John 2:6-12 - The First of Jesus' Signs

John 2:6-12

6 Now there were six stone waterpots set there for the Jewish custom of purification, containing twenty or thirty gallons each. 7 Jesus said to them, “Fill the waterpots with water.” So they filled them up to the brim. 8 And He said to them, “Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter.” So they took it to him. 9 When the headwaiter tasted the water which had become wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the headwaiter called the bridegroom, 10 and said to him, “Every man serves the good wine first, and when the people have drunk freely, then he serves the poorer wine; but you have kept the good wine until now.” 11 This beginning of His signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory, and His disciples believed in Him. 12 After this He went down to Capernaum, He and His mother and His brothers and His disciples; and they stayed there a few days.

Message: The First of Jesus' Signs

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

 

What the Lord is Saying: This is a rather interesting miracle that begins Jesus' ministry. In the books of Mark and Luke, the first miracle that is mentioned is bringing the unclean spirit or demon out of a man (Mark 1:25; Luke 4:35), and in Matthew, it was healing a leper (Matthew 8:3). But here in John, the first miracle is Jesus turning water into wine. In this situation, John provides many details about the event. In the previous lesson I saw that his mother Mary was present, as well as his disciples with him at the time (probably 4-5 of them), water pots nearby for purification purposes.  

I think it is normal for us in reading these words from Jesus and scripture to glean from them multiple observations. The written word is no accident and so even in writing these words, it seems that perhaps there was more of a meaning here than meets the eye. 

For instance, verse 6 mentions that the water pots are those used for the Jewish custom of purification. This could have something to do with wedding guests purifying or washing their hands or it may have something to do with ceremonial practice of cleaning mentioned like in Exodus 30:17-21 the priests followed prior to entering the tabernacle or temple. And so in a way Jesus uses these to show something "new" that he is doing. The practice of going to the temple will no longer be needed upon his sacrifice on the cross for our sins, becoming a permanent substitute for us. 

The other thing that stands out to me is in verse 10 when the headwaiter states, “Every man serves the good wine first, and when the people have drunk freely, then he serves the poorer wine; but you have kept the good wine until now.” Again, this seems another way of expressing that in Jesus we have someone new and in Jesus we have the best that came last. It is said that others will serve good first and then poorer next but in this situation the best comes at the end. 

We also understand that what was former was good, but now this wine is the good wine which means the former wine can now be called the poorer wine. So once people experience Jesus and what He offers, everything in the past pales in comparison. 

Finally, John ends this by saying that in this sign it is not the last time, but there will be more signs and this is a form of people manifesting His glory. As it states in Hebrews 1:3, "And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high." That glory is speaking of God's glory. Earlier John had mentioned the Word becoming flesh and the glory is the glory of the Son -- John 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. 

Glory is an interesting word. Possible meanings:

• good opinion concerning one
• splendor, brightness
• magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, grace
• majesty
• a most glorious condition, most exalted state

This glory is distinct and different from anything else. And it seems that it is a word to describe the recognition of one, stating that this one has all excellence and exaltation. I think of the statement, "Give God the Glory" to me it means give God all that is due him, all the praise and excellence and great opinion that He is the one who did it, whatever that is. So to manifest His glory is to equal that glory that only God has because only God created and birthed and is in charge of all that we see. So I'm trying to figure out a little whether the glories are different - God's glory and Jesus's glory or is the glory that is talked about all for God? 

Summary: Jesus does a miracle, turning water into wine, and shows that He is better than the past; new is better than old. 

Promise: Jesus fulfills the old covenant revelation, bringing something new. The moral law continues, but the outward administration of the covenant has changed.

Prayer: Father God, you are holy and good and true. And thank you for helping me understand this message today and understand the Glory of God, though I am still figuring it out. Thank you for this message about You Jesus and coming to us and ushering in something new that is better than the past. The past paved the way, but you have sealed it and continue to give me understanding. 

I Corinthians 7:17-24 - Called from Every Vocation

I Corinthians 7:17-24

17 Only, as the Lord has assigned to each one, as God has called each, in this manner let him walk. And so I direct in all the churches. 18 Was any man called when he was already circumcised? He is not to become uncircumcised. Has anyone been called in uncircumcision? He is not to be circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but what matters is the keeping of the commandments of God. 20 Each man must remain in that condition in which he was called.

21 Were you called while a slave? Do not worry about it; but if you are able also to become free, rather do that. 22 For he who was called in the Lord while a slave, is the Lord’s freedman; likewise he who was called while free, is Christ’s slave. 23 You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men. 24 Brethren, each one is to remain with God in that condition in which he was called.

Message: Called from Every Vocation

Time: Not the first, but 2nd letter to Corinthians, but the first to survive and to be considered authoritative. Written in AD 55, it was penned after Paul had reports of quarreling in this church he had previously visited. Paul covers a number of subjects, but all focus on the Christian's life in the church. 

What the Lord is Saying: It is interesting to me to understand the context of this passage. In Paul's day, the City of Corinth was the most important city in Greece, as it was a hub of worldwide commerce, but it also was a culture that was degraded and included idolatrous religion. Paul, in this book is firm as he deals with (1) divisions in the church, (2) disorder in the church, and (3) difficulties in the church. The New Testament church is young. Christ was crucified in AD 33 and so this is 22 years later, at a time when this church does not possess the Bible that I have in front of me today in its entirety. At this time, there would have only been penned Matthew, Galatians and James and yet we simply don't know how much of these letters or words were a part of the church. And so this letter Paul is writing to the Church becomes their doctrinal statement and my guess is much of how their church begins is through word of mouth. 

