Tag: Christ

Devotional Thought for Today – 11/23/21

October 23, 2021
Psalm 19: ppt download

PSALM 19

CONTEXT: This song very distinctly divides itself into three parts, very well described by the translators in the ordinary heading of our version. The creatures show God’s glory, 1-6. The word showeth his grace, 7-11. David prayeth for grace, 12-14. Thus praise and prayer are mingled, and he who here sings the work of God in the world without pleads for a work of grace in himself within. From Spurgeon’s Treasury of David

It is common to hear refrains in modern music, writings, and even conversations amongst believers using this phrase. Everyone wants that which is sweeter than honey and more precious than Gold. The problem is when it comes down to it we all want it but usually balk at the cost.

The What – What is it that is so precious, v.7 makes it clear the Law of God. David repeats this in v.8 using the term Statutes of the Lord. In the Old Testament, we find three types of laws mentioned. The ceremonial law, the moral law, and the judicial law. David here is speaking primarily about the moral (think Ten Commandments) law. While some argue that these laws no longer apply today, the Bible clearly states otherwise. Jesus said he came not to abolish but to fulfill the law, and when He gives His synopsis of the law in Matthew 22, He says all the Law depends on this.

The Why – God’s Holy Law converts souls and makes simple men wise, v.7. They make the heart rejoice and open the blind (enlighten) eye, v.8. The law in itself does not save, for we know For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God; 9 not as a result of [your] works [nor your attempts to keep the Law], so that no one will [be able to] boast or take credit in any way [for his salvation]. Ephesians 2:8-9 (AMP) Yet it is the word of God, that convicts the soul of man unto righteousness. Without hearing of the Good News, man will always remain in his state of despair.

The Cost – Man will be judged v.9, and that is for many a deal-breaker. Even though there will never be a more righteous judgment many think that it is unfair for any god to judge them. Yet when we look at this view we need to see the complete self-centered, conceited attitude this is. We make ourselves a god, above the true and living God.

The Reward – For those who do surrender to God’s judgment there is great reward. In a Word, GRACE, v.10, the Law combined with God’s righteous judgment equals God’s Grace for man. Considering that we are all born into sin, that the wages of sin are eternal death, the reward is truly sweeter than honey and more precious than Gold. God’s word, His law, statutes, precepts, etc… all are a source of righteousness in a true believer’s life.

Drawing Near

The Source of Righteousness

God’s Word is true and produces righteousness in the believer’s life.
drawing-near-oct-23-2021Download

Devotional Thought for Today – 11/22/21

October 22, 2021
AW Pink Quote - The Happy Soul Is Awed By the Majesty Of God

I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works.

– Psalm 145:5

PSALM 145

CONTEXT: C.H. Spurgeon’s Treasury of David gives the best explanation of context: This is one of the alphabetical psalms, composed with much art, and, doubtless, so arranged that the memory might be aided. The Holy Spirit condescends to use even the more artificial methods of the poet, to secure attention, and impress the heart… Continued here.

I still have not found that person who says each morning I want to wake up unhappy. 😢 While there is a B I G difference between Biblical Joy and Happiness (that is a much longer post) for the sake of this devotional we will treat them the same. This is something everyone craves, desires, and for some only dream of. David in this Psalm and A.W. Pink in the quote above understood that it comes only from a right relationship with God.

Almost all translations of this Psalm have it entitled The praise of David or something very similar. Here we have David, near the end of his life extoling the greatness of God. Thomas Goodwin remarks on the title as follows:  It is observable concerning David’s entitling the psalm “The Praise of David”, that in the original no psalm else beareth such a title. It is appropriated to it, because this wholly consists of praise; he was elevated therein to a frame of spirit made up of the pure praise of God, without any touch of what was particular to himself. It was not thanks, but altogether praise, and wholly praise.

In our main text v.5, let us consider that King David who himself is by title and position worthy of honor and praise. Yet David says I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, as if it would be a personal affront if he was not allowed to. Oh how his heart clamors to praise the true King of Kings.

