In living out Romans 12:1-2, two areas that can easily be abused are submission to authority and love. Authority is a reality of life and our sin nature tends to buck it. But Paul lays out some pretty clear commands in verses 1-7 regarding governing authorities.
First of all, no one is exempt: “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities…” secondly, God put ‘em in authority: “…for there is no authority except that which God has established.” Thirdly, you go against them, it’s like you’re up against God – which isn’t good: “he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” Finally, these authorities are in place to protect & punish: “he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing.” As a result, we are to give everyone what we owe them!
Paul then uses this transition into the ONE THING we should owe each other: Love!~ Love is the motivation to being a faithful, transformed witness! And time is running out: “The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.”
SO WHAT?!
*So, when was the last time you got busted for something? A traffic ticket? Texting in class? Stealing? How did you respond? Justify your actions or accept the rebuke & change? Transformational living requires change – Lord help us!
*Each day we live is another day we are closer to being with Jesus, and one less day to be His witness. James says our life is like a “mist” – poof it’s gone! Kinda’ sobering huh?! So, what are you & I doing with our “mist”? Lord wake us up and help us to live verses 12-14!
Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 129 - Romans 12: Metamorphic Living
Another incredible chapter! Paul has spent the first 11 chapters laying out a detailed description of salvation in Jesus Christ alone. He begins with “Therefore” and I’ve always learned when I see this word to ask, “What’s it there for?” Therefore, in other words, because of everything in chapters 1-11, this is application – the “So What” of Romans. The first thing we’re reminded of is “God’s mercy.” You & I deserve eternal death & punishment for our sins but are offered eternal life in heaven by grace thru faith instead. We don’t get what we deserve – that is mercy. Because of this, Paul says we should “offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God…” In the Old Testament, God required the sacrifice (death) of animals to cover sin. Now we are urged to offer our bodies to God as LIVING sacrifices – laying aside our own desires to follow Jesus, which is “holy and pleasing to God.” The motivation? “this is your spiritual act of worship.” – i.e. it’s the least we can do for God who has shown us such incredible mercy!
So how do we go about living like this? “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Pretty cool word usage here: conform = “morphe” and transform = “metamorphe’, from which we get our English word metamorphosis. You know, where the caterpillar turns into a beautiful butterfly – TOTALLY DIFFERENT = transformed. You and I when we put our trust in Jesus are called to be totally different. In a sense we get a heart transplant and are not to be at all like we were before!
And where does this change start? “By the renewing of the mind” – how we think, Thinking always precedes doing. I’ve said it before, actions do speak louder than words, but attitudes speak louder still! Selfish, prideful, self-centered thinking is to be replaced by a selfless, sacrificial and humble thinking: “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment…”
Transformational living involves sacrifice, a renewed mind, a sense of humility and in 4-8 in means being a good steward of our “measure of faith.” God has given each of us at least one spiritual gift and He wants us to use it for Him!
Finally, this transformational living is founded on love: “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” What follows is a list of commands that will keep us busy the rest of our lives!
SO WHAT?
*What is your motivation for living for God? According to this passage, it should be our appreciation for God’s mercy? Specifically, how has God been merciful to you? Take a moment today and write down the ways and then tell God thanks for each of them. This could be a really cool exercise!
*Is your life different from the life you lived before Jesus? Do you think like God thinks? Love like He loves? Do as He would do? Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can we. The problem with life is it is so daily. We must DAILY ask God for help to live a transformed life. Have you asked Him yet today?
*Of the commands in 9-21, which one do you need the most help with? Ask God today to help you to be transformed in that area!
So how do we go about living like this? “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Pretty cool word usage here: conform = “morphe” and transform = “metamorphe’, from which we get our English word metamorphosis. You know, where the caterpillar turns into a beautiful butterfly – TOTALLY DIFFERENT = transformed. You and I when we put our trust in Jesus are called to be totally different. In a sense we get a heart transplant and are not to be at all like we were before!
And where does this change start? “By the renewing of the mind” – how we think, Thinking always precedes doing. I’ve said it before, actions do speak louder than words, but attitudes speak louder still! Selfish, prideful, self-centered thinking is to be replaced by a selfless, sacrificial and humble thinking: “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment…”
Transformational living involves sacrifice, a renewed mind, a sense of humility and in 4-8 in means being a good steward of our “measure of faith.” God has given each of us at least one spiritual gift and He wants us to use it for Him!
Finally, this transformational living is founded on love: “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” What follows is a list of commands that will keep us busy the rest of our lives!
SO WHAT?
*What is your motivation for living for God? According to this passage, it should be our appreciation for God’s mercy? Specifically, how has God been merciful to you? Take a moment today and write down the ways and then tell God thanks for each of them. This could be a really cool exercise!
*Is your life different from the life you lived before Jesus? Do you think like God thinks? Love like He loves? Do as He would do? Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can we. The problem with life is it is so daily. We must DAILY ask God for help to live a transformed life. Have you asked Him yet today?
*Of the commands in 9-21, which one do you need the most help with? Ask God today to help you to be transformed in that area!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 128 - Romans 11: Israel’s Unbelief
This can be a very confusing chapter. The problem with talking in generalities is just that – it’s generally true but not always. We’ve been reading about the nation of Israel, the Jews, rejecting Jesus as Messiah. But in the first 10 verses of this chapter we read, and are reminded, that NOT ALL Jews have rejected Jesus as Messiah! Just like God’s response to Elijah, Paul writes of Israel, “So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.”
“Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles…” As a “non-Jew”, I am grateful to the Jewish people for rejecting Jesus because it led to MY salvation! I’ve been added in! Verse 23 is a reminder of the grace, kindness and sternness of God: “Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off.”
Then comes verse 26 – “And so all Israel will be saved…” Huh? What does this mean? I believe it is this: God chose the nation of Israel and He has never rejected it. God also the church, through Jesus Christ, and He will never reject them (most of us) either. This doesn’t mean that all Jews and all people who go to church are saved. It is possible to belong to nation or a church and never have responded in faith. God doesn’t stop working with Israel or the church because some rejected, “for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable.” God’s mercy is amazing! And as a result, Paul breaks out into a doxology, a song of praise!
Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
SO WHAT?!
*Ever been disobedient to God? Me too……and most of the time! I am soooooo grateful for God’s mercy – that He doesn’t give me what I deserve = the death penalty for my sin! Take a moment today and thank God for His incredible mercy!
* Never forget that we cannot stumble beyond recovery! God is always willing to accept any sinner who comes to Him in faith seeking forgiveness, mercy & grace!
“Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles…” As a “non-Jew”, I am grateful to the Jewish people for rejecting Jesus because it led to MY salvation! I’ve been added in! Verse 23 is a reminder of the grace, kindness and sternness of God: “Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off.”
Then comes verse 26 – “And so all Israel will be saved…” Huh? What does this mean? I believe it is this: God chose the nation of Israel and He has never rejected it. God also the church, through Jesus Christ, and He will never reject them (most of us) either. This doesn’t mean that all Jews and all people who go to church are saved. It is possible to belong to nation or a church and never have responded in faith. God doesn’t stop working with Israel or the church because some rejected, “for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable.” God’s mercy is amazing! And as a result, Paul breaks out into a doxology, a song of praise!
Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
SO WHAT?!
*Ever been disobedient to God? Me too……and most of the time! I am soooooo grateful for God’s mercy – that He doesn’t give me what I deserve = the death penalty for my sin! Take a moment today and thank God for His incredible mercy!
* Never forget that we cannot stumble beyond recovery! God is always willing to accept any sinner who comes to Him in faith seeking forgiveness, mercy & grace!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 127 - Romans 10: Believers, Unbelievers & Make-Believers
This title comes from my good friend Donald Haigh who always challenged me to talk to others about Jesus!
There’s a song by Matthew West with lyrics that say, “What if I had given everything, instead of going through the motions?” Good stuff. There is a big difference between knowing God and knowing OF God – an eternal difference! In this chapter, Paul contrasts true internal saving faith with deceptive external religious practice.
“Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved.” Paul was passionate for people to know Jesus and make Him known and His heart was broken (9:2) that the Israelites were rejecting Jesus. They had an outward “zeal” but because they were ignorant of true righteousness (by grace through faith) they “sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness.” Christ’s righteousness is “for everyone who believes.”
This “righteousness that is by faith” believes Jesus (God) came down from heaven (6) and that He rose again from the dead (7) – both of which the nation of Israel rejected. So Paul explains how a person is truly saved: “That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.” Profession of Jesus (mouth) is nothing without Possession of Jesus (heart) – you have to have both! And two great promises comes with it: "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame” and “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."
Whoah – if these are true then our friends, family, neighbors all have the chance to believe!~*! But “how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’" God’s means of reaching others with this eternal, life-giving message of Jesus is YOU & ME! Some will believe, some won’t, some may even fake it, but ALL can hear, understand and believe. Let’s be faithful to tell, to live THE Cause!~
SO WHAT?!
*What is your “heart’s desire”? Not sure? If we’ll take a look at where we spend our time, money & energy, that will give us a good clue. Jesus put it this way, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” So, anyone in need of heart surgery? One of my daily prayers is “Lord, help me to have a passion and desire for the things that YOU LORD are passionate about.” I pray it because I’m usually more passionate about me. Would you consider making this one of your daily prayers as well?
*Unbelief is fairly easy to detect, but make-belief isn’t because on the outside it looks like belief. This is dangerous because it is deceiving. Jesus put it this way, “Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'” It’s not about “doing”, it’s first and foremost about a relationship with Jesus, believing in what HE did for us! My hearts desire is that students in Katy (& all peeps everywhere) be saved and not “play church.” Lord help this be true for all of us!
*Finally, never ever forget that living for Jesus is worth it! (11)
There’s a song by Matthew West with lyrics that say, “What if I had given everything, instead of going through the motions?” Good stuff. There is a big difference between knowing God and knowing OF God – an eternal difference! In this chapter, Paul contrasts true internal saving faith with deceptive external religious practice.
“Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved.” Paul was passionate for people to know Jesus and make Him known and His heart was broken (9:2) that the Israelites were rejecting Jesus. They had an outward “zeal” but because they were ignorant of true righteousness (by grace through faith) they “sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness.” Christ’s righteousness is “for everyone who believes.”
This “righteousness that is by faith” believes Jesus (God) came down from heaven (6) and that He rose again from the dead (7) – both of which the nation of Israel rejected. So Paul explains how a person is truly saved: “That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.” Profession of Jesus (mouth) is nothing without Possession of Jesus (heart) – you have to have both! And two great promises comes with it: "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame” and “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."
Whoah – if these are true then our friends, family, neighbors all have the chance to believe!~*! But “how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’" God’s means of reaching others with this eternal, life-giving message of Jesus is YOU & ME! Some will believe, some won’t, some may even fake it, but ALL can hear, understand and believe. Let’s be faithful to tell, to live THE Cause!~
SO WHAT?!
*What is your “heart’s desire”? Not sure? If we’ll take a look at where we spend our time, money & energy, that will give us a good clue. Jesus put it this way, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” So, anyone in need of heart surgery? One of my daily prayers is “Lord, help me to have a passion and desire for the things that YOU LORD are passionate about.” I pray it because I’m usually more passionate about me. Would you consider making this one of your daily prayers as well?
*Unbelief is fairly easy to detect, but make-belief isn’t because on the outside it looks like belief. This is dangerous because it is deceiving. Jesus put it this way, “Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'” It’s not about “doing”, it’s first and foremost about a relationship with Jesus, believing in what HE did for us! My hearts desire is that students in Katy (& all peeps everywhere) be saved and not “play church.” Lord help this be true for all of us!
*Finally, never ever forget that living for Jesus is worth it! (11)
Monday, June 25, 2012
LTCU - Back in Katy!~
Yesterday we were on the road 14+ hours - yeah, it was long, but some great opps to plant seeds for Jesus "as we went." Today we arrived back in Katy after only 7 hours on the road.