Chapter 7 gives the listener at the beginning principle for married life and at the end principles for the unmarried as well as remarriage. In the middle, my Open Bible has today's reading with a heading of "Principles of Abiding in God's Call." Again, I find this interesting that Paul seems to be addressing how one is to live. 

He writes to an audience that is probably Jewish and yet also Gentile. And he brings up first circumcision - an important practice of the Jew and yet he states what should be important in the life of a follower is not this practice (verse 18), but rather what is important is keeping the commandments of God (v. 19). Verse 19 seems to be the pivotal verse of this section and namely the last part -- what matters is the keeping of the commandments of God. What matters is our obedience not who we are (freeman or slave, circumcised or not). Verse 23 says, you were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men. We are to be a people of God. We need to be concerned about what God deems important. God has bought us, called us, made us all free (verse 22 - the Lord's freedman). 

Look at the similar thinking in Galatians 5:6, a writing by Paul that occurred at the same time. he says, For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love. Circumcision is a rite or ritual, but liked I learned in the October 2017 issue of Tabletalk when I studied sacraments, this practices can be important and perhaps we can even say they are needed but I still can't say they are required. If Paul is telling us that circumcision does not mean anything in regards to freeing a man or being purchased, then it seems the purpose of the rituals or sacraments is therefore to point us towards God. And so they can be important, but we always need to be mindful that they do not in and by themselves lead to salvation nor are they on a salvation timeline or checklist that leads one to being saved or in Christ. But rather they can help us and point us toward that right relationship with God. 

I Corinthians 1:17 - For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel... This does not mean that baptism is not important. In that verse he seems to be saying to not let the issue of whether you have been baptized or not divide you. Rather be united by the gospel and who we are in Christ. 

In time I have really come to enjoy the British minister Alexander Maclaren and his writings from the 19th century. He breaks this chapter and verse down in a way that really resonates with me. Again, don't get too caught up in the ritual that you miss the relationship with Jesus. Galatians 5:6 says what is important is faith working through love. In today's passage it is keeping of the commandments of God. It is doing the will of the Father. Jesus said in Luke 22:42, Not my will, but thine be done. 

Galatians 6:15 says, For neither circumcision anything, not uncircumcision, but a new creation. What is most important is my newness in Christ. What matters is getting to that new state of John 3:16 and 2 Corinthians 5:17. 

And so I am back to what is key. What is the key? Faith is the key. By trusting in Christ I become a follower of Christ and become one that keeps the commandments of God. I am a new creature created in Christ Jesus for good works. And so I want to live for Him. I want to learn from Him. I want to be like Him. And yet I live in the world and am called to be in the world and yet not to be conformed to it. Every step, every day I am Christ. I am His. And as His I am to be about the will of the Father. It is automatic if I let it. If I let my mindset change, it will change. Don't make it about duty or checklists or rituals. Make it about Him and letting Him renew me. Let my mind be renewed. 

And so today, this lesson, "Called from Every Vocation", the lesson is simple. Be it freeman or slave, it does not matter. I am called to do the will of the Father. I do the will of the Father whether circumcised or uncircumcised, whether having been baptized or not baptized, taking the Lord's supper or not, married or not married, having children or not having children, rich or poor, Gentile or Jew, black or white, Baptist or not, Lutheran or not, Presbyterian or not. What matters is not me or my affiliation, but the will of the Father. It is not form or ritual, it is being in Christ so that then all things will flow forth. Wherever God has placed me, that is where I serve Him. 

Summary: Be it freeman or slave, it does not matter. I am called to do the will of the Father. 

Promise: The important thing to remember is that wherever we labor, we can labor for the glory of God and the good of our neighbors. 

Prayer: O God, thank you for waking me up this morning. I woke up bothered by last night and the work I was doing. Whatever it was that woke me up it brought me to Your Word and brought me to a lesson that has been on my mind so often and a lesson that I so badly wanted to know and see. The lesson is that You have saved me. And in saving me, you have made me knew. O God, how I want to get out of the way and instead let you Spirit live in me the will of the Father. It only happens because of Christ being in me. Awakened by the Spirit, brought to faith by Christ, so that I may do the will of the Father. Renew me daily. As I live in this world, I do not want to be conformed to it. Keep me non-conformed. Keep me trained for Godliness. Keep me close to you. Thank you for calling me at this moment in the work you have and from it I can serve you as good as anyone else. What matters is being in Christ. Thank you God. Thank you for gripping me today with these truths. If I can, help me to pass it on. 

Mark 2:23-26 - Picking Grain on the Sabbath

Mark 2:23-26
23 And it happened that He was passing through the grainfields on the Sabbath, and His disciples began to make their way along while picking the heads of grain. 24 The Pharisees were saying to Him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” 25 And He said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he was in need and he and his companions became hungry; 26 how he entered the house of God in the time of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the consecrated bread, which is not lawful for anyone to eat except the priests, and he also gave it to those who were with him?”
Message: Picking Grain on the Sabbath

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying: 

Recently, the readings from Mark have been it seems to prove a point, basically that Jesus comes with a new message and this message is different from the ritual thinking of the past, so choose Christ. As these occur, Mark is often offering questions from the Pharisees or scribes as they tend to be the holders of all things that are traditional in thought in these cities. Today is no different. The issue today is doing work on the Sabbath.