I will speak, etc. I will “muse” is better than “speak”, as being the primary and more usual sense of the Hebrew word. It suggests that these glorious qualities of God’s character and deeds should be not merely talked about and extolled in song, but be deeply pondered, laid close upon our very heart, so that the legitimate impression may be wrought into our very soul, and may mould our whole spirit and character into God’s own moral image.

—Henry Cowles.

When was the last time you stood in awe of God’s Majesty?

Devotional Thought for Today – 11/21/21

October 21, 2021
Romans 5 20 21 20 Moreover NKJV the

ROMANS 5

CONTEXT: The Apostle Paul in Chapter 4, clearly explains how man is justified by faith alone. That the works of man have no effect on our means of obtaining eternal life. Here in this chapter, Paul begins his exposition on the results of being justified before God by Faith Alone.

Matthew Henry breaks down the Chapter as follows: The happy effects of justification through faith in the righteousness of Christ. (1-5) That we are reconciled by his blood. (6-11) The fall of Adam brought all mankind into sin and death. (12-14) The grace of God, through the righteousness of Christ, has more power to bring salvation, than Adam’s sin had to bring misery, (15-19) as grace did superabound. (20,21)

Our text for today is the last of his breakpoints, as grace did superabound. (20,21). I remember the first time I read through Chapter five with MH accompanying me and came across those words, they seemed out of place for a biblical explanation. That is until you realize the absolute marvel of God’s Grace, B.B. Warfield called it “Grace is free sovereign favor to the ill-deserving.” Or as most modern dictionaries put it God’s unmerited favor towards sinners.

We are ALL SINNERS, and God would be wholly justified in our deaths for those SINS, yet by His mercy and Grace, we can be justified through the Blood of Christ Jesus. Think on the simplicity of it we are as sinners, filthy rags unworthy of any mercy or grace before God, and He alone washes us clean as snow. That for me makes God’s Grace superabounding, and more marvelous than I can explain.

Last Sunday in Church we sang Grace Greater than Our Sin, written in 1911 by Julia H. Johnston it is so relevant today the more sin abounds the more God’s Grace is needed.

Refrain:

Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!

GTY BLOG Series: Profiles in Godliness

October 13, 2021

The woman at the well is a familiar figure to most churchgoers. This poor Samaritan woman from John chapter 4 has managed to gain a semi-regular role in many Sunday sermons and Wednesday night Bible studies. She has been held up as a poster child for everything from social justice to stylistic worship preferences. Yet a careful examination of the passage reveals one of the most profound theological lessons in all of history—one that every true Christian must grasp.

A Strange Encounter on Sacred Ground

A Life-Changing Conversation

A Stunning Revelation

An Amazing Transformation

Devotional Thought for Today – 10/12/21

October 12, 2021
God's Decree Quote by Thomas Boston

The Westminster Shorter Catechism asks:

  Q. 7. What are the decrees of God?

 A. The decrees of God are, his eternal purpose, according to the counsel of his will, whereby, for his own glory, he hath foreordained whatsoever comes to pass.

The WSC confirms what Paul wrote in Romans 11:36, all God degrees, that is all God does is for His Glory. I have written and said this ad museum, it is never about us and always about God.

Paul makes an equally compelling appeal to the church in Colessea when in 3:23 he writes, ‘do all as unto the Lord’ {paraphraased}. Why v.24 tells us because we serve the Lord Christ! Who else deserves more glory and honor? You or I?

My question for you today is what sort of church are you attending (hopefully you are following the Biblical mandate for church attendance)? Is the emphasis there on you or God, your “experience” or glorifying the sovereign ruler of the universe?

Other Resources:

God’s Decrees Are… by Thomas Boston

What are the Decrees of God? – From the Shorter Catechism explained

Of God’s Decree – LBC 1689 with Scripture

God’s Decree And Creation

The Decrees of God by A W Pink

The Decrees of God by Charles Hodge

QOTW – What is a Christian Work Ethic?

October 9, 2021

Question: “What is a Christian work ethic?”