LOVED the devos ours team shared:
Christy shared the story of the cave by Plato (never heard of it) and related it to 2 Cor 4:8. What a convicting story and a GREAT transition into the Gospel - this girl can write!~
Then "Miss Yvonne" share from a books she is reading called, "The Power of One Christ-Like Life" and how we need to be more "prayer-mental" than "judge-mental" - what a great reminder!~ And then brought us to Matt 9:35-38 to remind us to PRAY - especially for others to join us in THE Cause!
Alaric shared from Luke 4:18, Jn 8:36, Gal 5:1,13, Rom 8:1 and 2 Pet 2:19! Jesus doesn't want a "place" in our lives, he WANTS our lives!
Finally, Kyle spoke from Rom 8:28 & Prov 19:21 on God being in control even when we don't like it or don't understand!
So stoked by the devos each shared along the way AND how our students truly lived with an "as you go" mentality, sharing Jesus before, during and since LTCU! It's not a job, it's DNA!
Totally looking forward to LEADING THE CAUSE with even greater passion (from God) in the days ahead - LORD please send workers to serve along side us!
Matthew 9:35-38
Here is what Greg Stier said about LTCU.
You can also see pics here on my Facebook Page.
Lastly - Here again is my/our Alpha X pledge:
We, the undersigned, do hereby surrender ourselves fully to Christ and His Cause. Through His power we will LEAD THE CAUSE. First and foremost, we will lead through prayer, by passionately interceding to God on behalf of our generation.
We will lead by example by relationally and relentlessly declaring the Gospel to those within our Cause Circle. Through God's power we will inspire, equip and deploy other Christian teenagers, youth groups, campus groups and churches to reach this generation for Christ.
Although Satan will seek to distract, discourage and destroy us, we will improvise, adapt and overcome. Our goal is to persevere until every teen at every school within our Cause Turf hears the Gospel from a teenager they know and respect.
We won't stop until we're a part of a spiritual awakening that sweeps our schools, communities, state, nation and world. And we won't stop when we graduate from high school. By staying connected to Christ and His people, we'll keep leading THE Cause wherever we go and in whatever we do.
Through God's Spirit we won't give up, give in, or give way until the mission is accomplished. Apart from Christ, we can do nothing, but through Christ, we are an unstoppable force. Who are we? WE ARE ALPHA X! We will lead THE Cause!
AWESOME!
LOVED the devos ours team shared:
Christy shared the story of the cave by Plato (never heard of it) and related it to 2 Cor 4:8. What a convicting story and a GREAT transition into the Gospel - this girl can write!~
Then "Miss Yvonne" share from a books she is reading called, "The Power of One Christ-Like Life" and how we need to be more "prayer-mental" than "judge-mental" - what a great reminder!~ And then brought us to Matt 9:35-38 to remind us to PRAY - especially for others to join us in THE Cause!
Alaric shared from Luke 4:18, Jn 8:36, Gal 5:1,13, Rom 8:1 and 2 Pet 2:19! Jesus doesn't want a "place" in our lives, he WANTS our lives!
Finally, Kyle spoke from Rom 8:28 & Prov 19:21 on God being in control even when we don't like it or don't understand!
So stoked by the devos each shared along the way AND how our students truly lived with an "as you go" mentality, sharing Jesus before, during and since LTCU! It's not a job, it's DNA!
Totally looking forward to LEADING THE CAUSE with even greater passion (from God) in the days ahead - LORD please send workers to serve along side us!
Matthew 9:35-38
Here is what Greg Stier said about LTCU.
You can also see pics here on my Facebook Page.
Lastly - Here again is my/our Alpha X pledge:
We, the undersigned, do hereby surrender ourselves fully to Christ and His Cause. Through His power we will LEAD THE CAUSE. First and foremost, we will lead through prayer, by passionately interceding to God on behalf of our generation.
We will lead by example by relationally and relentlessly declaring the Gospel to those within our Cause Circle. Through God's power we will inspire, equip and deploy other Christian teenagers, youth groups, campus groups and churches to reach this generation for Christ.
Although Satan will seek to distract, discourage and destroy us, we will improvise, adapt and overcome. Our goal is to persevere until every teen at every school within our Cause Turf hears the Gospel from a teenager they know and respect.
We won't stop until we're a part of a spiritual awakening that sweeps our schools, communities, state, nation and world. And we won't stop when we graduate from high school. By staying connected to Christ and His people, we'll keep leading THE Cause wherever we go and in whatever we do.
Through God's Spirit we won't give up, give in, or give way until the mission is accomplished. Apart from Christ, we can do nothing, but through Christ, we are an unstoppable force. Who are we? WE ARE ALPHA X! We will lead THE Cause!
AWESOME!
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 126 - Romans 9: God’s Sovereign Choice
The word “sovereign” means supreme authority. In other words, to be in charge, and GOD IS in charge. God’s chosen people in the Bible is the Jewish nation. And yet, most of them rejected Him. Chapters 9-11 discus this.
Paul was heartbroken that the Jews were rejecting Jesus as Messiah, thus rejecting salvation. They had been given so much: “Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ, who is God over all, forever praised!”
BUT, Paul goes on to write that “not all who are descended from Israel are Israel.” – Meaning, not all from physical Israel are spiritual Israel. Track with me here…Paul is explaining that just being born a Jew doesn’t make you a chosen one. He also explains that God’s choice of some is not based on works (10-13). God’s plan, not man’s works are the basis of His choosing.
So, is God unjust? Ha – no way! He’s MERCIFUL (15-18) and we should be GRATEFUL! Verses 22-24 say it well: “What if God, choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath—prepared for destruction? What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory— even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?”
Because of Israel’s unbelief, the door was opened to any who would come to Him by faith – namely you & me!
SO WHAT?!
*What breaks your heart? For Paul it was people not putting their trust & faith in Jesus Christ! Who is someone in your life you want to see come to Jesus? Will you commit today to begin to pray daily for them to believe? God can transform anyone!!!
*Can God choose some people and not others? He does. Is that fair? No. But neither is killing His own son for my sins and yours – but He did that too! We tend to think that life is meant to be “fair” when it isn’t. Why was I born in the USA with all it’s luxuries and others are born into extreme poverty in remote parts of the world where there aren’t even written languages? God is more than fair, He’s holy, just, merciful & gracious (to name a few) and offers to any a way back to Him through Jesus Christ. Have you put your trust & faith in Jesus Christ alone? Then you’re a chosen one! If you haven't yet, why not today?!
Paul was heartbroken that the Jews were rejecting Jesus as Messiah, thus rejecting salvation. They had been given so much: “Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ, who is God over all, forever praised!”
BUT, Paul goes on to write that “not all who are descended from Israel are Israel.” – Meaning, not all from physical Israel are spiritual Israel. Track with me here…Paul is explaining that just being born a Jew doesn’t make you a chosen one. He also explains that God’s choice of some is not based on works (10-13). God’s plan, not man’s works are the basis of His choosing.
So, is God unjust? Ha – no way! He’s MERCIFUL (15-18) and we should be GRATEFUL! Verses 22-24 say it well: “What if God, choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath—prepared for destruction? What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory— even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?”
Because of Israel’s unbelief, the door was opened to any who would come to Him by faith – namely you & me!
SO WHAT?!
*What breaks your heart? For Paul it was people not putting their trust & faith in Jesus Christ! Who is someone in your life you want to see come to Jesus? Will you commit today to begin to pray daily for them to believe? God can transform anyone!!!
*Can God choose some people and not others? He does. Is that fair? No. But neither is killing His own son for my sins and yours – but He did that too! We tend to think that life is meant to be “fair” when it isn’t. Why was I born in the USA with all it’s luxuries and others are born into extreme poverty in remote parts of the world where there aren’t even written languages? God is more than fair, He’s holy, just, merciful & gracious (to name a few) and offers to any a way back to Him through Jesus Christ. Have you put your trust & faith in Jesus Christ alone? Then you’re a chosen one! If you haven't yet, why not today?!
Saturday, June 23, 2012
LTCU - Friday: GRADUATION & DEPLOYMENT!~
Yesterday was the climax of all this week was about and it was AMAZING!~
We committed to PRAY for THE Cause on Monday.
We went out to LIVE THE Cause on Tuesday.
We were INSPIRED to lead & live THE Cause on Wednesday.
We we EQUIPPED to lead & live THE Cause on Thursday.
And yesterday, we were DEPLOYED to lead & live the Cause in OUR Jerusalem, OUR Judea & Samaria and OUR ends of the earth - everywhere we go!
We spent 2 hours, praying & developing our multiPLIED plan. Then we met with a D2S LTCU professor to be approved and passed on. It was unifying, intense, exciting & scary to hammer out what we would love to see God to TO us and ThRU us in Katy Texas for HIS Cause!
Graduation was a super special time and was led by Greg, Zane & Prop. D2S had a pic of every Alpha X graduate placed on the bottom side of the Alpha "X", signifying the spread of the gospel thru us. Every youth leader then anointed each student & leader with oil & gave them a word of benediction - TOTALLY COOL time for me. THEN, the students & other leaders anointed their youth leaders and prayed for us - TOTALLY EMOTIONAL time for me! Thank You Jesus.
We were also given a piece of yarn as we came in that later we made a circle on the floor with, stood in that circle, and asked God to start a revival inside that circle! May it be true and start with me Lord!
Finally, each student then came forward, announced their name & where they were from, then recited & signed the following pledge:
We, the undersigned, do hereby surrender ourselves fully to Christ and His Cause. Through His power we will LEAD THE CAUSE. First and foremost, we will lead through prayer, by passionately interceding to God on behalf of our generation.
We will lead by example by relationally and relentlessly declaring the Gospel to those within our Cause Circle. Through God's power we will inspire, equip and deploy other Christian teenagers, youth groups, campus groups and churches to reach this generation for Christ.
Although Satan will seek to distract, discourage and destroy us, we will improvise, adapt and overcome. Our goal is to persevere until every teen at every school within our Cause Turf hears the Gospel from a teenager they know and respect.
We won't stop until we're a part of a spiritual awakening that sweeps our schools, communities, state, nation and world. And we won't stop when we graduate from high school. By staying connected to Christ and His people, we'll keep leading THE Cause wherever we go and in whatever we do.
Through God's Spirit we won't give up, give in, or give way until the mission is accomplished. Apart from Christ, we can do nothing, but through Christ, we are an unstoppable force. Who are we? WE ARE ALPHA X! We will lead THE Cause!
AWESOME!
We committed to PRAY for THE Cause on Monday.
We went out to LIVE THE Cause on Tuesday.
We were INSPIRED to lead & live THE Cause on Wednesday.
We we EQUIPPED to lead & live THE Cause on Thursday.
And yesterday, we were DEPLOYED to lead & live the Cause in OUR Jerusalem, OUR Judea & Samaria and OUR ends of the earth - everywhere we go!
We spent 2 hours, praying & developing our multiPLIED plan. Then we met with a D2S LTCU professor to be approved and passed on. It was unifying, intense, exciting & scary to hammer out what we would love to see God to TO us and ThRU us in Katy Texas for HIS Cause!
Graduation was a super special time and was led by Greg, Zane & Prop. D2S had a pic of every Alpha X graduate placed on the bottom side of the Alpha "X", signifying the spread of the gospel thru us. Every youth leader then anointed each student & leader with oil & gave them a word of benediction - TOTALLY COOL time for me. THEN, the students & other leaders anointed their youth leaders and prayed for us - TOTALLY EMOTIONAL time for me! Thank You Jesus.
We were also given a piece of yarn as we came in that later we made a circle on the floor with, stood in that circle, and asked God to start a revival inside that circle! May it be true and start with me Lord!
Finally, each student then came forward, announced their name & where they were from, then recited & signed the following pledge:
We, the undersigned, do hereby surrender ourselves fully to Christ and His Cause. Through His power we will LEAD THE CAUSE. First and foremost, we will lead through prayer, by passionately interceding to God on behalf of our generation.
We will lead by example by relationally and relentlessly declaring the Gospel to those within our Cause Circle. Through God's power we will inspire, equip and deploy other Christian teenagers, youth groups, campus groups and churches to reach this generation for Christ.
