesus' body was placed in a nearby tomb where it remained throughout Holy Saturday (Matthew 27:59-60; Mark 15:46; Luke 23:53-54; John 19: 39-42).

Churches that customarily observe Holy Saturday regard it as a day of somber meditation. It is a time best used for thinking about the bleak and dismal world that could be without the optimism and promise of Christ's resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:17).

Mark 14:50 records the dispersion of the disciples after Jesus is arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. Following this incident they then spent the first Holy Saturday hiding in fear of being arrested themselves (John 20:19).

One can only imagine the grief, shock, and confusion felt by the disciples as they tried to process the events leading up to this point (i.e., Jesus's murder, the betrayal of Judas Iscariot, not to mention having their hopes crushed.)

Although Holy Saturday is mentioned in each Gospel, Luke 23:55 provides us with a peek inside the law supporting this particular day. After Jesus's body was wrapped in linen and placed in the tomb, the women from Galilee saw this and returned home to prepare spices for a proper burial.

However, by the time the preparations were finished the Sabbath had started and was against the law for the women to set up the spices to anoint His body. The women obeyed the Sabbath commandment by resting and postponed the anointing until Sunday (the first day of the week). 

After the conclusion of Sabbath on Sunday morning, they returned to Jesus's tomb and tried to honor His body. It is at this point that the glorious miracle of His resurrection was revealed to them, as seen in Luke 24. 

The Gospels share very similar accounts of what transpired in the time between the death of Christ and His resurrection (cf. Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; and John 19). That everything happened this way wasn't just a random occurrence but has a deeper, heavenly explanation.

One can confidently say that Holy Saturday is a time for us to to trust in God, seek His presence, and allow Him to guide and shape our lives, even in difficult times. It's an excellent day to avoid asking for anything, and just spend time with God.

Scripture: Isaiah 52:13; Matthew 27:62-66; John 2:19-21; Philippians 2:8; Hebrews 12:2

Prayer: "Lord, provide us with  a heart full of joyful anticipation while we await the resurrection, knowing that through Christ's victory, death has been conquered and new life is offered to all who believe in Him, Amen."

Wishing you peace and grace always,

Serenity

Good Friday | He Who Suffered on Calvary

"This is the center of the gospel - this is what the Garden of Gethsemane and Good Friday are all about - that God has done astonishing and costly things to draw us near."  - John Piper, American theologian and pastor (1946-Present)

In Christianity, Good Friday is a sacred day that observes the crucifixion of Jesus. It is a time for contemplating the sacrifice of Christ and the deep, intense meaning of his death. It is typically honored on the Friday before Easter during Holy Week.

We can find the documented incidents of Good Friday in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The account is set in motion with the arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane after the Last Supper with His disciples.

Following His betrayal by Judas Iscariot in the garden, Jesus appears in front of the Sanhedrin, where He is incriminated and convicted of blasphemy (Matthew 26:57-68, Mark 14:53-65, Luke 22:66-71, John 18:19-24).

Jesus is then taken before the Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate, who cannot find any fault in Him but caves in to the demands of the crowd's demands for His crucifixion (Matthew 27:11-26, Mark 15:1-15, Luke 23:1-25, John 18:28-19:16). 

Pilate then symbolically washes his hands and declares himself innocent of Jesus' blood (Matthew 27:24). The governor’s soldiers then took Jesus into the Praetorium (the governor's headquarters), where He was mocked and scourged before putting a scarlet robe on him and placing a crown of thorns on His head (Matthew 27:27-31, Mark 15:16-20, John 19:1-3).

The soldiers then lead Jesus to Golgotha (the place of the Skull), and crucify Him between two criminals (Matthew 27:32-38, Mark 15:21-28, Luke 23:26-33, John 19:17-18).

While being crucified, Jesus utters several deep and thoughtful statements, including His prayer forgiving His persecutors: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34). Furthermore, He promises the penitent thief a place with Him in heaven (Luke 23:43).

About noon, darkness came over the land until three in the afternoon when Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, c lemasabachthani?" ("My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?") Thus indicating the crushing weight of our sin and His estrangement from God (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34).