In my lifetime, having grown up in the 70s, I've seen the Sabbath day change. Granted, for the Jew Sabbath is sundown Friday to sundown Saturday, but for me Sabbath has always been Sunday, the day of church. I remember shopping centers and most stores being closed on Sunday but then in the 80s and beyond they began to open and now in the last 20 years church has become much more optional in people's lives which means that Sunday is just another day for many.

But this is a different issue i think. I am talking about a day of rest and Jesus is here pointing out not so much an issue of working on the Sabbath day but I think he is talking more about doing some different from the traditions that have been set up that mark religious piety. Thus, it is a continued conversation about that issue talked about prior in regards to providing forgiveness of sins, not simply healing, and the issue of fasting all the time, versus specific times and for the disciples maybe its not even needed since Jesus is present in their lives and then also the issue of wine skins to express that Jesus once again is doing a new thing. And this Jesus thing even transcends the thinking that one can't work on the Sabbath. I'm not sure if the message is that there is freedom in Christ, though there is obviously. And I'm not sure the focus is that one can't do any work on the Sabbath. To me, it is more of an issue that Jesus and his message transcends all of life and as Paul will mention often in Romans as he speaks to circumcision and caretakers of the law, while Jesus isn't saying those things aren't important, but he is saying that Jesus has brought a new message and salvation is through personal acknowledgment of sin, repentance and believing and following God's Messiah - Jesus. So its not so much what we do but who we are following. And as we get our focus off of works or rituals or duty and instead onto Jesus there is grace. We still need to have a sabbath. We still need to fast from our idols. We still need to drink from our wine skins, but we also need to evaluate life and figure out if we are doing things in order to earn God's acceptance by doing those things or if we are really following Jesus and letting him define our world.

Even my reading of the scripture daily, it can become an idol or something that I feel like I must do. In a way it is, but my real aim is staying focused on learning from Jesus each day and the benefit of living my life in learning of Him. My goal is obedience and following him all my days. So it doesn't then give me the freedom to just sit and watch TV, or go to movies, or view whatever I want from my phone, or work instead of ministry or not attend church or avoid the Lord's Supper or working every day and never resting. Those things are still important in my life but I do them not to earn piety or favoritism from God, but more out of worship. Sometimes I will be faithful, sometimes I may miss the boat, but through it all Jesus acceptance and love for me does not change. So, I can pick grain on the Sabbath, though I may end up spending most of my life not picking grain. But, I can do it and it won't affect my salvation because I already believe.

Promise: I need to focus on Jesus in my everyday life and following him, not simply thinking that following rules or tradition merits God's acceptance. It is Jesus everyday.

Prayer: Lord, keep changing my thinking and conforming it to the message of the gospel. Thank you for reminding me that life is about following you and being in relationship with you. You transcend all of life. Practicing my faith is important, but not if it because a checklist item that I must meet to be spiritual. Instead, help me to be pure in my motives so that practicing my faith becomes something I must do to follow you. Let it be worship. It is worship to spend time with you each day. It is worship to attend church and be in fellowship. Thank you Lord for reminding me of how you transcend life.

Mark 2:21-22 - New Wine for New Wineskins

Mark 2:21-22
21 “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; otherwise the patch pulls away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear results. 22 No one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost and the skins as well; but one puts new wine into fresh wineskins.”

Message: New Wine for New Wineskins

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying: 

Mark continues his theme from yesterday, namely, that Christ has come with a new message. In the last lesson, I looked at fasting and why it is needed; the disciples didn't need it to occur while they were alongside the bridegroom - Jesus. And now here are two verses about 'putting new wine into new wine skins.' Fasting was an issue that perhaps Mark brought up because people historically look to fasting as a recognition that someone is living in a pious (religious or spiritual) manner. The message here is that Jesus is doing something new in people's lives and so the historical practices done (like fasting) in order to prove yourself worthy are refuted. 

Thus, now, this message about wine skins, the idea that Jesus is doing something new and therefore, there are to be new bottles for the new wine. Jesus has come with the the love of God towards sinful men and women. Jesus' new doctrine does not match with the old doctrine of fasting for repentance of sin. No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. An old piece or a piece like the garment would be a better fit. I Corinthians 15:33 says, Bad company ruins good morals. The idea has always been that we are not to be unequally yoked because the one that is bad generally rubs off on the one that is good. The word here translated for new (verse 22) means rude, undressed, not fulled and if wet, the old would bleed onto the new. Thus, the old piece would mess up the new.

No one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost and the skins as well; but one puts new wine into fresh wineskins. 

From Albert Barnes - Bottles, in Eastern nations, were made, and are still made, of skins of beasts. Generally the skin was taken entire from a sheep or a goat, and properly prepared, was filled with wine or water. Such bottles are still used, because, in crossing deserts of sand, they have no other conveyances but camels, or other beasts of burden. It would be difficult for them to carry glass bottles or kegs on them. They therefore filled two skins, and fasten them together and lay them across the back of a camel, and thus carry wine or water to a great distance. These bottles were of different sizes, as the skins of goats, kids. or oxen might be used. By long usage, bottles of skins became tender and would easily be ruptured. New wine put into them would ferment, and swell and burst open. New skins or bottles would yield to the fermenting wine, and be strong enough to hold it from bursting. So, says, Christ, there is a fitness of things. It is not fit that my doctrine should be attached to or connected with the old and corrupt doctrines of the Pharisees. New things should be put together, and made to match. 

Jesus is giving a new message. That new message needs to not be attached to the old messages, but instead it stands alone and apart. With Christ, Today is a New Day 

 

Promise: If our non-biblical mandated traditions are ends in themselves, they will keep us from seeing Jesus. If we make them unalterable, we will never be reformed according to God's word.