Although Satan will seek to distract, discourage and destroy us, we will improvise, adapt and overcome. Our goal is to persevere until every teen at every school within our Cause Turf hears the Gospel from a teenager they know and respect.
We won't stop until we're a part of a spiritual awakening that sweeps our schools, communities, state, nation and world. And we won't stop when we graduate from high school. By staying connected to Christ and His people, we'll keep leading THE Cause wherever we go and in whatever we do.
Through God's Spirit we won't give up, give in, or give way until the mission is accomplished. Apart from Christ, we can do nothing, but through Christ, we are an unstoppable force. Who are we? WE ARE ALPHA X! We will lead THE Cause!
AWESOME!
Friday, June 22, 2012
LTCU - Thursday
Yesterday was a super practical and a super put into practice kinda' day where I totally learned a lot!~
Learned a great teaching/learning method of Why? What? How? Now?
Then each group had to put together a 30 minute training session to inspire, equip & deploy another student ministry to Live & Lead The Cause! Totally Rad!~
Our group lead off with a skit & tied it up at the end with a related skit. Man this group is ready to DEPLOY!~
Then last night we did an exercise that was genius! We wrote out our Mission statement for living, leading & launching THE Cause in our community. Then everyone switched tables - then that group would say what would hinder that mission statement from happening. Switch again, answer, "If I were Satan, how would I keep you from accomplishing your mission?" Switch tables again, answer, "What resources (people, time, money, etc...) do we need to accomplish this mission. The we go back to our tables and we get all this AMAZING feedback from other groups about our mission - Phenomenal idea and a great resource!
Well, today is Graduation Day - it's time to DEPLOY, and in the words of Greg Stier, "It's about to get Stinkin' Strategic!"
Bring it on....
Learned a great teaching/learning method of Why? What? How? Now?
Then each group had to put together a 30 minute training session to inspire, equip & deploy another student ministry to Live & Lead The Cause! Totally Rad!~
Our group lead off with a skit & tied it up at the end with a related skit. Man this group is ready to DEPLOY!~
Then last night we did an exercise that was genius! We wrote out our Mission statement for living, leading & launching THE Cause in our community. Then everyone switched tables - then that group would say what would hinder that mission statement from happening. Switch again, answer, "If I were Satan, how would I keep you from accomplishing your mission?" Switch tables again, answer, "What resources (people, time, money, etc...) do we need to accomplish this mission. The we go back to our tables and we get all this AMAZING feedback from other groups about our mission - Phenomenal idea and a great resource!
Well, today is Graduation Day - it's time to DEPLOY, and in the words of Greg Stier, "It's about to get Stinkin' Strategic!"
Bring it on....
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 125 - Not Guilty - Holy Spirit - Hope
The trial is over, the jury has given it’s verdict, and now the judge slams his gavel and pronounces………….. “Not Guilty!” As sinners before God who are in trouble (which is ALL of us), these words are AWESOME: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” When you & I put our faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of our sins we are declared (justification) “not guilty” by God! How? “God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering…” In other words, Jesus took my place (substitution). And then He calls us to not “live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.” (sanctification)
So how does His Holy Spirit work in us? He changes our nature (5-11), He gives resurrection life (12-13), He confirms we are God’s kids (14), He gives us a relationship with Him (15) and He gives assurance (16-17).
The rest of the chapter has to do with hope for the future. We live in a fallen world, cursed by pain & suffering and God knows we need hope! There can be days when the suffering we face seems overwhelming. Verses 17-18 remind us that sufferings always precede glory. But the great news is that they are temporary (2 Corinthians 4:17) and “are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Until then we “groan.” Ha – that sounds like an old person with aches! The idea here is that we can’t wait for these sufferings to be over (so true). Until then we PRAY, and when we are down and don’t know what to pray, the Holy Spirit in us prays for us!
Then comes even more encouragement: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…………….For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son…” Through the tough times we face, God is changing us each day to be more like Jesus! And ”who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” No one and no thing – whoohooo!!!
SO WHAT?!
*When told you are not guilty before God because of your belief in Jesus, how do you respond? Grateful? Excited? Or feelings of unworthiness? Don’t let the enemy give you an improper guilt trip. You & I have been totally forgiven! Let’s rejoice and let others know!
*Ever feel prompted by God’s spirit to do something and not do it? Yeah, me too. Let’s ask God to help us obey His Spirit in us so we can live the resurrection, abundant, full life He wants us to live!
*What are you going through right now that feels overwhelming? Remember that God is the God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-5) and wants to come alongside. Let Him today. Grab a friend, pray together and maybe memorize verses 35-39. God knows and He cares (1 Peter 5:7).
So how does His Holy Spirit work in us? He changes our nature (5-11), He gives resurrection life (12-13), He confirms we are God’s kids (14), He gives us a relationship with Him (15) and He gives assurance (16-17).
The rest of the chapter has to do with hope for the future. We live in a fallen world, cursed by pain & suffering and God knows we need hope! There can be days when the suffering we face seems overwhelming. Verses 17-18 remind us that sufferings always precede glory. But the great news is that they are temporary (2 Corinthians 4:17) and “are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Until then we “groan.” Ha – that sounds like an old person with aches! The idea here is that we can’t wait for these sufferings to be over (so true). Until then we PRAY, and when we are down and don’t know what to pray, the Holy Spirit in us prays for us!
Then comes even more encouragement: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…………….For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son…” Through the tough times we face, God is changing us each day to be more like Jesus! And ”who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” No one and no thing – whoohooo!!!
SO WHAT?!
*When told you are not guilty before God because of your belief in Jesus, how do you respond? Grateful? Excited? Or feelings of unworthiness? Don’t let the enemy give you an improper guilt trip. You & I have been totally forgiven! Let’s rejoice and let others know!
*Ever feel prompted by God’s spirit to do something and not do it? Yeah, me too. Let’s ask God to help us obey His Spirit in us so we can live the resurrection, abundant, full life He wants us to live!
*What are you going through right now that feels overwhelming? Remember that God is the God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-5) and wants to come alongside. Let Him today. Grab a friend, pray together and maybe memorize verses 35-39. God knows and He cares (1 Peter 5:7).
Thursday, June 21, 2012
LTCU Wednesday - INSPIRE & Equip
Yesterday was a nuts & bolts kinda' day in our journey towards beginning a movement of God in our circles of influence! Greg, Zane & Prop were definitely INSPIRING!~
Part of becoming and being an Alpha X is staying inspired. That means staying closely connected to Jesus (John 15:1-8) through prayer and through reading, hearing & studying God's Word. There are no shortcuts here! Alpha X reps, who want to go wide with Jesus, must go deep with Jesus! Just as the moon has no light in and of itself, but reflects the light of the sun, we must realize that we have no light in and of ourselves, but are to reflect the LIGHT of the SON! This means transformation that is first internal, then external and is permanent, not fading!
One of the great ways to represent and share God with others is through stories - my story & His story. So we talked about how to better tell these stories!
Then we talked about OIL & FIRE:
Oil in that we have be anointed by God (Jer 1:4-9) - chosen for a task!
Fire in regards to passion - and this was AWESOME because we looked at the passage in Jeremiah 20: 1-9 that we used to name IGNITE!~
We then went to the mountains (and yes, our bus broke down) and did strategic planning for how to begin and to accomplish a movement of God in our Cause circles and with our Cause crew! This was nuts & bolts AWESOME!~
Last night ended with a small taste of EQUIP...
Can't wait to hear more today...
Part of becoming and being an Alpha X is staying inspired. That means staying closely connected to Jesus (John 15:1-8) through prayer and through reading, hearing & studying God's Word. There are no shortcuts here! Alpha X reps, who want to go wide with Jesus, must go deep with Jesus! Just as the moon has no light in and of itself, but reflects the light of the sun, we must realize that we have no light in and of ourselves, but are to reflect the LIGHT of the SON! This means transformation that is first internal, then external and is permanent, not fading!
One of the great ways to represent and share God with others is through stories - my story & His story. So we talked about how to better tell these stories!
Then we talked about OIL & FIRE:
Oil in that we have be anointed by God (Jer 1:4-9) - chosen for a task!
Fire in regards to passion - and this was AWESOME because we looked at the passage in Jeremiah 20: 1-9 that we used to name IGNITE!~
We then went to the mountains (and yes, our bus broke down) and did strategic planning for how to begin and to accomplish a movement of God in our Cause circles and with our Cause crew! This was nuts & bolts AWESOME!~
Last night ended with a small taste of EQUIP...
Can't wait to hear more today...
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 124 - Romans 7: The Law & Our Struggle with Sin
I love how Paul writes Romans – a logical & systematic laying out of Bible truths. In the first 6 verses Paul’s main point is “that the law has authority over a man only as long as he lives.” He uses marriage to illustrate this. If a spouse dies, the remaining spouse is free to remarry because they are “released from the law of marriage.” In the same way, when a person dies to the old life and begins a new life with Jesus, the “law” of sin no longer has to be obeyed. Before I knew Jesus, I had no option but to sin, but now I can chose to live differently by God’s power – and so can you!
Paul then anticipates the next question: “What shall we say, then? Is the law sin?” Survey says… no: “the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good.” Whenever we take our focus off the freedom God has given us and we put it on the restrictions He lines out (which are meant to protect us), we are deceived into sin – the same mistake Adam & Eve made! So the law is good, points out sin, but is not the cause of sin!
Paul then wraps up with what could very well be the testimony of all believers who desire to live for God: “For what I want to do I do not do………For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing……What a wretched man I am!” What is Paul’s point? Until we leave this planet, our new life in Christ will be at war with our sinful nature! Ahhhh……but there’s hope: “Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” Wow – I need to hear this!!!
SO WHAT?!
*So where are you in relation to the law? Still under it because you have not put your faith & trust in Jesus Christ? Or, serving in the new way of the Spirit? God is offering forgiveness and a new way FREE today!
*When it comes to freedoms and restrictions, which ones do you focus more on? This tells us a lot about ourselves. Lord help us to be so consumed by your love, mercy & grace that we will thank you for both the freedoms and the “restrictions.”
*Finally, when you read 14-25, what sin comes to mind in your life (& mine)? Why not ask God to help in this area? Maybe look up some verses that address that sin and memorize them? God want us to help us be victorious in these daily battles!
Paul then anticipates the next question: “What shall we say, then? Is the law sin?” Survey says… no: “the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good.” Whenever we take our focus off the freedom God has given us and we put it on the restrictions He lines out (which are meant to protect us), we are deceived into sin – the same mistake Adam & Eve made! So the law is good, points out sin, but is not the cause of sin!
Paul then wraps up with what could very well be the testimony of all believers who desire to live for God: “For what I want to do I do not do………For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing……What a wretched man I am!” What is Paul’s point? Until we leave this planet, our new life in Christ will be at war with our sinful nature! Ahhhh……but there’s hope: “Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” Wow – I need to hear this!!!
SO WHAT?!
*So where are you in relation to the law? Still under it because you have not put your faith & trust in Jesus Christ? Or, serving in the new way of the Spirit? God is offering forgiveness and a new way FREE today!
*When it comes to freedoms and restrictions, which ones do you focus more on? This tells us a lot about ourselves. Lord help us to be so consumed by your love, mercy & grace that we will thank you for both the freedoms and the “restrictions.”
*Finally, when you read 14-25, what sin comes to mind in your life (& mine)? Why not ask God to help in this area? Maybe look up some verses that address that sin and memorize them? God want us to help us be victorious in these daily battles!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
LTCU Tuesday - LVE, INSPIRE.....and Spiritual Warfare.
Yesterday we continued on our "ALPHA X" training on what it takes to launch a movement of young people who are lead by the Holy Spirit to see people Know Jesus & Make Him Known!