Answer: Colossians 3:23-25 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”[…]

Source: https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-work-ethic.html

Devotional Thought for Today – 09/20/21

September 30, 2021
John Calvin Quote - God's Law Is Engraved On The Believers' Heart

Today I want to look at one phrase in Calvin’s Quote, Engrafted in Christ, and what that means to us as believers.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.[a] The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 

2 Corinthians 5:17

This may not seem like the most obvious choice for a main text but a close look reveals that to be in Christ one must be grafted into Christ, the AMP states: [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior].

Maybe the best example is Romans Chapter 11, most specifically in v.11-25 we see the term grafted in used by Paul repeated a number of times. Here Paul makes his concluding case regarding God’s plan for the Israelites. Many thinking God has abandoned His “Chosen People” but Paul’s argument, began in Chapter 9 shows that the remnant, that is those chosen will be engrafted into the Kingdom of Christ, not by the law, but by faith in Christ. This is something Paul affirmed to the gentiles Galatians 3:29.

Another example of engrafting in the Bible can be found in James 1:21. Here James is encouraging believers to grow in faith. Our text is a perfect example in which James implores us to put away all filthiness’ (worldly desires) and rely upon the Word of God that has been engrafted into our hearts be the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

The final verse for today is from my favorite book in the Bible 1 John. With John writing in 1 John 2, let us look at v.24-29 and especially v.27. Here John is encouraging folks to remain stoic in their faith no matter the circumstance. Why, John says the anointed gift of the Holy Spirit indwelling each true believer remains permanently in us (engrafted) NO MATTER the circumstance. ah, but there is a catch, we must remain rooted (engrafted) to Him, that is faithful.

Conclusions: Webster’s 1828 dictionary defines “Ingrafted” as: INGR`AFTED, pp. Inserted into a stock for growth and propagation; introduced into a native stock; set or fixed deep. A person can only be IN or EN grafted to Christ that is fixed deep, permanently affixed into the Body of Christ, by the effectual calling of God, and Faith in Christ as both LORD and SAVIOR.

Sunday Sermon Series – 09/26/21

September 26, 2021
RIchard SIbbes Puritan Quote - Faith Repentance Over Discouragement

NEHEMIAH 1

CONTEXT: The major theme of Nehemiah 1 is Nehemiah’s prayer. We get that from historical context and written word. Here is the Enduring Word Commentary’s; intro to Nehemiah:

A. Nehemiah hears of Jerusalem’s crisis condition.

1. Some 1,000 years after the time of Moses and some 400 years before the birth of Jesus, the nation of Israel and the Jewish people were in a desperate state.

a. Their nations were destroyed, First the northern Jewish kingdom of Israel and then the southern Jewish kingdom of Judah. The city of Jerusalem was completely conquered by the Babylonians and the once-glorious temple of Solomon was destroyed.

b. When the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem, they deported almost everyone from the city and the region – for some 70 years, Jerusalem was something of a ghost town, with the potential to end up like many ancient cities – completely forgotten except to history.

c. When the Jews were deported to Babylon, they began to make homes for themselves there. They settled down, and many still followed the God of their Fathers, but they did it from Babylon, with no desire to return to the land God had promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

d. But after 70 years of captivity in Babylon, they were given the opportunity to return to their homeland, the Promised Land. Out of some two or three million Jews deported from the land, only 50,000 decided to return to the Promised Land. That’s only something like 2%! But they did return, and in the days of Ezra, they rebuilt the temple and laid a spiritual foundation for Israel once again.

e. The Book of Nehemiah begins 15 years after the Book of Ezra ends; almost 100 years after the first captives came back to the Promised Land; and some 150 years after the city of Jerusalem was destroyed. After this long time, the walls of the city of Jerusalem were still in rubble.

f. Some of these faithful Jews were raised up to places of prominence in the governments they were deported to. Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego became leaders in Babylon; Esther was made queen in the courts of a Persian king.

Matthew Henry breaks down the verses as follows: Here we first meet with Nehemiah at the Persian court, where we find him, I. Inquisitive concerning the state of the Jews and Jerusalem (v. 1, 2). II. Informed of their deplorable condition (v. 3). III. Fasting and praying thereupon (v. 4), with a particular account of his prayer (v. 5-11). Such is the rise of this great man, by piety, not by policy.

