Weekend Scripture Gold with Bibi: The Greatest Offer Ever Made

I would like to wish everyone a happy and spirit-filled 2013! And, thank you for your fellowship during the previous year. Since we are starting fresh, I thought it would be a good idea to begin with a message regarding our relationship with the Lord. Whether you are a new believer or a mature disciple; it is always beneficial and rejuvenating to reflect on why we chose to follow Him.

Peter was told by the Lord to follow Him. Instead of responding, "Lord, by Thy grace I will," he seems to have been occupied with his fellow-disciple John. "Lord, and what shall this man do?" he inquired.  

Answering him our Lord said, "What is that to thee?" And He added, making it more definitely personal, "Follow thou Me."  Let us not look upon others when we should be looking on our Lord.

Whatever the other man may be called to do, and whether he does it or not is not our business (though we should seek to help others by example and precept). Our business is to follow our Lord for ourselves. -I. F., in Scattered Seed.  

When you made that decision and invited Jesus into your life, it is important to know, did God hear you? Yes. Jesus promised that He would enter our lives, if we ask Him.

In Revelation 3:20 Jesus makes this offer, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” Did you open the door of your heart to God? If so, what did He say He would do? Would God mislead you?

First John 5:14 says, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.”

In John 6:37, Jesus said, “All that the Father gives me will come to me; and him who comes to me I will not cast out.” And in John 10:27-29 Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.”

Jesus died on the cross for our sins, so that we could be in relationship with Him. He’s not indifferent to the issue. He went to great lengths to bring us into relationship with Him. Jesus took our sins on Himself and covered us with His righteousness, making us fully forgiven and fully accepted by Him.

We don’t have to first live good lives, or perform religious rituals, or spend years begging Him. God is the one who made it possible for us to have a relationship with Him. And we come to Him based on what He did for us, rather than what we can do. He paid for our sins, in order to forgive us and come into our lives. First Peter 3:18 says, “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.”

To get to know God better, spend time in His word (the Bible) asking Him to reveal more of Himself to you and for Him to build your relationship with Him. The Gospel of John (fourth book in the New Testament) is a great place to start.

And talk to Him freely. We are encouraged to “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6,7)

Scripture: Hebrews 13:8; Luke 10:27; John 14:26; 1 Corinthians 11:1; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 John 2:3-4; 1 Peter 2:21;  John 16:13; Matthew 11:28-30.

Now, let's pray...

O Father, give us the humility which realizes its ignorance, admits its mistakes, recognizes its need, welcomes advice, accepts rebuke. Help us always to praise rather than to criticize, to sympathize rather than to discourage, to build rather than to destroy, and to think of people at their best rather than at their worst. This we ask for in thy name's sake. Amen

Until next time...

Have a blessed week! 

Bibi

Bible Study Snacks, Acts 14:1-6

Hi, everyone!

Happy 2013, and welcome back to another presentation of Bible Study Snacks! It's great to be back with you as we begin a brand new year. As always, I thank you so much for joining me as we walk through the richness of God's spoken word and wisdom together. I pray that today finds you in good health and strong in faith!

This week, I would like to continue our study of the Book of Acts, with Chapter Fourteen, Verses 1-6.

I have designed these studies to be brief, yet packed full of good information for everyone regardless of your level of biblical knowledge. I might add that these quick studies make perfect small group discussion starters, as well!

As always, I whole-heartedly believe in the importance that any Bible study should begin with prayer. If you have your Bible ready, let's pray together...

Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen

If you are taking notes for yourself, or using this for a bible study with others, here are the objectives for this week's lesson...

OBJECTIVES: This week, the reader will...

1) Continue tracing the route of Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey. 