Monday was PRAY, yesterday we talked about LIVE - the fact that we must not only ask God to work in us and thru us, but we need to "get at it." As the apostle James said, faith without works is dead. The result? Out of the classroom to hit the streets of Denver, sharing the hope of Jesus with people! This always upsets the enemy, and so lets say that "stuff" just sorta' started to happen. After I realized what was going on, I sent texts & tweets out asking for air support, for the prayer warriors to PRAY! It was cool to see the Lord took care of these battles, as we shared hope with people! Sure, we saw the same responses that the early church saw in Acts: some mocked, some, asked questions but some BELIEVED - 5 people that we know of gave their lives to Jesus!~ It was soo cool to hear the testimonies of students and their experiences as well!
We spent a lot of time writing down those who are in our "cause" circles: those whom we are asking God to save, as well as those whom we are inviting them to be a part of this movement with us!
Then we did a Q & A, answering tough questions that the students ran into - very important, and very cool as well.
Then we moved on to INSPIRE - if you & I are going to be used of God to launch & be a part of a movement, we must inspire others to join us! One way to do that is thru raw truth, tough subjects about Jesus & life...
Today, we'll discuss another way, thru stories...
Bring it LTCU...
Monday was PRAY, yesterday we talked about LIVE - the fact that we must not only ask God to work in us and thru us, but we need to "get at it." As the apostle James said, faith without works is dead. The result? Out of the classroom to hit the streets of Denver, sharing the hope of Jesus with people! This always upsets the enemy, and so lets say that "stuff" just sorta' started to happen. After I realized what was going on, I sent texts & tweets out asking for air support, for the prayer warriors to PRAY! It was cool to see the Lord took care of these battles, as we shared hope with people! Sure, we saw the same responses that the early church saw in Acts: some mocked, some, asked questions but some BELIEVED - 5 people that we know of gave their lives to Jesus!~ It was soo cool to hear the testimonies of students and their experiences as well!
We spent a lot of time writing down those who are in our "cause" circles: those whom we are asking God to save, as well as those whom we are inviting them to be a part of this movement with us!
Then we did a Q & A, answering tough questions that the students ran into - very important, and very cool as well.
Then we moved on to INSPIRE - if you & I are going to be used of God to launch & be a part of a movement, we must inspire others to join us! One way to do that is thru raw truth, tough subjects about Jesus & life...
Today, we'll discuss another way, thru stories...
Bring it LTCU...
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 123 - Romans 6: Sin = Death, Jesus = Eternal Life
“What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!”
The idea here is , “Hey, if my sins make God’s grace look even greater, then I should keep on sinning!” Ummmm…… no!~ “We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?” When we identified with Jesus (baptism) we put aside our old ways of living that “we too may live a new life.” It was a conscious choice, not that we will live perfectly, but that we, through the Holy Spirit’s power, will “no longer be slaves to sin.” So we now are called to be an instrument for God and not an instrument for sin!
“What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means!” This is another idea Paul anticipates: “Hey, if we’re under grace, then God will forgive us…” Yes – but “By no means” are we to abuse grace!~ If I gave you $5 million dollars, would you treat me with disregard or contempt? No, you’d be grateful and you’d tell me so. Well, God has given us eternal life in Jesus and how do we respond to that? Slaves are to be obedient to their masters. Before we began a relationship with Jesus, sin was our master but in Christ we have a new Master we are to obey!
Paul then sums it up with a familiar verse: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
SO WHAT?!
*If we’re honest, most of our sins are things we already know we shouldn’t do, but did anyway. Is God’s grace greater than our sin? You bet and I’m so thankful! But that should not lead us to take sin lightly. I grew up Catholic, and although I don’t believe you have to go to a priest for confession (1 John 1:9, Hebrews 4:14-16), the emphasis they place on confessing sin is admirable. How important is it to confess our sin to God and seek His forgiveness? Well, Psalm 66:18 says, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” Let’s spend some time today & every day confessing our sins so that we can be forgiven and God will hear our prayers!
*Romans 6:23: Which would you rather receive:
- The paycheck for sin?
- The gift of God?
Thank YOU LORD for taking the penalty for MY sin!
The idea here is , “Hey, if my sins make God’s grace look even greater, then I should keep on sinning!” Ummmm…… no!~ “We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?” When we identified with Jesus (baptism) we put aside our old ways of living that “we too may live a new life.” It was a conscious choice, not that we will live perfectly, but that we, through the Holy Spirit’s power, will “no longer be slaves to sin.” So we now are called to be an instrument for God and not an instrument for sin!
“What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means!” This is another idea Paul anticipates: “Hey, if we’re under grace, then God will forgive us…” Yes – but “By no means” are we to abuse grace!~ If I gave you $5 million dollars, would you treat me with disregard or contempt? No, you’d be grateful and you’d tell me so. Well, God has given us eternal life in Jesus and how do we respond to that? Slaves are to be obedient to their masters. Before we began a relationship with Jesus, sin was our master but in Christ we have a new Master we are to obey!
Paul then sums it up with a familiar verse: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
SO WHAT?!
*If we’re honest, most of our sins are things we already know we shouldn’t do, but did anyway. Is God’s grace greater than our sin? You bet and I’m so thankful! But that should not lead us to take sin lightly. I grew up Catholic, and although I don’t believe you have to go to a priest for confession (1 John 1:9, Hebrews 4:14-16), the emphasis they place on confessing sin is admirable. How important is it to confess our sin to God and seek His forgiveness? Well, Psalm 66:18 says, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” Let’s spend some time today & every day confessing our sins so that we can be forgiven and God will hear our prayers!
*Romans 6:23: Which would you rather receive:
- The paycheck for sin?
- The gift of God?
Thank YOU LORD for taking the penalty for MY sin!
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
LTCU - Monday
I'm not sure what ranks in your top 5 life-changing moments, but yesterday's experience at Columbine HS was one of those for me!
Our focus yesterday was PRAY. We spent the day praying, and brainstorming how intercessory prayer can become a more vital part of our own personal lives and as we Lead THE Cause in our circles of influence. The we had the chance to GO to Columbine HS, the scene of the 1999 shooting tragedy that left 12 students & 1 teacher dead. We prayer walked around the school, we walked the halls, wrote letters to God while in the cafeteria, and, we sang and worshiped God on campus.
The next experience was - oh my goodness WOW! After the memorial had been built, a man felt led by the Lord to also place 13 large crosses at the top of the hill that overlooks the memorial. A few years later, the city made him take them down because they were "religious." Months after that, this man read about the ministry of Dare 2 Share, and dropped off one of those crosses - Greg never met the man. But yesterday, we took that cross back up! It was an amazing scene (see pics below) & experience as we carried that cross together up that hill, taking turns holding it. After we once again placed it at the top of the hill, then each of the 269 of us here nailed our personal commitments to it - the hairs on my arms are standing on end again as I write this!!!!!!
Then we were asked by Greg to give one word to describe what we've experienced:
- Urgency
- Sobering
- Hope
- Surreal
- Etc...
Oh Lord, as we learn today to LIVE Your Cause, please help us to see people as YOU see them and help us to want them to have the Jesus we have!~
Changed,
mrbill
Here are pics:
my faceebook
Our focus yesterday was PRAY. We spent the day praying, and brainstorming how intercessory prayer can become a more vital part of our own personal lives and as we Lead THE Cause in our circles of influence. The we had the chance to GO to Columbine HS, the scene of the 1999 shooting tragedy that left 12 students & 1 teacher dead. We prayer walked around the school, we walked the halls, wrote letters to God while in the cafeteria, and, we sang and worshiped God on campus.
The next experience was - oh my goodness WOW! After the memorial had been built, a man felt led by the Lord to also place 13 large crosses at the top of the hill that overlooks the memorial. A few years later, the city made him take them down because they were "religious." Months after that, this man read about the ministry of Dare 2 Share, and dropped off one of those crosses - Greg never met the man. But yesterday, we took that cross back up! It was an amazing scene (see pics below) & experience as we carried that cross together up that hill, taking turns holding it. After we once again placed it at the top of the hill, then each of the 269 of us here nailed our personal commitments to it - the hairs on my arms are standing on end again as I write this!!!!!!
Then we were asked by Greg to give one word to describe what we've experienced:
- Urgency
- Sobering
- Hope
- Surreal
- Etc...
Oh Lord, as we learn today to LIVE Your Cause, please help us to see people as YOU see them and help us to want them to have the Jesus we have!~
Changed,
mrbill
Here are pics:
my faceebook
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 122 - Romans 5: Being Right with God ROCKS!
Ok, so I don’t know what kind of a day you’re having or what kind of a day I’m yet to have, but this I know: I woke up this morning deserving the death penalty for my sin. But because of my faith in Jesus Christ, I get eternal life instead – it’s a good day! You want to know why I tell people that “I’m better than I deserve?!”~ THIS is why! Just look at a few of the benefits:
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we…
1. Have Peace with God (1b)
2. Stand in Grace (2a)
3. Have Joy (2, 3, 11)
4. Don’t’ Suffer for Nothing (3b)
5. Learn to Persevere (3c-4a)
6. Build Character (4b)
7. Have Hope (5a)
8. Receive His Love (5b)
9. Are Given His Holy Spirit (5c)
10. Are Shown Mercy (6-8)
11. Are Saved from God’s Anger (9)
12. Are Reconciled (10-11)
So, how could what one man did at one time in history have such an absolute effect on all people? The rest of the chapter answers this!
THEREFORE (12-14)…
“…sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned.”
BUT (15-17)…
Jesus one act was more effective “How much More…”, God’s grace is greater than our sin and Adams one act did not cause him to “be like God” but Jesus’ one act DID allow all, who by grace through faith believe, to be made right with Him!
CONSEQUENTLY (18-21)…
In contrast, Adams one act of disobedience that brings death to all, pales in comparison to Jesus act of obedience that makes us right with Him “so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Ohhhhh yeaahhhhh!
SO WHAT?!
*When was the last time you & I took time to thank God for saving us? We can soon forget huh?! Why not take some time and write down all the benefits of knowing Jesus as Savior – then thank Him for those things!
*Peace with God – even as I type this I find this amazing. It’s hard to have peace with anyone, let alone my Creator and the God of the Universe! Wow - to believe that God has and will forgive me of all my sin because of my faith in Him. Thank You Jesus!!!
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we…
1. Have Peace with God (1b)
2. Stand in Grace (2a)
3. Have Joy (2, 3, 11)
4. Don’t’ Suffer for Nothing (3b)
5. Learn to Persevere (3c-4a)
6. Build Character (4b)
7. Have Hope (5a)
8. Receive His Love (5b)
9. Are Given His Holy Spirit (5c)
10. Are Shown Mercy (6-8)
11. Are Saved from God’s Anger (9)
12. Are Reconciled (10-11)
So, how could what one man did at one time in history have such an absolute effect on all people? The rest of the chapter answers this!
THEREFORE (12-14)…
“…sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned.”
BUT (15-17)…
Jesus one act was more effective “How much More…”, God’s grace is greater than our sin and Adams one act did not cause him to “be like God” but Jesus’ one act DID allow all, who by grace through faith believe, to be made right with Him!
CONSEQUENTLY (18-21)…
In contrast, Adams one act of disobedience that brings death to all, pales in comparison to Jesus act of obedience that makes us right with Him “so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Ohhhhh yeaahhhhh!
SO WHAT?!
*When was the last time you & I took time to thank God for saving us? We can soon forget huh?! Why not take some time and write down all the benefits of knowing Jesus as Savior – then thank Him for those things!
*Peace with God – even as I type this I find this amazing. It’s hard to have peace with anyone, let alone my Creator and the God of the Universe! Wow - to believe that God has and will forgive me of all my sin because of my faith in Him. Thank You Jesus!!!
Monday, June 18, 2012
Arrived at LTCU....
After our 600+ miles on Saturday, we had a shorter 460+ miles Sunday. Grateful to arrive at CCU yesterday, 1100 miles away from Katy.
Totally enjoyed the "Andrews Men" sharing their devos yesterday on the way. Mr Mark share from Mark 4 on sowing and how God is wanting him to be more involved in sowing - totally what this trip is about! Then Philip share from Ephesians 5:20 & Philippians 2:4 on being more thankful and helping out peeps. Love that Philip is stepping out and want to be a servant leader of THE Cause!~
Evermore lead us in worship (I admit I got tears singing about "His Grace is Enough")and then Greg kicked it off by reading the letter in the front of our LTCU Movement Manuel. Here it is, and if this doesn't pump you up & off the charts, better check your pulse!