Prayer: You make all things new Lord. You do not simple refine what is old into something new, but you start over. This is what you meant by being born again, we start afresh with you in a new manner. Thank you for awakening me and giving me new life. Continue to bring others to that same saving knowledge of you.

Galatians 3:23-29 - All Sons and Daughters

Galatians 3:23-29
23 But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. 24 Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. 25 But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.

Message: All Sons and Daughters (presented by Josh Swanson, Hope Church, Eastside, August 28, 2017)

Time: Paul wrote to the churches in southern Galatia after having a hand in starting them on his first missionary journey to Asia Minor. Paul wrote the book a few months before his attendance at the Jerusalem Council in AD 49. The Galatians fell away quickly from the gospel of grace Paul had preached to them and their disloyalty to Paul’s authority as an apostle. Paul began the letter defending that very issue. In chapter 3 he begin to get to the heart of their error; namely, that these Galatians sought to be justified by the Mosaic Law. In contrast, Paul presented his argument that justification comes to people by faith in Jesus Christ, not by their works under the Law.

What the Lord is Saying:

Josh started out with a discussion of orphans, mentioning how many of our stories in movies and characters are about people that are orphans. We all have a need to belong - to be embraced - we connect with characters - humanity feels a lostness - alienation - we feel disconnected - we feel homeless - the Bible speaks to this - answers the question “What is wrong with me?” - Adam/Eve paradise lost; Paul strangers and aliens (Not of this world) - Yet God is the healer of what is wrong - God brings reconciliation - God adopts us, bringing us home.

The key message of today's text comes from verse 26 - For you are all sons of God

1. Before Faith - Israel is confined by laws, ceremonies, rituals.
1. But this was temporary
2. in Christ, we are full sons of God
3. in Ch. 4, we are moved from slaves to sons
2. Rich Text - we are heirs, so what does this mean
1. In Exodus  - children of Israel were brought out of slavery
2. Reason you are a son is being united with Jesus
3. What is true for Jesus in his relationship with God is also true for us
4. Verse 26 says "All" and in verse 28, "all one" (I was reminded of the Sheila Walsh song from the 80s, "We're all one.")
3. Adoption as defined in the Greco Roman world
1. Families cared for families, specifically Jewish
2. But in Greco-roman world adoptions occurred
3. 7 or 8 Caesar leaders were adopted; Caesar Augustus was adopted by Julius Caesar to maintain the hierarchy
4. Octavion said that Julius thought by Octavion to be one of God's so Caesar Augustus gave him the name son of God.
5. Every President of the United States makes a similar claim that he will make America great again
6. This is the tone in this world that Paul proclaims his message
4. Jesus divests himself to the lowest type of person - "a slave"
1. The meaning of adoption in that day was infant exposure or taking a child and throwing it on the trash heap where it would end up a slave or in brothels and have no dignity or worth
2. Jesus becomes the lowest class person once again - "We are all sons of God."
3. The only recipient of heirs are sons, but God here is making everyone a recipient; this is an explosive message
5. This was a radical message
1. A whole new community; our new identity in Christ
2. But do we show partiality in our faith
3. Do we treat each other the same?
4. God is forming a new community
5. It's a new social movement
1. western nations all have dignity and worth (humanistic values)
2. equally birthed in Christian movement
3. Luke Ferry, philosopher in France wrote - "Christianity introduced concept that all classes of people have equal identity; Christianity was the pre-cursor of modern democracy; "All men are created equal."
4. people like equal dignity
5. Civil Rights movement is another example
6. All these movements ideas, at their core, is found in Jesus Christ's message of adoption of the lowest class of people
7. Do we care about everyone?
6. A new Vision of God
1. In the pantheon of god's you go to a different god to get what you want
2. But everywhere Jesus calls him My Father
3. He invites us into same relationship
4. How do I become a child of God?
7. What has God done for us
1. God becomes man, a slave, exile, suffers, dies
2. Every time Jesus speaks to God he calls him "Father" except for 1, when he is dying on the cross
3. Faith is the open hand that receives the gift
4. Turn from wandering to welcoming
5. Read the prayer of belief

Prayer of Belief: Lord, Jesus Christ, I admit that I am weaker and more sinful than I ever imagined, but through you, I am more loved and accepted than I ever dared to hope. I thank you for paying my debt, bearing my punishment, and offering forgiveness. I turn from my sins and receive you as Savior. Amen. 

This is a strong message. We are all children of God. There are no class systems. The true message of the Gospel is everyone is a priest. We are all made in the image of God. Jesus was a different kind of leader, he submitted himself to others. Each person is filled by Jesus' presence. The new humanity is one of equality.

Promise: We are all full sons of God. We are this way because of our unity with Christ. What is true of Jesus is true of me. I have been adopted. All men are created equal.

Prayer: Lord, it is difficult sometimes to see how we are trained in this world. It is hard to see the messages of church and religion and the separation that takes place between people in society. Lord, thank you that this isn't your message. Lord, you came to save us. You came to make us fellow heirs of the promise. You came to remind us we are all made in your image. Thank you for showing us this about ourselves and seeing such value in us. Thank you for truth. Thank you for making me a son of God.

Jesus Calling: January 1

Come to Me with a teachable spirit, eager to be changed. A close walk with Me is a life of continual newness. Do not cling to old ways as you step into a new year. Instead, seek My Face with an open mind, knowing that your journey with Me involves being transformed by the renewing of your mind. As you focus your thoughts on Me, be aware that I am fully attentive to you. I see you with a steady eye, because My attention span is infinite. I know and understand you completely; My thoughts embrace you in everlasting Love. I also know the plans I have for you: plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Give yourself fully to this adventure of increasing attentiveness to My Presence. 