For your convenience, here is a summary Acts 14:1-6 

Luke continues his narration of events during Paul's first missionary journey. Upon arriving in Iconium, Paul and Barnabas again visit the local synagogue. Response to their message is positive among both Jews and Greeks, but soon opposition again comes from unbelieving Jews. Even so, Paul and Barnabas stay "a long time" in Iconium, speaking boldly and performing signs and wonders. Eventually the opposition becomes violent, forcing Paul and Barnabas to flee to Lystra and Derbe (1-6).

REVIEW QUESTIONS: 

1) Upon their arrival in Iconium, what did Paul and Barnabas first do? (Acts 14:1)

2) What did the unbelieving Jews do in response? (Acts 14:2)

3) What did Paul and Barnabas do?  Who was with them and how? (Acts 14:3)

4) As the city became divided, what attempt was made against Paul and Barnabas? (Acts 14:4-5)

5) How did they respond to such a threat? (Acts 14:6-7) 

After completing this week's study, go back and read through the material again. Take your time and read each topic and scripture reference as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you just might see something new that you overlooked the first time around! 

As we journey through the Bible together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week! 

God bless you! 

Sheri

The Challenge of Secularism

A respected Southern Baptist pastor and author says "wimpy" pastors and laypersons are the reason Christians are losing the culture war. Why are many Christian leaders silent when religious freedom comes under attack? That question was raised by Fox News Channel's Bill O'Reilly and posed to Dr. Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist Church Dallas and author of How Can I Know: Answers to Life's 7 Most Important Questions.

"I think one reason is a lot of Christian leaders have the wrong idea about Jesus," Jeffress replied when asked the question. "They see Jesus as this little, wimpy guy who walked around plucking daisies and eating birdseed and saying nice things, but never doing anything controversial. The fact is, Jesus did confront his culture with truth -- and he ended up being crucified because of it."

The Dallas pastor chastised pastors who shy away from controversy. "Wimpy pastors produce wimpy Christians -- and that is why we are losing this culture war," he emphasized. "I believe it's time for pastors to say, You know, I don't care about controversy, I don't care whether I'm going to lose church members, I don't care about building a big church. I'm going to stand for truth regardless of what happens."

Jeffress -- who also reprimanded school districts and elected officials for caving in -- contends secularists are going to take over if pastors and Christians continue to refuse to stand up and wage the necessary battle to secure their constitutional rights.  -OneNewsNow.com, December 13, 2012 , Charlie Butts  

What is secularism? Simply put, secularism is replacing God as the center of all things with man. The secular has replaced the sacred at the center of our lives. It has been noted that Christians are right back where they started — as a minority in a culture hostile to what we believe and the way in which we live.

Canaries were the early warning sign of coal mining 100 years ago. Today, our canary in the coal mine for churches is church attendance.  During the post-WWII baby boom generation, churches all over America flourished. David T. Olson, in his book, The American Church in Crisis, cites current church attendance for all churches in the US at about 17%. But this figure is on a steady decline that will result in church attendance of a little more than 14% by 2020.

Church attendance is falling at a rate of about 1% every 5 years, but seems to be accelerating as population growth outpaces the growth in number of churches. At the present rate, it is safe to say that by the year 2050, church attendance in the US will be no better than that in England — less than 7% of the population.

So,why don’t people go to church, at least in the numbers they used to?  Simply put, our society no longer sees church attendance as necessary to live a good life, or be a good citizen. Add to that fact, the increasing pluralism of our nation and you have recipe for “choose your own spirituality.”

The answer to the challenge of secularism is a living community that acts, believes, and practices the presence of God at its center. Rather than serving ourselves in church, we must serve others. Rather than endless debates among ourselves about arcane theological points, the church must turn its attention to the vast world of people outside our doors who do not believe God can or will do anything for them, and who have never seen a community of faith live out its commitment to love God and love others.

More importantly, churches will need to rethink their entire mission and reason for being. We cannot continue to serve ourselves, build buildings exclusively for our own use, and keep most of our resources to ourselves.