The Greg, Zane & Prop (Propaganda = Michael Petty) tag teamed in reminding us why we are here: This is NOT a game. We're here to Launch A Movement! We've been anointed & appointed and are here to:
1 - Embrace THE Cause of Christ
2 - To multiply & be MultiPLIED
3 - To Join the "Alpha X" Fraternity = To be a part of Beginning a Movement!
I got to share with each of the students why I wanted them to be a part of this - which was AWESOME too!
The we PRAYED like Acts 4:31 and, even though an earthquake did not occur, there was a shaking up that occurred in my heart, and the hearts of many in that room!
Lord I'm begging you, please do Your work in me and all those here this week!
Anxiously awaiting what god has for us today....
If you'd like to see picks, check out my facebook page.
Totally enjoyed the "Andrews Men" sharing their devos yesterday on the way. Mr Mark share from Mark 4 on sowing and how God is wanting him to be more involved in sowing - totally what this trip is about! Then Philip share from Ephesians 5:20 & Philippians 2:4 on being more thankful and helping out peeps. Love that Philip is stepping out and want to be a servant leader of THE Cause!~
Evermore lead us in worship (I admit I got tears singing about "His Grace is Enough")and then Greg kicked it off by reading the letter in the front of our LTCU Movement Manuel. Here it is, and if this doesn't pump you up & off the charts, better check your pulse!
The Greg, Zane & Prop (Propaganda = Michael Petty) tag teamed in reminding us why we are here: This is NOT a game. We're here to Launch A Movement! We've been anointed & appointed and are here to:
1 - Embrace THE Cause of Christ
2 - To multiply & be MultiPLIED
3 - To Join the "Alpha X" Fraternity = To be a part of Beginning a Movement!
I got to share with each of the students why I wanted them to be a part of this - which was AWESOME too!
The we PRAYED like Acts 4:31 and, even though an earthquake did not occur, there was a shaking up that occurred in my heart, and the hearts of many in that room!
Lord I'm begging you, please do Your work in me and all those here this week!
Anxiously awaiting what god has for us today....
If you'd like to see picks, check out my facebook page.
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 121 - Romans 4: The Spiritual Credit Account
This chapter is otherwise known as “Justification by Faith” – a bit churchy sounding, but exactly what Paul is presenting. To be justified means to be declared righteous. In my first year as a new believer I was told to remember it this way – “just-if-I’d” never sinned. And 30 years later I’m passing it on to you! I’d also add that “credited” is an accounting term used of crediting someone’s account. To make us right with Him, God takes what Jesus did for me, deposits it in my account and can now declare me righteous. Not because I am righteous in and of myself, but because HE made me that way! WOW – this is great stuff!
“What then shall we say…?" = What can we learn from Abraham’s experience? I believe at least 4 things:
First – Justification is a Gift & Cannot Be Earned by Works (1-8): If a person could earn their way to God, Abraham could brag. He was chosen by God, obeyed, trusted, etc… but God declared him right, not as anything due him (wage) but by His grace. WOW - Instead of sin being credited to my account, righteousness is! (Read Ephesians 2:8-9!)
Second – Justification is Not Based on Circumcision (9-12): Why? Because Abraham was justified BEFORE he was circumcised! Outward rituals don’t justify a person.
Third – Justification is Not Based on the Law (13-17): Why? Because Abraham was justified BEFORE the Law! You can’t live a good enough life for it!
Finally – Justification is by Faith Alone (18-25): Faith is connected with hope, divine perspective, doesn’t doubt, has power and gives God the credit!
SO WHAT?!
”He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” This is GREAT news! Dare 2 Share puts it this way:
God created us to be with Him!
Our sin separates us from God!
Sin can never be removed by good deeds!
Paying the price for sin, Jesus died & rose again!
Everyone who trusts in Him alone has eternal life!
Life with Jesus starts now and lasts forever!
Do you believe it? I pray you’ll not only know Jesus but you’ll make Him known as well!
“What then shall we say…?" = What can we learn from Abraham’s experience? I believe at least 4 things:
First – Justification is a Gift & Cannot Be Earned by Works (1-8): If a person could earn their way to God, Abraham could brag. He was chosen by God, obeyed, trusted, etc… but God declared him right, not as anything due him (wage) but by His grace. WOW - Instead of sin being credited to my account, righteousness is! (Read Ephesians 2:8-9!)
Second – Justification is Not Based on Circumcision (9-12): Why? Because Abraham was justified BEFORE he was circumcised! Outward rituals don’t justify a person.
Third – Justification is Not Based on the Law (13-17): Why? Because Abraham was justified BEFORE the Law! You can’t live a good enough life for it!
Finally – Justification is by Faith Alone (18-25): Faith is connected with hope, divine perspective, doesn’t doubt, has power and gives God the credit!
SO WHAT?!
”He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” This is GREAT news! Dare 2 Share puts it this way:
God created us to be with Him!
Our sin separates us from God!
Sin can never be removed by good deeds!
Paying the price for sin, Jesus died & rose again!
Everyone who trusts in Him alone has eternal life!
Life with Jesus starts now and lasts forever!
Do you believe it? I pray you’ll not only know Jesus but you’ll make Him known as well!
Sunday, June 17, 2012
On the Road to LTCU...
Yesterday we packed up and loaded up JJ (my truck) & the Andrews' van and began our trek to Colorado. 5 students, 3 leaders = 8 of us wanting to be transformed by what happens this week at Lead THE Cause University at CCU!
12 hours & 600 miles later, we arrived in Amarillo (yes you can drive all day & still not make it out of Texas) our first stop. And as always, the road trip consisted of would you rather questions, the alphabet game, good music, greasy food, monopoly, speed scrabble, swimming, DS' & game systems and a few peeps watching Lord of the Rings on a 5" screen (is that really fair to the movie?!~).
After dinner at BWW's, we did one of the favorite parts of my youth trips. I always ask everyone to bring a short devo to share what God is doing in their lives. It gives each person an opportunity to bear their spiritual soul and allow us to pray for them afterwards. I am always blown away by their love for the Lord and their brutal honesty!
So last night it was the the father-son duo of Drew & I. I shared from 1 Peter 5:2-5:
"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers — not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away."
God has called me to be his SHEPHERD - specifically to students! Yes, my job at Redeemer has ended, but my CALLING hasn't! There are students & leaders God has still placed under my care. And if I had only been doing these things because "I must", then I would have stopped when my job ended - but I haven't, because it's a calling! And certainly I'm not doing it now for the money (as if that was ever the reason), because I don't have a paying job - HA! This passage has meant tons to me these past four months, confirming my calling is much higher that having a job - though I need one of those soon too :)
Then my son Drew asked to pray for me, which meant tons! Then he shared from his favorite verse - John 3:16:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
He shared how he hasn't been as connected to God lately and wanted to be on this trip so that God could connect him better. I am so amazed at his honesty and desire to love God with his life. Then, I got the privilege of praying for my son. Humbled & honored!
Welp, it's time to grab some free breaky here at the hotel and head to LTCU!~
Thanks Lord for a great start...
Hizkid,
mrbill
12 hours & 600 miles later, we arrived in Amarillo (yes you can drive all day & still not make it out of Texas) our first stop. And as always, the road trip consisted of would you rather questions, the alphabet game, good music, greasy food, monopoly, speed scrabble, swimming, DS' & game systems and a few peeps watching Lord of the Rings on a 5" screen (is that really fair to the movie?!~).
After dinner at BWW's, we did one of the favorite parts of my youth trips. I always ask everyone to bring a short devo to share what God is doing in their lives. It gives each person an opportunity to bear their spiritual soul and allow us to pray for them afterwards. I am always blown away by their love for the Lord and their brutal honesty!
So last night it was the the father-son duo of Drew & I. I shared from 1 Peter 5:2-5:
"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers — not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away."
God has called me to be his SHEPHERD - specifically to students! Yes, my job at Redeemer has ended, but my CALLING hasn't! There are students & leaders God has still placed under my care. And if I had only been doing these things because "I must", then I would have stopped when my job ended - but I haven't, because it's a calling! And certainly I'm not doing it now for the money (as if that was ever the reason), because I don't have a paying job - HA! This passage has meant tons to me these past four months, confirming my calling is much higher that having a job - though I need one of those soon too :)
Then my son Drew asked to pray for me, which meant tons! Then he shared from his favorite verse - John 3:16:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
He shared how he hasn't been as connected to God lately and wanted to be on this trip so that God could connect him better. I am so amazed at his honesty and desire to love God with his life. Then, I got the privilege of praying for my son. Humbled & honored!
Welp, it's time to grab some free breaky here at the hotel and head to LTCU!~
Thanks Lord for a great start...
Hizkid,
mrbill
Friday, June 15, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 120 - Romans 3: GUILTY…….But There’s Hope!
Paul has been explaining that you & I & everyone stands guilty before God. He’s addressed some common excuses to think we aren’t guilty:
- “There is no God” (1:18-32)
- “I’m not as bad as others” (2:1-16)
- “I’m a church goer” (2:17-29)
This first 20 verses are like a courtroom setting. In 1-8 we hear the opening arguments. The Jews were very privileged to be the first who are offered faith through the Word of God. Then the faithfulness of God as judge is discussed (3-4). God is truth (John 17:17) and He is faithful! We are the ones who are not! He is also “just” (5-8) = right, perfect. Then in 9-12 we see the verdict: “There is no one righteous, note even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.” GUILTY! And if you read 13-20 it gets even uglier! Our sinfulness separates us from God who is perfect and holy. It would totally stink if God left us in this condition without hope, but He doesn’t! He provides a way back to Him!!!!!
So – how do we get back? THIS IS the most important question in life! Job asked, “How can a man be right before God (9:2)? The rich young ruler asked “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” The Philippian jailer asked “What must I do to be saved?” Because “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” we need GOD to do something about it and Paul tells us how He did it in the remainder of the chapter! Here is the paraphrased version from the Message:
“Since we've compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity he put us in right standing with Himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we're in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ. God sacrificed Jesus on the altar of the world to clear that world of sin. Having faith in Him sets us in the clear……………to set the world in the clear with himself through the sacrifice of Jesus, finally taking care of the sins he had so patiently endured.” Well said!
SO WHAT?!
*If you were to die today and stand before God in heaven and He were to say to you “Why should I let you into My heaven” – what would you tell Him? I helped people? I went to church? I even gave to the student missions trip? If your attempt is to explain to God that you’re not really that bad, He would have to deny your entrance (& mine). NO ONE can be good enough to make themselves acceptable before God. Only by grace through faith in believing what JESUS did for us in our place can we ever be made right with God. If you’ve never done that, you can right now! Just confess to God you’re a dirty, rotten, stinkin’ sinner but that you believe Jesus took the punishment you deserved when He was crucified, buried and rose again for your sins!
*For those of us who are believers, let us never forget that even our very best is gross before God (Isaiah 64:6).
- “There is no God” (1:18-32)
- “I’m not as bad as others” (2:1-16)
- “I’m a church goer” (2:17-29)
This first 20 verses are like a courtroom setting. In 1-8 we hear the opening arguments. The Jews were very privileged to be the first who are offered faith through the Word of God. Then the faithfulness of God as judge is discussed (3-4). God is truth (John 17:17) and He is faithful! We are the ones who are not! He is also “just” (5-8) = right, perfect. Then in 9-12 we see the verdict: “There is no one righteous, note even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.” GUILTY! And if you read 13-20 it gets even uglier! Our sinfulness separates us from God who is perfect and holy. It would totally stink if God left us in this condition without hope, but He doesn’t! He provides a way back to Him!!!!!
So – how do we get back? THIS IS the most important question in life! Job asked, “How can a man be right before God (9:2)? The rich young ruler asked “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” The Philippian jailer asked “What must I do to be saved?” Because “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” we need GOD to do something about it and Paul tells us how He did it in the remainder of the chapter! Here is the paraphrased version from the Message:
“Since we've compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity he put us in right standing with Himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we're in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ. God sacrificed Jesus on the altar of the world to clear that world of sin. Having faith in Him sets us in the clear……………to set the world in the clear with himself through the sacrifice of Jesus, finally taking care of the sins he had so patiently endured.” Well said!
SO WHAT?!
*If you were to die today and stand before God in heaven and He were to say to you “Why should I let you into My heaven” – what would you tell Him? I helped people? I went to church? I even gave to the student missions trip? If your attempt is to explain to God that you’re not really that bad, He would have to deny your entrance (& mine). NO ONE can be good enough to make themselves acceptable before God. Only by grace through faith in believing what JESUS did for us in our place can we ever be made right with God. If you’ve never done that, you can right now! Just confess to God you’re a dirty, rotten, stinkin’ sinner but that you believe Jesus took the punishment you deserved when He was crucified, buried and rose again for your sins!
*For those of us who are believers, let us never forget that even our very best is gross before God (Isaiah 64:6).
Thursday, June 14, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 119 - Romans 2: God’s Righteous Judgment & False Securities
I remember vividly the OJ Simpson trial – did he do it? Did he not? And even after the verdict was given having mixed feelings. Well, some day all of us will stand before God and there won’t be any question if His justice is right. It will be.
After explaining God’s wrath and judgment against immoral people (1:18-32), Paul now proclaims God’s judgment on moral, “good” people. They are equally condemned! Paul gives 6 principles by which God judges men: Self righteousness (1), truth (2-3), our hearts (4-5), what we do (6-10), impartiality (11-15) and our motives (16). It’s always a heart issue with God and in 14-16 there is no denying that God has made it clear that there ARE absolutes (right & wrong) and He has put them in everyone’s hearts!
All people have some kind of knowledge of God’s “invisible attributes”; eternal power and divine nature., can discern basic right & wrong because of their conscience/heart (2:15) and know that those who do not live up to God’s righteous standards deserve death (1:32). YET they hope to escape God’s judgment and to do so come up with all kinds of false ideas. For example, ever believe you are basically good and God would not send good people to hell? You know, do more good than bad and you’re in? Or believing that God is too loving to send anyone to hell. Or the idea that there is no God and the idea of judgment is crazy. Or believing you can earn God’s acceptance by going to church, giving to poor, helping others, loving others, etc… These are all false securities and the Jewish people of Paul’s day had them too(17-29). They thought they were “in” with God because of their heritage (17), because they knew God’s Word - what was right & wrong (18-24) and because they did all the “churchy” stuff (25-29).
NEVER FORGET THIS: God’s Acceptance of me is never based on my PERFORMANCE (external actions), but on my 100% TRUST & BELIEF (internal attitude) in Christ’s performance for me! It’s about a relationship, not the “rules.”
SO WHAT?!
*How do we view ourselves? By comparing ourselves with others (which brings pride or self-pity) OR by comparing ourselves with God’s standards of righteousness (which brings us to our knees)?
*What are some false securities that you & I tend to trust in to make us right before God? Our talents? Popularity? Going to church or student ministry? Hey - my parents go to church? Witnessing? I’ve been baptized? Good looks (ok, maybe not)? Regardless – take a moment and confess any of these you do to God and then THANK Him that He accepts you IN CHRIST!
After explaining God’s wrath and judgment against immoral people (1:18-32), Paul now proclaims God’s judgment on moral, “good” people. They are equally condemned! Paul gives 6 principles by which God judges men: Self righteousness (1), truth (2-3), our hearts (4-5), what we do (6-10), impartiality (11-15) and our motives (16). It’s always a heart issue with God and in 14-16 there is no denying that God has made it clear that there ARE absolutes (right & wrong) and He has put them in everyone’s hearts!
All people have some kind of knowledge of God’s “invisible attributes”; eternal power and divine nature., can discern basic right & wrong because of their conscience/heart (2:15) and know that those who do not live up to God’s righteous standards deserve death (1:32). YET they hope to escape God’s judgment and to do so come up with all kinds of false ideas. For example, ever believe you are basically good and God would not send good people to hell? You know, do more good than bad and you’re in? Or believing that God is too loving to send anyone to hell. Or the idea that there is no God and the idea of judgment is crazy. Or believing you can earn God’s acceptance by going to church, giving to poor, helping others, loving others, etc… These are all false securities and the Jewish people of Paul’s day had them too(17-29). They thought they were “in” with God because of their heritage (17), because they knew God’s Word - what was right & wrong (18-24) and because they did all the “churchy” stuff (25-29).
NEVER FORGET THIS: God’s Acceptance of me is never based on my PERFORMANCE (external actions), but on my 100% TRUST & BELIEF (internal attitude) in Christ’s performance for me! It’s about a relationship, not the “rules.”
SO WHAT?!
*How do we view ourselves? By comparing ourselves with others (which brings pride or self-pity) OR by comparing ourselves with God’s standards of righteousness (which brings us to our knees)?
*What are some false securities that you & I tend to trust in to make us right before God? Our talents? Popularity? Going to church or student ministry? Hey - my parents go to church? Witnessing? I’ve been baptized? Good looks (ok, maybe not)? Regardless – take a moment and confess any of these you do to God and then THANK Him that He accepts you IN CHRIST!
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 118 - Romans 1: Unashamed of God
Introduction:
Ok – I’ll just say it – Romans ROCKS!
Of all of Paul’s letters, this one by far has the deepest teachings (doctrine) about God. It’s main emphasis is Soteriology (Soteri = Savior, ology = study of). In this letter we read what it means to be saved (salvation), how to be made right with God (justification), the price that was paid to bring us back to God (redemption), eternal security, election, choice and a whole lot of other churchy terms that we will define! It lays out an absolutely clear Gospel message. I totally use verses from Romans whenever I am sharing with someone about Jesus!
Paul wrote this letter in approximately 57 AD from Corinth while he was on his third missionary journey. It was written to the “saints” in Rome – probably more than one church so Paul addresses it to all of them there. His plans were to visit Rome soon, but if he didn’t make it he want to give them a complete and detailed Gospel message on God’s nature, righteousness and salvation. Some of the themes covered are:
· Salvation
· Righteousness of God
· Justification
· The Law – over 70xs
· The Flesh
· Depravity of Man – none righteous
· Predestination
· Called/Set apart/Sanctified – chosen
· Grace
· Mercy
Covering an entire chapter of Romans in each devo is certainly going to be a challenge. But I say, bring it on! I mean really, what other choice is there?!~
Romans 1: Unashamed of God
Paul begins by explaining God’s nature: “…regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.” So right off the bat we get another churchy term – “hypostatic union” = hypostasis = substance, union = together. The point? Jesus is 100% man, 100% God. Totally important! If Jesus isn’t fully a man, He can’t empathize with our humanness (Hebrews 4:15) and if he’s not fully God, He can’t be the perfect sacrifice needed to pay for our sins (Hebrews 9:12).
Paul then declares both his stance on the Gospel and what it is: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Regardless of what it might cost him, Paul wants to know Jesus and make Him known! This Gospel is dynamite (power) news to ANY who, by grace through faith, believe!
The remainder of the chapter is sobering. If I were to ask you to list out God’s attributes, would “wrath” (anger) have made your list? Yeah, not the tops on mine either. Yet God is as equally a God of wrath as He is Love, Grace, Mercy, Peace, etc… I believe this is here to remind us our NEED to be saved! A person has no reason to seek Jesus if they don’t know they need Him!
Who is God’s anger against? “…all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness…” Why is it being revealed? Because you & I have no excuse for not believing in & thanking God “since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” The result? “God gave them over” = abandoned. YIKES! God basically says “Want to live without me, ok…” and then withdraws His protective hand and sends judgments. As much as we think we want God out of our lives, this is NOT good! But God loves us enough to let us make our own choices, even bad ones. God gives the over to three things: “sinful desires”, “shameful lusts”, “a depraved mind” As I believe verse 25 sums it up: “They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.”
SO WHAT?!
*In verse 1 Paul calls himself a servant, called to be set apart. If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, you too have the same role. In what ways does it show in your life (& mine) that we are servants? That we are living differently?
*Paul was not ashamed of Jesus and neither should we! If He was right next to you at school or work, would you tell those around you about Him? We sure would! Well Jesus IS with us each and every moment – so let’s ask Him for boldness to talk about Him today!
*Read verses 24-32 again. Which of the things mentioned does God want you to work on most? Ask Him to help you, He is our ever present help in time of need (Psalm 46:1)!
Ok – I’ll just say it – Romans ROCKS!
Of all of Paul’s letters, this one by far has the deepest teachings (doctrine) about God. It’s main emphasis is Soteriology (Soteri = Savior, ology = study of). In this letter we read what it means to be saved (salvation), how to be made right with God (justification), the price that was paid to bring us back to God (redemption), eternal security, election, choice and a whole lot of other churchy terms that we will define! It lays out an absolutely clear Gospel message. I totally use verses from Romans whenever I am sharing with someone about Jesus!
Paul wrote this letter in approximately 57 AD from Corinth while he was on his third missionary journey. It was written to the “saints” in Rome – probably more than one church so Paul addresses it to all of them there. His plans were to visit Rome soon, but if he didn’t make it he want to give them a complete and detailed Gospel message on God’s nature, righteousness and salvation. Some of the themes covered are:
· Salvation
· Righteousness of God
· Justification
· The Law – over 70xs
· The Flesh
· Depravity of Man – none righteous
· Predestination
· Called/Set apart/Sanctified – chosen
· Grace
· Mercy
Covering an entire chapter of Romans in each devo is certainly going to be a challenge. But I say, bring it on! I mean really, what other choice is there?!~
Romans 1: Unashamed of God
Paul begins by explaining God’s nature: “…regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.” So right off the bat we get another churchy term – “hypostatic union” = hypostasis = substance, union = together. The point? Jesus is 100% man, 100% God. Totally important! If Jesus isn’t fully a man, He can’t empathize with our humanness (Hebrews 4:15) and if he’s not fully God, He can’t be the perfect sacrifice needed to pay for our sins (Hebrews 9:12).
Paul then declares both his stance on the Gospel and what it is: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Regardless of what it might cost him, Paul wants to know Jesus and make Him known! This Gospel is dynamite (power) news to ANY who, by grace through faith, believe!
The remainder of the chapter is sobering. If I were to ask you to list out God’s attributes, would “wrath” (anger) have made your list? Yeah, not the tops on mine either. Yet God is as equally a God of wrath as He is Love, Grace, Mercy, Peace, etc… I believe this is here to remind us our NEED to be saved! A person has no reason to seek Jesus if they don’t know they need Him!
Who is God’s anger against? “…all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness…” Why is it being revealed? Because you & I have no excuse for not believing in & thanking God “since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” The result? “God gave them over” = abandoned. YIKES! God basically says “Want to live without me, ok…” and then withdraws His protective hand and sends judgments. As much as we think we want God out of our lives, this is NOT good! But God loves us enough to let us make our own choices, even bad ones. God gives the over to three things: “sinful desires”, “shameful lusts”, “a depraved mind” As I believe verse 25 sums it up: “They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.”
SO WHAT?!
*In verse 1 Paul calls himself a servant, called to be set apart. If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, you too have the same role. In what ways does it show in your life (& mine) that we are servants? That we are living differently?
*Paul was not ashamed of Jesus and neither should we! If He was right next to you at school or work, would you tell those around you about Him? We sure would! Well Jesus IS with us each and every moment – so let’s ask Him for boldness to talk about Him today!
*Read verses 24-32 again. Which of the things mentioned does God want you to work on most? Ask Him to help you, He is our ever present help in time of need (Psalm 46:1)!
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 117 - Acts 28: The End of the Book of Acts BUT the Continuation of the Work of Acts
Long Title – it will make sense later….
We come to the final chapter of the acts of the apostles in the early church. Paul will give the final of his six defenses in the book of Acts.
On the island where the boat crashed, God’s protective hand was on Paul as seen in:
- The islanders showing unusual kindness. Often shipwrecked victims were enslaved or killed
- Paul was not harmed by the poisonous viper that bit him
- The head honcho of the island showed incredible hospitality
- Paul healed all the sick on the island
- Honor was shown them in many ways
- They provided a boat & supplies to set sail again
- Paul was allowed unusual freedom as a prisoner
As Paul finally arrived in Rome, he gathered the leaders of the Jews & presented his defense. Some were convinced, others would not believe (familiar?) and Paul was eventually released. And we would do well to follow Paul’s lead in the last verse of this book: “Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.”
History tells us that after Paul’s release he continued to share the good news of Christ until a few years later when he was executed for his faith…..BUT it doesn’t end there!
SO WHAT?
*Do you find it interesting that an island tribe that knows nothing of Jesus, knows that there is right & wrong (“justice”)? That is because the Bible teaches that God’s law is written on our hearts (Romans 2:14-15) and all of us are accountable to our Maker!
*Where the book of Acts ends, the work of acts continues thru all who believe & receive! The baton of faith is being passed on from God to Paul to Timothy to Reliable Men to Others (2 Timothy 2:2). You & I believe today because someone was faithful to share Jesus with us. It’s been said that Christianity is only one generation away from extinction. How are you & I involved in giving Jesus to the next generation. If you’re not, talk with me, I’d love to help you “get in the race!”
We come to the final chapter of the acts of the apostles in the early church. Paul will give the final of his six defenses in the book of Acts.
On the island where the boat crashed, God’s protective hand was on Paul as seen in:
- The islanders showing unusual kindness. Often shipwrecked victims were enslaved or killed
- Paul was not harmed by the poisonous viper that bit him
- The head honcho of the island showed incredible hospitality
- Paul healed all the sick on the island
- Honor was shown them in many ways
- They provided a boat & supplies to set sail again
- Paul was allowed unusual freedom as a prisoner
As Paul finally arrived in Rome, he gathered the leaders of the Jews & presented his defense. Some were convinced, others would not believe (familiar?) and Paul was eventually released. And we would do well to follow Paul’s lead in the last verse of this book: “Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.”
History tells us that after Paul’s release he continued to share the good news of Christ until a few years later when he was executed for his faith…..BUT it doesn’t end there!
SO WHAT?
*Do you find it interesting that an island tribe that knows nothing of Jesus, knows that there is right & wrong (“justice”)? That is because the Bible teaches that God’s law is written on our hearts (Romans 2:14-15) and all of us are accountable to our Maker!
*Where the book of Acts ends, the work of acts continues thru all who believe & receive! The baton of faith is being passed on from God to Paul to Timothy to Reliable Men to Others (2 Timothy 2:2). You & I believe today because someone was faithful to share Jesus with us. It’s been said that Christianity is only one generation away from extinction. How are you & I involved in giving Jesus to the next generation. If you’re not, talk with me, I’d love to help you “get in the race!”
Monday, June 11, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 116 - Acts 27: A Crazy Boat Ride, Security and Leadership
Ok – so…….. not being a big water fan, this chapter freaks me out a bit! I’ve been out in the ocean on a boat and have decided that I like land better. But if you want a great boating “adventure”, this ride makes those who landed on Gilligan’s Island look like wimps!
As Paul prayed for God to give him the opportunity to preach in Rome, he might have done well to be a bit more specific on HOW he was gonna’ get there. I’m guessin’ that in chains and on a crazy boat ride would not have been his first choice. But that was certainly God’s agenda!
“We” (1) – Paul & Luke – are being shipped to Rome. And the first part of the trip is going ok, even allowing Paul some special freedoms. But the trip was taking too long and now it was September/October (“after the Fast”). Since there were no compasses and they navigated by stars, overcast sailing was very dangerous. Sailing in September to November was really very dangerous and all sailing ended from November to February. Paul had already experienced three shipwrecks (2 Cor. 11:25) and so Paul warns them of the impending disaster & losses. Although Julius respected Paul, he went with the advice of the pilot/owner – not good.
You guessed it, they sailed into a hurricane force storm. Now I live in Texas and experienced Hurricane Ike and never want to do that again – and I was 50 miles inland! Since you can’t fight wind in a sailboat, 1st day was a dog fight, 2nd day tossed cargo overboard, 3rd day toss tackle overboard, many days and they begin to lose hope.
Then ya’ gotta’ love verse 21: “men, you should have taken my advice…” It’s the classic “I told you so!” But take note that Paul doesn’t dwell on it but instead tells them to take courage and that only the ship (their security) will be lost. Paul shares God’s word to him and even though as professional sailors they wouldn’t listen, now desperate they will!
Ok, this scary boat ride has now gone on for 2 weeks and some of them were thinking of bailing into the lifeboats. Paul again warns them that unless they stay with the ship they “cannot be saved.” So they cut the lifeboats (again destroying their security). He tells them to eat up, you’re gonna’ need the strength and then they tossed the rest of the food (final security). The next morning the ship runs ashore and is destroyed and ALL 276 of the passengers swim & ride planks to shore and are saved! WOW – what a ride!~
SO WHAT?
*Paul’s position as a prisoner didn’t keep him from preaching the truth. He could have made excuses but he didn’t. Regardless of what we do for a living or where we are, God wants us to share His truth.
*I’m guessing that every one of us has been given wisdom by someone, rejected it for a preferred choice and paid the price – sometimes small, sometimes big. What decisions are coming up in your life that you need to seek godly counsel on? Check out the wisdom in Proverbs 15:22, 16:1,3,9 and then let’s follow it!
*What false securities do you have in your life? In this chapter it was the boat, the food and the wisdom of the sailors. What is it for you & me? Finances? Talents? Abilities? Knowledge? You can be sure that God will destroy anything that we put our trust in that pulls us from trusting in Him! Let’s ask forgiveness and help from the Lord in these areas!
*Finally, it is in times of crisis and challenge that reveal the qualities of true leaders. How do you respond when things get tough? Ask your family, they know!
As Paul prayed for God to give him the opportunity to preach in Rome, he might have done well to be a bit more specific on HOW he was gonna’ get there. I’m guessin’ that in chains and on a crazy boat ride would not have been his first choice. But that was certainly God’s agenda!
“We” (1) – Paul & Luke – are being shipped to Rome. And the first part of the trip is going ok, even allowing Paul some special freedoms. But the trip was taking too long and now it was September/October (“after the Fast”). Since there were no compasses and they navigated by stars, overcast sailing was very dangerous. Sailing in September to November was really very dangerous and all sailing ended from November to February. Paul had already experienced three shipwrecks (2 Cor. 11:25) and so Paul warns them of the impending disaster & losses. Although Julius respected Paul, he went with the advice of the pilot/owner – not good.
You guessed it, they sailed into a hurricane force storm. Now I live in Texas and experienced Hurricane Ike and never want to do that again – and I was 50 miles inland! Since you can’t fight wind in a sailboat, 1st day was a dog fight, 2nd day tossed cargo overboard, 3rd day toss tackle overboard, many days and they begin to lose hope.
Then ya’ gotta’ love verse 21: “men, you should have taken my advice…” It’s the classic “I told you so!” But take note that Paul doesn’t dwell on it but instead tells them to take courage and that only the ship (their security) will be lost. Paul shares God’s word to him and even though as professional sailors they wouldn’t listen, now desperate they will!
Ok, this scary boat ride has now gone on for 2 weeks and some of them were thinking of bailing into the lifeboats. Paul again warns them that unless they stay with the ship they “cannot be saved.” So they cut the lifeboats (again destroying their security). He tells them to eat up, you’re gonna’ need the strength and then they tossed the rest of the food (final security). The next morning the ship runs ashore and is destroyed and ALL 276 of the passengers swim & ride planks to shore and are saved! WOW – what a ride!~
SO WHAT?
*Paul’s position as a prisoner didn’t keep him from preaching the truth. He could have made excuses but he didn’t. Regardless of what we do for a living or where we are, God wants us to share His truth.
*I’m guessing that every one of us has been given wisdom by someone, rejected it for a preferred choice and paid the price – sometimes small, sometimes big. What decisions are coming up in your life that you need to seek godly counsel on? Check out the wisdom in Proverbs 15:22, 16:1,3,9 and then let’s follow it!
*What false securities do you have in your life? In this chapter it was the boat, the food and the wisdom of the sailors. What is it for you & me? Finances? Talents? Abilities? Knowledge? You can be sure that God will destroy anything that we put our trust in that pulls us from trusting in Him! Let’s ask forgiveness and help from the Lord in these areas!
*Finally, it is in times of crisis and challenge that reveal the qualities of true leaders. How do you respond when things get tough? Ask your family, they know!
Thursday, June 7, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 114 - Acts 25: Paul’s Trial Before Festus & Appeal to Caesar
Defense #4 – Festus took over for Felix and was kinda’ stuck.
He knew Paul innocent, but to release him would anger leaders and provoke a riot among the Jews. Wanting to keep peace, both Felix and Festus sought cooperation from Jewish leaders. Felix just left Paul in prison two years. Festus inherits this problem and suggests going to Jerusalem for trial – a place he knew would be “unfair” but would please Jewish leaders. This left Paul no choice but to appeal to Caesar, which caused a new problem. Festus was required to send a report with Paul detailing charges against him but the charges were not worthy of trial (religious or theological). So………..Festus needed help, so he consulted Agrippa and Agrippa agreed to hear from Paul!
Festus turns Paul’s hearing into an occasion to honor Agrippa (pomp) – i.e. butter him up! Paul was not legally bound to appear before them but what a great witnessing opportunity! So in chapter 26, Paul will give his 5th defense!
SO WHAT?
*When are you most tempted to compromise the truth to please others? Lets heed the words in Galatians 1:10 and put God first!
*Ever been guilty of “buttering up” your parents, your boss, etc… to get what you want? Yeah – me too! How about a better alternative: Lets pray and then trust God for His will and then be content in every situation! (Philippians 4:12)
He knew Paul innocent, but to release him would anger leaders and provoke a riot among the Jews. Wanting to keep peace, both Felix and Festus sought cooperation from Jewish leaders. Felix just left Paul in prison two years. Festus inherits this problem and suggests going to Jerusalem for trial – a place he knew would be “unfair” but would please Jewish leaders. This left Paul no choice but to appeal to Caesar, which caused a new problem. Festus was required to send a report with Paul detailing charges against him but the charges were not worthy of trial (religious or theological). So………..Festus needed help, so he consulted Agrippa and Agrippa agreed to hear from Paul!
Festus turns Paul’s hearing into an occasion to honor Agrippa (pomp) – i.e. butter him up! Paul was not legally bound to appear before them but what a great witnessing opportunity! So in chapter 26, Paul will give his 5th defense!
SO WHAT?
*When are you most tempted to compromise the truth to please others? Lets heed the words in Galatians 1:10 and put God first!
*Ever been guilty of “buttering up” your parents, your boss, etc… to get what you want? Yeah – me too! How about a better alternative: Lets pray and then trust God for His will and then be content in every situation! (Philippians 4:12)
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 113 - Acts 24: Paul Accused of Sedition
Defense #3 - Ananias shows up with his lawyer, butters up Felix and basically accuses Paul of “sedition” (good SAT word). I.E. – resisting authorities, disruption & overthrow of government.
Paul then gives his defense by reminding Felix of his years as a just judge, expecting a just verdict himself. Basically he says they made up stories and can’t prove the charges they’re making now (i. e. prove it). He admits being a believer in Jesus but that it doesn’t go against the law & the prophets. And oh yeah, the resurrection being true, I said that one too.
Felix dismisses Paul and tells him he’ll decide his case later when Lysias comes. In the meantime, Felix keeps going to see Paul until he is convicted by Paul’s message of righteousness, self-control & judgment. Why so convicted? Because he had taken another man’s wife and this was getting personal!
The chapter concludes with a combination of Paul’s integrity (wouldn’t offer a bribe) and Felix’s lack of integrity (leaving Paul in prison because wanted favor with the Jews).
SO WHAT?