Romans 12:2
English Standard Version
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
 
Jeremiah 29:11
English Standard Version
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

My Prayer
I come to You Lord, ready to change. I want to sing a new song to You. Thank you for a new day and that Your mercies are new every morning. I am ready to be renewed, so if you want to remove things from my life that I am holding onto, then I am ready. I will trust you, for you know what is best for me. This doesn't mean this year will be absent of trials, disappointments, heartaches, and difficulties, that is not what I am praying, but instead I want it to be lived in Your Presence, submitting and surrendering to You and accepting what You provide. 

1/1/19
O God, my King, the great and awesome Lord, You are great. I am reminded Lord that you are most concerned about my future. You know what I need and You will use everything in my life for good. Help me daily to remember this future as too often I get overly obsessed with today and what is happening. 

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Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Psalm 45:10-17 - The King's Glorious Bride

Psalm 45:10-17
Listen, O daughter, give attention and incline your ear: forget your people and your father’s house; then the King will desire your beauty. Because He is your Lord, bow down to Him. The daughter of Tyre will come with a gift; the rich among the people will seek your favor. The King’s daughter is all glorious within; her clothing is interwoven with gold. She will be led to the King in embroidered work; the virgins, her companions who follow her, will be brought to You. They will be led forth with gladness and rejoicing; they will enter into the King’s palace. In place of your fathers will be your sons; you shall make them princes in all the earth. I will cause Your name to be remembered in all generations; therefore the peoples will give You thanks forever and ever.

Message: The King's Glorious Bride

Time: The psalms were written by many different people across a period of a thousand years in Israel's history. They are thought to have been compiled and put together in their present form by some unknown editor shortly after the captivity ended about 537 B.C.

What the Lord is Saying:

To Cleave, One must Leave
This is an interesting passage, that I am growing to understand more and more. Verse 10 begins with, "Listen, O daughter." This could be the father of the bride speaking to his daughter, specifically addressing the daughters soon to be marriage and how she is to prepare and conduct herself as she begins that new life. "Incline your ear" which means these words are very important; listen carefully. We often walk through life with a big helping of junk food, primarily enjoying what brings immediate satisfaction, but this is a reminder to stop and prepare. Think seriously about the relationship and the union that you are embarking on here with your mate. "Forget your people and your father's house." Do not pine after that which you have left. When two become one, they leave father and mother and are united together. They begin a new life. Their focus is to be on each other. The daughter is told to not hold onto the past and her past surroundings and life. It can be normal because that past is comfortable and familiar. But, a daughter is now to focus on her husband and become familiar and comfortable in his presence. Often, the best thing 2 people can do that are married is not to live in the same town as their parents or nearby, but to begin to make a home for themselves that is unique.

Respecting the husband
"Then the King will desire your beauty" or then your husband will desire you. I wonder; wives often can't understand why their husbands are not more present with them, but are they present with their husband or are they living some place else? So, in response to leaving your current world, the King will desire you. The Bible is full of references of the new life we have in Christ. We are born again; killing the old man; a new creature, the old is gone. In the same way, a daughter leaves her world, forgetting her old home, and devotes herself to her new husband. She secures his affection.

"He is your Lord, bow down to Him" means that the wife is to show proper respect to Him.  These are words and actions that we normally use to describe our relationship with God or Jesus, but more intentionally here, they refer to the wife and her new allegiance to her husband. The tone of these words should spark in us not simply a leader/pupil mindset but more the union that should occur between husband and wife. The husband is to understand his role. This is tough because our culture has wandered so far from this type of wife/husband relationship.

Tyre was a city of great extent and splendor, and extensive commerce. It abounded in luxury and wickedness. There are no signs of the city today. This verse says Tyre will come with a gift; the rich among the people will seek your favor. I think the idea is our desire in life is for the good things, luxury, splendor, abundance. And the Psalmist is explaining that the result of having a proper respect toward your husband will bring great merit and outcomes to your life. Jesus said, "I did not come to be served, but to serve." Again, we must train ourselves according to God and His word; this is the best way, not societies way of every person for themselves. I was driving down the road yesterday and just looking at cars and reminding myself of the passenger seat that is present in every car. We are not meant to be alone, but to have someone with us.

Presenting the bride
Every marriage ceremony is the same: the father escorts the daughter down the aisle with the looking utterly beautiful, presenting herself, not to everyone, but to her future husband the best that she knows how. There is preparation; there is time spent getting ready. And it is always the same, the bride walks down the aisle ("Here comes the bride"). As this verse says, The King’s daughter is all glorious within; her clothing is interwoven with gold. I remember this in my own life. I was indeed starstruck like never before. It was indeed glorious. With Pamela that moment represented her well, as soft and gentle. It is easily the greatest gift that I have ever been given. And yes, it should remind me of the way I am to present myself before Christ. He is to receive my best.

But it is more than just a father and a bride, it is the bride's companions. We call it the wedding party, but what happens is amazing in our weddings. The men are all up front and then the wife's companions walk down the aisle one by one. She will be led to the King in embroidered work; the virgins, her companions who follow her, will be brought to You. Yet, here, it speaks of them following the bride. But, it is still the same idea. But they come in the same beautiful way, presenting themselves with glory and splendor.