God’s answer to secularism was to send Jesus. If man sought to displace God from the center of society, the center of God’s creation, then God would step into that creation as a man to demonstrate how mankind was intended to live; to give his life in love for mankind; to defeat mankind’s greatest enemies — sin, death, and the grave; and, to rise victorious proving that God both can and will save us physically and spiritually.

Secularism is nothing new. It has been with us since Adam and Eve decided to replace God with their own judgment. But, Jesus’ life puts the lie to this “I am the center of the universe” thinking. Only as we live Jesus’ life before others will they see any reason to join our churches, sing our songs, or follow our Savior. The challenge of secularism is met by the body of Christ, resolved to live with Christ as its head, with the Spirit giving it life, laying down its own life for the sake of the world.

Scripture: Colossians 1:16-17; Ephesians 2:8-10; John 1:1-3; Romans 6:23; Romans 3:23; Romans 3:10

Prayer: Lord, give us each day the wisdom to recognize which things are important, and which things are not. Show us how best to use the time and talents you have given us. Help us to use all opportunities wisely that we may give in service to others the good gifts we have received from you. Amen.

 -Thanks to Chuck Warnock 

May God bless you,  

Lydia

Got Sin?...God Has Forgiven You!

In his book I Surrender, Patrick Morley writes that the church's integrity problem is in the misconception "that we can add Christ to our lives, but not subtract sin. It is a change in belief without a change in behavior." He goes on to say, "It is revival without reformation, without repentance."  
-Quoted by C. Swindoll, John The Baptizer, Bible Study Guide, p. 16. 

What does it mean to confess sins and repent? First, confession means to agree with God. He already knows you've sinned, so you might as well be honest! “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) Confession means freely admitting our sin and accepting God’s attitude about our sin.

Confession does not mean begging God for forgiveness. Christ already paid the penalty for all of our sins, and God’s forgiveness is available automatically when we confess. The reason God can make this forgiveness available to you instantly is Christ’s death on the cross, not the strength or humility with which you confess your sin.

Repentance means to change your actions concerning your sin. It involves agreeing with God that you were wrong and that you do not want to continue to commit that sin.

Yes, there will be times when you still feel guilty even after you've confessed your sin. It somehow seems spiritual to berate ourselves for committing such an awful sin, and we think that if we can lower ourselves in our own eyes, God will be pleased with our humility.

But that’s not the way God sees us. Part of confession is thanking God that all of our sins have been paid for by Christ. On that basis God says, “I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.” (Hebrews 8:12) Thanksgiving involves faith because you are responding to what God’s Word says is true about you instead of how you feel. To berate yourself focuses on your sin rather than on Christ and His forgiveness.

Sometimes we mistake temptation for sin. But keep in mind that everyone is tempted. Even Jesus was tempted…but He didn't give in to His temptations – He didn't sin. If you are being tempted, don’t chastise yourself. You can choose not to dwell on tempting thoughts and you can ask God for the strength to avoid the sin. Don’t feel guilty about being tempted. A great verse to learn, to bring to mind when you battle temptation, is 1 Corinthians 10:13.

God has completely forgiven you of all the things you have done. “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) He doesn't look back now on your sins or your failures with condemnation, and neither should you. Again God says, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.” (Hebrews 10:17) The cloud of guilt is gone! Accept God’s complete forgiveness.

“For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.” (Romans 8:2) The Christian life is a life of freedom: freedom from guilt and freedom to live as God intends, which is ultimately the most satisfying life. It is a process of growth, of becoming like Christ and reflecting Christ. And it takes time to grow!   -Charles Swindoll, Come Before Winter (Portland, OR: Multnomah Press, 1985), p.89. 