Aware that His mission was now finished, in order to fulfill Scripture Jesus says, "I am thirsty." He is then offered a fixed a sponge full of sour wine on a hyssop branch which was held it up to his mouth. Upon receiving it, Jesus declares, "It is finished!" (John 19:30)

Bowing His head Jesus surrenders His life to God the Father; and not having it forcefully stripped away from Him (Luke 23:46; John 10:17–18). At that moment, the temple curtain is ripped in two, symbolizing the the end of the Old Covenant and the opening the way for humanity to have direct access to God.

This remarkable event was only made possible because of Jesus' crucifixion. He became the ultimate atoning sacrifice (Matthew 27:51, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45). The earth also shook, rocks split, and tombs broke open, proving the universal importance of this episode (Matthew 27:51-54).

Unquestionably, Good Friday contains vital theological importance as it emphasizes the doctrine of atonement. The death of Jesus, who serving as the ultimate Passover Lamb that takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29), is considered the fulfillment of the OT prophecies and sacrificial systems.

The Apostle Paul beautifully expresses this in his epistle to the Romans: "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8).

In closing, I've listed some main points of our discussion of Good Friday below. We have learned that:

• The crucifixion is crucial to the Christian comprehension of salvation, underscoring themes of substitutionary atonement, reconciliation, and justification;
• As a result of his death, Jesus reconciles a holy God and sinful humanity, by offering forgiveness and eternal life to all believers in Him (John 3:16);
• Good Friday is a solemn memorial day in Christianity, observing the crucifixion of Jesus. It signifies a time for reflecting on Christ's sacrifice and the deep meaning of his death.

Scripture: Psalm 22:1; Isaiah 53:5; 1 Corinthians 1:18; Philippians 2:8; 1 Peter 2:24

Prayer: "We love and bless you, O Christ, because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world. Amen."

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

He Is Our Strength in an Ungodly World

"Remember Jesus FOR US is all our righteousness before a holy God, and Jesus IN US is all our strength in an ungodly world."  - Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813 – 1843)

It's no great mystery that this "journey of life" is often filled with difficult situations, doubts, and trials that can challenge our faith, determination, and yearning.

Clearly, we are currently experiencing such troubling and confusing times. And there is seemingly no relief from hearing, observing, and talking about it, which only makes matters worse.

All through the Bible, believers are inspired to find resilience in God, who is characterized as a trustworthy tower of shelter and strength; and a source of guidance, direction, and wisdom for daily life. 

This is the right moment to look at the biblical basis for finding strength in God, as we attempt to learn from different texts and topics that draw attention to His place as a sustainer and guardian.

Psalm 46:1 is an excellent beginning. It calls to mind the ever-present, unyielding strength of God. Here, He is portrayed as the last word on strength in troubling times. We are inspired to find inner peace in a chaotic world through His power and sovereignty (cf. Isaiah 40:29-31).

In Proverbs 3:5-6 we discover that faith and trust in God are key to obtaining His strength. The significance of trusting in God's wisdom and guidance, rather than our own limited understanding of making our way through life's challenges, is stressed in this passage.

Prayer also plays a major role by which we can find inspiration in God. As Philippians 4:6-7 accentuates, we can encounter God's peace and strength through prayer which fortifies us against worry and apprehension.

Occasionally we run across statements that seem illogical or contradictory. Such is the case with "finding strength in weakness" in 2 Corinthians 12: 9-10 and Paul. Here it implies that God's strength is perfectly manifested in times of our weakness.

He loves taking charge of adverse situations where our own human strength has failed and in turn, gracefully provides us with forceful and effective strength vastly superior than anything we could ever summon on our own.

Naturally we cannot complete this discussion without mentioning the example Jesus Christ presents as the ideal example of drawing fortitude and courage in God. This was demonstrated all through His earthly ministry.

He proved his trust and faith in the Father especially during hardships and difficulties. I refer you to Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane with his imminent crucifixion hanging overhead (Matthew 26:39). 