Let's celebrate
The wedding is often an entire day of activity, but it can also be a celebration over several days. Obviously, some culture mark it with longer celebrations, but it is an event of joy and gladness and rejoicing. They will be led forth with gladness and rejoicing; they will enter into the King’s palace. The honeymoon is meant to consummate the marriage.  Maybe in those times there was an immediate entrance to the new husband's home and palace.

The King's Distinction
As the focus of this Psalm is on the King and What he is receiving, here it points out that rather than his fame or celebrity or distinction being derived from his position, wealth, or performance, instead what will set him apart will be his sons (or his children). This should focus us on what is most important -- our children. In place of your fathers will be your sons; you shall make them princes in all the earth.

And then here more specifically, I see that the wife is speaking and saying that her actions will cause the King to be remembered. I think this is important. The wife has a lot to do with the greatness of the husband. I will cause Your name to be remembered in all generations; therefore the peoples will give You thanks forever and ever. But, this also could be talking about the man presenting the one that is over all, the Messiah because the people will give thanks forever and ever.  I think it could go either way.

Promise: It is all about the presentation.

Romans 10:4 - Christ, The Goal of the Law

Romans 10:4 - For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.

Message: Christ, the end of the law

Time: Written in AD 57 from Greece, to the Christians, both Gentile and Jewish in Rome.

What the Lord is Saying:

I really love these verses. I think what I love is to notice things in life that are completely contrary to the message we often we receive in life through the world and its message.

I must admit, I have spent the past 3 weeks talking to a Muslim through GMO and he has asked some interesting questions.This message that Paul is speaking. Is it the same message of the Gospels? I don't know if I can really answer that right now, but I do know that Jesus was all about faith. And what he saw in others was faith. They had faith in Him. They believed in Him and because of that belief good things did happen to them. So, there is power in faith. And if there is power in faith then there is not power in works. We can't have both. Works are important, most definitely, but faith is what separates those who know Christ and those who pretend. And Paul is clearly mentioning a dividing line between the two.

The focus of the Old Testament and the Jew is pointing people to a Messiah. The Jews recognize this clearly. All the focus is on a Savior, on someone that will permanently take away sin.

From Precept Austin site:

Everything about the Jewish religion pointed to the coming Messiah—their sacrifices, priesthood, temple services, religious festivals, and covenants. Their Law, the Temple ceremonies, the sacrifices, etc were all "word pictures" given by God to tell His chosen people that they were sinners in need of a Savior. But instead of letting these "pictures" and the Law bring them to Christ (as mentioned in Galatians 3:24 "the law is our tutor, bringing us to Christ"), they worshiped their Law and rejected their Savior! The Law like the tabernacle, temple, and sacrifices was a signpost, pointing the way. It was a means to an end, not the end itself. It could never take them to their destination. The Law cannot give righteousness but only lead the sinner to the Savior Who Alone was the source of God pleasing righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30 - "But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption").

So once again, Paul isn't saying anything new. He is instead looking at the Old Testament and bringing together the words and themes of the Old Testament with the Messiah.

Fulfillment of the Law by the Savior
In Matthew 5:13-20 Jesus talks about fulfilling the Law and the Prophets. He states that he did not come to abolish but fulfill. Paul reiterates this many times in Romans stating the Jesus fulfilled the Law. And by doing so that fulfillment is passed onto me through faith. Christ did the work, we receive it. But we are to be obedient to the Law. Don't think for a second that we are not to be about law fulfilling ourselves. This is clear in this passage in Matthew 5.

End of the Law for the Saints
Yet, in this verse, it states the end of the law. So, while what I have said above is true, Paul's words here are that the Law, as a means of attaining righteousness, has ceased.

Jeremiah 31:31-32 - “Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, not like the covenant which I made with their fathers in the day I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, although I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord.


Hebrews 8:13 - When He said, “A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. But whatever is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to disappear.

But, I'm still not sure that the intent of the Law was ever to make a person righteous. It is a standard and it is something to be followed, but I don't think that what Paul is saying here is that something has changed. His audience is the Jews primarily, though he speaks to Gentiles as well. So, his focus is on speaking their truth and they believed the Law, in its entirety, was to be kept, for the purpose of being declared righteous? Is that correct?

Believe produces a new heart
Belief is an individual thing. Each person must have a belief. Each person must make an individual decision. We are not grafted into the faith because of the family we were born into or the people we hang around with.

Ezekiel 36:26-27 - Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances.


I am made new in Christ.

Believe is really one of the most powerful words we have. People believe so many different things in their life. I think it is so interesting all the different ways in which people believe, in which they hold something to be true. Yet, the belief that is being talked about here produces a change, produces a new life, produces a difference in me. That is what I always see as incredible. Christ in me produced a change in me. And people all over take on a new life in Christ. It's a beautiful thing.

But, this end of the Law only occurs to those that believe.


Promise: Christ fulfilled the Law, not so we wouldn't have to, but because we couldn't.

Romans 8:9 - The Indwelling Spirit of God

Romans 8:9 - However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.

Message: The Indwelling of the Spirit of God in Me

Time: This book was probably written between 56 and 57 B.C. Paul was in Greece, probably Corinth when he wrote. It was sent to Gentile believers, but also believers with a strong Jewish element.

What the Lord is Saying:

Review
The end of chapter 7 seemed to show a contrast being the Law and the Mind. That, as new creatures in Christ, we want to fulfill the Law, but we still have sinful tendencies. Chapter 8 seems to be contrasting a life lived in the flesh versus a life lived according to the Spirit.

If the Spirit Dwells in You.
Obviously, one of the more contentious applications in the Scripture is whether the Spirit of God is immediately a part of the believers life upon believing in Christ for our salvation or if there is some separate act whereby the influence of the Spirit comes into our life. That there is some type of indwelling that must take place.