-Thanks to Steven L. Pogue 

Scripture: Luke 15:10; Acts 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:10; 2 Timothy 2:25; 2 Peter 3:9; Matthew 3:8; Ezekiel 18:30-32; Zechariah 1:4

Prayer: Merciful God, we have sinned in what we have thought and said, in the wrong we have done and in the good we have not done. We have sinned in ignorance: we have sinned in weakness: we have sinned through our own deliberate fault. We are truly sorry. We repent and turn to you. Forgive us, for our Savior Christ's sake, and renew our lives to the glory of your name. Amen

God bless you always,

Laurie

God, Fill Our Minds with Your Wisdom!

I want to pose a question to you. "How does the Holy Spirit make us wise?"

Tim Chester points to this excellent quote from Tim Keller in Every Good Endeavor. Keller says:

"Here then is how the Spirit makes us wise. On the night before he died, Jesus told his disciples that he would send the Holy spirit and ‘when he, the Spirit of truth, come … he will glorify me …’ (John 16:13-14). The Spirit does not make us wise in some magical kind of way, giving us little nudges and insider tips to help us always choose the best stock to invest in. Rather, he makes Jesus Christ a living, bright reality, transforming our character, giving us new inner poise, clarity, humility, boldness, contentment, and courage. All of this leads to increasing wisdom as the years go by, and to better and better professional and personal decisions."

In the Old Testament book of Proverbs, we are encouraged to seek after wisdom  (Proverbs 3:13-18; 4:7-9). Likewise, in the New Testament we are exhorted to walk with wisdom (Ephesians 5:15-17). But if we read in James 3:13-18, we learn that there is more than just one kind of wisdom.

In today's message, we will take a look at what James describes as two different kinds of wisdom:  "Heavenly Wisdom Vs. Earthly Wisdom" In discussing these two, James does so by making several contrasts; the first being a contrast in their "origin." 

We find that earthly wisdom is not from above (James 3:15). It is indeed earthly or worldly. It is wisdom that is according to the world's standards. But this wisdom is foolishness to God - cf. 1 Corinthians 1:20. This type of wisdom is sensual. In other words, appealing to the senses, the emotions, or the passions. It is wisdom according to what feels right (but that doesn't make it right). We might also consider it demonic, or the kind of wisdom possessed by the devil and his angels. Simply put, it is a wisdom that often finds its origin in the influences of Satan!

On the other hand, heavenly wisdom is from above (James 3:17). This wisdom comes from God - cf. James 1:17. And it comes via prayer - cf. James 1:5-8. Knowing the origin or source of each kind of wisdom ought to encourage us to select the right one.

But if that isn't enough, then consider how James describes a contrast in their "nature." In James 3:14, 16 we read that earthly wisdom is full of bitter envy; and possessing self-seeking in the heart. This wisdom extols as virtues such qualities as: power, position, privilege, and prestige.

In fact, it was this kind of wisdom that prompted Satan and his angels to rebel against God; and also prompted the disciples to argue over who would be the greatest in the kingdom.

In contrast, heavenly wisdom (James 3: 17) is first pure. Above all else, it is true to God's Will. Then it is peaceable. Holding firm to the truth, it makes every effort to be at peace - cf. Romans 12:18. For example, speaking the truth in an attitude of love - cf. Ephesians 4:15. Additionally, it is: gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy, producing good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

By now the superiority of "Heavenly Wisdom" over "Earthly Wisdom" should be quite apparent. However, as further proof, we will take one last look at the contrast in their "fruits." Earthly wisdom (James 3:16) causes confusion and every evil thing. It makes one wonder what kind of wisdom is behind denominational-ism. And it is often manifested in some congregational meetings. Heavenly wisdom (James 3:18) produces peace, instead of confusion. It bears the fruit of righteousness, instead of every evil thing.

In closing, when we compare their origin, nature and fruits, the wisdom to be preferred is "heavenly wisdom." So, what kind of wisdom do we have? Those who have "earthly wisdom" boast of theirs (James 3:14). While those who have "heavenly wisdom" show theirs by their good conduct done in meekness (James 3:13).