Jesus's obedient compliance to His Father's will profoundly illustrates the strength that can be acquired by trusting and obeying God unconditionally, even during unbearable trials.

That God is a reliable source of strength for those who seek Him is consistently affirmed throughout the biblical account.

Through faith, prayer, community, and the example of Christ, believers are well-prepared to face life's journey with confidence and resilience, drawing on the inexhaustible strength that God provides (Psalm 18:32).

Scripture: Joshua 1:9; 1 Chronicles 16:11; Psalm 73:26; Ephesians 6:10; Philippians 4:13; 

Prayer: "God, I pray that you will provide me with the strength I need to overcome whatever challenges I may encounter in life, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual; and the comfort in knowing that You are with me always. Amen."

Yours in Christ,

Ashleigh

Walking By Faith | Claiming Ignorance of God's Law Is No Excuse

"Ignorance of Scripture is the root of every error in religion, and the source of every heresy"  - J.C. Ryle, English evangelical Anglican bishop (1816-1900)

The general idea that ignorance of God does not excuse sin is an important theme in Christian theology. It underscores our duty and obligation before God. This central concept is founded on the understanding that God's presence and moral law are obvious in creation and our principles. 

What this means is that simply pleading ignorance about God, or being unaware of His laws, or teachings does not exempt a person from the culpability (guilt) of sinning. Thus, it is inexcusable.

Lacking any clear knowledge of God's commandments, we are still held accountable for our actions and moral choices. This rationale is grounded on our natural sense of right and wrong

Referring to the story of Adam and Eve, following their creation they did not act against God in any manner (Genesis 1:27-31). Being perfectly created in every way, they remained spotless until succumbing to temptation (Genesis 3:6-7).

It is debatable that, never being exposed to death, they were oblivious to the seriousness of sin's consequences (Genesis 3:2). Even so, that did not excuse them from it. 

 

Romans 1:18-20 maintains that God's attributes (characteristics) are visible in creation, revealing His existence and power to everyone. The stifling (suppression) of this truth, instead of ignorance, calls attention to the heart of sinfulness.

"Where exactly does all of this leave us?" Mercifully, Scripture distinguishes between ignorance and innocence. We don't have to be left in the dark about sin. In actuality, we can be well-informed about sin yet keep our innocence (righteousness) about it. 

Above all, one should be blind to all wickedness and immorality (Ephesians 5:11-12). The intentional ignorance of earthly concerns is normal and understandable. However, the intentional ignorance of spiritual issues can result in everlasting torment (Romans 1:18-23).

Naturally, God does not leave us in the lurch, to stumble about aimlessly without direction regarding ignorance. God calls on believers to subdue ignorance through the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom that He is willing to provide (James 1:5).

What's more, we are encouraged to concentrate on understanding and applying God's grace, seeking to broaden our relational knowledge of Him through prayer, Bible study, and our service. 

This development is considered an ongoing process that affirms the importance of continual learning and spiritual growth (2 Peter 3:18). As we know, God is long-suffering (patient), this includes the ignorant.

No matter how glaring our ignorance may be, God gracefully provides an abundance of opportunities to learn (2 Peter 3:9). This is attested to by the apostle Paul through personal experience (1 Timothy 1:13; Acts 3:17).

Finally, God directs us to repent of our ignorance and seek Him with all our hearts (Acts 17:30; Jeremiah 29:13). Wisdom is the opposite of spiritual ignorance, and we are instructed to seek wisdom above all things (Proverbs 4:7).

 

Remember, each time that Scripture directs us to "pay attention" and "learn," God is providing an offer to exchange ignorance for His wisdom (Proverbs 8:4-5). He has provided His Word to demonstrate how we should live. And we are expected to apply it to our lives.

Scripture: Proverbs 14:18; Ezekiel 45:20; Romans 10:14-17; 1 Corinthians 14:38; Hebrews 5:2

Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me recognize and understand your truths; grant me the wisdom to perceive your will. May your Spirit guide my prayers and actions, helping me to live a life that is pleasing to you. Amen."

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane