. . . so Jesus Christ was His Father's Word, revealing his heart and mind to us.
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Christ existed in the beginning, not because He was created, but because He is eternal. He is God and was there when God said, "Let there be . . ." For He spoke and it was done. God created all things through Jesus Christ.
John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among men.
They saw His works, heard His words, and observed His perfect life. He gave them every opportunity to grasp the truth, believe, and be saved. They crucified the way, the truth, the life, the Alpha and Omega -- the beginning and the end, the light of the world, the Bread of Life, the Lily of the Valley.
His light still shines, offering eternal life to those who believe on Him.
. . . that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to the cross; Colossians 2:14.
The ordinance against us was the Old Testament Law. We were condemned because we couldn't obey it. But Christ nailed the law to the cross that day at Calvary.
The tragic part is that Jesus was ruthlessly beaten and unjustly sentenced to a death He didn't deserve. The triumphant part is that we are redeemed -- go free. He is our victory.
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
The corruption of the flesh was also nailed to the cross. Even though the love of the Father is in us, we still live in the flesh and have a sin nature. One day we will have an incorruptible body.
When Jesus said, "It is finished," He also nailed Satan's power over death to the cross. Just as Christ victoriously rose from the grave, so shall we.
If you have never trusted Christ as your personal savior, you are under condemnation already. You can be redeemed. Its your decision.
. . . perilous times shall come. (2 Timothy3:1)
These "last days" hurl evil with great intensity as God completes His purpose for His people. Society accepts and promotes it in a bolder way.
In the same chapter, eighteen "last day" sinful characteristics are listed. Satan is deceiving more people, and the only way the believer can tell true from false is by knowing the Word of God.
Scripture is profitable for doctrine (what is right), for reproof (what is not right), for correction (how to get right), and for instruction in righteousness (how to stay right). A Christian who applies what he learns from the Bible will be able to stand against Satan and his "last day" wickedness.
Christians must separate themselves from that which is false, devote themselves to that which is true, and continue in the study of the Word of God.
Lift up your head, redemption draweth nigh.
Which is the most important commandment of God?
"You shall love The Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. The second most important is to love your neighbor as yourself," He answered.
Jesus made love the most important thing in life, because "love is the fulfilling of the Law" (Rom. 13:8-18).
The scribe asking the question was the tool of the Pharisees who were trying to get evidence against Jesus. The answer touched his heart with a deeper understanding of the faith he thought he understood. He even agreed with Jesus.
Mark 12:34 And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the Kingdom of God.
What does "not far from the Kingdom of God mean?" It means he is testing his faith by what God said and not by what some religious group demands.
Jesus shows the scribe that He is the Messiah, descended from David and come to save lost sinners.
Do you have questions when you study God's Word? The Holy Spirit will show you the answer. Its up to you to receive it.
. . . piercing light through the darkness -- is lifted up, it will prosper.
Isaiah 55:10 For as the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth and maketh it bring forth the bud that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the water;
11. So shall my Word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
Tonight, as the Kountze, Texas Lions tear through the huge scripture sign made by the cheerleaders, lives around the world will be touched again.
From the beginning of human history, Satan has opposed God's Word. Throughout the history of the church, the Word of God has been attacked, yet it still stands. Why? Because dedicated believers have guarded it, faithfully passing it to each generation by the power of God. Regardless of opposition, God's Word will accomplish His purpose.