Now, what kind of wisdom do we want? If earthly, then no effort is necessary. Just do what the world tells you; and just do what feels right. But if heavenly, then we must be diligent to seek such wisdom from God; and to demonstrate such wisdom by our conduct.

What kind of wisdom do you have in regards to the gospel of Christ? Remember, earthly wisdom makes no response to the gospel, or if any, only that which is convenient. heaven wisdom receives the commands of the gospel joyfully and obediently - cf. Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38.

Prayer: God our Savior, bring us back to you and fill our minds with your wisdom.We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Have a blessed day! 

Raylene     

Just A Little More Self-Control

First, I would like to wish all of you a Happy 2013! The entire Coffeehouse Bible Ministry is looking forward to continue sharing our love of Jesus Christ with you throughout this new year. It's great to be back!

Many of us begin a brand new year by making resolutions which may be harder to keep than make (and believe me...I know!) One of the most popular resolutions is the breaking of bad habits. This might include: smoking, drinking alcohol, lack of exercise and over-eating, among others.

Webster defines self-control as “control of one’s feelings, desires or actions by one’s own will; the power of controlling one’s external reactions, emotions, etc.; equanimity.” Roget lists as synonyms: restraint, self-discipline, willpower, mettle, resolve, composure and reserved.

Self-control is something which can be taught, learned, acquired and practiced. The Apostle Paul taught Felix the Roman Governor concerning the principles of self-control (Acts 24:25). Peter urged the Christians in Asia to supply or provide self-control in addition to their faith (2 Peter 1:6). The Hebrew Christians were disciplined by Paul because they had not learned through the exercise of their senses to recognize good from evil (Hebrews 5:13-14). Each of these examples demonstrates that self control is acquired through a rigorous spiritual education. We acquire it as we become more and more familiar with God’s Word.

As suggested by the last text, joined with this instruction is a proper application. As we become skillful in the Word of God our “senses” are able to differentiate between that which is good for us and that which is evil. We are able to make the determinations that Joseph, Daniel and Jesus made. Paul, having acquired this discernment said he buffeted, or disciplined his body daily and brought it in subjection to the will of his mind (I Corinthians 9:25). We must grow in wisdom to the point that we can apply the Word to the various situations we encounter daily.

Another means whereby we acquire mastery over the body is through planning. Paul urged that we make no provisions for the flesh (Romans 13:14). We must learn to avoid those things that tempt us to give in to our desires. Job made a covenant with his eyes (Job 31:1). Paul purposed he would not eat and drink (I Corinthians 8:13; Romans 14:21). The wise man said we should avoid wine altogether (Proverbs 23:31).

Don’t be like the drunken cowboy who after taking the pledge continued to tie his horse up in front of the saloon on Saturday. Before long, he was back in the saloon.

We acquire self-control through moderation (1 Corinthians 9:25). It is possible to get too much of a good thing (Proverbs 25:16). Learning to deny yourself or restrain your participation in even harmless and beneficial things brings a discipline to life that is helpful (Proverbs 20:13; 23:1-3; Philippians 4:12).

Finally, self-control is acquired only through a constant vigilance (I Corinthians 9:27). Paul “buffeted” his body; literally, he “beat down” the longings of the flesh. There is a constant conflict between the spiritual mind and the flesh (Galatians 5:16-17). Long term success is determined by the daily victories that result in a spiritual walk (Luke 9:23).

Scripture: Proverbs 25:28; Proverbs 16:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Peter 1:5-7; 1 Peter 4:7; 2 Timothy 1:7; Philippians 4:13

Prayer: Almighty God, make me conscious of my weaknesses, and make me ashamed of my indulgences. Give me a victory over self; and may I consider more what I put in my life. May I be eager for that which will inspire me for greater aspirations. Amen.

Wishing all of you a blessed new year!

~Eve

A New Year Prayer For You!

The Coffeehouse Bible Ministry wishes all of you a happy, safe, and blessed 2013! Our regular blog will return on January 7, 2013.  ~Eve