Tag: Word

Filled With Madness!

Luke 6:1-11

     Have you ever done a good deed in public, only to have onlookers gaze at you in disgust? Why is it, people refuse to appreciate those who sacrifice, to make situations better for others? I’m well aware, the Bible mentions we are living in the last days, and men will become more wicked, but it’s mind-boggling how a simple act of kindness can create hate, and even madness, in the hearts of others.

     In our text, Jesus literally caused a man’s withered hand to be restored, and rather than glory in the power that was displayed before their very eyes, some of the Pharisees became filled with madness. So much so, until they communed with each other to find ways to disrupt what Jesus stood for. These disturbed men, would rather keep a minor traditional law, over seeing someone become healed.

     How would you respond, if you witnessed the power of God move miraculously in the life of someone you know. Would you rejoice and celebrate with that person, or would you turn your face against them, wondering why God chose to bless them. Learn to humble yourselves, especially in times when God goes against the norm to bless someone in need.

Look Up!

Luke 21:25-28

     This life on the earth, is coming to an end. Although I’ve been hearing that since the 1980s, it’s more apparent now, than back then. The Bible mentions many signs of the end-times, and we can see them vividly today. The issue with a lot of Christians is, they focus more on the pleasures and treasures of this present world, rather than the gifts God has prepared for them in glory. There’s no need to fear death in this life. We must only shift our focus from temporary, earthly desires, to eternal, spiritual wonders.

Foolish Redemption

1 Corinthians 1:18-31

     Many Jews thought the good news of Jesus Christ was foolish, because they thought he would be a conquering King, bringing signs and miracles. Jesus had not restored David’s throne as they expected. Also, he was executed as a common criminal, and how could a common criminal be a savior? Greeks also considered the gospel foolish, and did not believe in a bodily resurrection. They did not see in Jesus the powerful characteristics of their mythological gods, and they thought no reputable person would be crucified. To them, death was defeat, not victory.
     The good news of Jesus Christ still sounds foolish to many people today. Our society worships power, influence, wealth, and other futile things. Jesus came as a humble, poor servant, and he offers his Kingdom to those with faith, not works. This looks foolish to the world.
     The message of Christ’s death for sins also sounds foolish to those who don’t believe. Death seems to be the end of the road, the ultimate weakness, but Jesus did not stay dead. His resurrection shows his power even over death. He will save us from eternal death, and give us everlasting life, if we trust him as our savior and Lord. This sounds so simple that many people won’t accept it. They try other ways to obtain eternal life, but their attempts will not work. The foolish people, who simply accept Christ’s offer, are actually the wisest of all, because they alone will live eternally with God.

– Life Application Study Bible (pg. 1997-1998)