SERMON

The Spiritual Favorite at the Throne of Grace

BY RICHARD SIBBES

O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy servants, who desire to fear thy name; and prosper, I pray thee, thy servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.—NEH. 1:11.

– – OTHER RESOURCES – –

ORDER AND ARGUMENT IN PRAYER

DELIVERED ON SUNDAY MORNING, JULY 15, 1866,
BY C.H. SPURGEON,
AT THE METROPOLITAN TABERNACLE, NEWINGTON

“Oh that I knew where I might find him! that I might come even to his seat!
I would order my cause before him, and fill my mouth with arguments.”
Job 23:3-4

The Essentials of Prayer By E.M.Bounds

Devotional Thought for Today – 09/22/21

September 22, 2021
Genesis 1:1 Inspirational Image

GENESIS 1

CONTEXT: Creation, Sovereignty of God in Creation and as Creator, and God worthiness to be praised are all themes in Chapter 1. Matthew Henry breaks it down as follows: We have three things in this chapter:—I. A general idea given us of the work of creation (v. 1, 2). II. A particular account of the several days’ work, registered, as in a journal, distinctly and in order. The creation of the light the first day (v. 3-5); of the firmament the second day (v. 6-8); of the sea, the earth, and its fruits, the third day (v. 9-13); of the lights of heaven the fourth day (v. 14-19); of the fish and fowl the fifth day (v. 20-23); of the beasts (v. 24, 25); of man (v. 26-28); and of food for both the sixth day (v. 29, 30). III. The review and approbation of the whole work (v. 31).

For as long as I can remember the debate of whether or not the earth is “old or new” has been going on. Traditionally Christians ALWAYS took the Biblical position of new earth, that is 4-10 thousand years old. Yet in recent years more and more “Christians” seem willing to COMPROMISE and take the position of an old or older earth.

Here are two thought to consider.

Ken Ham Creation Quote - Evolution - Millions of Years Destroys the Gospel
Exodus 20:11 - God Created In Six Days, A Young Earth and Universe Is Revealed In the Bible, Which Refutes Evolution - Creation Quote

Devotional Thought for Today – 09/21/21

September 21, 2021
Christopher Love Covenanter Quote - Elect To Heaven - Election

John 6:39

CONTEXT: Chapter 6 is broken down by Matthew Henry as follows: In this chapter we have, I. The miracle of the loaves (v. 1-14). II. Christ’s walking upon the water (v. 15-21). III. The people’s flocking after him to Capernaum (v. 22-25). IV. His conference with them, occasioned by the miracle of the loaves, in which he reproves them for seeking carnal food, and directs them to spiritual food (v. 26, 27), showing them how they must labour for spiritual food (v. 28, 29), and what that spiritual food is (v. 30-59). V. Their discontent at what he said, and the reproof he gave them for it (v. 60-65). VI. The apostasy of many from him, and his discourse with his disciples that adhered to him upon that occasion (v. 66-71).

Our text for today is part of the teaching on Spiritual food. Jesus has fed the 5 thousand, and many are hanging around hoping for another free meal. The lesson Jesus gives in vs. 22-40 about the Bread of Life is not what they hoped for.

Even today many are disappointed with these Words. Yes, I purposely put them in red, like you would find in many Bibles, signifying that Jesus spoke them. How then can folks be disappointed with the Words of our (their claimed) Lord and Savior.

It starts in v.37 and repeats in v.39, out text All that the Father giveth me, you see God the Father GIVES those whom He has chosen before time to the Son to be saved, and secured for eternity. That is the rip, folks feel the need to interject oneself into salvation.

that of all which he hath given me, I should lose nothing;

that is, that of all the elect which were given to Christ by his Father, in eternal election, he should not lose anyone of them, not the meanest among them, nor anything of theirs, their grace, or glory, or anything belonging to them, either to their souls or bodies, and particularly the latter;

John Gill

In Gill’s comments above it is clear, can man, any man do that which Christ can do? If not why are you arguing against election?