Up to this point, there has been nothing about Paul's words to make it sound like there is some separate act. Romans 8:2 mentions "the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death." Romans 7:6 states that I have been released from the Law and serve in the Spirit. It is the Spirit that produces righteous living in my life. In reading chapter 7, verses 14-25 it speaks of this conflict between two natures. Verse 14, "The Law is spiritual, I am of flesh." When I don't do what I want, sin dwells in me (verse 20). So, even in the life of the Christian, there can be an indwelling of sin. And it culminates in verse 25 by reminding me that I am new in Christ. And because of being new I have a new mind. And I can serve the Law of God. But, I still have sinful tendencies.

So, what do I learn from chapter 7. I learn that I was made to die to the Law. I was made to be released from the requirements of the Law. I was made to be joined to Christ. And when I am joined, I might bear fruit for God. I don't like that word "might" because might is not definite but infers an option. The King James Version uses the word "should" which doesn't take on that much of a different meaning. I am to bring forth fruit and I can't bring forth fruit when I entwined with the doing the Law. Verse 6 seems to be clear that I have been released from the requirement of the Law, namely that I have been released from the Law being the judge and jury in my life. And now, I am to walk in newness of the Spirit. The rest of chapter 7 shows me two things: The importance of the Law to show me I'm a sinner and therefore, show me the need for a Savior. And also that in the life of a Christian there are two natures. Again, have I done anything to answer the question of whether or not the Spirit dwelling in me is automatic or a separate act? I don't think so. Not in chapter 7.

What happened in the previous chapter? Chapter 6 showed me that in Christ I am freed from sin (verse 7). In Christ my old self or ways have been crucified. But in 6:4 I see something familiar in the wording, "That i might walk in newness of life." So might could also mean a choice. I have a choice as to how I will walk. Consider myself dead to sin (verse 11). I have a choice as to how I live. Even though God sees me as dead to sin (verse 10, 11). God wants me to see myself the same way he sees me.

So, don't give sin the light of day (verse 12). Don't choose sin. In Chapter 6, the Spirit is not mentioned. The Flesh is mentioned one time to remind us that we are weak in the flesh (verse 19). People of grace are not to let sin be master over them for grace is contrary to sin. Obedience to the Law results in sin. But, people of grace are different.

But, I go back to my question, is there something separate about having a spirit dwell in me? Is there some separate act or is the indwelling of the spirit automatic? I don't know. I still don't see an answer to this in chapter 6 and 7. Again, Romans 8 speaks of living in the flesh versus living in the Spirit. A person is new in Christ but that doesn't mean a person lives in the Spirit. That's what I'm wondering.

In Chapter 5, I do have peace with God (verse 1). But, justification is definitely different from sanctification.

No Spirit, then you are not in Him
The end of verse 9 is therefore the part that confused me more, maybe. It says, "if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him." Clearly, I belong to Him. That has been established in the previous chapters upon my belief in Christ at the end of chapter 3. So, I do belong to Him. So, therefore, I have the Spirit of Christ. But, is having the spirit of Christ different from the indwelling of the Spirit. And if so, how does one, have this indwelling? Clearly, this is something I want so that I am not living in the flesh. The flesh cannot please God. So, I don't want the flesh. I don't want to serve the flesh. I don't want to obey sin. 

I don't think I have a conclusion at the moment. I have confused myself a little. 

One thing that does seem to be clear is that there is a new way of living. Don't let sin reign in me (chapter 6). I have peace with God (Chapter 5). The Law has no hold on me (chapter 7). Non-flesh living is Spirit living. So, if I have the Spirit of God do I also have the indwelling of the Spirit? It seems true that i have the Spirit of God upon conversion. I don't want sin. I don't want to be in the flesh. I want to live according to the Spirit.

Promise: The Spirit in Me is important for living not in the flesh.

Romans 6:3-4 - Baptized Into Christ

Romans 6:3-4 - 3 Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.

Message: Being baptized apart from actually being baptized

Time: Paul wrote Romans from Corinth as he prepared to leave for Palestine. Phoebe (16:1,2) was given the great responsibility of delivering the letter to the Romans believers. At this time, Rome had a population of 1 million, many of whom were slaves. The Romans church was doctrinally sound, but it still needed rich doctrine and practical application. Rome had massive buildings but also slums.

What the Lord is Saying:

Background
The first 5 chapters of Romans has dealt mainly with doctrine. Paul is set apart to preach the gospel of God (1:1-15) and the righteous man shall live by faith (1:16-17). Every person is accountable to God because every person is a sinner and has not done good all the time, so no matter how you are affiliated with God, God will look at and judge each person the same (1:18-3:20). There is nothing a person can do to make himself right with God, as we are helpless without Him. Instead we believe in Jesus, in accordance with grace, that He lived a perfect life, died, His blood was shed, and He conquered death. This belief in Him credits us with righteousness and our sin is thrown on Christ. We are no longer seen as sinners, but as being in Christ (3:21-4:25). And we have peace with God and access with Him forever (5:1-11). Christ justified us one time because Adam sinned one time. Christ's justification is once for all because Adam sinned once for all (5:12-21).

Transition
How then shall we live? What place does sin have in our life? Well, for one, we don't now sin more so that grace will increase more in our life (6:1-2). We don't remain in Adam. We go forward and live life in Christ.