*If you tell people today that Jesus is the ONLY way, most likely you’ll be called intolerant. Fact is, Jesus IS the only way and you’re just repeating His message (John 14:6). If there were other ways, then Jesus’ suffering & death was a waste. Remember, God’s Word divides truth from error and all of us have to choose. Likewise, the Holy Spirit’s job is to “convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment.” Pray that we and those we have influence on will turn from self to God for forgiveness of sin!
*When are you most tempted to compromise your integrity? Character take years to build up and only seconds to tear down. Pray to God that we will not fall into temptation!
Paul then gives his defense by reminding Felix of his years as a just judge, expecting a just verdict himself. Basically he says they made up stories and can’t prove the charges they’re making now (i. e. prove it). He admits being a believer in Jesus but that it doesn’t go against the law & the prophets. And oh yeah, the resurrection being true, I said that one too.
Felix dismisses Paul and tells him he’ll decide his case later when Lysias comes. In the meantime, Felix keeps going to see Paul until he is convicted by Paul’s message of righteousness, self-control & judgment. Why so convicted? Because he had taken another man’s wife and this was getting personal!
The chapter concludes with a combination of Paul’s integrity (wouldn’t offer a bribe) and Felix’s lack of integrity (leaving Paul in prison because wanted favor with the Jews).
SO WHAT?
*If you tell people today that Jesus is the ONLY way, most likely you’ll be called intolerant. Fact is, Jesus IS the only way and you’re just repeating His message (John 14:6). If there were other ways, then Jesus’ suffering & death was a waste. Remember, God’s Word divides truth from error and all of us have to choose. Likewise, the Holy Spirit’s job is to “convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment.” Pray that we and those we have influence on will turn from self to God for forgiveness of sin!
*When are you most tempted to compromise your integrity? Character take years to build up and only seconds to tear down. Pray to God that we will not fall into temptation!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 112 - Acts 23: Paul’s Second Defense & The Providence of God
As much as Paul’s first defense (ch 22) caused a tiff, his second one here begins another plot on his life!
Paul had a clear conscience that he had done God’s work (implying they had not) and so he looked the Sanhedrin (like our Supreme Court) straight in the eye and told them so! The High Priest is Ananias – not the Ananias of chapter 5, he’s dead, and not the Ananias of chapter 9 either – so keep your Ananias’ straight! Anyway, he doesn’t like this so he orders Paul struck by one of his soldiers. And not some slap in the face, but literally a vicious blow! This also was against the law so Paul calls him on it: "God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!"
Paul then finds out that it’s the high priest he is speaking to and humbly admits that he out of line and shouldn’t have spoken that way (5).
What happens next is totally God! It reads that “Then Paul, knowing that some of them were Sadducees and the others Pharisees, called out in the Sanhedrin, "My brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. I stand on trial because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead." Ingenious! Paul gets them bickering among themselves and the focus is off him! Where did this come from? I believe this is an example of the power Jesus promises believers in Mark 13:9-11: “You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” God will help us when our faith is being tested! We see here God’s “providence”: “pro” = “beforehand”, “video” = “to see.” Therefore, providence is God seeing beforehand and that is exactly what happens! We also see in verse 11, that God is near during these times too!
Well, all of this ticks off the Jews and more than 40 of them take an oath not to eat until they kill Paul! And yes, they’re gonna’ go hungry for a while! As they devise a plot to kill Paul, his little nephew overhears it, tells the commander, and an alternate plan is made, saving Paul’s life! Paul is sent to Governor Felix and placed under guard.
SO WHAT?
*We see in this chapter that speaking the truth can make others angry as well as cause division. Paul was sorry for HOW he spoke to the high priest but not about WHAT he spoke, because it was truth. We too must be careful to speak the truth in love.
*Ever been fearful of sharing your faith because you’re not sure what questions you may be cornered with? Go head and share anyway, the Lord promises that He will give you the words to say!
*Finally, I am ever amazed how God uses YOUNG PEOPLE to do AMAZING things for Him! It’s one of the reasons I work with students! God used Paul’s nephew to go before a commander and give him news that saved Paul’s life! Ever think, “I’m just a teen, God can’t use me”? If you’re a young person, God can AND wants to use YOU! And if you’re not as young, well, God wants to use you too! It’s not our ability He wants but our AVAILABILITY!
Paul had a clear conscience that he had done God’s work (implying they had not) and so he looked the Sanhedrin (like our Supreme Court) straight in the eye and told them so! The High Priest is Ananias – not the Ananias of chapter 5, he’s dead, and not the Ananias of chapter 9 either – so keep your Ananias’ straight! Anyway, he doesn’t like this so he orders Paul struck by one of his soldiers. And not some slap in the face, but literally a vicious blow! This also was against the law so Paul calls him on it: "God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!"
Paul then finds out that it’s the high priest he is speaking to and humbly admits that he out of line and shouldn’t have spoken that way (5).
What happens next is totally God! It reads that “Then Paul, knowing that some of them were Sadducees and the others Pharisees, called out in the Sanhedrin, "My brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. I stand on trial because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead." Ingenious! Paul gets them bickering among themselves and the focus is off him! Where did this come from? I believe this is an example of the power Jesus promises believers in Mark 13:9-11: “You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” God will help us when our faith is being tested! We see here God’s “providence”: “pro” = “beforehand”, “video” = “to see.” Therefore, providence is God seeing beforehand and that is exactly what happens! We also see in verse 11, that God is near during these times too!
Well, all of this ticks off the Jews and more than 40 of them take an oath not to eat until they kill Paul! And yes, they’re gonna’ go hungry for a while! As they devise a plot to kill Paul, his little nephew overhears it, tells the commander, and an alternate plan is made, saving Paul’s life! Paul is sent to Governor Felix and placed under guard.
SO WHAT?
*We see in this chapter that speaking the truth can make others angry as well as cause division. Paul was sorry for HOW he spoke to the high priest but not about WHAT he spoke, because it was truth. We too must be careful to speak the truth in love.
*Ever been fearful of sharing your faith because you’re not sure what questions you may be cornered with? Go head and share anyway, the Lord promises that He will give you the words to say!
*Finally, I am ever amazed how God uses YOUNG PEOPLE to do AMAZING things for Him! It’s one of the reasons I work with students! God used Paul’s nephew to go before a commander and give him news that saved Paul’s life! Ever think, “I’m just a teen, God can’t use me”? If you’re a young person, God can AND wants to use YOU! And if you’re not as young, well, God wants to use you too! It’s not our ability He wants but our AVAILABILITY!
Monday, June 4, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 111 - Acts 22: Paul’s First Defense
After pleading to give his defense in chapter 21, Paul now gets the opportunity here. This will be the first of 6 defenses He gives (22:30-23:10, 24:10-21, 25:1-12, 26:1-29, 28:17-29).
In giving his defense, Paul recounts the events of his conversion on the Damascus road – how he himself was persecuting Christians but God totally changed him around. He ends this first defense with these words: “Then the Lord said to me, 'Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.' " Yeah – this was too much for the crowd to handle! Teaching that Gentiles could be saved without being circumcised was seen as blasphemy to them! So they threw a fit and as they were getting ready to flog him, he asks them if they should be flogging a Roman citizen!? Oops – Roman citizens were exempt from such brutal punishment and Paul here exerts his rights as a Roman. Unlike those who use bribes to get their citizenship (28), Paul was born a Roman citizen and when they found this out, they were alarmed and made sure not to harm him, as it was unlawful to punish a Roman citizen until they were proven guilty.
The chapter ends with Paul being brought before the Sanhedrin in an unofficial meeting where Paul will give his second defense.
SO WHAT?
*Ever been accused of something that you know you were innocent of? How did you feel? How did you respond? Paul stuck to the facts. It’s easy to get sidetracked and emotional but we must remember to be both truthful and respectful.
*Speaking the Truth of the Gospel can cause tension because the Word of God divides truth from error and nobody likes to admit they’re wrong. We just need to make sure that as we speak God’s Words, we do it lovingly, so that the offense is with the message not the messenger!
In giving his defense, Paul recounts the events of his conversion on the Damascus road – how he himself was persecuting Christians but God totally changed him around. He ends this first defense with these words: “Then the Lord said to me, 'Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.' " Yeah – this was too much for the crowd to handle! Teaching that Gentiles could be saved without being circumcised was seen as blasphemy to them! So they threw a fit and as they were getting ready to flog him, he asks them if they should be flogging a Roman citizen!? Oops – Roman citizens were exempt from such brutal punishment and Paul here exerts his rights as a Roman. Unlike those who use bribes to get their citizenship (28), Paul was born a Roman citizen and when they found this out, they were alarmed and made sure not to harm him, as it was unlawful to punish a Roman citizen until they were proven guilty.
The chapter ends with Paul being brought before the Sanhedrin in an unofficial meeting where Paul will give his second defense.
SO WHAT?
*Ever been accused of something that you know you were innocent of? How did you feel? How did you respond? Paul stuck to the facts. It’s easy to get sidetracked and emotional but we must remember to be both truthful and respectful.
*Speaking the Truth of the Gospel can cause tension because the Word of God divides truth from error and nobody likes to admit they’re wrong. We just need to make sure that as we speak God’s Words, we do it lovingly, so that the offense is with the message not the messenger!
Friday, June 1, 2012
260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 110 - Acts 21: Daily Counting the Cost of Living for Jesus
Verses 1-16 show us the courage that conviction brings to Paul:
- He left crying friends & family
- He didn’t depart from his plans/goal
- He continued on knowing trouble was ahead
- He continually prayed/trusted God
- He was willing not only to suffer but to die for Christ!
- Instead of others fears affecting Paul, Paul’s courage affected others!
Verses 17-40 mark another transition in Acts. His missionary journeys have come to an end and we read about the events that lead up to his arrest, where he would remain an “ambassador in chains” (Ephesians 6:20). Paul is welcomed by & gets to hang out with his church family & leaders in Jerusalem. They again express concern for his safety & so Paul submits to Jewish custom while at the same time not compromising truth. This is another example of “becoming all things to all people.”
Since his conversion on the Damascus road, Paul has ministered for Jesus freely, now he will be a prisoner - BUT take note that ministry did not end! Things seem to be going from bad to worse for Paul right now. In 27-30 this mob attacks him, in 31-36 he is arrested by the Romans and in the closing verses he pleads to give his defense – which will be in the next chapter.
SO WHAT?
*What convictions do you have deep down inside? How are those convictions expressed in courage?
*What tough things are you facing right now that you’re a bit fearful of? Cast those cares on Jesus because He cares for you! (1 Peter 5:7)
*What are you willing to do for the name of Jesus? Suffer? Die? Maybe, yet the far more difficult thing is to LIVE for Jesus! Chose the latter and God will control the rest.
- He left crying friends & family
- He didn’t depart from his plans/goal
- He continued on knowing trouble was ahead
- He continually prayed/trusted God
- He was willing not only to suffer but to die for Christ!
- Instead of others fears affecting Paul, Paul’s courage affected others!
Verses 17-40 mark another transition in Acts. His missionary journeys have come to an end and we read about the events that lead up to his arrest, where he would remain an “ambassador in chains” (Ephesians 6:20). Paul is welcomed by & gets to hang out with his church family & leaders in Jerusalem. They again express concern for his safety & so Paul submits to Jewish custom while at the same time not compromising truth. This is another example of “becoming all things to all people.”
Since his conversion on the Damascus road, Paul has ministered for Jesus freely, now he will be a prisoner - BUT take note that ministry did not end! Things seem to be going from bad to worse for Paul right now. In 27-30 this mob attacks him, in 31-36 he is arrested by the Romans and in the closing verses he pleads to give his defense – which will be in the next chapter.
SO WHAT?
*What convictions do you have deep down inside? How are those convictions expressed in courage?
*What tough things are you facing right now that you’re a bit fearful of? Cast those cares on Jesus because He cares for you! (1 Peter 5:7)
*What are you willing to do for the name of Jesus? Suffer? Die? Maybe, yet the far more difficult thing is to LIVE for Jesus! Chose the latter and God will control the rest.
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