The picture of baptism
Paul then brings us the picture of baptism. Baptism is a picture to signify what has occurred in a person's life. Baptism is an ordinance that we are instructed to do, similar to circumcision to the Jew. But, there is disagreement among many whether infant baptism is sufficient or baptism by immersion after one has placed their trust in Christ. On one hand, Jesus was baptized and he obviously wasn't needing to be saved so his baptism didn't occur following a conversion, but he did get baptized to give us the practice and help us see that it is something we are to do.

Burying sin
The point that Paul seems to be covering so far in these first few verses of Chapter 6 is the dying to sin that has occurred by being in Christ. A saved person should have no desire for sin. And that could mean many different things to a person. But, there should be a change that has occurred in a person. My life should not continue to look like I am in Adam. Thus, I should not continue to sin.

And now here in verse 3, Paul explains why, because sin has been buried. Baptism is a picture of putting to death sin and putting to death my old life. It is obviously describing an old way of living life that must be put asunder.

This is what I believe I must see in another person to show that they have truly made a decision to follow Christ. Has their been a life change in them? Do they see their life in Christ as being different now? And is it anything more than wanting to do more good than bad?

Newness of Life
I'm not sure at this point what that newness of life looks like in the life of the new creature in Christ. It is clear that we are no longer in Adam, but now that we are not, what does in Christ look like? I'm not sure if this verse necessarily answers that question. But, it is clear that we were dead because Paul tells me that just as Jesus was raised from the dead, from being dead, so am I also being raised from the dead.

Promise: Baptism confirms and reminds that we are new in Christ.

Zechariah 10

Message: The Lord will restore His people

Time: The focus remains on the first coming of Christ. This is taking place after the completion of the temple. 480-470BC

What the Lord is Saying:

• The Lord promises a restoration for his people. 
• He will send rain, restoring their pastures (crops) to abundance. 
• His people need a shepherd, otherwise they walk lost and aimless, trusting in pipe dreams.
• A shepherd has the power of making the flock strong and glorious. 
• God will send a Cornerstone
• The Cornerstone will make His warriors mighty
• His warriors will trample their enemies because the Lord will be with them. 
• The Lord will strengthen His people because of His compassion. 
• He is their Lord and His people will have happiness because of something they take in apart from themselves (like wine). 
• They will listen to me when I call. 
• The few remaining will grow numerous.
• Though they are spread out, they will be united. 
• And they will one day be regathered. 
• The Lord makes His people strong. 

"By my authority, they will go wherever they wish." - not sure what this means

What I see from this passage is our need for a shepherd. Without a shepherd, the sheep or we, wander, trusting in words from others that never really lead us down the right path. Being in Christ, being with the Lord, means being guided by Him and what results by being in Him is a joy or happiness that in a way, is outside our knowing of how this happens. Like the way drinking wine effects us.

Verses 1-3 remind me of how little has changed in history. Sure, we have changes, but in the end, many look for guidance from idols and people that they think are making sense, rather than trusting in the Lord, the Shepherd. And then the sheep struggle remaining faithful. That's why, as I study God's word, I'm amazed by the phrase "be careful." It is a phrase I see often in Scripture. We must be careful for it is easy to be veered off course, even from those that are over us.

Lord, I pray you would gather Your sheep and Your sheep would hear your voice. Lord, make me more dependent on You. Help me to see that my strength is found in your camp and following after you. Thank you for calling me.

Promise: The Lord makes His people strong.

Jesus Calling: February 17

    I am the Risen One who shines upon you always. You worship a living Deity, not some idolatrous, man-made image. Your relationship with Me is meant to be vibrant and challenging, as I invade more and more areas of your life. Do not fear change, for I am making you a new creation, with old things passed away and new things continually on the horizon. When you cling to old ways and sameness, you resist My work within you. I want you to embrace all that I am doing in your life, finding your security in Me alone.
    It is easy to make an idol of routine, finding security within the boundaries you build around your life. Although each day contains twenty-four hours, every single one presents a unique set of circumstances. Don't try to force-fit today into yesterday's mold. Instead, ask Me to open your eyes, so you can find all I have prepared for you in this precious day of Life. 

Matthew 28:5-7
English Standard Version
But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.”

2 Corinthians 5:17
English Standard Version
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Thoughts
We need to constantly be open to God and what He is doing. Be careful to not get comfortable in the sameness of your routines, to the point that you get comfortable with the boundaries that you have built around your life. Being new in Christ means God is doing new things and my life is not to be lived in the old patterns. Always in accordance to His will, His ways. Don't take too many trips down memory lane. Don't get ahead of yourself. Focus on today and what God is doing around you today.

My Prayer
Lord, I want to behold You each day. Thank you for the work you have done in my life and carrying me through the yesterday's. Now, I rely on You for today. Be new in me. There is great wonder in getting something new and I pray that I would enjoy new songs and new understand of Your word and new application. Help me to not get comfortable ever and help me to stay close to you, being careful to being obedient to all that you have commanded. 

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author. 

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Ezekiel 47

Message: The River of Healing from the Temple, Boundaries for the Land

Time: Vision from the Lord of the Temple

What the Lord is Saying:

Reminding us once again that this vision is symbolic and not literal: Back to the entrance of the Temple (end times) where a stream is flowing beneath the door of the Temple. This stream will flow in the Dead Sea providing it with health and many living creatures (new creation). Fruit trees will abound on both sides of the river. A new crop will be there each month based upon the river flowing from the Temple.

And the Land will be divided among the 12 tribes of Israel;

1. Joseph descendants - 2 shares
2. All others - equal portion

Promise: When God touches something it goes from death to life. God provides for His people.